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Here is a collection of the most commonly asked questions regarding the CNC Ice Bulldog Express and the Pro ice carving routers.

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The following list of questions are frequently asked as to the differences between the two machines
(Express and Pro)?

1.1 Why is cutting depth so important?
1.2 What is Z-Travel Distance?
1.3 Cutting speed differences?
1.4 Spindle horse power
1.5. Cutting Bed Sizes
1.6 3D Cutting Ability
1.7 Warranty
1.8 Training
1.9 Machine Installation
2.0 Technical Support

1.1 Cutting Depth

Both machines can process full Clienbell blocks (40 x 20 x10). The difference is in how they are cut.
An Ice Bulldog Pro can cut through an entire 10" block with having to flip the block over
An Ice Bulldog Express can cut through and entire 10" block, but will need the ice block flipped. (Can cut a max 5.0" thickness per side)
To cut ice for ice-bars, multi-block carvings, luges and architectural ice, you must be able to cut the entire thickness of a 10" block without flipping
To cut ice for ice ware (sorbet dishes, ice glasses) 3D sculptures and logos; 5.0" inch of cutting depth required

Ice Bulldog Pro: 10" Full cut through
Ice Bulldog Express: 5" cut through. Flip block for full cut
Industry Standard: 5" partial cut. Flip for full cut.

1.2 What is Z-Travel Distance?

Not well understood in the industry but a very important machine measurement!
The z-travel distance is the machines ability to pull a cutting bit above the ice surface it is cutting. A high Z travel distance enables the operator to use full length bits on 10” blocks. A lower Z-travel distance means that you would not be able to pull the bit high enough out and above the ice to use larger bits effectively, thereby limiting your cutting options.

Ice Bulldog Pro: Upto 21” of Z-Travel
ice Bulldog Express: 9” of Z-Travel
Industry Standard: 5” of Z-Travel

Example 1: Cutting with large bits
To cut a full 10” block you need to use the 10.5” cutting length bit. This long bit will cut all the way through the 10” of ice block. But you also need to be able to travel over the ice, so you need 21” of clearance to pull the bit far enough out of the ice (10.5”) so it can travel over the ice.

Example 2: Cutting with a small bit
When doing detail work on sorbet dishes you need to come all the way down to almost the base of the table to use the shorter 4” fine diameter bits. The Z-Travel range must be able to allow you to use that short bit and travel down far enough to reach the ice with the shorter bit. Overall the most effective setups have a full range of Z-Travel to accommodate both types of ice cutting.

1.3. Cutting Speeds (Feed Speed/ Rapid Move Speed)

This is the speed measurement of cutting through ice or moving from one side of the machine to the other when not cutting.

Very important to note when cutting 3D pieces as the limitation then becomes your Z-Axis motor cutting speed (FeedSpeed/Rapid Move Speed) speeds.

Ice Bulldog Pro: 500 ipm
Ice Bulldog Express: 300 ipm
Industry Standard: 250 ipm

1.4 Spindle Horse Power

Continuous duty high-output spindle/inverter combination insures ability to cut full blocks continuously 24/7 if required for multi-shift facilities. Spindles for both can use up to 0.75” collet tool holders. Noise considerations. Our spindles are very quiet to run which is important in a freezer where others may be sharing the work space.

Ice Bulldog Pro: 8.0 hp
ice Bulldog Express: 6.0 hp
Industry Standard: 6.0 hp

1.5. Cutting Bed Sizes

CNC Ice Bulldogs can be configured to accommodate different sized ice blocks as well as multiple ice blocks. Below are some of more common layouts.

Ice Bulldog Pro Standard Single Block Process Area: 40 x 20 x 10 (Max block 40 x 20 x 10)
Ice Bulldog Pro Double Block Process Area: 40 x 40 x 10 (2 x Max block 40 x 20 x 10)
Ice Bulldog Express Standard: Single Block Process Area: 40 x 20 x 5 (Max block 40 x 20 x 10)
Industry Standard: Single Block Process Area: 40 x 20 x 5 (Max block 40 x 20 x 5)

1.6 3D Cutting Ability

Both the Express and Pro can cut projection 3D ice files (no undercuts). The difference is in how deep they can cut detail and how fast the files are completed. The Pro can cut full 10” passes, while the Express can cut max 5” deep per side.

Regardless of Pro, Express or other. To date no Ice CNC will cut both sides without requiring the ice to be flipped over.

Ice Bulldog Pro: 3D. 10”
Ice Bulldog Express: 3D. 5”
Industry Standard: No. Stepped 2D not projection 3D

1.7 Warranty

Both the Pro and the Express come with industry leading parts warranty. This warranty covers non-consumable parts and components.

Ice Bulldog Pro: 3 year
Ice Bulldog Express: 2 year
Industry Standard: 1 year

1.8 Training

All training is included with both machines. We have spent over 10 years training and installing machines. Our training program is designed so you are trained BEFORE your machine arrives. We use a mix of remote training tools via internet to make the best use of your time. Training includes both Software and Machine operation. Optional onsite/offsite training is also available.

We have designed our CNC Ice Carving packages to be easy to train, use and maintain. And it shows in the speed our clients get up to speed.

1.9 Machine Installation

Our machines arrive on-site ready to go. No onsite assembly required. Move it into your freezer, plug -it in and you are ready to cut ice. We consult with your during the sales and pre-delivery process to confirm your site is ready for the bulldog. We confirm the freezer location and space, electrical requirements and work process flow. There really shouldn't be any surprises on installation day. Partnered with your pre-delivery training... your new machine should be cutting ice the same day.

2.0 Technical Support

We have developed a set on-line tools to enable a technician to help diagnose machine problems remotely (with internet connectivity)

Most technical support is built in during our machine design. Our machines are engineered to run long duty cycles.. Double shift, multi-day run times. Many of our machines run weeks on end. The components are easily accessible and designed for swap-out replacement if required.

Our technicians are available during regular business hours, or full 24/7 access for our platinum club members.