Best Practices Checklist for Fish Icing

Fish consumption has been rapidly increasing throughout the world, contributing to a growing market for fresh seafood. The freshness of your catch is crucial in delivering an optimal product to your consumer. However, seafood requires particularly careful handling because it begins to spoil the moment it is killed. Gill nets are particularly susceptible to spoiling, and the heat of the boat deck can further contribute to the initial spoiling of fish.

There are a number of factors that can contribute to the initial spoiling of fish before it even reaches the consumer, and this may result in substantial loss of product and profit. Therefore, ice is an important factor in mitigating this loss. However, ice alone does not guarantee preservation. It is essential to make sure that you are using the best ice and icing method for your boat and situation. As you craft your icing system, consult this best practices checklist for fish icing.

Environment

Fish are highly susceptible to heat and sun. Particularly in warm and humid climates, fish can be quickly affected even after packed in ice, and fish should absolutely not be left open on deck. While some boats install a covered container, a large canopy, made of reflective material, most effectively reduces on deck heat. In addition, installing an insulated tub for immediate storage increases cooling and greatly reduces spoilage.

Type of Ice

When selecting ice, you will want to consider the size of your vessel and the length of the expedition. Some of the most popular ice choices for fishing expeditions include the following:

  • Block – Blocks are frozen in large containers, creating big chunks of ice. This form is effective and beneficial because it lasts for long periods of time and can be easily stored. However, in order to be effective, the blocks must be broken down into smaller pieces, which can be inefficient since it requires either extra equipment, manual labor, or both.
  • Flake – Flakes or shells are frozen into small flat pieces. This method is more ideal than blocks because it has substantial direct contact with the fish, keeping it substantially cooler. However, because of its surface area, it takes up a large amount of space and melts quickly.
  • Slush – Slush is used to store seafood in closed containers and possesses a large liquid ratio. This method is highly effective in cooling, but if not used correctly can leave fish exposed.

For more detailed information about ice types and their respective pros or cons be sure to check out our article series on fish cooling with various types of ice.

Amount of Ice

It is essential to have the correct amount of ice to ensure that you will have enough to last the entire voyage. You will want to consider a number of factors in ensuring that you have the appropriate amount of ice including:

  • The length of your trip
  • Your average amount of catch
  • The type and size fish you will be catching
  • Available space on your vessel
  • Potential ice loss
  • Local ambient temperatures

Storage

Ensuring the optimal condition of your ice is important for ensuring that fish remains fresh. The condition of ice and its hold can greatly impact the freshness of the fish.

  • Insulation – You want to install the best insulation possible, usually plastic foam but this could vary depending on your circumstances. Strong insulation will substantially prevent bacterial absorption in the containers and will eliminate exposure to vermin.
  • Lining – Lining is important in ensuring the cleanliness of the hold’s surface, and appropriate materials can be easily cleaned and disinfected. While wood and metal linings can be used, they possess a number of disadvantages. Instead, newer fiberglass laminates are inexpensive to install and easy to maintain.
  • Drainage – The contaminants in the ice and melt can greatly affect the freshness of the seafood. Melt and fish slime become breeding grounds for microbes and other bacteria, which can destroy your catch. Therefore, it is essential to install an effective drainage system that efficiently discards all run off. In addition, all old ice should be drained and absolutely never reused.

As a leading cooling and storage industry expert, SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC can help you ensure that you are following best practices in seafood storage. We are interested in working with customers to fulfill their storage needs through customized systems.

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Best Cooling and Storage for Crabs

For those in the crabbing industry, cooling and storing live crabs can be a tricky process. Since many businesses have to order the crustaceans and may not be able to cook them right away, proper storage is crucial to keep them alive and fresh. To do this, a proper and specific environment is required. Here are some of the best cooling and storage for crabs to guide you in the process.

Why Do They Have to Be Alive?

When a crab dies, it releases toxins into its body. These toxins permeate the meat and render it unfit for human consumption. It is always best to use the crustaceans immediately, though for many industrial and commercial markets, this is not an option. The best cooling and storage for crabs is to keep them in their proper, controlled and oxygenated environment. This can help extend their lifespan until you are ready to eat or use them.

How to Keep Crabs Alive

If you are unable to use your crab immediately when caught there are a few options to keeping them alive. The first step is to make sure they stay wet and cool. As soon as they caught they need to be put in a cool, shaded environment out of direct sunlight and properly hydrated.

