Abstract: A heat transfer support surface for heating or cooling food articles placed adjacent the support surface by circulating a heat transfer fluid in the internal passages of the support surface is disclosed. Circulated fluid is heated or cooled by a source. Support surface contains multiple heat transfer elements arranged substantially in parallel and interconnected on both ends. Flow control tubes control the fluid flow and reduce the amount of fluid required. The method of making the support surface is also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed in the form of a cabinet having doors and interior side walls with supports for receiving trays of food products to be rapidly rethermalized and held. The apparatus can also condition the rethermalized food product, as well as act as a cooking oven. A steam generator is provided for supplying steam to the cabinet interior where it is continuously mixed with air. Thermocouples control both the steam and air mixture temperature for rethermalizing cooking and holding the food products and an air heater for conditioning the food products prior to use.