Types of Ice Machines
Cooling Tower
Water Cooled - Modular:
• Uses flowing water to cool the condenser coils and the refrigerant inside » With a cooling tower, water circulates through a trough around the condenser coils, drawing the heat out of the refrigerant through the metal before circling through the tower and running through its own coils, cooling through the exposure to the outside air before being recirculated through the system. » Without a cooling tower, two separate water lines are needed, with one running continuously to cool the coils. These models are illegal in some states due to their excessive water consumption and high utility costs • Advantages » Not impacted by high temperatures » Produces less heat and noise in ice-making area » Uses slightly less electricity • Disadvantages » Extremely high water consumption if a cooling tower is not used » Cooling water line needs to be filtered and will require frequent cartridge changes without a cooling tower » Illegal in some areas because of high water consumption
Water Cycle
Condenser
Refrigerant Cycle
Remote Condensing
• A n air-cooled unit with a remote condenser placed outside the machine in a different location » This eliminates the need for sufficient airflow and space within the room as air intake occurs on the roof or side of the building • B etter maintains your ice production and decreases energy costs, although initial costs are higher • Advantages » Reduced heat and noise within the facility » Can be fairly efficient in areas with cooler climates » Several ice makers can be run off one rack system • Disadvantages » Higher component and installation costs » Lengthy refrigerant lines increase the risk of malfunction
Air Cooled or Remote?
EQUIPMENT GUIDE
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