Make Sure There’s Plenty of Oxygen

Make sure the crustaceans are never fully submerged in water for long periods of time. This will cause them to die. Just as humans, they need oxygen to survive which they cannot get if they are completely submerged in a container of water. It is also essential to never put them in a sealed container such as a cooler for long periods of time without adequate air. If you have a holding cage or are near the body of water where they were caught, take advantage of this and keep them stored in those areas. One of the best cooling and storage for crabs is to purchase an electric aerator. This device can help keep the crustaceans oxygenated and pump air into their water where they are stored.

Keep them Stored in a Cool Environment

The crustaceans also need to be stored in an environment at 48 to 58 degrees. Lower temperatures will also reduce the crabs’ metabolic rate and decrease their need for oxygen and their sensitivity to inideal conditions. The key is to maintain a cool, moist and dark environment to keep the craps alive and comfortable. If you are storing them in an industrial cooler, make sure they are not sealed in for long periods of time and that they have access to oxygen. For the best cooling and storage for crabs, a sealed bag of ice can be placed on top or on the bottom of them to keep them cool. However, make sure the drain is open to let the excess water out.

Adjust the Moisture Levels

If you need to store them in a walk-in box or refrigerator, it is crucial to make adjustments to the moisture level and temperature. They must have oxygen and moisture in order to survive. If this is depleted from the refrigerator, several if not all the crustaceans might die. For the best cooling and storage for crabs, it is essential to keep them stored in fresh, cold salt water, preferably taken from the environment where they were originally from to ensure that it has the correct composition of minerals and elements. If this isn’t possible, basic salt water will work in the short term as long as you keep them oxygenated.

Keep Crabs Alive and Fresh for Best Results

Now that you know the tips and tricks for the best cooling and storage for crabs, you can be better prepared for keeping them alive and fresh. The key is to make sure they do not die, as they will release their toxins and the meat will no longer be suitable for consumption. SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC designs and manufactures high quality, dependable cooling and storage systems that are ideal for use with live crabs.

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Best Cooling and Storage for Large Fish

Large fish occupy a very important economic role with a major segment of the commercial fishing industry dedicated to catching them. On a per fish basis large fish also have a much higher value than small or medium-sized fish and thus represent a much more significant investment. It is crucial to properly cool and store them after catching so that they can later be sold at full value and safely consumed. Let’s take a look at some common large fish, special considerations when cooling and storing large fish, and best methods and practices.

Types of Large Fish and Their Role

The term “large fish” is fairly subjective in that it might mean different things to different fishermen and there may not be a clear cutoff between large and medium-sized varieties. However, for the most part the many species of tuna and marlin are considered to be large fish, along with other sizable fish such as mahi mahi, halibut, and cod to name just a few.

Large fish are very popular in part because large fillets of meat can be harvested from them and make ideal steaks. Smaller pieces of meat may also be used for a variety of dishes and even fish byproducts such as oil may generate value. As such large fish are important to the economy of coastal towns all over the world.

Special Considerations for Cooling Large Fish

To understand how best to cool large fish it is necessary to understand the ways that large fish vary from their small or medium counterparts. First, large fish have very thick bodies and their meat is often beneath layers of insulating fat. That increased thickness and insulation results in much slower cooling times than are seen with small or medium sized fish. Thus it is important for fishermen to act quickly and efficiently to begin the cooling process immediately after the fish are caught.

While the thickness and insulation are a drawback for rapid cooling, the preservation of large fish does have a significant advantage over the preservation of smaller species: surface area. Relative to their weight, large fish have a much smaller surface area than littler fish. This is easy to understand when one considers that for small fish nearly all of their meat is right beneath the surface; whereas for large fish much of the meat is deeper and further away from the skin surface. The reason that this is so significant is because surface areas are the most vulnerable to spoilage, thus giving the large fish an edge in preservation.

Another advantage for large fish cooling is that just as their larger, thicker nature slows down the cooling process it also slows down the rewarming process. Thus large fish hold onto low temperatures for longer once they reach suitable levels. On the downside, however, is the fact that because large fish are so big there is also more of a risk of a temperature gradient existing with some parts of the fish cooler or warmer than others. By contrast small fish typically cool uniformly through and through.

