초록 ▼

The invention provides an apparatus and method for continuously delivering ice particulates at high velocity onto a substrate for treating the surface of the substrate. The apparatus includes a refrigerated curved surface that is brought into contact with water to form a thin, substantially uniform,

The invention provides an apparatus and method for continuously delivering ice particulates at high velocity onto a substrate for treating the surface of the substrate. The apparatus includes a refrigerated curved surface that is brought into contact with water to form a thin, substantially uniform, ice sheet on the surface. This ice sheet is of such thickness as to contain stresses so that the sheet is predisposed to fracture into particulates. A doctor-knife is mounted to intercept a leading edge of the ice sheet and to fragment the ice sheet to produce ice particulates. These ice particulates enter into at least one ice-receiving tube that extends substantially along the length of the doctor-knife. Once in the tube, the ice particulates are fluidized by a constant flow of air and are carried into a hose for delivery through an ice-blasting nozzle under pressure. The flow path for the ice particulates in the tube and the delivery hose has a substantially constant cross-sectional area, and flow surfaces are smooth to minimize the likelihood of blockages. Advantageously, the apparatus is able to function for extended periods of time without ice blockages occurring.

대표청구항 ▼

[ The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:] [1.] A method of continuously producing a stream of ice particulates, the method comprising:(a) freezing water on a curve of surface into a thin, curved sheet of ice, the curved sheet h

[ The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:] [1.] A method of continuously producing a stream of ice particulates, the method comprising:(a) freezing water on a curve of surface into a thin, curved sheet of ice, the curved sheet having a radius of curvature, the curvature causing sufficient internal stress in the curved sheet to result in self-fracture of the ice sheet;(b) harvesting self-fractured ice particulates directly from the curved surface;(c) maintaining the harvested ice particulates in a fluidized state, thereby preventing significant agglomeration of ice particulates; and(d) blasting the harvested, fluidized ice particulates from a nozzle at a controlled velocity onto a substrate.