When you grab a bag of ice from the grocery store you probably don’t think about the industrial systems working behind the scenes to make it possible. But for ice production and packaging facilities, keeping operations running smoothly is everything—and at the heart of those operations are ammonia oil separators and oil tanks.
Why Ammonia Refrigeration is Key in Ice Production
The ice industry runs on consistency. Facilities must produce tons of ice—flakes, cubes, or blocks—day in and day out, without interruption. Ammonia refrigeration is the go-to choice because it’s efficient, powerful, and capable of handling the massive cooling loads required.
But here’s the challenge: compressors in ammonia systems need oil for lubrication, and that oil often finds its way into the refrigerant stream. Left unchecked, it can reduce cooling efficiency, increase energy costs, or even damage equipment. For an industry that depends on nonstop production, that’s not an option.
Image from Genemco
Link to Industrial Oil Tanks & Separators
The Role of Oil Separators and Tanks
This is where oil separators and oil tanks come into play:
-
Oil separators remove oil from the ammonia refrigerant stream, keeping the system clean and efficient.
-
Oil tanks safely collect and store that oil, ensuring compressors always have proper lubrication when needed.
Together, they act like the “maintenance crew” of the refrigeration system—working quietly in the background to keep ice production lines moving without costly hiccups.
How They Support Ice Producers
-
Large-Scale Ice Plants – Facilities producing flake ice for food processing or block ice for industrial use depend on reliable systems that run around the clock. Oil management ensures machines don’t overheat or lose efficiency.
-
Packaged Ice Companies – Bags of ice at supermarkets or convenience stores need to be produced, stored, and shipped in bulk. Even a brief breakdown in refrigeration could mean spoiled inventory. Oil separators and tanks help prevent those risks.
-
Specialty Ice Production – Whether it’s crystal-clear cubes for high-end cocktails or crushed ice for beverage dispensers, consistency is everything. Proper oil management ensures refrigeration systems can deliver the precision these products require.
Trusted Brands for Reliable Systems
In an industry where downtime isn’t an option, facilities turn to the best. Trusted names like Frick, Vilter, R&Y, Cil-Con, Henry Technologies, Seattle Refrigeration Inc., and more provide oil separators and tanks built to handle the nonstop demands of ice production.
Image from Genemco
Link to Industrial Oil Tanks & Separators
Genemco: Your Go-To Partner in Ice Production Equipment
At Genemco, we understand the pressure ice producers face to keep operations efficient and reliable. That’s why we offer quality used ammonia oil separators and oil tanks from the top brands in the industry. Our solutions give you dependable performance without the high cost or long lead times of new equipment.
With Genemco, you’re not just buying equipment—you’re investing in peace of mind. We’re here to help you keep the ice flowing, the packaging lines moving, and your customers satisfied.