Preparing the Large Fish for Cooling and Storage

The considerations mentioned above mean that it is much more difficult to adequately cool large fish by merely placing ice against their outer surface. Instead it is recommended that prior to placing them in the hull and icing them, the large fish first be gutted. This of course removes undesirable mass that does not need to be cooled, but much more significantly it creates another major access point for the ice or chilled seawater. Once the fish have been gutted their bellies can be directly filled with ice, thus providing cooling from both their internal and external surfaces.

Cooling with Flake Ice and Chilled Seawater

Research data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) shows that only two types of commonly used cooling methods are effective enough to rapidly cool large fish within the time window needed for safe preservation: chilled seawater (CSW) and flake ice. As such these two methods should be used on commercial vessels.

SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC understands the vital role large fish play in the economic lives of our fishing clients. We are committed to providing top quality, dependable cooling and storage systems that are great for use with large fish. All of our systems are custom designed to best fit the needs of the particular client. Let us help you keep your large fish cool and fresh.

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Effective Storing and Cooling of Bananas

Bananas are a popular dessert fruit and cooking starch all over the world. However, they are typically grown in tropic and subtropic regions and must thus be shipped to consumers in cooler climates. This makes proper storage and cooling a major consideration since the process often requires the fruit to spend long times in cargo containers. Let’s take a look at some facts about bananas and their varieties, the difference between bananas and plantains, uses for bananas, and factors that affect optimal banana cooling and storage.

Banana Facts, Varieties, and Terminology

All bananas and plantains belong to the scientific genus Musa and most modern seedless bananas are cultivars of the species Musa acuminata or the species Musa balbisiana. Botanically bananas are considered a berry and while many people think of banana plants as being trees due to their large size, they are in fact herbaceous plants. Bananas have no true trunk or stem, but rather have psuedostems that consist of tightly packed leaves. Banana plants range in height from about 10 feet tall to about 23 feet tall, with most cultivars averaging around 16 feet tall. They are perennials which die off every year, but leave behind offshoots capable of propagating the species. Different varieties may have yellow, green, brown, red, or purple rinds.

In the Europe, the United States, and the rest of the Americas the term “banana” is commonly used for the dessert variety that is eaten raw, while the term “plantain” is commonly used for the starchier variety that is used for cooking. However, many more varieties of bananas exist in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands and as such there is more overlap between the two and native languages don’t distinguish between them.

The term banana is believed to have originated from the Wolof language of west Africa which uses the word “banaana.” From there it entered English via Spanish or Portuguese.

The Many Uses for Bananas

Bananas are commonly eaten as dessert fruit or blended into smoothies, juices, and ice cream as flavoring. They may also be dried and eaten in foods like granola or used to create banana bread. They are often used in cooking where they represent a significant source of starch for many cultures and cuisines. They may be thinly sliced and fried or baked into banana chips or even fermented into banana beer.

In addition to their use as food, banana leaves are sometimes harvested to make textiles, paper, and other household fabric uses like table cloths. Banana fibers are even used for making Japanese kimonos. Finally, they are also appreciated as a decorative plant.

General Information About Cooling and Storing Bananas

Bananas that ripen on the tree only have a shelf life of about 7–10 days. However, this is generally considered too short a shelf life to be viable for mass market exportation. As such bananas are instead picked green, kept from ripening by careful storage methods, and artificially ripened once they reach their destination.

Temperature – Bananas are typically stored at about 56°F-58°F for long-term storage and transport. Once they are ready for ripening they are warmed slightly to about 59°F-68°F. Bananas should not be subjected to temperatures below 55°F because they are very susceptible to chill damage with green fruit actually more vulnerable than ripe fruit.

Relative Humidity – Optimum relative humidity is about 90%-95%.

Handling – Bananas should be very carefully handled. Dropping them, scuffing them, or bruising them will damage the fruit, could contribute to water loss, and may also cause premature decay.

Shelf Life – The shelf life of bananas will vary significantly based on harvest conditions and storage conditions. Tree ripened fruit only lasts about 7-10 days while fruit picked green and cooled and stored correctly typically lasts about 3-4 weeks. Bananas that undergo controlled atmospheric conditions may even last up to 40 days, or almost 6 weeks.

Controlled Storage Conditions for Bananas

Ethylene is the primary banana ripening agent and plays an extremely important role in commercial processes. Green bananas are often picked, placed and stored in polyethylene bags with carbon dioxide levels raised to about 5% and oxygen levels lowered to about 2%. They are also often stored with potassium permanganate. When ethylene is released by the bananas during storage, it is absorbed by the potassium permanganate thereby preventing ripening.

