Different Options That Exist for Industrial Coolers and Freezers

There are a variety of industries that involve food like meat and poultry, produce, or seafood. No matter which of these food-related industries you work in, you need to think about how to keep the materials at the proper cold temperature to avoid food spoilage and the growth of bacteria. When food is your business and your income, it is paramount that you have the proper industrial cooler or freezer. Fortunately there are many quality option these days for how to keep food at the proper temperature. Regardless of what you need to refrigerate, what your budget is, and what your space limitations are, there is likely an industrial cooler or freezer that is right for you. When you are ready, we at SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC can help provide you with the right cooling unit. Here are a few different options for you to consider.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Coolers and Freezers

Two basic options for cooling solutions are indoor and outdoor coolers and freezers. These two options each have their own advantages and disadvantages and one may suit your needs better than the other. At SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC, we have knowledgeable professionals that can help you take stock of your situation.

Outdoor options can be a great choice if you already have a level area to position the unit and if you live in an area that is not excessively hot, which would require you to do more work to make sure that the unit was not overly exposed to the heat. If there are not area building codes in place that impede the installation of an outdoor unit, this choice can free up more space inside your facility, eliminate the extra indoor heat created by the unit and may be a lower price option if you do not choose a highly customized cooler or freezer.

Indoor units, on the contrary, may take up more space and result in a higher building temperature, when can drive up your energy costs. However, if theft is a concern to you or if you require very easy access to the items inside your cooler or freezer, indoor may be the way to go. Indoor options are also less susceptible to environmental concerns like excessive outdoor heat or other weather concerns. Remember that indoor options also cost less than outdoor units, on average. We at SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC recommend talking to one of our professionals to assess whether an indoor or outdoor option is better for you.

Different Sizes for Industrial Freezers and Coolers

When you decide whether you need an indoor cooling unit or an outdoor cooling unit, you will then need to figure out what size unit you require. If you have an indoor unit, much of this decision may be made for you based on available space. Outdoor units often offer more flexibility in this area. Generally, the smallest walk-ins are about 15 cubic feet, while larger ones can be up to 400,000 square feet. A good rule of thumb to keep in mind when determining your space requirements is that 1 cubic foot of space can hold roughly 28 pounds of food. However, naturally this varies widely depending on the type of product you are refrigerating and your overall setup.

New Technologies in Industrial Cooling

With modern technological advancements in coolers and freezers, there are many available options that allow for a better performing unit that lasts longer and is more energy efficient. Consider which of these options will benefit your business and result in less maintenance and fewer unneeded costs. Some of these high-tech upgrades include:

  • Advanced door technology to avoid hinge problems
  • Alarms that monitor temperature and produce alerts when there are problems
  • LED lighting
  • Motion sensor lighting technology
  • Bluetooth connectivity

Contact us at SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC to find out more details about available cooling units and various options.

Food preservation technology has come a long, long way from the days when people used salt to keep food from spoiling. These days it is possible to find a top-of-the-line walk-in refrigeration unit at the right size and the right price. With all the different options, it may be difficult to choose the right one for your application. Review the information above and consider what features are most important to you, then call SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC and let us help you make this important decision. Remember also that all of our systems are fully customizable and can be designed to perfectly fit your needs.

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How to Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Concrete Cooling System

If your industry involves concrete work, you are already aware of the importance of having concrete properly cooled before it hardens, or cures. Because the process of mixing cement with water to obtain concrete is a chemical process that releases heat, concrete will be very hot unless it is cooled through a specially designed system. Let’s take a look at some factors that could indicate it is time to upgrade or replace your current concrete cooling system, but first let’s also take a quick look at why concrete cooling is necessary.

Why Is Concrete Cooling Necessary?

Concrete that cures at higher temperatures will be less dense, since the heat will cause greater expansion; since heat distribution tend to be uneven, the concrete’s density will also be uneven. High temperatures also cause water to evaporate faster, leading to insufficient hydration of the concrete and a reduction in tensile strength. These two factors cause weaker, more brittle concrete; in industrial settings, where concrete strength is essential, this flaw can be disastrous. For this reason, companies engaging in concrete construction and other concrete projects use concrete cooling systems such as those manufactured by SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC to bring their concrete to an appropriate temperature.

