19
Service
Ice machine Operation (all models)
Follett’s ice machine consists of four distinct functional systems:
• Refrigeration system
• Water system
• Harvesting system
• Electrical control system
These four systems work together to accomplish the production and harvesting of ice. A problem in any one of
these systems will result in improper operation of the entire ice production cycle. When troubleshooting the ice
machine, it is important to analyze the entire system operation to determine which system is not functioning
properly, then pinpoint the component within that system that is malfunctioning. Determine what corrective action
must be taken before making any adjustments or replacing any components.
The icemaking process
The Follett ice machine uses a stainless steel jacketed evaporator and operates on a continuous freezing cycle. Water
is supplied to the evaporator from the water reservoir where the water level is controlled by a oat valve. This valve
also shuts off the water supply when the ice machine is not running.
water
inlet
auger
compression nozzle
ice transport tube
evaporator
port
Harvest system diagram
When the ice machine is running,
a layer of ice forms on the interior
surface of the evaporator. This ice
is continuously removed by a slowly
rotating (12 RPM) auger. The auger
carries the ice upward into the
cavity formed by the top bearing
housing and the compression
loop, where it is compressed to
remove excess water. When the
ice reaches the desired hardness
it rotates within the cavity and is
forced through a discharge port and
compression nozzle and into the ice
transport tube. The discharge tube
and compression nozzle are slightly
restricted to further compress
the ice and produce the desired
hardness. Note: MFD series ake
ice machines have no compression
nozzle. As the formation of ice
continues, ice in the transport tube
is pushed through the tube to the
storage compartment in the ice
dispenser or ice storage bin.
A solid state control board located
in the electrical box of the ice
machine controls the normal
operation of the ice machine and
monitors gearmotor torque. This
control board will shut down the
ice machine should an over-torque
condition occur. It is very important
that you familiarize yourself with
the operational sequences detailed
in this manual before attempting to
service the ice machine.
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