(818 products available)
Ice tubes are essential for various industries, including food and beverage, healthcare, and hospitality. The machine used to make tube ice consistently is the tube ice machine. There are tube ice machine machines that work very well and produce ice tubes efficiently and effectively.
Water Spray Type
This machine uses a water spray method to create tube ice. The machine sprays water onto cylindrical metal molds. The water then freezes into ice tubes as the molds rotate. Once the process is complete, hot gas enters the molds.
This gas causes the ice tubes to thaw slightly at the surface. This thaws helps loosen the ice from the molds. The ice tubes are then cut or pushed out of the molds. With this method, ice tube production is rapid. The machines can produce large quantities of ice within a day. The machines also use a low volume of water to create ice.
Water Bath Type
This machine submerges metal molds in a water bath so that freezing can occur. The water in the bath is usually saltwater because it has a lower freezing point than freshwater. Saltwater prevents the freezing of the liquid in the basin, allowing the water to cool and freeze the ice mold.
When the water bath gets cold enough, the water will start freezing the water in the mold. Once the process is over, warm gas is pumped into the mold. The warm gas will thaw the ice, causing it to come out of the mold. This method of making tube ice is very efficient, as there is a constant circulation of cold water around the mold to freeze the water quickly. The machines also produce tube ice at a low production cost.
Air Blast Tube Ice Machines
This machine works by blowing cold air over water contained in a metal cylinder. As the water spins, it gets cooled down, and ice forms inside the metal cylinder. When the water completely freezes inside the cylinder, warm air is blown into the cylinder. This warm air thaws the ice, and ice tubes drop into the collection bin.
These machines are quite compact, making them suitable for places with limited space. They are also more affordable than other types, which makes them ideal for small businesses with low ice demands.
In recent years, tube ice machines have become an indispensable asset to the food service industry in the Philippines.
Tube ice machines are perfect ice makers for restaurants and cafés serving drinks. The large surface area of tube ice means fast cooling. Beverage customers are very picky when it comes to their drinks being ice-cold. Tube ice machines help business owners meet customer expectations and keep them coming back.
Hotels use tube ice machines for the same reason as restaurants and cafés. Some hotels in the Philippines offer blended drinks and cocktails. Some hotel amenities include saunas and fitness centers, where guests expect to see ice water. An ice machine in a hotel is an expectation for guests.
Bars use tube ice machines for cocktails. Hard and premium tube ice are icecube options for bars that don't dilute drinks. Bars are another scenario where tube ice machines are essential.
Tube ice machines also help save costs. Buying ice in bulk is cheaper than paying for ice in smaller bags every time. Commercial tube ice machines produce ice quickly and in large quantities.
Food delivery services deliver food and drinks that require ice. Tube ice machines can help fill the gap as an affordable ice maker. Large volumes of ice will be needed to keep perishable items cold while in transit.
Businesses away from commercial food services may also benefit from ice machines. Construction sites require ice for concrete. Ice cools cement during the hot months to prevent hardening issues. Ice can also be used to keep workers cool in extreme heat.
In choosing tube ice machines for sale, business buyers should consider the following factors:
Production capacity to meet demand
Because the business buyer's business will be based on sales volume and applications, they need to choose a machine with a production capacity that meets their demand.
Energy efficiency to reduce operating costs
Energy efficiency is an important factor to consider, as it can significantly impact operating costs. Choosing a machine with good energy efficiency helps business buyers save money on electricity bills.
Machine size and space requirement
Consider the dimensions and space requirements of the ice machine to ensure that it fits well in the existing facility or planned ice production site.
Ease of use and automation for convenient operation
Choose machines with automated features and easy-to-use control systems to ensure smooth operation and reduce staff training requirements.
Durability and reliability for long-term investment
Durability and reliability are key considerations for long-term investment. Choose tube ice machines that are well-built and reliable to minimize maintenance and unexpected downtime.
Maintenance and support services for ice machine suppliers
Choose a supplier that offers excellent after-sales support, including timely maintenance and easily available spare parts.
Q1 What is a tube ice machine?
A tube ice machine makes ice in the shape of tubes. It has a water reservoir, freezing chamber, and collector for ice. When water freezes in the chamber, a heater or hot gas makes the ice cylindrical ice to drop into the collector.
Q2 How does a tube ice machine work?
A tube ice machine works by freezing water in a vertical cylinder. There are evaporator coils in the cylinder. When water touches these coils, the water starts to freeze. The machine uses a fan and some coils to remove the heat from the water. A small amount of water stays unfrozen at the bottom. Once the water turns to ice, a heater or hot gas makes the ice cylindrical ice drop into an ice bin.
Q3 How efficient is a tube ice machine?
A tube ice machine is 80 to 90 percent ice-making efficient. This means that 80 to 90 percent of the water used will turn to ice. This machine is more water-efficient than other ice machines, like flake and nugget ice machines.
Q4 What is the power consumption of a tube ice machine?
It varies by size, brand, and model. It is best to look at the machine's specs to find out how much power it uses.
Q5 Is there any special maintenance for a tube ice machine?
A tube ice machine needs regular cleaning and descaling. Hard water can cause buildup quickly. Suppliers should do maintenance at least twice a year. This ensures the machine works well and the ice tastes clean and fresh.