ICEWALL HISTORY:
CES began establishing itself as a special effects contractor in the mid 90's. The Universal Studios' Terminator 2 and Twister attractions launched CES's special effects reputation. In 1999, CES's invented the Icewall. This Innovative Proprietary Design solidified us as the go-to company for special effects systems. CES designs and builds each custom Icewall at its corporate headquarters in Longwood, Florida. Today, CES's Icewalls can be seen around the world.In 1999, CES was contacted by Michael Harrifs and the Friedrich Watkins Company to create a replica iceberg for the Titanic Ship of Dreams attraction in Orlando. Under themed construction General Contractor, Friedrich Watkins Company, CES designed, built, and delivered the replica iceberg 60 days after receiving the directive. Today, CES has produced over 16 Icewalls for Premier Titanic Exhibits, and a dozen or so custom Icewalls delivered around the world.
CES's proprietary Icewall design utilizes a low temperature refrigerant system that is capable of minus 26 degrees Fahrenheit. Condensation continues to freeze on the wall surface until the ice surface reaches 32 degrees. An Icewall of 12" thick is typical and will reach that thickness independent of where in the world the Icewall is located.
CES has the capability to monitor the Icewalls through zone control panels installed on the backside of the Icewall. Added Distech Monitoring ECB-350 and Alarm systems preempt any catastrophic loss to the ice. Customers catch issues quickly with good maintenance.
According to CES's Vice President of Service, Scott Wallick, "In a dry climate like Las Vegas it may take a moment or two for the ice to form, but we have never had a problem in really dry environments. Airflow across the surface most hinders ice formation. The ice starts to insulate the coil and the surface material until equilibrium conditions are met."
Sheiks from Kuwait have requested Icewalls for walls in hotels and spa features. Costs for these Icewalls can be into the six-figure range. According to Wallick, "The most challenging start-up happened when we were talking to Russians through an interpreter. Typical response from start-ups is "this can't build ice What?" Every year CES receives requests for unique installations."
CES's Icewalls have found homes around the world. The Icewall is a favored attraction at the London Science Museum and the California Science Center in Los Angeles, California.
- Chronicles of Narnia The Movie - Frozen Waterfall for their Traveling Show
- Polar Exhibit at SeaWorld - Ice Formations retrofitted from old glycol systems.
- City of Branson - Titanic Exhibit Icewall
- Barcelona Spain
- Russia
- Shanghai
- Two in Canada
- Atlanta Aquarium
- Mexico City
- Phoenix Arizona
- Upcoming location in Chicago.
