Cylindrical ice production equipment creates hollow, elongated ice pieces ideal for chilling beverages quickly due to their greater surface area. This equipment typically utilizes a vertical evaporator drum where water freezes into a thin layer of ice. A rotating auger within the drum removes the formed ice, creating the characteristic hollow shape.
This type of ice production offers several advantages, including efficient cooling, reduced storage space requirements due to its unique shape, and prolonged drink chilling without excessive dilution. Historically, such equipment represented a significant advancement over traditional block or flake ice production, enabling higher volume output and more convenient handling. Its development contributed significantly to the food service and beverage industries.