R-ProField casesIce machines

Abnormally Long Ice-Making Cycle

Likely causes

Reduced cooling capacity due to refrigerant shortage

Check: Measure R-404A suction pressure — below 0.37 MPa (@-15°C saturation) = shortage; normal cycle 12~18 min, above 25 min = abnormal

What to do: Repair leak → vacuum 30 min → recharge to spec; recheck suction pressure after charging

High condensing temperature (elevated head pressure)

Check: Measure discharge pressure — R-404A @40°C condensing normal ~1.6 MPa; above 2.0 MPa = condensing problem

What to do: Clean condenser fins; ensure ventilation clearance; verify fan operation

Expansion valve under-feeding

Check: Evaporator inlet-outlet temperature difference — below 5°C = insufficient refrigerant flow; if suction pressure also low, EEV under-feeding

What to do: Screw type: adjust superheat to 4~6°C; EEV: check parameters then replace

High inlet water temperature

Check: Measure incoming water temperature — 10~20°C normal; above 25°C inevitably extends freeze cycle

What to do: Insulate supply line or schedule supply during cooler hours; re-negotiate required output with customer

Thickness sensor set value too high

Check: Thickness sensor setting — harvest doesn't start until set thickness reached; compare set vs actual ice thickness with calipers

What to do: Adjust set thickness to reference value (typically 5~7mm); excessive setting reduces production

Field tip

Freeze cycle over 25 min → always measure high and low pressure simultaneously; R-404A reference: suction 0.37 MPa, discharge 1.6 MPa at normal operating temp

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