How It’s Made: Hockey Rink
A hockey rink is more than just a frozen surface for players to skate on. It is carefully constructed to ensure optimal playing conditions and safety for the players. Here are five supporting facts on how a hockey rink is made:
1. Base Construction: The first step in building a hockey rink is creating a solid foundation. This involves excavating the ground to a specific depth and laying a layer of gravel or crushed stone to provide stability.
2. Insulation and Heating: To keep the ice frozen, insulation boards are installed around the perimeter of the rink. Heating systems are then installed beneath the ice surface to maintain the desired temperature and prevent melting.
3. Concrete and Brine Pipes: Once the insulation is in place, a layer of concrete is poured over it. Within this concrete, a network of brine pipes is installed. These pipes contain a refrigerant fluid that circulates and cools the concrete, creating a solid and uniform ice surface.
4. Dasher Boards and Glass: Dasher boards are then installed around the rink to provide a barrier between the players and the spectators. These boards are made of durable materials that can withstand impact. Transparent glass panels are also added above the boards for better visibility.
5. Ice Paint and Lines: After the ice surface is ready, white paint is sprayed onto it to give it a clean and bright appearance. Then, specific markings and lines are painted using colored ice paint, outlining the boundaries, faceoff circles, and other important areas on the rink.
Now, let’s move on to some frequently asked questions about how hockey rinks are made:
FAQs:
1. How long does it take to build a hockey rink?
Answer: The construction of a hockey rink can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on various factors such as the size of the rink and the availability of resources.
2. What kind of refrigerants are used in the brine pipes?
Answer: Common refrigerants used in the brine pipes include propylene glycol and calcium chloride. These fluids have low freezing points, allowing them to maintain the ice at suitable temperatures.
3. Why is insulation necessary for a hockey rink?
Answer: Insulation prevents heat transfer from the ground to the ice surface, helping to maintain a consistent temperature and prevent melting. It also helps conserve energy by reducing the workload on the refrigeration system.
4. Can the ice surface be adjusted for different playing conditions?
Answer: Yes, the temperature of the brine circulating in the pipes can be controlled to adjust the firmness of the ice surface. This allows for customization based on player preferences and varying weather conditions.
5. How thick is the ice on a hockey rink?
Answer: The ice on a hockey rink is typically maintained at a thickness of around 1 inch (2.54 cm). Thicker ice can create slower gameplay, while thinner ice can be more prone to damage.
6. How often is the ice resurfaced during a game?
Answer: In professional games, the ice is typically resurfaced during each intermission. This ensures that any cuts or grooves caused by the players’ skates are repaired, providing a smooth playing surface.
7. How is the glass held in place without shattering during a game?
Answer: The glass panels around a hockey rink are designed with flexibility and impact resistance in mind. They are held in place with specialized brackets that allow some movement upon impact to absorb the force and prevent shattering.
BOTTOM LINE:
Building a hockey rink involves careful planning and construction techniques to create a safe and high-quality playing surface. From the insulated base to the network of brine pipes and the addition of dasher boards and glass, every element is essential in ensuring a successful hockey game.
