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About refrigerator blast chiller

Types of refrigerator blast chillers

Refrigerator blast chillers come in several types. Each one is designed to fulfill specific cooling needs. They are commonly used in large-scale kitchens, catering services, and food processing industries. These types include the following:

  • Roll-In Blast Chillers

    These are made for large operations. They are used where substantial food storage containers or carts need to be chilled quickly. Blast chillers of this type allow mobile food storage units to be rolled directly into the chiller for immediate cooling. They can, therefore, accommodate large batches of soups, stews, casseroles and other meals. They do this without taking up extra space in the kitchen.

  • Reach-In Blast Chillers

    This is the most common type of chillers, and it is often found in commercial kitchens. It is similar to a conventional refrigerator. It has multiple shelves and doors. This type allows smaller batches of food to be blasted chilled quickly. They are useful, therefore, for businesses that need to cool down food stored in pans. It is also ideal for those already using a reach-in refrigerator.

  • Surround Cooling Blast Chilllers

    This type uses a patented, dynamic, and balanced cooling system that guarantees faster chill times. They cool more evenly and eliminate the risk of food spillage. The main advantage of this type is that food cools all around the product rather than just from the top or bottom, which can lead to an uneven chill.

  • Floor-Mount Blast Chillers

    These blast chillers are designed to be installed directly on the floor in commercial kitchen settings. They often have larger capacities because they are meant for high-volume environments. In addition, they come with a more robust cooling system that can handle the increased demand for chilling. Therefore, this type is usually used in large-scale food production facilities, hospitals, and catering businesses.

  • Combination Blast Chillers

    The functionality of a blast chiller and a blast freezer reduces the temperature of food quickly down to safe storage temperatures, usually between 28°F and 32°F. This quick reduction in temperature helps preserve food quality, including texture, flavor, and nutritional value. These units are often used in businesses that require both cooling and freezing capabilities.

Industrial applications of refrigerator blast chillers

  • Commercial kitchens and Catering

    High-capacity refrigerator blast chillers are used in large restaurants, hotels, and catering companies. Such operations frequently prepare food in large batches. They then use these blast chillers to cool the food quickly before storage. This helps to order prevent the growth of bacteria, extend shelf life, and maintain food safety. They are widely used by the {@link food industry}.

  • Food Processing and Packaging

    In food-processing plants, refrigerator blast chillers are essential for quickly cooling cooked products such as meats, vegetables, and ready-to-eat meals. This chilling process helps preserve the quality and safety of the food. It also prepares it for packaging and storage. Moreover, chiller blast chillers are routinely used for package-sealed foods that need to be rapidly cooled to extend shelf life.

  • Bakeries

    Large commercial bakeries use blast chillers to cool down cakes, pastries, and breads. They are either frosted or filled with cream. This prevents the heat from ruining the integrity of the product during storage. In addition, using a refrigerator blast chiller enables bakers to prepare products in advance. This helps them to meet high demand without compromising quality.

  • Pharmaceutical Industry

    In the pharmaceutical industry, blast chillers are used to cool medicines, vaccines, and biological products that need to be stored at specific low temperatures. It ensures that these products maintain their efficacy and safety during the cooling process. This is critical for compliance with health regulations, especially when producing and storing vaccines that require precise temperature control.

  • Quick-Service Restaurants (QSRs)

    These types of restaurants often handle large volumes of food. They, therefore, require efficient methods for chilling products like cooked meats, potato products, and marinated items. By using refrigerator blast chillers, QSRs can quickly bring these items down to safe temperatures. This minimizes the risk of foodborne illnesses while allowing them to maintain a high turnover rate of food products.

Key Specifications and Features of Refrigerator Blast Chillers

Technical specifications

  • Cooling Capacity

    This refers to the amount of time a chiller can bring a specific quantity of food from a higher temperature to a lower one. In commercial kitchens, the requirement could be to bring 100 kilograms of food from 90°F to 35°F within an hour. Measured in kilowatts or horsepower, larger capacities are needed for busier kitchens.

  • Temperature Range

    The temperature range of a refrigerator blast chiller defines its capabilities. Most models can reduce temperatures to around 28°F. Others, like combination units, can freeze food at temperatures as low as 8°F. Ensure whichever chiller is selected can achieve the required final temperature for the food being stored.

  • Control System

    Modern blast chillers have digital controls that allow precise setting of temperature and cooling time. Some even have programs for different types of food to automatically adjust as needed. This makes it easier for users to operate the machine correctly even without technical knowledge.

  • Size and Capacity

    Smaller kitchens may manage with a reach-in model that fits in a storage area. However, larger operations require more significant chillers that could accept full racks of food. Consider how much chilling capacity is needed based on the quantity of food prepared.

How to use

Restaurants and other food service operations commonly use refrigerator blast chillers to cool and store large quantities of cooked food. By understanding the manufacturer's recommendations and following best practices, users can ensure their refrigerator blast chillers operate efficiently and safely.

Some of the usage recommendations include the following:

  • Preparing Food for Chilling

    Before placing food items in the chiller, ensure they are cooled to room temperature to prevent overheating the chiller.

  • Loading the Chiller

    Arrange food items to allow proper airflow. Do not overcrowd or block vents, as this will impede cooling efficiency.

  • Setting the Temperature

    Adjust the digital control panel to the desired chilling temperature. It should be between 28°F to 32°F for most foods.

