The KEITH Ice Storage and Conveying System works in conjunction with ice making equipment, storing ice then automatically metering it out of the bin with a WALKING FLOOR® conveyor. KEITH® Ice Bins provide a safer and more efficient working environment by automatically delivering ice during processing operations.
Bins replace the need for a floor auger, eliminating a potential safety hazard. Instead, an enclosed auger delivers ice to the downstream equipment without any manual intervention, providing an uninterrupted flow of ice. Systems can also operate 24 hours a day with minimal supervision.
Bins are made of FDA and USDA approved materials and constructed with sanitation in mind. The system’s leveling screw helps maintain a first in, first out ice rotation. This assists in keeping the product fresh and greatly reduces the chance of ice buildup that requires the time consuming process of frequently cleaning out and sanitizing the bin. Gel coating also prevents ice from freezing to the sidewalls of the bin.
Special design features address problems commonly found in other ice storage systems. All fasteners are located outside the bin for easy visual inspection. Because there are no moving parts inside the bin, there is no reason to enter it for maintenance purposes. With the mechanical components located outside the food zone, most emergency repairs can be addressed without unloading the product from the bin.
A variable speed pump powers the comb, which is mounted at an angle of repose for maximum efficiency. The comb re-fractures the ice as the WALKING FLOOR® conveyor moves it toward
the front of the bin, ensuring an even flow of ice. In addition to keeping ice consistently rotating out of the bin, proper ice delivery reduces the amount of water needed during the chilling process by minimizing product loss.
Power for the ice bin is supplied by a hydraulic power unit, which allows the floor speed to be adjusted to meet the product demand. Load sensing pumps automatically adjust the pressure to match the load, which minimizes energy consumption. Oil temperature switches and a float switch protect against conditions that could damage the system.
Each bin is custom engineered and can be designed in various configurations, with a maximum discharge rate of up to 44 tons of ice per hour. KEITH is dedicated to designing engineering, manufacturing and assembling ice storage and conveying bins to the highest standard. To ensure quality control, KEITH manages each step of the manufacturing process at its location in Madras, Oregon.
