The preceding chapter covers chiefly the freezing system equipment necessary for the manufacture of opaque or white ice. When this grade of ice is satisfactory, and such is often the case as in car-icing plants and those plants furnishing large quantities of ice for commercial refrigerating purposes, no further freezing system equipment is needed.
In the majority of cases, however, the trade demands clear ice and previously it is necessary to agitate the water in the ice cans during the freezing period if clear ice is to be made from raw water. This agitation is accomplished in Frick raw water plants by the use of filtered, chilled air.
Frick Company manufacture two distinct types of raw water plants, namely, the Meptum Pressure System and the Low Pressure System. The Mepium Pressure de in two types, the “Corner Tusr Tyre RAL TUBE 'T'yPE” to meet the requirements of certain sections. The type of raw water system to be used depends on local conditions. The choice should always be made by one entirely familiar with the subject, after a careful study of all conditions.
The fundamental principle underlying the operation of the raw water freezing system may be briefly stated as follows: During the process of freezing, the constant agitation releases the air in the water as the water freezes. By this agitation the water is also greatly purified, because many of the soluble impurities in it are also released and precipitated. Furthermore, as the water is cooled its ability to hold impurities in solution is greatly decreased; consequently, most of them appear as color or visible solids in the core, which may be easily removed. After the core containing these impurities has been removed the cavity is refilled with fresh water and the block allowed to freeze solid.
Frick Company has installed a great many raw water plants, operating on this principle, which are producing good merchantable ice and the most satisfactory service.
The Water Supply When the installation of a raw water freezing system is being considered, it is vitally important to have an analysis of the water and, if possible, several sample cans of ice frozen from it. The water to be analyzed should be taken from flowing supply and under such conditions as will give a reliable sample. All water is subject to change from time to time, especially where the source of supply is a flowing stream. Due to the many and varied sources from which such water is derived, there is always the possibility of it containing foreign matter either in solution or suspension.
Certain waters may contain so much mineral and foreign matter that special treatment will be necessary. In such cases any one of several types of water softening and purifying outfits made by reliable manufacturers may be applied and the water softened and purified as needed for the manufacture of ice.
The condition of the water during the period it is to be used for making ice should always be known in order to enable the selection of equipment which will produce a good grade of ice at all times.
Key Takeaways
- Agitating water during freezing is essential for producing clear ice from raw water.
- Filtered, chilled air is used in Frick raw water plants to achieve agitation.
- Water analysis and treatment are crucial before using it for ice production.
Practical Tips
- Use filtered, chilled air to agitate the water during freezing for clearer ice.
- Regularly analyze your water supply to ensure consistent quality of ice produced.
- Refill the core with fresh water after removing impurities for a solid block of ice.
Warnings & Risks
- Failing to properly agitate raw water can result in opaque, unsatisfactory ice.
- Neglecting to analyze and treat your water supply may lead to poor quality ice.
Modern Application
While the chapter focuses on commercial ice production from the early 20th century, its principles of agitation and purification for clear ice are still applicable today. Modern survivalists can adapt these techniques using contemporary equipment like air pumps or mechanical agitators in emergency water purification scenarios.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the primary reason for agitating raw water during freezing?
Agitation releases air and impurities from the water, leading to clearer ice. It also purifies the water by precipitating soluble impurities.
Q: Why is it important to analyze the water before using it in a raw water plant?
Water analysis ensures that the water quality meets requirements for producing clear ice and helps identify if any special treatment, such as softening or purifying, is necessary.
Q: What are the two types of raw water systems manufactured by Frick Company?
Frick Company manufactures the Meptum Pressure System and the Low Pressure System for raw water plants. Each type may have variations to suit different conditions.