Howe Rapid Freeze User manual

Rapid Freeze
SERVICE MANUAL
and parts catalog
Selective Purpose Flake Ice Machines
2000 - 20000 lb. Seawater Models
Howe Corporation
1650 N Elston Ave
Chicago, IL. 60622-1530
www.howecorp.com
E-Mail: [email protected]
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE LINE
1-773-235-0200
REV. 07-05

2
Notice
This manual and all information contained herein are provided “as is” and are subject to change without notice.
Howe Corporation makes no warranty of any kind with regard to this manual, including, but not limited to,
the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Howe Corporation shall not be
liable for any errors or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or
use of this manual.
The information contained herein is applicable to the specified models current at the time of publication. Some
information in this manual will be of use to owners of older model machines. The reader is cautioned that use of
this manual with older equipment is at the user’s risk. Howe Corporation makes no warranty or guarantee, explicit
or implicit with regard to the use of this manual with equipment models outside the scope of this manual. If in doubt
of the scope of this manual, contact Howe Corporation.
© Howe Corporation 2005. All rights reserved. Reproduction, adaptation, or translation of this manual is
prohibited without prior written permission of Howe Corporation, except as allowed under the copyright laws.
Howe Corporation
1650 North Elston Avenue
Chicago, IL 60622
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
web: www.howecorp.com
Revision date: October, 2005

3
Table of Contents
Section Page
1) INTRODUCTION
Strategic Vision 1
Rapid Freeze Energy Efficiency 1
Important Safety Information 1
Safety Symbols and their meanings 2
3) INSTALLING THE RAPID FREEZE FLAKER
Installation Conditions 4
Installation Without Ice Bin 4
Installation On Ice Bin 5
Recommended Installation Method On Ice Bin (Exhibit 2) 5-6
Water Supply & Filter Connections (Exhibit 3) 7
Refrigerant Charging 8
6) SEAWATER MODEL INSTALLATION
Assembly Drawing 11ESS-51ESS 10-17
Wiring & Connections 18
Freon Pipe Line Sizes (Table 4) 18
Freon Piping 18
8) ACCESSORIES
Electric Eye Ice Level Control (Exhibit 23) 20
Why Ice Bin Thermostats Are Not Used 21
Rib Heating Elements 21
Factory Mounted 21
Field Mounted/ Installed 21

Rapid Freeze Manual Information
IV
IV
9) HOW THE RAPID FREEZE FLAKER OPERATES
Ice Flaker Cut-Away (Exhibit 26) 22
The Inside Story 23-24
10) START and ADJUST
Checklist 24
Sump Assembly Water Level (Exhibit 27) 24
Distribution Pan Water Level (Exhibit 28) 24
Expansion Valve (Exhibit 29) 25
11) ELECTRIC CONTROL PANEL
Components & Functions (Exhibit 30) 27-29
E20T48 Control Module 30
Standard Control Panel (Exhibit 31) 31
12) CONTROL PANEL WIRING DIAGRAMS
230/1/60 Wiring 32
460/3/60 Wiring 33-35
220/1/50 Wiring 36
380/3/50 Wiring (Exhibit 35) 37-38
13) MAINTENANCE
Evaporator 39
Cleaning Procedure 39-40
Water Distribution Tubes 40
Water Sump 40
Ice Bin Drip Pan 40
Lubrication 41
Bearing & Seals (Exhibit 36) 41
Speed Reducer 41
Oil Change Low Temperature Oil 41
Mechanical Cleaning 41
Preventative Maintenance 42
PM Maintenance Schedule 42

14) TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
Photo Eye 43
Control Module 43-45
Ice Storage 45
Freezing 45-49
Drive Motor 49-50
Speed Reducer 50-51
15) SERVICE and ADJUSTMENT
Warnings & Safety Information 52
Ice Deflector 2000 - 6000 lb model (Exhibit 37) 53
Ice Deflector 5 - 10 ton models (Exhibit 38) 54
Ice Deflector Scraper (Exhibit 39) 55
Squeegee & Squeegee Wrapper 55-56
Water Distribution Tubes 56
Drive Motor 56-57
Speed Reducer 57
Flexible Coupling 57
Speed Reducer, Drive Motor & coupling (Exhibit 40) 58
Main Bearings (10E-30E) 59
Main Bearings Large Capacity (51RL-101RL) 60
Ice Level Control 61
Water Pump 61
Float Valve 61
Expansion Valve 61-62
Replacement of Solenoid Valve 62-63
16) GENUINE REPLACEMENT PARTS CATALOG

