- English
The Westland-based company Metazet, in collaboration with engineering firms TWD and HEFCOM, has developed two ‘ice makers’ in record time for a climate project by Arctic Reflections on the Canadian sea ice. The system aims to help slow the melting of polar ice by artificially thickening it. The initial field test took place in February and March.
Climate solution with technology from an unexpected source
Arctic Reflections intends to use drilling and pumping systems to extract seawater during winter and freeze it onto existing ice, thereby increasing its thickness and enabling it to last longer during the summer. This enhances the reflective capacity of the ice surface—crucial for bouncing sunlight back into space.
Metazet translated the design into a robust, modular system made of galvanized steel, fully demountable for transport, and capable of withstanding temperatures as low as -50 °C. The installation drills through the ice, pumps underlying water to the surface, and artificially thickens the ice layer. The entire system is mounted on an amphibious vehicle, the ‘Fat Truck,’ which can traverse ice, snow, and water.
From greenhouse to cold
Metazet originally operates in greenhouse horticulture, developing smart solutions for cultivation systems, internal logistics, hoisting installations, and pipe rail systems. Our strength lies in the combination of experienced engineers, technical craftsmanship throughout the organization, and a flexible manufacturing facility. This enables us to quickly adapt, design, and produce—even for challenges outside our familiar field, as demonstrated by this project on the Canadian sea ice.
“The project imposed high demands on materials, design, and turnaround time—and that’s precisely the kind of challenge that energizes our team,” says Luke van Adrichem, Managing Director of Metazet. “Everyone contributed ideas, worked diligently, and applied their expertise to complete it on time—I’m truly proud of that.”
Arctic Reflections aims to thicken 100,000 km² of polar ice annually in the long term—an area comparable to twice the size of the Netherlands. This initial field test was a significant step in that direction. Although there are still areas for improvement, the system functioned. Further scientific validation and development are planned for this year. 2/2
COO Tom Meijeraan of Arctic Reflections: “Metazet consistently contributed solutions to problems we hadn’t even anticipated. Without their dedication and expertise, we wouldn’t have been able to start the field test on time.”
Project continuation
Arctic Reflections is currently in the phase of scientific validation. Further scaling will require structural funding, for example through sponsorships, grants or partnerships. Metazet looks back with pride on its contribution to this unique initiative – and will continue to follow the project with interest.
The full story can be read at metazet.com/en/artic-reflections/
