New Automatic Salinity Control System

This accessory system is designed to be used in conjunction with flake ice makers to improve ice quality, save time and money by automating the salt dosing function, and precisely regulating the salinity of the water used in ice making. The new unit will be on display at the Pacific Marine Expo in November.

The mineral content of the water used for ice making varies greatly from location to location and can dramatically affect the quality of the ice. North Star’s Automatic Salinity Control System works with the available water supply and provides the correct amount of salt to the ice maker for optimal ice quality. Generally, a very small amount of salt is needed, from 100 to 400ppm or 0.01 to 0.04%, to enhance ice maker performance and increase yields. The Automatic Salinity Control System is designed to completely automate the salt dosing function. The system accurately measures and maintains the optimal salinity level for ice making and also eliminates the guesswork and constant monitoring of salinity necessary with non-metered systems. For those customers who need to closely regulate the amount of salt in their ice making water, this system offers the opportunity to have precise control and still optimise ice production.

According to North Star's Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Tom Crawford, the Automatic Salinity Control System improves plant efficiency and saves money: “Because the North Star system is fully automated, there is less labour required in monitoring and refilling the salt tank. And because the salinity is closely controlled, plants will use less salt for the same amount of ice,” he said.

Mr Crawford also added that the precise control of the salinity will result in better ice and extend the operating life of the ice maker. “With this system, customers will see an improvement in the size of flakes and the reduction of 'fines', or snow in the finished ice,” he said. “And most importantly, the control of salinity lessens the chance of corrosion and unnecessary wear on the ice maker, increasing the longevity of the machine and requiring less maintenance. It will save you money in the long run," he added.