Concrete Cooling Methods

There are several types of cooling systems and methods available today, each of which has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The simplest method is adding cold water and ice to the water that will be mixed with the cement. This method requires calculating the necessary temperatures based on the quantity of material. Using a cooling system to bring the water’s temperature down is quicker and more efficient, especially in the case of larger quantities. Water cooling is achieved by flooding the silos with cold water and draining them once the mixture is cooled, which uses a lot of space and is wasteful of water. Another effective method is the wet belt system, which uses small amounts of ice water transported by conveyor belts.

Another way of cooling the concrete components, or aggregate, is via cold air that is circulated throughout the materials. This method takes more time than cooling the water, but is optimal in small, enclosed spaces since it doesn’t require a separate system of removing the water.

Air and water cooling are often supplemented by sand cooling to ensure that the mixture’s temperature stays cool throughout the process. Sand cooling is particularly useful for large projects. Sand cooling systems may include rotary cooling drums or sand silos. This method has the advantage of achieving cooler temperatures for longer times, at lower energy costs; however, it involves expensive equipment and more time in order to cool the sand.

A less frequent method is post-pouring cooling, which involves laying pipes before the concrete is poured, then sending cold water to circulate through the pipes after they are covered with the concrete. This method is very expensive and time-consuming. Typically, it is only employed for supersized projects like dams or highways.

No matter which concrete cooling system you have in place, it is highly important to ensure that it stays in good working order. It is crucial that it be repaired or replaced as necessary and that maintenance concerns are not ignored.

Risks of Inadequate Cooling

One of the clearest indicators that it could be time to replace your concrete cooling system is if the concrete is being inadequately cooled. A suboptimal system will produce inferior concrete, create potential safety concerns, and raise energy costs. If you find that your concrete quality is not up to standards, especially with what you expect from your cooling system, that is a clear indicator it’s time to make some changes.

Frequent Repairs

Going hand-in-hand with inadequate cooling as a key indicator of the need to upgrade your system, is frequent repairs. While regular maintenance is a must, and periodic repairs may be routine, an uptick in problems and rising maintenance costs can indicate that your system is nearing the end of its life. Eventually repairs or part replacements won’t be able to fully fix an issue or will be needed far too often to be cost effective. It is thus essential to know when it is time to replace your system entirely. Eventually the cost of repairs will outweigh the cost of purchasing a new system, especially if frequent breakdowns delay your projects’ schedules and overall productivity.

Outdated Technology

How long have you been using the same cooling system? With today’s rapid advances in technology, it may be time to see if a newer system will meet your needs better. Improvements in energy efficiency, precise temperature calibrations, and delivery mechanisms can make a new customized SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC system a worthwhile investment.

Rising Energy Costs

Take a look at your energy. If your system is using increasingly more water and energy to obtain the same results, it is a sign that it is deteriorating. Not only will increasing utility costs soon outweigh the expense of a new system, but continuing to use a decreasingly functional system will inevitably compromise the quality and integrity of the concrete. A system with poor energy efficiency can also be a major black eye for a company that wants to market itself as energy or eco-friendly.

Subpar Performance

Always monitor your system’s performance, carefully checking that your concrete has been cooled to its appropriate temperature. Consistent failures to achieve goal temperatures, or taking increasingly longer to achieve them, are indications that your system is no longer coping with its workload. Whether your system has deteriorated, or its workload has changed or increased, this is a clear sign that it is no longer the right system for you.

Changing Needs

Finally, if your company has dramatically changed the quantity or nature of its concrete projects, it may be time to reconsider whether your existing equipment is still the most appropriate. Do not let inertia carry you along into continuing to use older equipment just because it still works. If the direction of your company is changing, it may be time to look into a new SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC concrete system that will be fully customized to your current needs.