1 Introduction
1
Strategic Vision
The Rapid Freeze by Howe Flaker is backed by over 50 years of proven performance and innovation. Long
known for durability and reliability, our flake ice equipment is unsurpassed in energy efficiency and low
maintenance.
Available in a wide variety of sizes and configurations, the rugged Rapid Freeze Flaker can be found in diverse
applications from supermarkets and food processors to remote fishing villages.
Rapid Freeze Energy Efficiency
The Rapid Freeze Flake Ice Machine enjoys a world renowned reputation for having one of the highest energy
efficiency rating (EER) of any ice maker on the market. With energy usage of 30% - 40% below that of many
competitors' models, the Rapid Freeze ice machine offers an outstanding value.
In addition to high energy efficiency, the Rapid Freeze Flaker is extremely dependable with very low
maintenance cost. Overall, the cost of owning and operating a Rapid Freeze Flaker by Howe, is one of the
lowest in the industry.
Important Safety Information
The information found in this manual is intended for use by individuals possessing adequate backgrounds of
electrical, refrigeration and mechanical experience. Any attempt to repair or make alterations to this equipment
may result in personal injury or property damage. The manufacturer or seller cannot be responsible for the
interpretation of this information, nor can it assume any liability in connection with its use.
Special Precautions To Be Observed When Charging Refrigeration Systems
Only technically-qualified persons, trained and certified in the handling of refrigerant and operation of
refrigeration systems, should perform the operations described in this manual.
If a refrigeration system is being charged from refrigerant cylinders, disconnect each cylinder when empty or
when system is fully charged. A gauge should be installed in the charging line to indicate the refrigerant
cylinder pressure. The cylinder may be considered empty of liquid R-22 refrigerant when the gauge pressure is
25 psi or less, and there is no frost on the cylinder. Close the refrigerant charging valve and cylinder valve
before disconnecting the cylinder. Loosen the union in the refrigerant line, SLOWLY and CAREFULLY, to
relieve refrigerant pressure in the charging hose.

1 Introduction
2
*** WARNING ***
Never open charging valve allowing refrigerant to vent directly to atmosphere.
Refrigerant must be reclaimed through a recovery system.
*** WARNING ***
Always store cylinders containing refrigerant in a cool place. They should never be exposed to temperatures
higher than 125°F (52°C) and should be stored and secured in a manner to prevent abnormal mechanical
shocks.
Safety Symbols & What They Mean
Please read and understand this manual prior to installing or operating this Rapid Freeze® Ice Flaker. You
must be completely familiar with the start-up, operation and service of this flaker BEFORE you attempt to
start, operate or adjust this piece of equipment.
These safety symbols will alert you to any special precautions throughout this manual.
*** DANGER ***
BEWARE OF HAZARDS WHICH CAN RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY
*** DANGER ***
*** WARNING ***
"DO IT RIGHT" OR RISK SEVERE PERSONAL INJURY.
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS.
*** WARNING ***
*** CAUTION ***
BE CAREFUL NOT TO HURT YOURSELF OR TO DAMAGE THE
EQUIPMENT.
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS.
*** CAUTION ***

1 Introduction
3
*** CAUTION ***
Only service personnel experienced in refrigeration and qualified to work with high
voltage electrical equipment should be allowed to install or service this Rapid Freeze
Ice Flaker.
*** CAUTION ***
Upon receipt of your Rapid Freeze Ice Flaker, you should first inspect the carton very carefully to determine if
any damage may have occurred during shipment. If you suspect any damage has occurred, it should be noted
immediately on the freight bill. In addition, a separate written notice must be sent to the agent representing
the freight carrier. The written notice should request an inspection by the agent to verify damage during
shipment. If the damage was noticed after un-crating of the carton, it is necessary to keep the original
shipping container so the carrier's agent can investigate the damage claim thoroughly.
If a repair is necessary for the Rapid Freeze machine, you must first obtain written permission from the
factory before beginning any repairs. Unauthorized work on your Rapid Freeze Ice Flaker could result in
voiding the machine's warranty.
Seawater units are shipped with a holding charge of dry nitrogen to ensure the evaporator is kept clean and
moisture free. They must be pumped down and evacuated after they are connected to the refrigeration system,
before the entire system is charged with its refrigerant charge.
Immediately upon receipt of equipment, before placement or installation of equipment, verify the
electrical, and refrigerant configuration are correct as ordered. If any discrepancies are found, notify
Howe Corporation immediately prior to any installation.

