Abstract: A cryogenic apparatus for quickly freezing droplets of liquid product is disclosed. This apparatus employs cryogenic liquid, typically liquid nitrogen, flowing along a ramp or sluiceway to freeze a product. The product is kept in the cryogenic liquid for a relatively constant dwell time. The ramp or sluiceway is contained within an insulated vessel to preclude the cryogenic liquid from evaporating and to retain any spillage. The ramp or sluiceway is preferably spiral shape so as to allow for a maximum length run with the insulated vessel.

Abstract: Chilling or freezing a substance into small pellets is disclosed. A substance such as liquid egg falls gently from only a small height onto the surface (12) of liquid nitrogen. The discharge nozzle (13) is prevented from freezing up by a flow of ambient or heated air over it. The surface of the boiling nitrogen is kept smooth by imparting a velocity to the nitrogen with an impeller (20) or by running the nitrogen along a trough. The pellets are consistent as to final temperature, and the process is efficient as to nitrogen use. The process can be used with other thick, creamy substances.