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Tips to Select the Best Cooling System for Your Fishing Vessel

If you own or operate an industrial or commercial fishing vessel, it’s important for you to have the proper cooling system to meet your needs. Improper cooling of seafood leads to the growth of dangerous bacteria that makes it dangerous to consume. The type of cooling system you need for your vessel depends on several factors. Read on to find out what we at SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC recommend.

The Size of the Fish You Catch

The cooling system you need will depend on whether you catch small, medium or large fish. Naturally there are a host of other factors and species of fish, your own resources, the weather, and other conditions will also impact the best cooling method. However, in general consider the following:

Small Fish – Small fish such as sardines spoil easily since their size means they aren’t as protected. However, they also cool quickly and stay cool longer because they are so small. A well-insulated cooler for small fish is important. To keep them cold enough, use a mix of ice and chilled seawater in the cooler.

Medium Fish – Medium fish such as salmon or tilapia are some of the most important economically, so it is vital they stay fresh. When it comes to medium fish, other factors such as the distance of your trip will factor into the best type of cooling.

Large Fish – Large fish include marlin and Mahi Mahi and take much longer to cool. Large fish should be gutted before cooling so you can place flake ice directly into them to maximize cooling efficiency.

The Type of Seafood You Catch

Fish sizes are important, but the type of seafood you’re bringing in from sea is also important. Shrimp are a special case because they begin to spoil as soon as they die. For this reason, shrimp need to be frozen right away. Common methods include plate freezing and cold brine immersion. Other types of shellfish such as lobster and crab are typically kept alive while in transport to prevent spoilage and ensure maximum freshness.

Available Space on the Boat

Available space is also a factor in determining what type of cooling system to purchase. For example, a system that uses polyurethane foam for insulation could be beneficial if it is placed in an area that is sure not to receive any water, but it might not be beneficial on small boats. Water spray will eventually weigh it down. Waterlogged polyurethane loses some of its insulating properties. Other types of insulation include sealed air space and even Styrofoam. The industrial cooling systems here at SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC are able to work with any type of insulation and space you have in your boat.

The Cost of the System

Cost will be a factor when it comes to the cooling system you purchase for your commercial fishing boat, but we at SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC work to ensure we have products available in a range of prices. However, it is important not to cut corners when it comes to cooling and insulating the fish you bring in. Purchasing a system that’s inadequate for your needs in favor of saving money will cost you in the long run, if not in lost product, then in lost business if someone becomes sick due to inefficient fish cooling.

SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC offers an array of options when it comes to your fishing needs, from ready-made ice that works for short trips to icemakers and water filtration systems for longer fishing excursions. All it takes is the right system to ensure delicious, fresh fish when you hit the shore. Make sure to check out our other seafood cooling articles for additional information.

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Produce Well-Suited for Room Cooling

Producing a quality crop takes plenty of hard work, dedication, and commitment. In order to protect and preserve that quality produce, you need to use a cooling method post harvest that will help keep the food fresh. Using the correct cooling method for your crop will not only provide a tastier and more nutritious product for the consumer, it will also help crops to better survive the delivery journey. At SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC, we can design a customized cooling system to fit your specific cooling needs, thus helping to keep crops chilled, preserved, and protected after harvest until they arrive at their final destination.

The Importance of Cooling Produce

Cooling produce quickly after harvest can reduce the field heat that crops experiences while being gathered, and it helps prepare items for storage and shipment. Cooling produce also allows growers to store and then sell their crops at a more marketable time in order for them to get the maximum value for their harvest.

Cooling crops in the appropriate manner helps protect the freshness and integrity of produce by:

  • Delaying the growth of molds and bacteria
  • Hindering water loss
  • Postponing the production of ethylene

Different Produce; Different Cooling Methods

The manner in which a crop is cooled can depend on a variety of factors. SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC understands that different crops require different cooling methods, which is why we design personalized cooling units that fit our customers’ needs. Certain crops need to be cooled very quickly in order to stop the ripening process, while others can be allowed to reach lower temperatures slower. Economic restraints should also taken into account when designing a cooling unit, as some cooling processes will be much more expensive than others. While there are many different cooling methods, this article will focus on room cooling and what produce is best suited for room cooling.

