Refrigeration - used cooling tunnels 71

Cooling Tunnels in the Food Processing Sector: A Deep Dive with Exapro

In the bustling domain of food processing, machinery's role is monumental. And when we talk about achieving optimal product temperature post-production, cooling tunnels are truly indispensable. At Exapro, we recognise the significance of these tools and provide a reliable marketplace for purchasing and selling used industrial machinery, including cooling tunnels. So, let's unpack the marvel that is the cooling tunnel, and understand how Exapro stands out in its offerings.

Cooling tunnels are specialised machinery employed predominantly in the food processing industry to swiftly bring down the temperature of products to a desired level. This can be for reasons ranging from ensuring products set properly (like chocolates) to enhancing shelf life and ensuring product safety. Typically, products travel on a conveyor belt through a temperature-controlled environment, receiving uniform cooling as they advance.

The design and capabilities of cooling tunnels can vary based on the type of food product, the desired end temperature, and the speed at which the cooling needs to occur. They might employ methods such as chilled air, refrigeration, or even cooling liquids, depending on specific requirements.

Why Choose Exapro for Your Needs?

With a vast array of options available, Exapro boasts a comprehensive collection of cooling tunnels catering to different food processing needs. This diversity ensures that professionals can find a machine that aligns perfectly with their specific requirements. Our machinery listings undergo rigorous checks. This ensures that what you see is what you get, eliminating unpleasant surprises post-purchase. At Exapro, we prioritise transparent dealings. From pricing to machinery details, all information is clearly laid out for buyers and sellers.

Opting for used machinery is not just about cost-saving, but also about resource optimisation. At Exapro, we understand this balance, which is why we offer competitively priced options without compromising on quality. At Exapro, the price range for used cooling tunnels in the food processing sector predominantly oscillates between €21,000 and €70,000. So, whether you're leaning towards an entry-level machine or considering a premium investment, Exapro’s extensive catalogue ensures that your specific needs are addressed.

Exapro isn’t confined to a specific region. Our reach spans the globe, connecting buyers and sellers from different corners of the world. This means broader options for buyers and a wider audience for sellers.

If you're in the market for a cooling tunnel or looking to sell one, Exapro is your trusted marketplace, bridging the gap between demand and supply in the realm of used industrial machinery. With our commitment to quality, trust, and seamless transactions, Exapro ensures that professionals across the food processing industry have the resources they need to operate efficiently and effectively.

Main Advantages of Cooling Tunnels

Cooling tunnels play an instrumental role in the food processing industry and various other sectors that require rapid and uniform cooling of products. Here are the main advantages of using cooling tunnels:

Uniform Cooling: Cooling tunnels ensure that products receive consistent cooling throughout. This uniformity prevents the formation of temperature gradients which can cause product defects, especially in sensitive items like chocolate where even cooling ensures a shiny finish and prevents blooming.

Increased Efficiency: With a continuous processing line, cooling tunnels allow for higher production rates. Products can be cooled rapidly in succession, enhancing the overall throughput of the production process.

Space Optimization: Instead of spreading products out in a large area to cool, or using multiple refrigeration units, cooling tunnels streamline the process in a confined space, making efficient use of factory real estate.

Improved Product Quality: Consistent and controlled cooling can significantly enhance product quality. It ensures that the products retain their shape, texture, and taste, especially important in foods like confectionery or baked goods.

Versatility: Modern cooling tunnels can be adjusted to cater to different products and cooling needs. They can be customized in terms of conveyor speed, temperature settings, and cooling methods (air, liquid, or a combination).

Energy Efficient: When optimally maintained and operated, cooling tunnels can be more energy-efficient compared to traditional batch cooling processes, leading to cost savings in the long run.

Safe and Hygienic: Cooling tunnels reduce the exposure of products to the external environment, which can be a potential source of contamination. This is particularly beneficial for food products, ensuring they remain hygienic and safe for consumption.

Reduction in Manual Handling: With automated conveyors, there's a reduction in manual handling of products, which not only enhances efficiency but also reduces the risk of contamination and human error.

Scalability: For businesses looking to scale up production, integrating a cooling tunnel can be a game-changer. It ensures that increased volumes can be managed without compromising on product quality or cooling efficiency.

Flexibility in Production: Cooling tunnels allow manufacturers to swiftly switch between different products or batches. Modern systems often come with quick settings adjustments, ensuring minimal downtime during changes.

