Hoshizaki FM-120KE-HC Flake Ice Machine (125kg/24hr)

The Hoshizaki FM-120KE-HC is a self-contained flake ice machine capable of producing up to 125kg of flake ice in a 24-hour period. Flake ice differs from cube or nugget ice in its thin, flat structure and soft texture — it conforms readily around produce, proteins and packaged goods, making it a practical choice wherever consistent, gentle cooling contact is needed rather than straight chilling power.

In a busy commercial environment, flake ice earns its place in applications where presentation and product protection matter as much as temperature. Fish counters, chilled food displays, salad bars, and healthcare or laboratory settings are common environments where this format is preferred. The ice packs densely around product without bruising or freeze-burning delicate items, and its high surface-area-to-mass ratio means it chills quickly on contact. For kitchens that rely on an ice bed for service — covering GN trays at a carvery or keeping shellfish display fresh during a long dinner service — consistent output and reliable recovery between cycles are what matter most.

Practical operational advantages of this unit include:

• Self-contained design — ice storage and production in a single footprint
• Soft, pliable flake format reduces product damage in display and prep use
• Consistent 24-hour output supports sustained service without manual restocking
• Hydrocarbon refrigerant (HC) offers a lower environmental impact versus older refrigerant types
• Hoshizaki's build quality is well regarded for longevity under daily commercial use

As a self-contained unit, installation is relatively straightforward compared to remote-condenser alternatives, but it does require a mains water connection, a suitable drain, and adequate ventilation around the condenser. Like all self-contained ice machines, ambient temperature in the installation space will affect output — a hot, poorly ventilated plant room or back-of-house area can meaningfully reduce the machine's practical yield below its rated figure. Positioning in a cool, well-ventilated location is advisable. This is a floor-standing or counter-height unit depending on configuration, so consider access for servicing and cleaning when planning placement.

This machine is well suited to medium-volume operations — fish and chip restaurants, hotel buffets, care homes, fishmongers, or any site where a reliable daily volume of flake ice is central to the operation. For smaller sites with modest flake ice requirements, a lower-output model may offer a better fit on both footprint and running costs. For high-throughput sites or those needing significantly greater capacity, higher-output alternatives are available in the range.

If you're unsure whether this output level matches your service pattern, or have questions about water supply and drainage requirements for your specific site, our team is happy to talk it through before you commit.