Japanese Debut: IceLESS Skating Rinks - NHL Experts

  • Thread starter gravenewworld
  • Start date
In summary, the Japanese debut of an iceless skating rink demonstrates the potential of plastic skating rinks. However, the surface would need to be treated regularly to maintain its smoothness.
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  • #2
Plastic skating rinks have been around a while. When I was a kid, they used to set one up in the mall for the winter holiday season. I don't know how similar that is to the current ones, but it seemed to work well enough for people to have a little fun in the mall.
 
  • #3
Oh wow, that is some pretty sweet stuff. :)

Wouldn't your skates get stuck in the treads of others?? How are they going to smooth it out??
 
  • #4
There is nothing like falling on ice.
 
  • #5
gravenewworld said:
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/nh...-Japanese-debut-iceless-skating?urn=nhl,83652



Pretty neat stuff. However, I don't understand what will happen if you do a hockey stop. The material will have to wear down from such a stop. How long could it last then?

Can't they modify the Zamboni to lay down a new layer of plastic? Or at least sand it down to a smooth surface with a whole new surface installed periodically.
 
  • #6
That asian guy has an australian accent! Thats more amazing than the report.

Ahahah, look at fat boy try to ice skate.
 
Last edited:
  • #7
There's a chick on one of the Science Channel shows whose Chinese and has an Aussie accent...
 
  • #8
Australia is a country made up of people from a variety of ethnic backgrounds.
 
  • #9
junglist said:
Australia is a country made up of people from a variety of ethnic backgrounds.

Kangarooooooooooooooooooo
 
  • #10
In response to the OP:

Even normal skating would damage the surface over time and it would need to be treated to get it back to its original glory. if the material is a simple non-crosslinked polymer (like a wax) then it could have the surface heated to a melting point where surface tension and gravity will smooth out any bumps or divots. Alternatively a solvent could be spread across the surface and then scraped off / allowed to evaporate / re-set the polymer.

It would probably more costly to create and maintain a low friction surface on one of those plastic rinks than it would on a traditional ice. Maybe if someone comes up with a self-healing memory polymer with super low friction under load it'll catch on.

from the article it sounds like they haven't included running surface repairs into their cost-benefit analysis.
 

1. What is a "Japanese Debut"?

A "Japanese Debut" refers to the first time a new product or technology is introduced in Japan. In this case, it is referring to the debut of IceLESS skating rinks in Japan.

2. What are IceLESS skating rinks?

IceLESS skating rinks are synthetic ice skating surfaces that mimic the feel and glide of real ice. They are made from a special polymer material that allows for skating without the need for refrigeration or Zamboni maintenance.

3. How do IceLESS skating rinks work?

The polymer material used in IceLESS skating rinks has a low coefficient of friction, allowing for a smooth and gliding surface. Skaters can use regular ice skates on the surface, and the material is self-lubricating, reducing the need for additional maintenance.

4. Are IceLESS skating rinks as good as real ice?

While some skaters may prefer the feel of real ice, IceLESS skating rinks offer a similar experience with the added benefits of being low maintenance and environmentally friendly. They are also suitable for use in any climate, making them a great option for countries like Japan with warmer weather.

5. Can IceLESS skating rinks be used for professional hockey?

Yes, IceLESS skating rinks have been approved for use in professional hockey leagues, including the NHL. They meet the standards for size, speed, and performance required for professional play.

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