DSi Vertical Plate Freezers

• Freezing of whole fish or fish blocks on fishing vessels or shore-based processing plants.
• Rapid freezing of meat blocks, offal, or poultry products for extended shelf life.
• Processing of fruit and vegetable purees or concentrates into frozen blocks.
• Freezing of liquid or semi-liquid food products within suitable packaging.
• Industrial-scale freezing where product integrity and rapid freezing are critical.

Typical capacity

For this class of equipment, freezing capacities can range significantly based on plate dimensions and number of stations, often processing several tonnes per batch or hour.

Power supply

Units of this type commonly require a 3-phase industrial power supply, typically 400V, 50Hz, with varying amperage requirements depending on compressor size.

Refrigerant type

Modern vertical plate freezers typically utilise ammonia (NH3) or various HFC refrigerants, chosen for their efficiency and environmental considerations.

Product gap

The product gap, as specified at 60mm for these units, dictates the maximum thickness of the product block that can be frozen between the plates.

Freezing time

Freezing times for vertical plate freezers are typically efficient, often ranging from 2 to 4 hours for standard product blocks, depending on product type and thickness.

Footprint

The footprint for a single unit can vary, but for a 38-station configuration, it would require a substantial floor area and adequate height for product loading and the overhead weighing station.

• What are the primary advantages of vertical plate freezers?

  Vertical plate freezers offer rapid and uniform freezing, high product density, and efficient use of space, particularly beneficial for block freezing of unpackaged or semi-packaged products.

• Can these freezers handle different product sizes?

• What maintenance is typically required for vertical plate freezers?

• Is an overhead weighing station a common feature?

• What considerations are there for installation?

Plate freezers are valued for their efficiency in rapid product freezing across food processing applications. Buyers typically appreciate their compact footprint and consistent performance. When purchasing used equipment, inspecting plate condition for corrosion or damage is essential, as worn plates reduce freezing efficiency. Key strengths include reliable operation, relatively straightforward maintenance requirements, and suitability for batch processing. Industry sentiment favours models from established manufacturers with documented service histories. Buyers should verify refrigeration system integrity and confirm spare parts availability before committing to purchase.

General overview for this equipment type