3 Unusual Uses for Ice

 

What is your picture-perfect summer day? Most likely it involves lounging of some kind, or maybe hours packed with activity. But somewhere in that daydream of perfection is bound to be a moment when you can cool off with a cold glass of your favorite beverage.

Downing iced drinks on a hot day is almost a favorite pastime.

But have you ever thought about ways that ice serves us in more unique ways? Did you know that there are commercial businesses that function by using ice? That’s right. Industries such as construction companies, produce distributors, bakeries, and nuclear plants have to use ice.

Here is the breakdown of how they do it and why.

Construction Ice

Work crews have ice for two reasons. They need ice water to stay hydrated during the day, and they need ice for work projects.

Construction companies in the desert have the challenging job of working with concrete on even the hottest days of summer. Concrete needs to be held at an ideal temperature in order to pour properly. That typically means holding below 80 degrees. But after the mix and it sits out in the heat, that temperature can quickly climb and cause issues.

Ice is the perfect solution. It allows the concrete to hold at the proper temperature and not get too hot before it has time to set.

Produce Snow

Produce is often grown by one grower, sold to a distributor, purchased by a grocery chain, and shipped to the store to sell. Transport is only possible with the help of ice and refrigeration. Spoiled fruit obviously can’t be sold and equals lost revenue and purchase dollars.

Produce ice is another unique way ice makes this chain possible.

Ice in baking

Baked goods are another product that often have to be held at a constant temperature. And when making large batches, that can become nearly impossible.

Ice can be used to keep baked good regulated so the end product is correct, fluffy, and flavorful.

And more

There are other industries including green energy products that use ice. It’s a simple, natural way for products to be regulated and chemically stable.

Watch for a future post where we will talk about ways ice is used in home remedies.