3 Installing the Rapid Freeze Flaker
4
Installation Conditions
Rapid Freeze Ice Flakers are designed to operate in ambient temperatures warmer than 50°F. Do
not install ice flaker(s) in refrigerated cold rooms or in areas where the ambient temperature is
lower than 50°F (10°C). If it is unavoidable, ice flakers may be installed in areas down to 45°F
(7°C) provided that three (3) electric rib heaters (available from the factory) are installed to heat the
bottom casting to prevent ice buildup on the three supporting ribs for the bottom bearing. If
installed in cold ambient conditions, it is advisable to supply the ice flaker with warmer water
through a water mixing valve, around 60°F (15°C).
When a combination of cold water and cold air temperature exists, the mixing valve and rib heaters
must be used. Failure to do so will cause the lower water collecting trough and sump to plug
up with ice to the extent that the water may overflow into the ice storage bin in addition to
blocking the water inlet to the pump. Also, it is advisable to direct air blowers and fans away
from the ice flaker as air velocity over the ice flaker will reduce the effectiveness of the heaters.
*** CAUTION ***
NEVER install an ice flaker in a cold room 45°F (7°C) or lower. The ice flaker warranty is void
if the ice flaker is installed in a cold room or outside where the ambient temperature may drop
below freezing.
*** CAUTION ***
Optimum surrounding air temperature range............60°F (15°C) to 95°F (35°C)
Minimum air temperature (without heater)...........................................50°F (10°C)
Minimum air temperature (with heater)................................................45°F (7°C)
Maximum air temperature....................................................................100°F (38°C)
Optimum water temperature range.............................60°F (15°C) to 80°F (25°C)
Minimum water temperature (without water mixing valve)..................45°F (7°C)
Minimum water temperature (water mixing valve must be used)........36°F (2°C)
Maximum water temperature..................................................................90°F (32°C)
Installation without ice bin
Rapid Freeze Ice Flakers may be installed under certain conditions without a typical ice bin.
When the flaker is installed without a bin, it must have a drainable condensate pan located under
the machine. The flaker must also be mounted high enough off the floor so there is no chance that
somebody may reach into the evaporator from below either with a pole, or their arm, while the
flaker is operating.
Refrigerating the ice storage bin is not normally necessary nor is it recommended. However, in
those cases where ice is to be discharged into an existing freezer room then, as a minimum, electric
heaters should be installed on the bottom casting and the sump regardless of the actual ambient
temperature of the air surrounding the ice flaker. Air from the freezer room should be directed
away from the ice flaker opening otherwise, the effectiveness of the heaters will be reduced. If the
storage area is held at 28°F (-8°C) or colder, it is advisable to install the ice flaker 1 to 2 feet above
the freezer and use a duct section to direct the ice into the storage bin.

3 Installing the Rapid Freeze Flaker
5
Installation on Ice Storage Bins
Rapid Freeze® Ice Flakers are designed to run smoothly and without vibration. The machines are
usually mounted directly on top of an insulated ice storage bin. The storage bin must have an
insulated top, with a drip pan which is an integral part of the top designed specifically for the
Rapid Freeze Ice Flaker model installed on it. The ice bin should be designed to support the
weight of the flaker, and the ice stored inside the bin. Most ice storage bins can handle the weight
of a 2000, 3000, 4000 or 6000 pound capacity bare ice flaker without any additional bracing. It is
recommended that the bin manufacturer be consulted before any ice flaker is placed on top of a
bin. The weight of each ice flaker machine, along with the diameter of the hole required for ice
entry into the bin, is given on the specification sheet for that particular model.
Allow for a MINIMUM OF 6" clearance on top of the 2000, 3000, 4000 or 6000 pound capacity,
and MINIMUM OF 10" clearance on top of the10,000, 15,000, and 20,000 pound capacity ice
flaker for removal of the speed reducer, and sufficient space around the unit (approximately 3 feet)
for inspection and service.
Recommended Installation Method on Ice Bin
Refer to bin manufacturer’s installation instructions for proper assembly and set up procedures.
Locate and set the bin on a solid level footing. Once the bin is set in place and leveled, the Rapid
Freeze ice flaker can be placed inside the drip pan.
Exhibit 2 illustrates the forklift and block method of placing the ice flaker on the bin.
Forklift & Block Method
You will Need:
oForklift truck with adequate load and height capacities
o(8) 2 X 4 wood blocks approximately 6-8" long
o(2) 2 X 4 's approximately 36" long
oPry Bars
Step 1. Position ice flaker on forks.
Step 2. Stack two wood blocks in each corner of the drip pan on the ice bin.
Step 3. Lift ice flaker over the wood blocks, position ice drop zone over the bin top opening, then set the
flaker on the blocks.
Step 4. Remove forklift.
Step 5. Stack the two 36" long 2 X 4's on the side of the bin beside the drip pan, overlapping the front and
back of the bin.
Step 6. Using a pry bar as a lever on the 2 X 4's raise the side of the flaker and remove the TOP blocks
only.