What Is Room Cooling?

Room cooling is a method of bringing the temperature of produce down to an acceptable level by placing it in an insulated room that is cooled with refrigeration units. These units chill the air and keep the room at a consistently cold temperature. SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC room cooling systems are very energy efficient and designed to the highest standards.

The Benefits of Room Cooling

Room cooling is a slower cooling method than other cooling methods, which works well for certain crops that don’t need rapid cooling. Room cooling can also be used to help store produce that has been pre-cooled by another cooling method. When used as storage for pre-cooled crops, smaller refrigeration units can be used to keep crops at the desired temperature.

Best Produce For Room Cooling

Produce well-suited to room cooling include the following:

  • Apples
  • Butter Beans & Snap Beans
  • Beets
  • Blueberries
  • Brambles
  • Cabbage
  • Eggplant
  • Okra
  • Peppers
  • Potatoes
  • Squash
  • Strawberries
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Tomatoes
  • Turnips
  • Watermelon

With a room cooling system from SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC, many items that are properly room cooled can last for months, such as apples, topped beets, cabbage, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and turnips. When produce is stored in cooling rooms, the produce containers should be stacked in order for air to circulate around the packaging. As mentioned above, other crops that have been cooled through rapid cooling methods can also be stored in room cooling units once they have reached the proper storage temperature.

Room Cooling Requirements

While room cooling is effective to help delay the growth of bacteria, slow the ripening process, and reduce water loss, there are other requirements besides temperature that need to be met in order for quality produce to be delivered fresh to consumers.

Maintaining the appropriate humidity levels (from 80-95% humidity) in the cooling rooms will help crops to retain their quality and freshness. The humidity rates should also be closely monitored using a hygrometer to ensure that they stay at optimal levels. Humidity rates that are too high will encourage bacteria growth, which is why sanitation is also very important for such crops. Meanwhile, humidity levels that are too low will dry out the produce.

Whatever your cooling needs may be, we at SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC can manufacture and install a customized system that works for you, your crops, and your budget. Having the right cooling system can help save you money in the long run and allow you to get more out of your harvest.

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Cooling and Storing Methods for Field Corn After Harvest

field corn produce crops

When most people think of corn, their mind races to sweet corn. While field corn is not typically eaten straight off the cob, it still has a myriad of uses. It is an important ingredient in whiskey, ethanol and industrial products, such as ceramics, penicillin, crayons, shoe polish, batteries, and even cardboard. Farmers often feed livestock field corn as well. Field corn has to be properly handled after harvest so it can live up to its potential. Learn more about field corn, general cooling and storage information, and how you should cool and store field corn.

General Facts

Corn can be traced all the way back to Central American cultures around 3400 BC. Today, corn is a diet staple because of its high protein and carbohydrate content. While corn is native to North America, today it is produced on every continent besides Antarctica.

Sweet corn is a huge part of a lot of people’s diets, but field corn is not as sweet as is typically used in manufacturing other products. In fact, corn is one of the leading sources of sweetener. So much so that it is used to make bread, corn starch, sodas, candy, chewing gum and so much more.

Unlike sweet corn, field corn is not harvested until the kernels are dry. Field corn is higher in starch, yet lower in sugar than sweet corn.

General Information about Cooling and Storing

For many different types of produce, it is important that they get cooled right away and stay at the proper humidity level. Because field corn is not consumed right away, it has to undergo some different cooling and storing.

