Lowestoft, Suffolk, England-based Starfrost UK has unveiled its latest Hybrid Tunnel Freezer. Promoted as a “next-generation solution” for individual quick freezing (IQF), the updated model integrates advancements in design, performance and hygiene.
The Hybrid Tunnel Freezer features a newly developed, more compact design that delivers up to 60% more production capacity than its predecessor. Despite a reduction in size, the system retains full flexibility and can freeze or chill a wide range of food products, including small and delicate items such as raw minced meat, seafood and cooked proteins.
Performance Meets Efficiency
This redesigned model not only boosts production throughput but also improves overall system performance without increasing energy consumption. The enhanced capacity is achieved through the addition of two extra conveyor belts, enabling high-volume freezing using the same energy consumption and footprint as the previous model.
The Hybrid Tunnel Freezer is built around a “clean-by-design” engineering approach. This design minimizes difficult-to-clean areas and incorporates smooth surfaces and high-grade components, making cleaning simpler and more effective. With a simplified design and smart engineering, the freezer improves cleanability and supports compliance with hygiene standards in food processing environments.
A key feature of the freezer is its multi-belt conveyor system, which crust-freezes products prior to full freezing. This helps retain product shape, structure and appearance while also allowing smoother product transfer between belts. The combination of gentle movement and crust freezing promotes product agitation, reduces clumping and ensures consistently high-quality IQF results.
Understanding the critical need to minimize downtime, Starfrost has engineered the equipment for fast and straightforward installation. Delivered as a pre-assembled package, the system can be fully operational within one week, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum productivity.