Once the bananas reach their intended market they are artificially ripened by exposing them to ethylene for about 24-48 hours. The rind of ripe yellow bananas will rapidly develop black spots and brown. However, the fruit inside remains unaffected and suitable for consumption for longer. Fruit that are still partially green when purchased may be ripened more rapidly in-home by placing them in paper bags overnight with high-ethylene producers like apples or tomatoes. SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC designs high quality produce cooling and storage systems that will help keep bananas fresh and delicious.

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Cooling Methods for Pears Post-Harvest

There’s no flavor quite like the sweet, delicate taste of a pear. Pears are popular snacks and recipe ingredients, and are eaten around the world—but in order to reach consumers’ tables and fruit bowls in the best possible condition, pears must be carefully treated and properly stored. At SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC, we know that it’s important to keep pears cool after harvest, and there are many different ways this can be done.

Pear Overview

Over 3,000 varities of pears are grown around the world, although the plant was originally native to Europe, Central Asia, and North Africa. Pears have been consumed as food since prehistoric times, and they are one of the oldest cultivated fruits. Various cultivars are created specifically for cooking, eating raw, or creating drinks like pear cider; pears also have great cultural significance in many parts of the world.

Pair Storage

When properly cared for, pears can last from 60 to 90 days in storage, giving them some of the longest shelf lives of any fruit. Generally, they should be stored at a relative humidity of 90% to 95% in order to prevent water loss—which can lead to shriveling, drying, and loss of salable weight. In addition, pears both produce, and are sensitive to, ethylene, a ripening hormone given off as the fruit matures. This means that pears should not be stored either with produce that is sensitive to ethylene (such as berries, carrots, or avocados) or with produce that gives off ethylene (such as apples, bananas, or peaches). In addition, overripe pears should be immediately separated from unripe ones.

Pair Cooling

Pears should also be kept cool in order to retain their freshness. Cooling helps to slow ripening, retard metabolic changes, reduce moisture loss, and prevent spoilage due to bacteria, fungus, or pests. Pears are best stored at a temperature that is close to freezing. Although they are often fairly warm when they’re on the tree due to sunlight and the ambient temperature of the air, they should be cooled as soon as possible after picking.

Refrigeration Units

Refrigerated rooms and other facilities can be used to help hold temperatures down, but they usually are not a complete solution on their own. Most refrigerated rooms and cooling mechanisms are designed merely to hold fruit at a specific temperature after they have been pre-cooled, not to drop their current temperature. There are a number of precooling measures that can be used to lower the temperature of pears after harvest.

Hydro Cooling

One of the most common options is hydro cooling, which involves placing the pears in chilled or ice water. This not only helps the fruit to rapidly decrease in temperature, but can also help prewash it. Hydro cooling can involve simply placing the pears in containers of water, or it can involve more convenient and efficient hydro cooling machines.

Top Icing

There are also a number of techniques that can be used after the pears are packed. One popular technique is top icing, which involves placing a layer of ice across the top of the packaging. This is one of the most highly efficient cooling mechanisms, since a single pound of ice can cool three pounds of produce by more than forty degrees Fahrenheit.

Slush Cooling

Slush cooling is another excellent choice for pears. This method involves injecting a slushy mix of water and ice into a box of pears, and then allowing the water to drain away and leave behind a thin coating of snow around the fruit. This is an excellent way to remove as much heat as possible from the fruit and keep it cool in transit.

Fruit Protection at SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC

Here at SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC, we know that our clients have worked hard to produce their crops, and we want to help them protect their quality. We offer a wide variety of cooling mechanisms, cold storage facilities, and ice production equipment that can help keep pears cool and fresh. SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC equipment can help keep pears in great condition for consumers.

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The Advantages of Aggregate Cooling by Air for Concrete

It is important for concrete to have proper heating and cooling systems in place. The aggregate mixture is initially heated to combine the different parts and create the concrete itself, and then it is cooled to allow the mixture to set. However, if there is a large difference between the heated and cooler temperatures, the concrete could be subject to premature cracking. To avoid this, companies utilize aggregate cooling processes to cool down the particles before they set. Cooling by air has become a popular option. Take a look at the process and the advantages of aggregate cooling by air to see for yourself why it is an excellent choice.

What is Aggregate Cooling by Air?

