A tunnel freezer operates by moving products on a conveyor belt through a long, insulated tunnel where cold air is circulated to freeze the product. Key aspects include:
- Linear design: Products move in a straight line or slight curve through the freezing zone
- Forced air circulation: High-velocity cold air is blown over the products
- Continuous operation: Allows for non-stop product flow
- Temperature zones: May include multiple zones for gradual temperature reduction
- Belt design: Can vary based on product type (e.g., mesh belts, plastic belts