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.
