DESIGNING A REFRIGERATION SYSTEM FOR A MINI CRYSTAL ICE MACHINE

Abstract

The demand for crystal ice cubes in Indonesia continues to increase in line with population growth and high temperatures. This study aims to design and produce a mini crystal ice cube machine with a compact and efficient construction. The mini crystal ice cube machine has a frame measuring 50 cm long, 50 cm wide, and 45 cm high. The cooling system uses a 1/4 HP compressor, R134a refrigerant, and a U6 condenser, and is equipped with a food-grade 304 stainless steel evaporator, making it safe for consumption and for use as an ice mold. This machine is designed to produce 10 crystal ice cubes with a total weight of 90 grams in a maximum freezing time of 15 minutes. The research stages included designing the system to determine the technical specifications and main components, followed by the fabrication process based on the design, as well as testing and performance testing to obtain performance data. The test results were analyzed to evaluate the machine's ability to produce crystal ice cubes as needed. The test results showed that the highest actual COP occurred at 3 minutes at 11.754, while the lowest was at 15 minutes at 4.74. The highest ideal COP value was recorded at 20.12 at the 3rd minute, and the lowest at 7.21 at the 15th minute. This machine is capable of producing 10 grams of ice cubes in 15 minutes per operation.