The design of the air cooling system is what makes it so effective. It utilizes the silos that are already in place to complete the cooling process. Strong air nozzles are installed at the bottom of the silos, and they provide a constant air stream at the appropriate temperature to provide maximum cooling. The process is so effective at cooling the aggregate materials that moisture must be added to ensure that the concrete does not become too dry. As the cooling air moves through the silo it warms up, creating the needed moisture. Therefore, the cooling system actually performs double duty by both cooling the concrete while also providing needed moisture.

Different Advantages

Being that aggregate cooling by air works with the silos that are already being utilized, that dramatically cuts down on installation costs. Also, with the air system being multi-functional, it substantially decreases the use of extra energy, which in turn lessens production costs. These factors in themselves prove to be enough of a cause to utilize this system. However, along with the cooling system working in conjunction with the equipment that is already in place and it serving double duty, there are a few more advantages of utilizing this system.

  • No excess moisture: Since the cooling air also creates the necessary moisture, no additional moisture sources are needed. This helps to ensure that the concrete does not receive excess moisture, which could slow down or even prevent the solidifying process.
  • Mobile set-up capabilities: The cooling by air system is a mobile system, so it can be transported and applied to different silos, enhancing its usefulness within a company, as well as making transport a hassle-free affair when necessary.
  • Continuous process: The blown air naturally completes all aspects of the cooling process, providing a continuous flow with low maintenance requirements. This aspect makes air cooling energy efficient and an proficient process for companies to implement.
  • Quick installation: Unlike water cooling systems that require the installment of large machinery parts, cooling by air just requires the attachment of the air nozzles to the silos. This allows for quick installation and dismantlement when necessary. It also requires less maintenance than a standalone cooling system.

Outlook

The aggregate cooling by air system has very strong characteristics. As such, it is a popular choice for cooling concrete. The use of air is not only energy efficient but is environmentally safe, making it a sustainable choice for long term use. It also lowers operating costs and limits the necessary equipment that companies must invest in and maintain. Concrete manufactures large and small can greatly benefit from these factors. Those extra funds can be reallocated to increase production, which in turn would increase profit. Simply stated, air cooling proves to be a wise investment. For these and other reasons, use of this cooling system has grown over the years and shows no signs of slowing down.

It is clear why aggregate cooling by air is a great choice for cooling concrete. It has proven to be a sustainable process with minimal added equipment, easy portability, multi-functional properties and energy efficiency. These and other advantages give those companies that utilize this system greater leverage and help to keep operation costs low. No matter the size of an organization, it can benefit from implementing an aggregate air cooling system for cooling its concrete. The air cooling system’s quick yet resourceful process is not only impressive but helpful to the continuance of the company’s operations. SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC provides comprehensive concrete cooling solutions including systems that utilize aggregate cooling by air.

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Crucial Functions and Benefits of Ice Rakes

Ice is a resource that is used more than many people realize. In addition to any ice that a homeowner uses around his or her house, ice is necessary in the transportation and storage of all kinds of food. Where does it all come from? It depends on the company, but with all the different kinds of ice that are available, it’s safe to say that most ice comes from a machine that received a package from a bulk ice company. Industrial-sized machines designed to distribute huge amounts of ice quickly are designed slightly different than the ice machine you’re likely to run into at the grocery store or gas station. Many of these industrial machines have a part not always found on smaller machines: an ice rake. It might not seem like much at first glance, but rakes are a crucial and beneficial part to creating and maintaining sanitary and affordable ice for all kinds of uses.

What Are Ice Rakes?

Ice rakes are often found in bulk ice storage systems. Although there may be slightly different types depending on the bin being used, most are similar in appearance and function. The rakes are spaced between motorized components to move endlessly over the length of a bin, or at least until the bin registers as full. Even when described in detail, many people envision these rakes as being fairly small. However, the bin itself is usually the size of an entire room, and the rake is designed to span the length of the bin, and often the width, as well.

How They Are Used

Large ice bins and rakes are usually reserved for use by the packaged ice industry, operations involving large food service, or for poultry and seafood. Those businesses that need the ability to quickly package and ship ice to customers benefit most from a bin and rake that can produce tens to hundreds of tons of ice quickly. The bin itself is used for the storage of the ice until it needs to be packaged. The ice rake helps to distribute the ice evenly so the bin does not become uneven. In addition to assisting in the filling of a bin, this helps to distribute ice out for easier packaging. Many systems are designed to expose only a certain amount of ice at a time so that bins do not become overloaded or overflow once the doors are opened. Best of all, rakes automate the packaging process, which allows the ice to be packaged much quicker than if it were all completed by hand. This saves time and money, leading to a more affordable product for the end-user.

