Dry Ice FAQs

What is dry ice?

Dry ice is solid carbon dioxide (CO₂). Unlike regular ice, which is made from water, dry ice sublimates directly from a solid to a gas at -78.5 °C (-109.3 °F).

DO I NEED SPECIAL EQUIPMENT TO HANDLE DRY ICE?

Yes, handling dry ice requires some precautions, but you don't need special equipment beyond basic safety gear. Here are a few important tips:

  1. Gloves: Always wear insulated gloves to prevent frostbite, as dry ice can cause skin burns.
  2. Eye Protection: Safety goggles are recommended to protect your eyes from splashes or small pieces.
  3. Ventilation: Use dry ice in well-ventilated areas. It sublimates into carbon dioxide gas, which can displace oxygen in confined spaces.
  4. Storage: Keep dry ice in a cooler or an insulated container, but never in a sealed container as the pressure can build up and cause it to explode.
  5. Avoid Direct Contact: Try not to handle dry ice directly; use tongs or other tools if possible.
  6. Following these precautions will help you handle dry ice safely!

HOW LONG CAN I STORE DRY ICE?

Dry ice can last for about 24 to 48 hours if stored properly in an insulated container. However, it will sublimate (turn from solid to gas) at a rate of about 5 to 10 pounds every 24 hours, depending on the insulation.

HOW DOES DRY ICE BLASTING WORK?

Dry ice blasting uses compressed air to propel small pellets of dry ice at high speeds onto a surface. The extreme cold of the dry ice (−78.5°C or −109.3°F) causes contaminants to become brittle and shatter, allowing for effective cleaning without damaging the underlying material.

WHY SHOULD I USE DRY ICE CLEANING INSTEAD OF A TRADITIONAL BLASTING?

Dry ice cleaning offers several advantages:

  1. No Residue: Unlike sand or other blasting materials, dry ice sublimates, leaving no residue.
  2. Non-Abrasive: It’s gentle on surfaces, making it ideal for delicate equipment.
  3. Environmentally Friendly: No chemicals are used, and it produces minimal waste.
  4. Efficiency: It can clean hard-to-reach areas without dismantling equipment.

WHAT IS THE COST OF OPERATION?

The operational cost varies based on factors like the size of the job and the equipment used. Generally, costs can range from $0.50 to $3.00 per square foot for dry ice blasting, depending on labor and dry ice usage.

HOW MUCH DRY ICE WILL I USE?

The amount of dry ice required depends on the size of the area being cleaned and the thickness of the contaminants. On average, 1-3 pounds per minute is normally sufficient for most cleaning. Blasting has a variable ice rate that can be adjusted for more or less, depending on the specific application.

WHAT TYPE OF DRY ICE DO I NEED?

  1. For dry ice blasting, you typically need dry ice rice 3mm, which is easier to use and provides optimal performance for the blasting process. Ensure it's of good quality to prevent clogs and inefficiencies.
  2. For refrigeration and freezing you it is most common to use 16mm pellets.

Safety

Handling

Dry ice is an amazing medium but with a temperature of -109°F it’s cold enough to freeze skin cells and cause burn like injuries if not handled properly. Never allow dry ice to come in direct contact with skin. Always handle dry ice with protective gloves or a towel.

Ventilation

Dry ice does not melt like wet ice, it converts to carbon dioxide gas. If left in a confined space, the carbon dioxide gas will displace oxygen which may result in a suffocation hazard. If dry ice has been left in a confined space (such as a small room or closed vehicle) for more than 10 minutes, open the doors and windows before entering. Leave the area immediately if you experience shortness of breath or have difficulty breathing.

Storage

Never store dry ice in a container that is completely airtight. We recommend using Arctic Dry Ice containers. When dry ice sublimates to carbon dioxide gas, the gas pressure greatly expands. This expansion will cause an airtight container to expand and possibly explode, which may result in injury or possibly death.

Retail Stores

Always Available.

Always Fresh.

Our dry Ice is made daily and guaranteed fresh.

We have 5 locations for immediate pick up. No preorders or phone calls needed, just stop in and we'll get you what you need. Delivery is also available to most major towns throughout Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts and Northern New York.

Contact us anytime for inquiries at 1-800-444-0980.

Vermont

54 Echo Place, Suite 1

Williston, VT

NEW HAMPSHIRE

57 Harvey Road

Londonderry, NH


82 Benning Street

West Lebanon, NH

Maine

107 Pleasant Hill Road

Scarborough, ME


1161 Hammond Street

Suite 1

Bangor, ME