  • Sorting – When you sort your field corn kernels, you want to try to remove broken kernels from the rest because they can cause issues during storage. Also, broken kernels are not the choice product for many of the end manufacturing uses because they are more susceptible to moisture, insect damage and producing smaller grits. SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC offers rotary screens, gravity screens and perforated auger housing sections to separate the fines and broken pieces from the good pieces.
  • Temperature – Keeping field corn at the right temperature will reduce the likelihood of stress-cracking. Using natural and low temperature in-bin will result in 5% or less of your kernels being damaged. Corn being used for animal feed shouldn’t exceed 130F, wet milling shouldn’t exceed 100-130F, dry milling shouldn’t exceed 100-120F and snack foods shouldn’t exceed 100F during the drying process. Corn should be cooled to 35F, but never frozen, to get it ready for storage.
  • Drying – Letting the kernels steep in a bin without airflow will help them cool and reduce stress-cracks.
  • Shelf Life – If stored and dried properly, field corn can have a shelf life of up to 25 years.

Effective Cooling Methods

There are a few different pieces of equipment that you can use to cool your field corn. SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC can help you pick out the product that is right for you:

  • Room Cooling – Because you don’t want field corn to get too cold, using room cooling may be sufficient.
  • Forced-Air Cooling – Again, without getting it too cold, forced-air cooling may be the right cooling method for field corn.

No matter which method you decide to use for your field corn cooling and storage, you have to make sure to get the best equipment. Because this type of corn is getting ready to be put to uses besides being directly consumed, it has to undergo different kinds of prolonged storing and cooling. Work with SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC to get the customized equipment that will make your after harvest handling of field corn much simpler.

 

corn
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Information about Storing and Cooling Loganberries

Loganberries are a plant and fruit closely resembling the blackberry, but with a dark red color. The plant is the result of an accidental cross-pollination between the Aughinbaugh and Red Antwerp, a blackberry and raspberry plant, respectively. This plant is particularly resilient for a berry plant, which makes them easy to transport. They also carry a unique and distinctive flavor thanks to their engineered design. They can be eaten fresh or used in a myriad of food products.

Loganberries in Action

Loganberries are particularly rich in vitamin C, which led the British navy to use them in the 20th century to combat the effects of scurvy. The crop is not tremendously popular in commercial setting due to higher than average labor costs. The natural plant has many thorns and berries are hidden within the bush. The plants growth can be unpredictable, as they tend to vine similar to a blackberry bush. The bushes bear fruit in mid-summer through mid-autumn.

Ideal Cooling Methods for Loganberries

The produce industry has a number of cooling methods like hydro cooling, ice packing and vacuum cooling. However, loganberries can be relatively delicate when compared to fruits like oranges and apples and should be stored at 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Thus, the best cooling methods are:

  • Room cooling – Loganberries are first placed into a refrigerated and insulated room to rest. The cool environment will chill the produce to the appropriate temperature.
  • Forced-air cooling – Similar to room cooling, forced-air cooling requires the berries to be put in a designated room to chill. Fans move cold air rapidly to increase the processes speed.

Relative Humidity

In a refrigerated environment, it is difficult to maintain high levels of humidity. However, produce degrades without the right level of moisture during storage. Loganberries in particular require 90 to 95 percent relative humidity. This may entail periodic water mists, wet floors or even open water reservoirs to introduce more moisture into the storage environment. Without this important step, the berries may wither and quality will decrease.

Sanitation Procedures

With increased moisture in the storage environment, storage supervisors must pay close attention to sanitation. Wet environments are ideal for bacteria, mold and disease growth. To combat this, farmers may utilize these methods:

  • Chlorine washes – Washes with a certain percentage of chlorine can kill many bacteria and other pathogens before they become a problem.
  • Ozonation – Ozone molecules are powerful disinfectants and they occur naturally.
  • Hydrogen peroxide – At low concentrations, this chemical will inhibit decay and fungi growth.

Ethylene Sensitivity

Ethylene, a natural chemical, is produced in some fruit as it ripens. This chemical is harmful to ethylene sensitive produce and can lead to symptoms like russet spots, bitter flavors, sprouting, discoloration and softening. Luckily, loganberries are not known to be ethylene sensitive and can be stored with ethylene producing produce like nectarines, peaches, tomatoes and apricots.

SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC understands the needs of loganberry farmers and transporters, which is why we make products specifically geared for this industry. We enjoy working closely with clients to customize our cooling systems and meet your all of your exact requirements and specifications.

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Strategies for the Post-Harvest cooling of Gooseberries

Native to Europe, Africa and Asia, the gooseberry is grown on small bushes commercially and domestically. Sparingly, the crop can be found in North American thanks to naturalization efforts. The plant’s fruit is generally a bit hairy, though some varieties are grown to be hairless. The bush grows to about five feet high and wide with sharp spines. The berries are generally green, but they also come in yellow, white, red, black and purple.

Gooseberries as an American Crop

Perhaps the main difference between wild and cultivated gooseberries is simply the size. Wild gooseberries are considerably smaller, but very similar in flavor. The small fruit rose to popularity in Europe during the 19th century. Some crops begin with cuttings instead of traditional seed growth, which produces fruit bearing plants in a few years. Seed growth allows produces fruit giving bushes very quickly. During cultivation, farmers must take care to monitor nitrogen levels, as excess will weaken the bush.

Industry Cooling Methods

Fruit cooling methods will vary throughout the industry, but generally, commercial enterprises will use:

  • Room cooling – Fruit is housed in an insulated and refrigerated room while slowly cooled.
  • Vacuum cooling – In a vacuumed room, produce’s moisture is evaporated resulting in heat loss.
  • Hydro cooling – The harvest is submerged or run through chilled water.
  • Forced-Air Cooling– Stored in a designated space, the fruit is placed under fans used to circulate cool air.
  • Top or liquid Icing – Products are submerged in crushed ice or a water-ice slurry.

Ideal Storage Environment for Gooseberries

As with any fruit, gooseberries have an ideal storage temperature an environment, which ensures maximum freshness and shelf life. Gooseberries perform best when stored at 31 to 32 degrees Fahrenheit and 95 percent relative humidity. Failure to observe these guidelines could result in chilling damage or decreased product quality. However with proper storage techniques, gooseberries can be expected to have a shelf life ranging from 10 to 21 days.

Ethylene and Storage

Ethylene is a natural hormone produced as certain fruits ripen, which causes ethylene sensitive fruits to ripen too quickly. For this reason, ethylene-producing fruits cannot be stored with ethylene sensitive products. Otherwise, sensitive products may have excessive bitterness, discoloration, russet spotting and accelerated softening. Luckily, there is no evidence to suggest gooseberries are sensitive to ethylene production. This makes them eligible to be stored with bananas, avocados, kiwi and prunes.

Sanitation of Gooseberries

Refrigeration naturally removes moisture from fruit and other products. However, produce must maintain its moisture to retain its overall quality. During storage, water is introduced in the form of sprays, reservoirs and wet floors. With these solutions comes an increased risk for disease and bacteria, leading to the use of chlorine washes for many fruits and other produce. Ozonation is another option, which uses naturally occurring ozone molecules to disinfect. Alternatively, hydrogen peroxide is utilized in small doses.

SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC is thoroughly in tune with the demands of gooseberry farmers and transporters. That’s why we offer industry-leading cooling systems to our clients. Using our expertise and experience, we will guide you through system customization to ensure your needs are met.

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The Right Cooling Method for the Right Fish

Just like different types of fish have different flavor characteristics and uses, cooling methods vary depending on the type of fish. Small, medium, and large fish have different qualities that will affect how they are stored and cooled. Whatever your fish cooling needs are, SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC has the right cooling system for you.

Small Fish Cooling Methods

Many people consider small fish to be unimportant or even ignoble. However, those in the fishing industry know how valuable these types of fish are. Sardines are commonly-known as a small variety, but there are many other varieties that are used for a number of uses. Throughout the world, small fish are considered to be a delicacy, especially when they are prepared properly which may include grilling, canning, salting, smoking, or pickling. Small fish are also profitable when used for fish oil, bait fish, or fish meal.