Benefits to Ice Rakes

There are many different kinds of ice machines, so what exactly are the advantages of using a machine with an ice rake? First of all, a rake automates the ice delivery process so that it can transported directly to wherever it needs to go. The continuous design means that it will work for as long as a business needs it to work, or until the bin becomes full.

A second benefit to these rakes—and probably the most important—has to do with sanitation. Each part is carefully designed to prevent the buildup of mold and other problems associated with ice storage. Because it also automates the packaging and transport of ice, there is no need for human hands to touch the ice until it is delivered to the point of use. This basically keeps the ice pure and clean until it needs to be used.

A third benefit to ice rakes is their durability and dependability. Most rakes are made out of high-quality parts, self-leveling abilities, and sensors. From galvanized components to heavy-duty chains, these rakes are designed to move ice for as long as you need to and not cause hang-ups. Many rakes will even automatically shut off once they sense that a bin is full.

Why Are They so Important?

What is so crucial about ice rakes? Do they even matter? If you take the rakes away, you slow the ice packaging and distribution process down considerably. There are many different businesses that depend on a daily import of ice in order to keep their goods fresh for their customers. Ice rake and bin systems are often responsible for the storage and preparation of up to 400 tons of ice. What happens when 400 tons of ice need to be distributed by human hands instead of an automated machine? The ice does not get packaged as quickly, which ends up taking more time and, ultimately, more money. This then translates to a higher price the end-user must pay for the product. If that end-user is a business, it also means that the business must now charge their customers extra for their products because their overhead costs are higher.

Ice rakes keep ice moving quickly for efficient packaging and delivery to customers or the point of use. This also helps to limit the number of hands that are coming in contact with the ice before it is used, which assists in keeping it sanitary.

Ultimately, ice rakes are an essential component of the bulk ice industry. It keeps the ice moving for easy packaging and delivery directly to the point of use, in many cases. When you are moving hundreds of tons of ice every day, it’s important to move it efficiently and in a manner that keeps the ice clean. After all, much of that ice is likely to come in contact with food that people will be eating. Ice rakes and bins basically save the ice industry time and money, which translates to savings to the end-user. Rakes are one of the most important pieces of bulk ice production that most people don’t often think about.

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Medium-Size Fish Cooling Methods

The proper cooling and storage of fish is crucial to prevent spoilage and the economic loss associated with wasted product. This means that commercial fishermen must carefully plan their fishing trips and consider the best cooling and storage methods for the particular type of fish that they will be catching. In past articles looked at factors that affect the cooling and storage of small fish as well as those same factors for large fish. In today’s article let’s turn our attention to cooling and storage methods for medium-size fish.

The Many Different Types of Medium-Size Fish

The term “medium-size fish” is imprecise by nature and may mean different things to different people. There is no clear boundary between very small fish and their slightly larger cousins or between large, several-hundred-pound fish and their double, or barely single digit counterparts. However, in general the term “medium-size fish” can be applied to many of the several different species of carp, salmon, mackerel, tilapia, cod, and others. These fish form a crucial economic niche in the communities that fish them. They also form the basis for many of the most popular and enjoyed recipes and dishes throughout the country, both in public restaurants and private homes.

Special Considerations for Medium-Size Fish

In many ways medium-size fish offer the perfect balance of the pros and cons of cooling and storing small- or large-size fish. For example compared to large-size fish they will more readily cool evenly, avoiding temperature gradients and vulnerability to potential spoilage in warmer spots. However, like larger fish they will maintain their temperatures more easily and for longer than small fish, avoiding rapid spoilage. Naturally, however, these traits appear along a spectrum and medium-size fish that tend toward the larger or smaller side will also possess many of the same cooling pros and cons of the truly large or truly small fish. This makes it extremely important for fishermen to be aware of the particular type of fish they are dealing with and to use best cooling methods appropriate for that particular size species.

The Effective Use of Ice and Chilled Seawater

Ice is the preferred cooling media on many commercial fishing vessels. That is because ice is economical and readily available, works to immediately begin cooling the fish, provides added moisture for the fish, and does not introduce any foreign chemical or potentially toxic or contaminating agents.

