Technical Spotlight: King KBP-RCS Ruggedized Cold-Start Unit Heater
The Only Fan Heater For Sub-Freezing Temperatures
Extreme cold environments present unique challenges for electric heaters, especially when motors are required to start reliably at sub-freezing temperatures. The King KBP-RCS Ruggedized Cold-Start Unit Heater was engineered specifically to address these challenges. With an operating range down to –40 °F, MIL-STD vibration/shock compliance, and selectable field wattage via King’s Pic-A-Watt® element, the KBP-RCS is a technical solution for demanding industrial and commercial applications.
Cold-Start Engineering: Guaranteed Motor Startup In Frigid Environments
At low temperatures, lubricants thicken and electrical resistance changes, often preventing motors from spinning up.
To address this, the KBP-RCS integrates a 24 VAC motor pre-heat circuit. The following sequence ensures the heater’s flow-through design (rear air intake, front discharge) operates properly in all conditions, maintaining consistent airflow and thermal delivery.
24V Pre-Heat Circuit Sequence
Activation Point:
Engages automatically when ambient temperature is ≤ 32 °F.
Function:
Pre-warms the fan motor prior to main element energization.
Result:
Ensures reliable fan operation down to –40 °F, even under heavy startup loads.
Indicator:
Visual signal light confirms pre-heat circuit status.
Mechanical & Structural Design
Shock & Vibration Compliance:
- MIL-STD-810 Method 514 (Vibration)
- MIL-STD-810 Method 516 (Shock)
Construction:
- Heavy-duty chassis, tested for field transport and mobile environments.
Mounting System:
- Low-profile wall/ceiling bracket with vibration-isolation hardware, enabling deployment in confined or mobile installations.
Flexible Heating Power with Pic-A-Watt® Technology
The KBP-RCS utilizes King’s Pic-A-Watt® steel-fin heating element, designed for field-configurable wattage selection.
- Available Wattages: 950 W – 5,700 W (depending on voltage/phase).
- Configuration: Six selectable wattages per model, factory wired for maximum output.
- Heating Capacity: For spaces up to 700 sq. ft.
- Benefits:
- Allows site-specific tuning to load requirements.
- Reduces oversizing, increasing heater life.
- Optimizes energy consumption relative to zone demand.
Intelligent Controls & Safety
Remote Thermostat Compatibility:
- Connects easily to any 24V control, including smart thermostats, for precise temperature management.
Integral Fan Delay:
- Keeps air flowing after shutdown, distributing residual element heat into the room for maximum efficiency.
Smart Limit Protection®:
- A built-in safety system that shuts the heater down during over-temperature events and resets automatically.
Applications: Optimized For Environments Where Conventional Heaters Fail
Mobile Units, Work Vehicles & Utility Trailers:
With vibration- and shock-resistant construction, the KBP-RCS delivers consistent heating even in transport or on-the-move job sites.
- The preheat circuit ensures reliable fan startup during cold morning deployments when equipment must be ready without delay.
Non-Combustible Areas in Oilfield Equipment Shelters:
The cold-start circuit ensures reliable operation in remote, freezing oilfields where equipment downtime can disrupt critical processes.
- Field-selectable wattages allow technicians to fine-tune heat output for different enclosure sizes, optimizing energy use in off-grid locations.
Remote Enclosures or Industrial Trailers:
Compact, low-profile mounting makes it easy to install in confined, rugged field enclosures that require dependable localized heating.
- The ruggedized build and military-tested vibration compliance protect the heater during transport and frequent relocation.
Cold Storage Facilities:
The heater maintains stable operating conditions in environments where sub-freezing temperatures would normally stall electric motors.
- Fan delay and flow-through design ensure maximum heat extraction, reducing cold spots in large storage areas.
Agricultural & Outdoor-Exposed Workspaces:
Durable construction and adjustable wattage allow the KBP-RCS to protect equipment and personnel in barns, sheds, and exposed work areas year-round.
- Smart Limit Protection and thermostat compatibility provide safe, precise control in areas with fluctuating seasonal conditions.