3 Installing the Rapid Freeze Flaker
6
Step 7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 on the other side.
Step 8. With the flaker sitting on one (1) block under each corner, repeat steps 5, 6 & 7 removing the
remaining blocks. Drip pan flanges MAY bend slightly.
Step 9. Straighten the drip pan flanges (if necessary)
(EXHIBIT 2)

3 Installing the Rapid Freeze Flaker
7
WATER LINE: Connect a 2" galvanized or 2" ODS COPPER water pipe from the closest convenient
water line to within 2 to 4 feet of the ice flaker water sump. Install a water line shutoff valve near the ice
flaker. Use copper tubing between water valve & water inlet connection located on water sump.
Refer to the engineering sheet for the line size connection from the ice flaker sump to the water supply
line. If water supply has silt or sand in it, a coarse water filter is recommended.
*** IMPORTANT NOTICE ***
A MINIMUM WATER PRESSURE OF 30 PSIG IS REQUIRED AT THE ICE FLAKER
FLOAT VALVE TO INSURE ADEQUATE WATER FLOW.
MAXIMUM WATER PRESSURE TO THE FLOAT VALVE IS 60 PSIG.
*** IMPORTANT NOTICE ***
WATER SUPPLY & FILTER CONNECTIONS
(Exhibit 3)

3 Installing the Rapid Freeze Flaker
8
REFRIGERANT CHARGING
Special Precautions To Be Observed When Charging Refrigeration Systems
Only technically-qualified persons, trained and certified in the handling of refrigerant and operation of
refrigeration systems, should perform the operations described in this manual.
If a refrigeration system is being charged from refrigerant cylinders, disconnect each cylinder when empty or
when system is fully charged. A gauge should be installed in the charging line to indicate the refrigerant
cylinder pressure. The cylinder may be considered empty of liquid R-22 refrigerant when the gauge pressure
is 25 psi or less, and there is no frost on the cylinder. Close the refrigerant charging valve and cylinder valve
before disconnecting the cylinder. Loosen the union in the refrigerant line, SLOWLY and CAREFULLY, to
relieve refrigerant pressure in the charging hose.
*** WARNING ***
Never open charging valve allowing refrigerant to vent directly to atmosphere.
Refrigerant must be reclaimed through a recovery system.
*** WARNING ***
Always store cylinders containing refrigerant in a cool place. They should never be exposed to temperatures
higher than 125°F (52°C) and should be stored and secured in a manor to prevent abnormal mechanical
shocks.
*** CAUTION ***
Service/Installation personnel MUST have knowledge of refrigeration systems
to properly charge this ice flaker.
*** CAUTION ***
Verify that thermostatic expansion valve supplied with the ice flaker matches the refrigerant for the
refrigeration system or condensing unit.
*** WARNING ***
All Rapid Freeze BARE and Remote model ice flakers are shipped with a small holding
charge of dry Nitrogen.
SYSTEM MUST BE EVACUATED PRIOR TO CHARGING REFRIGERANT.
*** WARNING ***

3 Installing the Rapid Freeze Flaker
9
Follow good accepted practice and procedure to charge refrigerant into the system briefly outlined as follows.
1) Pressurize and test the system checking for leaks.
2) Use a good quality vacuum pump to evacuate the system. Make sure all shut-off valves are
OPEN so that the entire system is evacuated. Allow vacuum pump to run for several hours.
3) Break vacuum with refrigerant and evacuate again.
4) Repeat step 3. This is called "triple evacuation". It ensures that all air and moisture has been
removed from the system. Failure to do so may result in compressor burn-out.
5) After the third evacuation, notice that the "eye" in the liquid indicator is green, (supplied by Howe
on all flakers except bare flakers) indicating that the system is clean and dry. Then continue to
charge the system (using gas not liquid).
Above is a brief outline for charging the system. Consult the rack or condensing unit manufacturer for full
details.

6 SEAWATER MODEL INSTALLATION
10
ASSEMBLY DRAWING 11ESS-21ESS

6 SEAWATER MODEL INSTALLATION
11
ASSEMBLY DRAWING 31ES-31ESS

6 SEAWATER MODEL INSTALLATION
12
ASSEMBLY DRAWING 51ES-51ESS

6 SEAWATER MODEL INSTALLATION
13
ASSEMBLY DRAWING 11EFS-21EFS

6 SEAWATER MODEL INSTALLATION
14
ASSEMBLY DRAWING 51EFS