Another popular alternative is chilled seawater. Chilled seawater can be taken directly from the surrounding water, chilled and processed, and used to preserve freshly caught fish. A major advantage is that the seawater is so readily available, does not require pre-storage, and has a composition already likely to be safe and suitable for the fish.

Finally, both ice and chilled seawater provide very effective, thorough cooling. Chilled seawater and flake or slush ice is able to completely surround the fish and enter its crevices and orifices. Larger ice such as block ice should be crushed prior to use.

Planning Ahead for Best Results

As with most endeavors, particularly commercial ones, the key to success is largely in planning ahead. Commercial fishermen who are about to embark on a fishing trip for medium-size, as well as other size, fish should consider the following:

Factors to Consider

  • Type of fish being caught
  • Type of ice being used
  • Fishing conditions
  • Length of trip
  • Estimated haul
  • Cargo space
  • Equipment and resources needed

The type of fish being caught is key to understanding and estimating its likely weight and cooling considerations. Meanwhile the type of ice that will be used is crucial for making proper arrangements, particularly if block ice will be used and the fishermen will have to plan for crushing. Ice type is also important in determining the amount of ice needed since certain types of ice, for example flake ice, will melt much more rapidly than others such as block ice. Likewise the length of the trip – both in terms of time and geographic distance – is key to determining the amount of ice that will be needed.

Fishing conditions such as the climate and time of year are also crucial for determining the fish’s expected starting temperature and the ease of reaching and maintaining safe temperature levels. The cargo space available is key for determining a suitable ice-to-fish ratio while the equipment and other resources needed for the trip must also be factored in since they will affect how much space is left over for fish or ice and perhaps also budgetary considerations.

SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC understands that when it comes to cooling systems for medium-size fish no two situations are identical. We custom design our cooling systems to best meet the needs of each of our clients and to ensure that their fish stay cool, safe, and fresh. Please contact us to discuss your particular cooling and storage needs.

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The Advantages of Aggregate Cooling by Water

If the temperature of the concrete is too high when it is applied to a structure or a certain area, its durability and strength are compromised. In most situations, the cooling process can be completed by adding ice and chilled water to the actual concrete mix. However, in some cases, this process is insufficient and the aggregates need to be cooled as well. This is where aggregate cooling by water comes in. The advantages of aggregate cooling by water are numerous, and this process is applicable to construction projects everywhere.

The Cooling Process

The most reliable and efficient way to cool concrete aggregates is to place them on a belt conveyor along with some ice water. Once this is done, the aggregates can generally reach a temperature of 5 degrees Celsius within just a few minutes. However, the rapidity of this process is largely affected by how big the aggregates are. For instance, an aggregate that is at least 150 millimeters in size may take up to 35 minutes to cool, while an aggregate less than 80 millimeters in size may only require one to eight minutes to reach an optimal temperature.

One of the advantages of aggregate cooling by water is that the process can be completed much quicker than if it needed to be done with a cold stream of air. However, in order for the aggregate cooling process to take place properly, the cooling belt must first be equipped with a dewatering system. Additionally, these belts require a setting tank to properly handle the cooling process.

After the belts of the cooling system have ice water added to them, the liquid eventually makes its way to a sediment basin. Here, the mud, or sand, is separated from the water. Eventually, this water is chilled to an extremely cold temperature.

Faster, Reliable Cooling

As mentioned above, cooling the aggregates before application using water can speed up the cooling process and ensure the durability of the concrete once it is used. However, there are many other benefits associated with this process. For example, the aggregate cooling process is not difficult to set up. This means that those working on a project that requires concrete can cool the aggregates shortly after the need to do so arises.

Additionally, the tools and equipment needed to cool aggregates by water do not require a significant investment. These systems also do not require a ton of space to store. This means that those who specialize in concrete cooling can complete the process without sacrificing valuable space in their work area to cool aggregates before application.

Customer Benefits

Although the advantage of aggregate cooling by water mainly benefit those working directly with the concrete, the process has several different benefits for those who initiated the project as well. First, those who need to have the concrete pouring process completed on a certain day are more likely to stay within their timeframe if they take advantage of aggregate cooling. This ensures that other people working on the project are able to complete their part quickly, instead of being delayed by problems with the concrete.

Second, when water is used during the aggregate cooling process, it ensures that the concrete does not develop significant problems in the future. Since proper cooling can help concrete set properly after it is placed in a predetermined area, those who needed the concrete will likely find that it is less likely to crack or deteriorate over time. This also ensures that other structures placed on top of the concrete are secure.

