MEC designs and manufactures cryogenic tunnels and industrial freezing systems using liquid nitrogen or carbon dioxide (CO₂). Nitrogen freezing tunnels enable rapid and efficient product temperature reduction, with process parameters that can be configured to meet specific production requirements.

The process takes place inside a refrigerated tunnel, where a conveyor belt moves the products at a defined speed. At the base of the conveyor belt, the products are exposed to a subcooled atmosphere rich in frigorie, which allows for instant and uniform cooling. Depending on the product and system configuration, the process can also be used for IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) applications, in which individual pieces are frozen separately.

Freezing is complete only when the core of the product, its innermost point, reaches a temperature of at least -18 °C. The system allows precise adjustment of:

• Product time in the tunnel
• Belt speed
• Temperature parameters, which can reach up to -100 °C

Design flexibility

MEC systems include linear and spiral freezing tunnels, designed to ensure uniform treatment and optimize cryogenic freezing processes. Available solutions include liquid nitrogen freezing tunnels and industrial CO₂ freezing tunnels. Spiral configurations also make optimal use of available space while maintaining high production capacity.

The tunnels are available in different lengths (from 4 to 11 metres) and vertical configurations, such as the three-storey model, to suit all space and productivity requirements.