| 摘要 |
The invention relates to a process and apparatus for producing blocks of ice (30b), wherein water is introduced, preferably by spraying through nozzle arrangement (26b), in the form of water droplets into at least one container (1b) with metal walls (20b), which is maintained under a partial vacuum, preferably 5 to 15% below the triple point of the water, such that the heat of evaporation removed from the water causes the water to freeze and a block of ice (30b) to form. A counterweighted, pivotable base (5b) closes the container (1b) but opens under the weight of ice to allow the ice to pass out of the container. The adhesion of the ice to the inner wall of the container is broken by spraying the outer well of the container with water. Alternatively the outer wall of the container may be jacketed so that heating water may be passed about the outer wall. <IMAGE> |
