It is the solid form of carbon dioxide (CO₂). Carbon dioxide exists as a liquid only under high pressure. When returning to ambient pressure, about half of it turns into gas and half into solid. The solid portion, usually in the form of carbon dioxide snow, is then compressed to form blocks or pellets of dry ice.

Since dry ice has a temperature of –78.5 °C, placing it in a freezer is ineffective. To preserve it as efficiently as possible, dry ice should be kept in an insulated container. The thicker the insulation, the more it helps slow down sublimation, which can range from 2% to 10% per day, depending on the climate and the container’s characteristics.

The amount of dry ice required for effective cleaning varies greatly depending on the application and the type of blaster used. On average, a dry ice micro-pellet system consumes about 0.32 kg per minute, while a pellet system may require up to 1.1 kg per minute.

Compressor: Requires an air supply (free of oil, debris, and water) of 5,000 L/min at 7 bar, with a minimum 1” connection. The compressor motor must have at least 30 kW (40 HP).
Dry Ice Pellets: Supplied by MEC or produced with pelletizers. They must be stored in cryogenic containers.
Blaster: Single-tube or dual-tube, selected from MEC options.
Safety Equipment: Protective goggles, noise-canceling headphones, cryogenic gloves, protective suit, and scoop.

Italian CEI standards, in line with European directives on electrical safety, allow interventions on low-voltage electrical panels if carried out in accordance with the specific procedures outlined in CEI 11/37 and CEI 11/48. It is therefore possible to work on live electrical panels up to 1,000 V (low voltage), but not beyond.

Yes, it is made entirely of carbon dioxide, which is also used to create bubbles in soft drinks and mineral water. However, do not ingest it in its solid form, as it can cause burns.

M.E.C. produces and ships high-density dry ice in various forms:
Pellets Ø 3, 9, or 16 mm
Blocks of 0.5, 1, or 2.5 kg
Purchases can be made completely independently through the website www.ghiacciosecco.net.

M.E.C. offers a rental service for its blasters, providing a flexible solution for temporary cryogenic cleaning needs. Contact us for a personalized quote and more information about rental conditions.

M.E.C. offers comprehensive training for the proper use of cryogenic machines, ensuring that clients have all the skills needed to operate safely and maximize equipment performance. Training can be conducted in-house, free of charge, or at the customer’s site, depending on preferences and requirements.