When selecting an ice machine for industrial use, the type of ice it produces matters just as much as its output and efficiency. While flake and cube ice are common in retail and foodservice settings, hard cracked ice stands out as the preferred option for high-demand industrial environments. Here’s how each type stacks up and why businesses across industries rely on hard cracked ice for performance, durability, and value.
What Is Hard Cracked Ice?
Hard cracked ice is made by freezing water inside vertical tubes, then cracking the formed ice into dense, irregular pieces during the harvest cycle. It is exceptionally durable and slow to melt, qualities that make it ideal for large-scale cooling and industrial processing.
One of the best examples of this technology in action is the Arctic-Temp® Model 1000AR-L, which produces 6,500 lbs. of hard cracked ice every 24 hours. Built for reliability and peak performance, it features:
A Copeland Discus Compressor for energy-efficient production
Double-walled vertical tube evaporators for maximum yield
Hot gas defrost for quick ice harvesting
USDA-approved, all-stainless steel construction
Designed for outdoor use and custom installations
This model is engineered with durability in mind. With no moving parts inside the freezing zone and rugged, stainless steel construction, it stands up to the toughest environments. Service is simplified thanks to standard, off-the-shelf components, minimizing downtime and reducing maintenance costs. View the Arctic-Temp® Model 1000AR-L to see its full capabilities.
Comparing Ice Types: Cracked, Flake, and Cube
Hard Cracked Ice
Applications: Industrial cooling, concrete production, marine use, chemical processing
Advantages: Dense, long-lasting, slow to melt, holds up in high-volume use
Best For: Operations requiring sustained, efficient cooling over extended periods
Flake Ice
Applications: Grocery stores, seafood displays, medical transport
Advantages: Flexible and moldable for product coverage
Drawbacks: Melts quickly, not suited for large-volume or high-heat applications
Cube Ice
Applications: Restaurants, bars, beverage service
Advantages: Clear, slow-melting, visually appealing
Drawbacks: Inefficient in bulk applications, limited industrial utility
Why Hard Cracked Ice Leads in Industrial Performance
Industrial environments demand more than just cold temperatures, they need reliable cooling systems that perform under pressure. Machines that produce hard cracked ice, like the Arctic-Temp® Model 1000AR-L, are built to deliver consistent results with fewer maintenance issues. With top-rated components like Copeland compressors and a freezing zone free of moving parts, these machines are engineered for longevity and dependable output.
At Holiday Ice Inc., our machines are hand-assembled, factory tested, and built using high-grade stainless steel to ensure durability in even the harshest environments. Whether you’re working in extreme temperatures or require continuous ice production, our equipment is built to meet the demand.
Get Expert Guidance from Holiday Ice
Choosing the right ice type and machine doesn’t have to be complicated. If your operation requires high output, low maintenance, and long-lasting performance, hard cracked ice is the answer.
To learn more about the Arctic-Temp® Model 1000AR-L or find the ideal machine for your facility, contact Holiday Ice Inc. at (800) 362-3243. Our team is here to help you find the perfect fit for your industrial ice needs.