When it comes to cooling small fish, the process is quite different than for bigger fish. They tend to spoil more easily because their smaller size results in fewer layers of protection. The good news is that their small size allows them to cool faster and stay cool. SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC recommends cooling the fish in a cooler that is well-insulated, and to use a combination of chilled seawater and ice to effectively cool the fish down.

Medium Fish Cooling Methods

Medium fish refers to a variety of fish species, and the majority of them are well-known for their culinary uses. Fish of medium size include cod, tilapia, salmon, mackerel, and carp, and they are extremely important to the livelihood of commercial fishermen because of their economic implications. Because of their size, they are less likely to spoil compared to small fish, and they remain cooler longer than larger fish species. However, there are a number of considerations to keep in mind when deciding what type of cooling method should be used.

Because SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC custom designs each cooling system, different situations will call for different systems. Consider how long the trip will be and how much cargo space will be needed based on the amount of fish being caught. The type of fish will also determine the type of ice being used. Ice should be in slush or flake form so that it can contact the entire surface area of the fish, and chilled seawater is also a convenient and effective cooling method when out on the water.

Large Fish Cooling Methods

Large fish, such as marlin, tuna, halibut, cod, and mahi mahi, are very important to the fishing industry. They are extremely valuable because they can be used for so many different things. They can be cut into different cuts, such as steaks or fillets, and then sold to restaurants or consumers. Their byproducts, such as fish oil, are also valuable. This is why it is particularly important to properly cool and store them so that they don’t spoil. Large fish have special cooling considerations compared to smaller fish. Because of their size, it takes a lot longer to cool them down to the appropriate temperature. However, once they are cooled, they hold on to that temperature.

Unlike smaller species of fish, SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC recommends that large fish be gutted first in order to be cooled properly. Not only does this remove extra and unnecessary parts of the fish, but it also presents an additional opportunity for cooling. Ice can be placed inside the bellies as well as on the outside of the flesh so that there is more uniformed cooling. The ice that is used should be flake ice, as this has been shown to cool the fastest. Chilled seawater should also be used in order to safely preserve these large varieties of fish.

Shrimp Cooling Methods

Shrimp is another very popular type of seafood, and it presents its own cooling challenges. Because the spoiling process begins as soon as they are killed, the preservation process needs to start immediately. Shrimp are usually frozen right away because it increases the time they can be stored and usually results in a higher quality product. Freezing can be obtained through plate freezing, air blast freezing, or cold brine immersion.

Because of the varied cooling needs of different fish, customized storage systems are necessary. SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC manufactures industrial cooling systems that are ideal for cooling fish, and that are fully designed to individual client specs. We want to ensure that every client gets the fish cooling method and system they need to yield the best quality and taste from their catch.

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Company Profiles for Companies who Need Concrete Cooling Systems

Do you need a concrete cooling system from SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC? If you are familiar with concrete, you know that as the cement mixture hardens it actually gives off heat because it is an exothermic chemical reaction. The extra heat can cause the hardened concrete to be a less than desirable product. When concrete gets too hot during the curing process it results in lower tensile strength and a higher likelihood of cracking due to expansion.

How do you know what sort of cooling your company needs? In some cases it is enough to add cold water and ice to the cement, but when do you need an actual cooling system? There are many different situations that may call for a cooling system. You can talk to a SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC representative to find out if your company would benefit from an innovative aggregate cooling system. Otherwise, here are three common company profiles that may benefit from the use of a concrete cooling system.

1. Company with Large-Pour Projects

Is your business working on a project that requires a lot of concrete? This project would be called a large-pour project. The more cement that you pour the more heat that will be given off. In the case of a large-pour project, it may not be enough to just add cold water and ice.

If your company is planning a large-pour project, you need to talk with a SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC representative in order to find out what sort of cooling system is right for you. No matter if there is only one large-pour project in your company’s near future, you still will need some sort of cooling system. You do not want to end up with concrete that is going to crack and expand.

If you’re going to be mixing a lot of cement and water, you need a cooling system.

