Synthetic ice is breaking the bounds of traditional rinks and allowing for ice skating any time of year. It can also be used for other sports like a summer hockey league, parks, and a rec curling program. The best synthetic ice rinks use self-lubricating materials. This reduces abrasion and shavings and looks better than extruded sheets. Unlike traditional natural rinks that require refrigeration and water, synthetic ice allows for skating year-round in places without cold climate conditions. This saves on travel expenses and energy for generating and maintaining electricity. While most synthetic ice uses a puzzle or dovetail connection system that can allow dirt and moisture to enter, premium products use a tongue and groove connection system that prevents shifts. This results in better gliding and a more realistic experience.
The Benefits
The most apparent benefit of synthetic ice is that you can enjoy skating whenever you want to, regardless of the weather. It’s also more cost-effective than natural ice and more environmentally friendly because it requires less water and electricity. Another considerable benefit of synthetic ice is that it can be used anywhere. You don’t have to worry about freezing ponds; you can even install a professional-grade rink in your home or backyard. And because they’re made of interlocking panels, you can quickly expand the surface area as needed. Skating on a synthetic ice rink makes the surface smooth and feels like natural ice. And because the ice is sintering-produced rather than extruded, it has a far superior glide than a traditional natural ice surface. Synthetic ice is perfect for hockey, goaltending, figure skating, leisure skating, and sports. And because it’s easy to install and remove, you can use it all year round. And if you’re worried about slipping, many companies offer liquid surface enhancements that reduce the drag on your blades on top of the synthetic ice. This makes it easier to skate and prevents injuries and accidents. And it also works with any skate, whether a pair of roller skates or hockey skates.
Eco-Friendly
Unlike traditional ice rinks that require water and electricity for refrigeration, synthetic ice rinks are designed to use less energy. This means that they can be used all year round without the need for resurfacing. This is also an environmentally friendly option as it reduces waste and pollution. If you want to find a company that builds these durable, synthetic ice rinks, it’s essential to consider their warranty and certifications. A contract offers a safety net for your investment, while certifications ensure that they meet industry standards for quality and performance.
Additionally, a company that provides customer service and aftercare will guide how to care for the rink after installation. A typical rink will be made from interlocking panels laid on a flat surface and secured. The product manufacturer may also use different types of lubricants to create the best possible glide.
The Installation Process
Synthetic ice is made from a plastic polymer that can be manufactured using one of two processes: extrusion or sintering. The type of process used influences the surface quality and overall performance of the skating surface. Sintering allows for the addition of lubricant pellets throughout the polymer, which helps to reduce drag and create a smoother, skateable surface. Glide enhancers can also be applied to the surface of synthetic ice to reduce friction further and create a more enjoyable skating experience. Once the base layer is in place, installing the synthetic ice panels is time. These come in various sheet sizes that can be interlocked to form the desired skating surface. The manufacturer’s installation instructions should be followed carefully to ensure the rink is assembled correctly and safely. The panels should be secured to a sturdy subfloor like a concrete or wood floor. For larger rinks, it’s recommended to add dasher boards for safety. Synthetic ice offers several benefits, making it an excellent alternative to natural ice. It can be used for all recreational and competitive skating types, from hockey/goaltending to leisure skating and Eisstock curling. It doesn’t need water, power, coolants, or a Zamboni, and it can be used year-round without the cost and hassle of maintaining natural ice.
The Maintenance
When you invest in a high-quality synthetic skating rink, the maintenance process is relatively simple. Regular sweeping, vacuuming, and the occasional use of a cleaner or mild detergent can keep your artificial ice surface in good condition for many years. If you’re considering purchasing a synthetic ice rink, shop with an experienced builder who offers warranties and certifications. A contract provides a safety net for your investment, while certifications ensure the builder adheres to industry standards for quality and performance. Another consideration is the type of ice your synthetic rink will be made from. Cheaper synthetic ice can cause friction, leading to an undesirable skating experience and dulling skates. It’s also less durable than a premium-quality ice rink that uses innovative technologies to provide an ice-like feel.
