Ice Packs Explained
We talk a lot about our range of ice packs, both water and gel, but not everyone actually knows what this term means, or what makes up a high quality ice pack.
What are ice packs?
Ice packs are, in their basic form, a bag or pocket full of a solution that can be frozen down to provide a cooling solution for many purposes. Some are single use, and others are reusable; the reusable type are much better for the environment.
What is inside?
There are 2 primary types of ice pack: water and gel.
- Water ice packs – these have a pure water formula inside, which is filtrated and treated to be food safe for food shipments.
- Gel ice packs – these have a plastic poly gel and water formula inside – they are not as eco friendly as pure water but tend to last a little longer in terms of frozen duration. The gel formula also ensures the ice packs retain a more uniform shape than water.
Hydropac offers every customer a customized solution for chilled and conditioned shipping. For example, we help a customer with limited freezing capacity to deliver gel packs frozen and ready to use, and we can manufacture almost all shapes and sizes of cooling elements. As a customer, you come first: we are here to help you.
h3>“Soak and Freeze” ice packs
“Soak and freeze” ice packs require soaking in fresh water before they can be frozen. The strips are dehydrated, and this soaking process rehydrates them.
We do not manufacture or sell these, as they tend to be less reliable and stick to each other once frozen.
Ice pack shapes
The traditional shape for an ice pack, regardless of its contents, is a rectangle. Each is made of varying numbers of pockets, each filled with the coolant solution inside. These should be filled to the capabilities of the outer material of the ice pack.
Our “seal through liquid” technology ensures that both our water and gel ice packs are filled the capacity each time.
The reason for this is so they can be easily laid flat or bent as needed around the contents of the shipment.
Ice packs can also be made into different shapes if desired.
Ice pack sizes
Again, this varies and the best way to consider what you need is to look at how big your shipment is. If you are sending something small, then 1 or 2 pocket ice packs may be the best option.
Larger shipments will need larger ice packs; we sell water and gel ice packs up to 8 pockets.
h2>Quality control and safety procedures
For ice packs to be considered food grade safe and compliant, they must undergo certain QC and safety procedures. We can’t speak for other manufacturers, but when it comes to our ice packs (water and gel), we undertake the following:
- 3 Stage Filtration System
- UV light Sterilisation
- Chlorination control
- Every batch sent for independent microbiological testing.
Leakages
One of the most common questions we are asked is whether water ice packs might be a higher leak risk than gel. The answer to this is no – all our ice packs are burst strength tested to 200kg.
How long do ice packs take to freeze?
This varies depending on the ice pack in question. Water will always be quicker than gel, however different gel formulas also take different times.
For example, EasiFreeze ice packs freeze down around 33% quicker than Hydrofreeze
Sustainability Hydropac and CSR
Sustainability isn’t just a trend for us – it’s a promise. As we innovate, create, and lead, we keep our planet’s well-being at the forefront. With Hydropac, you’re not just preserving the quality of your cargo; you’re contributing to a healthier world.
Experience the power of sustainable temperature assurance with Hydropac – where excellence and environmental responsibility coexist for a brighter future.
