Ice block-making machine
A brine tank generates block ice, which is made by submerging cans of fresh water. The water temperature is usually at -5 °C, and it freezes into solid blocks due to the brine’s -10 °C temperature. Most often, block ice is used to chill (sea)food.
However, Block Ice’s form has made it easier to make ice blocks, contributing to its popularity. It can be easily moved across large distances without refrigerated transportation.
Source: Dr Olugbenga Adetitun
Parts of an Ice block-making machine.
The evaporator, condenser, compressor, and throttle valve are the four main parts of an ice maker. The compressor compresses low-pressure refrigerant vapor into high-pressure vapor, which is then transported to the condenser.
The high-pressure vapor is condensed into a high-pressure liquid through the throttle valve and drained off to become a low-pressure liquid. The liquid is directed into the evaporator, where the heat exchange occurs, and ice is produced. This represents a single, complete refrigeration cycle. The vapor compression cycle of an ice maker is optimal.
Factors to consider to get a good ice block-making machine.
The machine’s quality, brand, degree of technological innovation, and dealer or supplier affect how much these machines cost.
It is important to remember that investing in the least expensive block molding machine will typically result in higher long-term costs because these machines may require more maintenance, break down more frequently, and not manufacture high-quality building blocks.
Different types of ice block-making machines.
-Block Ice Makers with Metal Cans: These devices produce ice blocks using molds or metal cans. To freeze the ice blocks, users must manually fill the cans with water and immerse them in a chilling solution.
These are frequently less expensive and smaller options. In Nigeria, the cost of a manual block molding machine is from 60,000 to 120,000 Naira
-Brine-Based Ice Block Machines: These devices freeze the water within the ice block molds using a brine solution, which is often a blend of water and salt. Machines using brine are renowned for their effectiveness and the high caliber of ice blocks they generate.
-Ice block machines with direct cooling (tube) technology use tubes or plates filled with refrigerant to contact the water in the molds directly, freezing it and creating ice blocks. They are produced at a comparatively rapid pace.
The brine-based ice block and ice block machine with direct cooling are electric block molding machines priced between 350,000 and 500,000 Naira.
-Vertical ice block machines: These are frequently employed in smaller-scale businesses. Usually featuring several ice block molds that can be filled with water and frozen, they feature a vertical design. A vibrated block molding machine in Nigeria can cost between ₦1,000,000 and ₦3,000,000.
Conclusion
Purchasing a block molding machine from a renowned manufacturer that provides maintenance, repair, and warranty services is advised to obtain the best value in Nigeria. However, it is essential to search thoroughly and ensure you get the best.