Finally, aggregate cooling by water is a cost-effective process. Not only does this save the company responsible for cooling the concrete money, but it also helps the client reduce its overall project budget. The savings of aggregate cooling by water often translate to the client. As a result, the client may be able to dedicate more funds to aspects of their project that could benefit from a greater amount of capital.

SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC Provides Quality Concrete Cooling Systems

Aggregate cooling with water is simply one aspect of some concrete cooling systems. Other systems may utilize aggregate cooling with air or may not focus on aggregate cooling as a cooling method at all. Regardless of the concrete cooling system and method being used SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC provides quality concrete cooling systems that are suitable for a full array of different situations and applications.

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Methods for Cooling Pineapples after Harvest

The pineapple is a delicious and versatile fruit. It can be eaten for enjoyment as well as medical purposes and its leaves can be converted for different uses. Its fresh, ripe taste has helped it to spread across the world, though it is primarily grown in its native region. With its specific ripening qualities, proper cooling and storage are critical to maintaining the fruit. Take a look at some general facts about pineapples and effective cooling and storing methods.

General Facts About Pineapples

Pineapples are tropical fruits that originated from South America and are currently mass produced in different areas, including Brazil, the Philippines, Thailand and Costa Rica. Within the United States, Hawaii is known for producing a smaller hybrid version of the fruit. They were originally given the name “pineapple” in 1398 due to their resemblance to the pine cone. They take a while to flower naturally, between twenty to twenty-four months, however a few different methods have been implemented over the years to speed up the process. One differentiating factor about this fruit is that they do not ripen after they are harvested. This makes proper cooling and storing methods crucial.

Pineapples are commonly used in various cooking recipes. They may be cut and eaten fresh, as well as crushed, preserved, juiced or used as a garnish. There versatility and delicious flavor make them a popular ingredient for all styles of food, be it South American, Asian or American cuisine. In addition to the fruit, its durable leaves are also quite versatile. These leaves can be formed into a textile for use in different furnishings, such as wallpaper, as well fashioned into a fabric for use in clothing. Pineapples may also be applied topically as an anti-inflammatory or ingested as an antihelminthic.

Information About Cooling and Storing Pineapples

Unlike many other types of fruit, pineapples ripeness peaks upon harvesting. To ensure that they have a nice yellow center, one week before harvest time the fruits are usually sprayed with a growth inducing chemical that converts into a regulator that encourages ripening of fruit. Therefore, they are quite perishable. At room temperature they are only good for up to two days, while when refrigerated they can last for five to seven days.

Shelf Life – Unless canned, frozen or preserved, pineapples do not have a long shelf life at all. When frozen this fruit can last up to five months, and it can last for one to two years when canned or preserved.

Temperature – With such a short shelf life it is most beneficial to frigate the fruit. To extend the expected life of the plant it should be stored at a temperature of thirty-two degrees. This helps to slow down the aging process, which begins as soon as the fruit is collected.

Relative Humidity – Being that pineapples are tropical fruit they are indigenous to humid climates and must therefore be maintained in a high relative humidity. Pineapples should be kept at a relative humidity of ninety to ninety-five percent.

Methods of Cooling Pineapples

Ideally, pineapples should first be cooled down to forty degrees before they are cooled to storage temperature. If the process is completed too quickly it can actually damage the fruit. There are a couple of effective cooling methods that can be utilized to get the fruit to proper storage temperature without compromising the sweet ripeness of the pineapples.

Forced-Air Cooling – This process is a great option for cooling the fruit to storage temperatures after it has been cooled down initially. For this cooling method the pineapples are placed in a refrigerated room, such as a deep freezer, and are arranged around a fan. The fan helps to circulate the cool air through the fruit, speeding up the freezing process.

Hydrocooling – This method is usually utilized before forced-air cooling is applied. It helps to cool off the fruit quickly without causing damage. To accomplish this, the fruit is submerged in near-freezing water.

SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC prides itself as a leader amongst cooling and storage system providers. We strive to not only supply superior systems, but to work effectively with clients to develop tailored systems to meet their needs and exceed their expectations. Our extensive experience, high quality equipment and commitment to positive client relations speak volumes to those factors. We would love to work one-on-one with you to create the perfect cooling and storing system to support your pineapple distribution process.

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