Soft Ice Cream Machine Troubleshooting
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Soft Ice Cream Machine Troubleshooting
1. Common Failures Overview
| Symptom | User-Level Checks | Engineer-Level Checks |
| Soft mix / no freezing | Recipe, pre-cooling, ventilation | Refrigerant, sensors, solenoid valve |
| Mixer not rotating | Blockage, restart | Motor, capacitor, PCB |
| Temperature not dropping | Environment, condenser | Refrigeration loop |
| Error alarm | Door switch, low mix | Sensors, PCB |
2. Failure: Mix Not Freezing / Poor Hardness
User-Level Checks
– Check Ingredient Ratio:** Ensure that the proportions of ingredients used in the mix are accurate and follow the recommended guidelines.
– Ensure Pre-Cooling is ON:** Verify that the pre-cooling function is activated to achieve the optimal temperature before the mixing process begins.
– Confirm Ventilation Around Machine:** Make sure there is adequate airflow around the machine to prevent overheating.
– Avoid High Ambient Temperature:** Keep the machine in an environment where the surrounding temperature is not excessively high, as this can affect the freezing process.
Engineer Checks
– Condenser Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the condenser to remove any dust or debris that might be hindering its performance.
– Evaporator Frosting Pattern: Inspect the evaporator for any irregular frosting patterns, which could indicate underlying issues.
– Refrigerant Pressure / Leak Test: Conduct a pressure test and check for any leaks in the refrigerant system.
– Hardness Sensor Output: Verify the accuracy of the hardness sensor readings to ensure it is functioning correctly.
-Compressor Current:Measure the current flowing through the compressor to ensure it is within the specified range.
3. Failure: Mixer Not Rotating
User-Level Checks
– Remove Foreign Objects: Check for and remove any foreign objects that might be obstructing the mixer’s movement.
– Mix Too Thick: Determine if the mix is too thick, which could cause the mixer to struggle or stop rotating.
– Let Motor Cool 10 Minutes: Allow the motor to cool down for at least 10 minutes to prevent overheating and potential burnout.
Engineer Checks
-Test Motor and Capacitor: Perform a comprehensive test on the motor and capacitor to ensure they are functioning properly.
– Inspect Beater Shaft: Examine the beater shaft for any signs of damage or obstruction that could prevent rotation.
– PCB Output Test: Check the output signals from the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) to ensure they are correctly controlling the mixer.
4. Failure: No Cooling / Temperature High
User Checks
-Condenser Dust: Inspect the condenser for accumulated dust and clean it if necessary.
– Clearance: Ensure there is sufficient clearance around the machine for proper airflow.
– Room Temperature: Check the ambient room temperature to ensure it is within the recommended range for optimal machine performance.
Engineer Checks
– Leak Test: Conduct a thorough leak test to identify any refrigerant leaks.
– Compressor Current: Measure the compressor current to ensure it is operating within the normal range.
– System Pressure: Check the overall system pressure to identify any discrepancies.
-Blocked Capillary Tube: Inspect the capillary tube for any blockages that could impede refrigerant flow