  • Chilling Process

    Allow the blast chiller to run until food items reach the recommended storage temperature. This usually takes a few minutes to an hour, depending on the quantity and type of food.

  • Monitoring

    Check temperature logs or built-in monitors to ensure the chiller maintains the set temperature consistently.

  • Storing Chilled Food

    Once food items are chilled, transfer them to storage containers. Store them in a refrigerator or freezer to maintain freshness until ready for use.

Maintenance and Repair

A well-maintained refrigerator blast chiller operates optimally. It also prolongs the lifespan of the unit. To keep the chiller running optimally, it is important to adhere to a regular maintenance schedule, checklists, and professional servicing when required.

Here are some refrigerator blast chiller maintenance and repair tips:

  • Daily Maintenance

    Clean the interior and exterior of the chiller using mild detergent. Do not use abrasive cleaners that damage surfaces. Ensure to remove food debris that could cause bacterial growth.

  • Weekly Maintenance

    Check door seals for any leaks. Damaged seals waste energy and reduce chilling efficiency. Conduct a simple test by closing a piece of paper in the door. If the paper tears easily, the seal needs replacement.

  • Monthly Maintenance

    Clear condenser coils with a soft brush or vacuum attachment. Coil dust reduces cooling capacity. Run the chiller will not with its reduced capacity due to dust accumulation.

  • Professional Servicing

    Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for annual servicing schedules. Hire a certified technician for in-depth checks like refrigerant levels. Experienced personnel should conduct repairs as they have the expertise. Always use original parts for repairs.

Quality and Certification of Refrigerator Blast Chillers

Quality

As mentioned earlier, blast chillers are essential in diverse heavy industries. This includes the {@link food and beverage industry} because they help in quickly lowering the temperature of large quantities of food. It thereby enhances food safety and extends shelf life. With their critical role in Health and Safety, the quality of Refrigerator blast chillers is paramount.

This is especially when selecting a chiller for bulk handling. Some of the vital quality aspects a user should consider include the following:

  • Refrigeration System

    Unlike other refrigeration units, blast chillers cool food quickly. They utilize powerful refrigeration systems that operate at temperatures lower than typical chillers.

  • Durable Construction

    Commercial blast chillers are always built to handle frequent use. They deal with heavy loads, temperature extremes, and rigorous cleaning. Materials like stainless steel which resist corrosion and wear, construct both the interior and exterior.

  • Temperature Uniformity

    Subpar chillers leave hot spots that compromise food safety. It can be dangerous when bacteria thrive in inadequately chilled areas. Users should always select certified models that guarantee even cooling throughout the unit.

  • Capacity and Size

    Select a blast chiller that can handle the user’s food volume. Large units take longer to chill but accommodate high quantities. Smaller models are manageable but ideal for low-capture volumes.

Certifications

Many certifications ensure a blast chiller meets user needs. Some are essential for regulatory compliance, while others signify quality across industries. They include the following:

  • NSF International Certification

    The NSF certification ensures that a refrigerator blast chiller meets hygiene as well as food safety standards. It also guarantees that the materials used in the chiller’s construction are durable and easy to clean. This certification is vital for food service operations. It is because it certifies device sanitation standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for public health protection.

  • Energy Star Certification

    This certification is awarded by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It indicates that the blast chiller is energy efficient. Therefore, it will help to reduce energy costs while providing reliable performance. The Energy Star certification also identifies appliances that meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. These include those set by the U.S. EPA and Department of Energy.

  • CE Marking

    Manufacturers and suppliers can use this certification in the European Union to indicate a product’s compliance with EU legislation. It includes directives on safety, environmental protection, and electromagnetic compatibility. The CE marking is indispensable for any chiller that will be sold within the European Economic Area (EEA). This is because it confirms the product meets essential requirements for safety and effectiveness.

  • ISO 9001

    The ISO 9001 certification is awarded to any Refrigerator blast chiller that meets the requirements for a quality management system. This standard is based on several quality management principles. These are customer focus, the involvement of top management, a process approach, and continual improvement. They help to demonstrate consistency and effectiveness in manufacturing.

  • FDA Compliance

    In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for regulating devices used in food preservation and safety. Blast chillers must comply with the FDA’s food safety requirements to ensure they effectively reduce foodborne illnesses.

Q&A

Q1. How does one select the appropriate blast chiller for their needs?

A1. Consider key aspects such as the available space, chilling requirements, and whether the kitchen operations are small or large. In such a case, a smaller reach-in would be sufficient. However, high-capacity kitchens would need larger models like roll-in chillers.

Q2. What is the benefit of a combination chiller?

A2. It allows the user to chill and freeze foods. This versatility is perfect for operations that require both processes, offering greater flexibility in food preparation and storage.

Q3. How is a blast chiller different from a regular refrigerator?

A3. A refrigerator blast chiller is designed to quickly reduce temperatures using powerful refrigeration. Regular refrigerators do not have this capability. Hence, they are suited for commercial level food storage. They are also built to withstand the rigors of a high-demand environment.

Q4. What should users consider to ensure food safety?

A4. The users should expedite the cooling process. They should ensure food cools quickly and evenly to prevent bacterial growth. Consistent maintenance helps guarantee the chiller operates at peak efficiency. This also maintains strict food safety standards.

Q5. Do blast chillers come in different sizes?

A5. Yes, they are available in different sizes. Some are small. They can be easily fitted into restaurant kitchens. Others are large models like roll-in chillers. They are meant for large-scale food production.