Service
Ice machine Operation (all models)
Follett’s ice machine consists of four distinct functional systems:
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Harvesting system
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Water system
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Electrical control system
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Refrigeration system
These four systems work together to accomplish the production and harvesting of ice. A problem in any one of these
systems will result in improper operation of the entire ice production cycle. When troubleshooting the ice machine,
it is important to analyze the entire system operation to determine which system is not functioning properly, then
pinpoint the component within that system that is malfunctioning. Determine what corrective action must be taken
before making any adjustments or replacing any components.
The icemaking process
The Maestro Plus ice machine uses a stainless steel jacketed evaporator and operates on a continuous freezing
cycle. Water is supplied to the evaporator from the water reservoir where the water level is controlled by a float valve.
This valve also shuts off the water supply when the ice machine is not running.
When the ice machine is running, a layer
of ice forms on the interior surface of the
evaporator. This ice is continuously removed
by a slowly rotating (12 RPM) auger. The
auger carries the ice upward into the cavity
formed by the top bearing housing and the
compression loop, where it is compressed to
remove excess water. When the ice reaches
the desired hardness it rotates within the
cavity and is forced through a discharge
port and compression nozzle and into the
ice transport tube. The discharge tube and
compression nozzle are slightly restricted to
further compress the ice and produce the
desired hardness.
A solid state control board located in the
electrical box of the ice machine controls
the normal operation of the ice machine
and monitors gearmotor torque. This control
board will shut down the ice machine should
an over-torque condition occur. It is very
important that you familiarize yourself with
the operational sequences detailed in this
manual before attempting to service the ice
machine.
water
inlet
auger
compression nozzle
ice transport tube
evaporator
port
MCD425A/W, R425A/W, MFD425A/W, P425A/W Ice Machines 9
