• SNOWMAKING
• RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
• Carbon Steel Flake Ice Makers
• Ice Storage Systems
• Containerized Ice Plants
• Pneumatic Delivery Systems

North Star Snowmaking Systems

North Star's ice equipment has been installed at large ski resorts, theme parks and other attractions to create indoor and outdoor snow surfaces for skiing, snowboarding and other winter recreation. Flake ice snow can be used to create a realistic winter environment to enhance the visitors’ experience.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE RECREATION INDUSTRY

North Star flake ice equipment offers a distinct advantage over conventional snowmaking equipment in that it makes snow at ambient temperatures above freezing, and does not rely on weather conditions for snowmaking. Our “subcooled” snow is made at low temperatures by mechanical flake ice makers. Sub-cooled snow is free flowing, can be easily moved using mechanical or pneumatic systems, and provides a natural skiing surface.

Conventional snowmaking systems that use pressurized air, water and freezing temperatures have long been used to supplement natural snowfall. These systems rely on ambient temperatures below freezing to produce snow. If temperatures and relative humidity levels are above certain limits, this conventional snowmaking equipment cannot be operated. North Star snowmkaing systems are not subject to these limitations.

SPECIFIC APPLICATIONS FOR NORTH STAR SNOWMAKING SYSTEMS

Changing weather patterns and climate variability is having a serious impact on the winter sports industry. While the future is not easy to predict, it is clear that a number of venues face economic uncertainty due to these issues. This is particularly true for lower elevation or coastal ski areas near major metropolitan areas.

North Star snowmaking systems offer ski area operators the opportunity to better manage season start and end dates, and their revenue, as global weather unpredictability increases. North Star systems can be used in specific applications at any ski area, regardless of whether conventional snowmaking systems are installed. North Star equipment can be applied at lower elevation ski areas or those where weather conditions can have a serious impact on the quality and quantity of snow. High traffic areas near lifts, teaching areas, snow tubing hills and terrain parks are often chosen for supplemental snowmaking.

In addition, North Star snowmaking systems can also be used for indoor facilities and can allow them to operate at a more comfortable at emperature slightly above freezing without significant melt or reduction in the quality of the snow.

NORTH STAR ADVANTAGES AND BENEFITS

• Snow production at ambient temperatures above freezing
• Low environmental impact, no water is wasted; energy efficient; no chemical snow inducers or additives are needed
• A proven, established technology; rugged and dependable
• Centralized plant, mobile systems, or satellite units available
• Low temperature, sub-cooled and free flowing flake ice snow
  • Lasts longer at above freezing temperatures
  • Grooms well with existing equipment
  • Provides a natural skiing surface

EQUIPMENT OVERVIEW

The North Star system includes four main components:

• Flake ice snow making machines
• Storage bins with discharge capability
• Conveying and distribution equipment
• A refrigeration system (compressor, condenser, etc.)