When running a dry ice blasting business, managing cold chain logistics, or supplying dry ice to clients, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right dry ice pelletizer machine. The choice between a small dry ice pelletizer and an industrial dry ice pelletizer can significantly impact your production efficiency, operating costs, scalability, and ultimately your bottom line.
In this guide, we'll break down the key differences between small and industrial dry ice pelletizers - from capacity and power requirements to applications and investment - so you can decide which type best fits your business needs.
What is a Dry Ice Pelletizer?
A dry ice pelletizer (also called a dry ice granulator or pellet maker) converts liquid carbon dioxide (LCO₂) into solid dry ice pellets under high pressure. The machine compresses the liquid CO₂ through an extrusion mold, producing high-density pellets with adjustable diameters typically ranging from 3mm to 19mm.
The most popular size for dry ice blasting is 3mm pellets, as their small size and high velocity deliver superior cleaning performance.
Here are some examples of dry ice pellets in different sizes:
3mm pellets excel in cleaning applications, while larger sizes (10–19mm) are better suited for cooling, transportation, and preservation.
Key Differences: Small vs Industrial Dry Ice Pelletizers
The most critical distinctions come down to scale, infrastructure, and long-term economics. Here's a clear side-by-side comparison:
|
Feature |
Small Dry Ice Pelletizer |
Industrial Dry Ice Pelletizer |
Best For |
|
Capacity (kg/h) |
30–150 (common: 50, 100, 120) |
300–1000+ (common: 300, 500, 750, 1000) |
Small: self-use/startup; Industrial: wholesale/large-scale |
|
Number of Cylinders |
Single cylinder |
Multiple cylinders (2–4, can run independently) |
Multi-cylinder = higher efficiency & flexibility |
|
Power Consumption (kW) |
3.7–15 |
15–100+ |
Small: standard workshop power |
|
Size & Weight |
Compact & portable (~600–1000 kg) |
Large floor-standing (2000–5000+ kg) |
Small: limited space |
|
Footprint |
Fits on workbench or small room |
Requires dedicated factory space & reinforced floor |
- |
|
Price Range (USD, approx.) |
$5,000–$30,000 |
$40,000–$150,000+ |
Small: low entry barrier |
|
Cost per kg of Dry Ice |
Higher due to scale |
Significantly lower (economies of scale) |
Industrial for high-volume production |
|
CO₂ Conversion Rate |
38–42% |
42%+ (more efficient) |
- |
|
Operation & Maintenance |
Simple, easy to learn |
More complex but highly automated (PLC touchscreen) |
Small: no specialized team needed |
|
Typical Applications |
Dry ice blasting startups, labs, on-site use, small cold chain |
Large dry ice factories, regional suppliers, multiple blasting teams |
- |
Here are real-world examples of the machines in action:
Small/compact models (ideal for startups or limited space):
Industrial/large-scale models (built for continuous high output):
Applications & Use Cases: Which One Fits Your Business?
Small Dry Ice Pelletizers shine in these scenarios:
- Dry ice blasting service companies just starting out
- On-site or self-production for restaurants, food processing, or equipment maintenance
- Laboratories and research facilities
- Small regional distributors or emergency/backup production
Industrial Dry Ice Pelletizers are the go-to choice when you need:
- Continuous high-volume production for a dry ice factory
- Supplying multiple dry ice blasting teams or clients
- Large-scale cold chain logistics (meat, pharmaceuticals, flowers)
- Wholesale distribution across a region
How to Choose Between Small and Industrial? Decision Guide
Follow this simple step-by-step process:
- Estimate your dry ice demand - How many kg per hour/day do you need now, and in 2–3 years?
- Define your main application - Primarily dry ice blasting (cleaning)? Cooling/transport? Or both?
- Assess your resources - Available budget, workshop/factory space, electrical supply (single-phase vs. industrial three-phase)?
- Consider growth - Will you scale up soon? Starting small and upgrading later is common, but jumping straight to industrial saves money long-term for high-demand businesses.
Quick recommendations:
- Demand < 150 kg/h, limited budget/space → Go with a small pelletizer (50–120 kg/h models are the sweet spot).
- Demand > 300 kg/h or planning wholesale/large clients → Choose an industrial pelletizer (300 kg/h+ with multi-cylinder design).
Why Partner with a Reliable Manufacturer?
Selecting the right machine is only half the battle - partnering with a trustworthy supplier ensures long-term reliability, quality, and support. YJCO2 is China's leading manufacturer of dry ice blasting machines and pelletizers, driven by exceptional quality, cutting-edge technology, and a global strategy that continuously advances dry ice cleaning innovation.
With transactions completed with over 70 listed Chinese companies and a total customer base exceeding 3000, YJCO2 is a trusted qualified supplier to Foxconn and the exclusive dry ice cleaning provider in the China Aerospace Group's aerospace electronics supermarket.
We integrate China's most complete dry ice cleaning industry chain resources, offering a true one-stop procurement service from raw materials to full equipment solutions. Even if local dry ice or air compressors are unavailable in your area, YJCO2 can deliver a complete "dry ice + equipment + supporting systems" package - eliminating all your worries.
Here are examples of our professional production facilities and complete solutions in action:
We specialize in providing tailored dry ice production and cleaning solutions for the European and American markets - whether you're launching a small blasting service or building a regional supply chain.
Ready to find the perfect dry ice pelletizer for your business? Contact YJCO2 today for a free consultation, personalized recommendation, or factory video tour. Let's help you produce high-quality dry ice pellets efficiently and cost-effectively!