2. Company that Requires High Quality and Durable

Some industrial companies put their concrete through a lot. Because of the weight and traffic that the concrete is going to go through, a SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC cooling system may be needed. If you own an industrial company that needs a concrete that is high quality and durable, you need a cooling system.

Without a cooling system your concrete could be of a lesser quality because of the exothermic chemical reaction. Even though you may not be pouring a large quantity, if you want a superior quality, you still need a cooling system.

Industrial companies that need high quality concrete also need a cooling system.

3. Construction Company that Pours Often

Many construction companies pour a high quantity of concrete. Maybe they do small jobs and large jobs, but if your business is built on the concrete that you offer, you want to make sure that you offer the best product around.

Construction companies that pour a lot of concrete would benefit from a SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC cooling system because they would be able to guarantee their customer’s satisfaction. If your company doesn’t use a cooling system, there may be times when the tensile strength of the concrete you pour is very low.

Construction companies that pour concrete often would benefit from a cooling system.

To put it simply, if your business deals with concrete often, needs a large amount of concrete or requires that all the concrete is of the highest quality, a concrete cooling system may be just what you need.

Getting the Best

Now that you know you need a concrete cooling system, you want to get the system that is best for your business. SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC wants every company in search of a concrete cooling system to get exactly what they need. That’s why we make custom cooling systems to fit the needs of our clients. Not only are our systems custom built, but they use dependable and industry-leading technology to ensure you have the best cooling system possible.

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Ways to Successfully Store Dewberries

Dewberries, blackberry-like berries that grow primarily in the southeastern United States, are a lovely sweet and juicy treat during the summer. They are delicious, but they do require some care, particularly when harvested in large numbers and especially if they are being harvested for commercial purposes. They’ll last for anywhere from two to fourteen days with the proper cooling, and can be sold in large or small quantities during that time. Cooling them protects them from all manner of poor ends such as rotting, decaying, becoming bacteria infested as well as losing flavor and color.

General Information about Cooling and Storing Dewberries

Respiration rates of the berries increase as temperature increases. This in turn leads to more rapid spoilage and loss of quality. Thus, keeping them properly cooled is imperative for maintaining quality and shelf life. Mold can begin to infest them if left at room temperature for even one day. Dewberries really need to be cooled to the proper temperature as quickly as possible and left at that temperature until they are ready for consumption. Mist should be avoided as it encourages parasitic introduction, color loss, and more mold. For the very best results, you’re advised to cool the berries within four hours of harvest to 5 degrees Celsius.

Cooling and Storage Options for Dewberries

There are a few different cooling and storage options available for dewberries and other berries. Consider the following three popular methods of cooling dewberries:

Room Cooling – Room cooling is precisely what it sounds like – the room in which the berries are stored is cooled down to the appropriate temperature, and the produce is allowed to adjust to the ambient temperature without assistance. This is primarily used for that produce which does not require a quick cool-down after picking. It is not ideal for Dewberries

Forced-Air Cooling – Generally, forced air is the optimum method for accomplishing this because of the speed at which the produce reaches the cooler temperature. It is similar to room cooling, except that the dewberries have air pulled through them, forcing circulation and lowering the temperature more quickly.

Hydrocooling – Hydrocooling is actually a “precooling” method, whereby the produce is submerged in very cold water to cool it down. It does not quite manage to cool the berries to the optimum 5 degrees Celsius, so is not suitable for long-term cooling and storage, but it is an extremely effective method or quickly removing field heat.

SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC Is Committed to Outstanding Cooling and Storage Options for Dewberries

SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC is committed to providing outstanding cooling and storage options for dewberries, other types of berries, and produce in general. We understand that our clients work hard to grow and deliver high quality, delicious produce and our cooling and storage systems will help maintain that high quality and freshness. All of our systems can be fully customized to meet client needs in areas such as capacity, temperature, humidity, and general budget and time line concerns. Contact us to discuss the best cooling and storage system for your dewberries or other produce.

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