Cooling tunnels provide industries with a combination of efficiency, quality assurance, and flexibility, making them an indispensable asset in any production line where controlled cooling is paramount.

Main machine parameters of Cooling Tunnels 

When engaging in buying or selling cooling tunnels on a marketplace like Exapro, several main machine parameters should be meticulously considered to ensure the right fit for the buyer and transparent communication between both parties. Here are the essential parameters:

Width, Height, and Length: Determine the size of the products that can be accommodated.

Cooling Method & Capacity: Details on whether it uses air, liquid, or contact cooling, and the temperature range it can achieve.

Conveyor Type & Speed: The conveyor's nature and the adjustable speed range affect the cooling duration and the type of products it can handle.

Power Requirements & Energy Consumption: Compatibility with local power sources and operational energy efficiency are crucial for long-term use.

Maintenance & Service History: Regularly serviced and well-maintained machines are usually more reliable and valuable.

Condition & Functionality: A clear depiction of the machine's current state and any possible defects or parts that need replacement.

Additional Features: Any extra features like automation capabilities, integrated sensors, or adjustable settings that enhance the machine's functionality.

By accurately and transparently listing these parameters, sellers can significantly enhance the appeal of their listing to serious buyers, and buyers can make informed, confident decisions on their purchases on platforms like Exapro.

Area of Use 

In the context of buying and selling on Exapro, the areas of use for cooling tunnels are predominantly concentrated in industries where precise and efficient cooling is integral to production. Understanding the area of use is crucial as it helps buyers in identifying the machines that align with their requirements and assists sellers in positioning their listings to the right audience.

Food and Beverage Industry. Here, cooling tunnels are essential, particularly in confectionery and bakery product manufacturing, to ensure proper setting and preservation of taste and texture.

Pharmaceutical Industry. For medicines and other health-related products that require controlled temperatures, cooling tunnels are crucial to maintaining product integrity.

Chemical Industry. They are used in certain chemical processes that necessitate rapid and controlled cooling to achieve the desired end product characteristics.

Plastics & Resin Industry. In the manufacturing of plastic and resin components, cooling tunnels expedite the setting or curing process.

Metalworking. They are employed for the gradual cooling of parts to avoid structural weaknesses in metal products.

Cosmetic Industry. In the production of cosmetics like lipsticks, cooling tunnels are used to ensure proper moulding and setting.

When buying or selling cooling tunnels on Exapro, it is important for sellers to clearly specify the intended area of use for their listed machinery, and for buyers, understanding these areas of use aids in selecting a machine that is compliant with their industry standards. 

Main Manufacturers of Cooling Tunnels

Several manufacturers are renowned for producing high-quality cooling tunnels, and their machines can often be found on Exapro. Here are some of the notable manufacturers of cooling tunnels:

Sollich: A renowned name in the confectionery industry, Sollich produces a wide range of equipment, including cooling tunnels, especially for chocolate processing.

GEA: A major player in the food processing industry, GEA offers a variety of cooling and freezing tunnels catering to diverse needs.

Haas: Primarily known for their wafer, biscuit, and confectionery production lines, Haas also manufactures cooling tunnels as a part of their comprehensive solutions.

Bosch: Bosch's packaging and processing division produces a range of equipment, including cooling tunnels, especially for the food and pharmaceutical sectors.

Aasted: Specializing in chocolate and bakery equipment, Aasted provides a range of cooling solutions tailored for these industries.

Rieckermann: They offer a variety of industrial solutions, and their cooling tunnels are known for reliability and efficiency.

Frigoscandia: Recognized for their freezing and cooling solutions, their tunnels are widely used in the food industry.

Savage Bros. Co.: Particularly known in the confectionery industry, they produce cooling tunnels primarily tailored for chocolates and candies.

Nestlé: While primarily a food and beverage company, Nestlé also manufactures some of its machinery, and occasionally, their cooling tunnels can be found on the second-hand market.

Teknoice: Specializing in ice cream production equipment, their cooling tunnels are designed specifically for rapid and uniform freezing.

If you're looking to buy or sell on a platform like Exapro, it's beneficial to familiarize yourself with these manufacturers. Recognized brands can often fetch higher resale values, and from a buyer's perspective, choosing a well-known brand can provide a level of assurance in terms of quality, durability, and after-sales support.