Mahaffey was quick to respond when a customer in Central Florida asked if we could shelter 2,000,000 pounds of ice for several months. The solution was for us to install our 18,000 sq. ft. MegaStructure equipped with 13’ uprights, flooring, ceiling liners, and a massive refrigeration system.

(click to enlarge) 18,000 sq. ft. MegaStructure

The Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center in Kissimmee, FL contracted Mahaffey to provide what is believed to be the world’s largest temporary freezer structure. To achieve the objective “winter fantasy” the structure was kept at a bone chilling 9 degrees at all times. Considering that the event took place in the heart of sunny Florida, this was quite a challenge!

The holiday ice exhibit at the hotel was created to bring a bit of winter fun to Floridians who rarely have an opportunity to experience the magic of ice and snow. For the annual attraction that runs from late November through early January, fantasy scenes were hand carved by 40 artists from China who work for approximately 25 days to create elaborate sculptures up to 25 feet in length! Three ice slides were formed to delight children and adults alike. Heavy winter coats were provided to protect visitors from the subfreezing temperatures.

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Insulation was used to keep the temperature frigid enough so that ice sculptures and exhibits would maintain their shapes throughout the event. Ice and snow literally glowed against a backdrop of custom black liners, which prevented any outside light from shining through and aided in the insulation. Over 1,400 lights were used within the ice itself, along with dyed ices, which created a magical ambiance. The result was a winter wonderland that drew thousands of visitors and delighted all who saw it.

Our crews worked industriously for nearly four weeks to coordinate the set up with other vendors. Step by step the process had to be harmonized with engineers, lighting suppliers, refrigeration experts, and insulators. A 16’ x 13’ roll-up door was installed to aid in bringing in the enormous quantities of ice.

Several items were customized specifically for this unique project. Beam covers around the uprights and rafters were used to aid in insulation. Special rigging cables secured the insulation. A 175 ft. tunnel structure was created to lead visitors into the main structure.

In addition to the 100’ x 166’ MegaStructure that housed the majority of the exhibit, four smaller frame structures were supplied to create a walkway. Nine sets of custom double insulated glass doors, eighteen 400W exhibit lights, and a multitude of walkway lights were also supplied for the event.

This project required time, ingenuity, and a lot of hard work to bring into fruition. The end result was a spectacular attraction that thrilled and astonished everyone who experienced it, and a customer that was exceptionally pleased with the purchase of their “Florida Fridge.”

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