HOTSTART News

HOTSTART to Exhibit at SMM, Hamburg

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:06:00 -0700

Visit HOTSTART at stand B2.EG.316 during the SMM International Trade Fair, September 7-10 in Hamburg, Germany. Discover how you can preheat marine propulsion and auxiliary engines to get easy starts, reduced wear, reduced fuel consumption and reduced emissions. We invite you to discuss with a HOTSTART representative the various engine preheating solutions such as coolant heaters, lube oil heaters, oil heaters and battery heaters. You'll also discover how to effectively preheat engines in a diesel electric propulsion system and save money with HOTSTART's line of 690VAC engine preheaters.

SMM is the world's leading shipbuilding trade fair. Don't miss this opportunity to discover the benefits of engine heating technology with a HOTSTART representative.

Kim Hotstart Announces New Name and Image

Fri, 21 May 2010 09:42:00 -0700

Engine heating manufacturer Kim Hotstart (www.hotstart.com) has officially changed its name to HOTSTART, Inc. The updated name accompanies a new logo design that was launched at the PowerGen International trade exhibition in December 2009 at Las Vegas, Nevada. The company dropped "Kim" from the official name in order to enhance its brand recognition during the company's continued international growth.

HOTSTART, Inc. replaces Kim Hotstart Manufacturing Company, Inc. which had been used since the company's origin. In 1942, Stan Power purchased the engine heating company from his partner, Wayne Kimberlin. Out of respect for his former partner, Power named his new manufacturing business Kim Hotstart. In 1992, Kim Hotstart updated its 50-year old logo, de-emphasizing the word "Kim" and placing more emphasis on "HOTSTART". With continued business growth and increased global opportunities, CEO Rick Robinson felt that it was time to address a name change. "As our business expanded overseas, particularly in Asia, we felt it was necessary to eliminate potential confusion by the use of the word "Kim" in the company name," stated Robinson.

The company worked with Desautel Hege Communications to conduct customer and employee research prior to the name change. The research was designed to gain an understanding of how Kim Hotstart was perceived by key stakeholders, potential customers and international audiences. Data from the research supported a name change to HOTSTART, which evokes a more modern, streamlined impression and appeals to customers around the world.

For 68 years, HOTSTART has been family owned, maintaining its manufacturing headquarters in Spokane, Washington. The company employs 140 full-time employees.

Updated Logo and Name Change for HOTSTART

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:54:00 -0800

SHANGHAI, CHINA - Hotstart launched its new brand image at the Marintec industry tradeshow in Shanghai, China. The new brand updates the previous version that was created in 1992. Since that time, Hotstart's market has grown and become more global in scale. Hotstart CEO Rick Robinson felt that it was time to address this growth through a revitalization of the Hotstart global brand.

Working with Desautel Hege Communications and Klündt | Hosmer, customer research was conducted and recommendations developed. This data was incorporated into a new design to represent the company. The company dropped "Kim" from the Hotstart name, streamlining its use in international markets. The resulting logo design evokes an established, yet modern feel that builds on the brand equity of the previous logo.

The updated image is showcased on company business cards, brochures, print advertising and tradeshow display exhibits. An upgraded corporate website, product catalog and other items will be rolled out in 2010.

Following the brand launch at Marintec in Shanghai and the recent Power-Gen International show in Las Vegas, NV, Michael Floyd, Hotstart Marketing Communications Manager stated, "Our new brand image and tradeshow exhibit design attracted more visitors to our booth in a few days than we have previously had in a week. We are very happy with the impression this rebranding has made on our customers."

Contact information
Michael Floyd
Marketing Communications Manager
(509) 534-6171

HOTSTART Introduces New Engine Heater

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:23:00 -0800

A new engine pre-heating system is available from Hotstart® that offers energy-efficient heating for engines up to 20L displacement. The CTM features an integrated pump that circulates coolant throughout the engine and improves flow through exterior plumbing restrictions. Forced circulation delivers uniform heating and allows the heating element to energize less frequently than an equal wattage thermosiphon heater. This reduction extends heater element life and reduces energy use by up to 30%.

Circulating the coolant eliminates hot spots in the cooling system and reduces outlet temperatures. With lower outlet temperatures than typical tank style heaters that rely on thermosiphon, heater hoses and engine seals last longer for overall improvement in heater reliability. The CTM’s compact design requires minimal space for mounting. The pump inlet port orientation is adjustable in 90 degree increments to accommodate various hose routing configurations.

The CTM is available in 1kW, 1.5kW and 2.5kW in 120V and 240V. Settings for the adjustable thermostat range from 90°-130°F.

Medium and Large Capacity Engine Pre-heaters for Generator Sets and Mobile Equipment

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 12:17:00 -0700

SPOKANE, WA - Hotstart® Manufacturing offers a line of medium- to large-capacity (1.5 to 6 kW) engine coolant heaters for stationary and chassis-mounted applications. The CB/SB and CL/SL tank-style heaters feature fixed or adjustable thermostats, weather tight construction and can be mounted horizontally or vertically. The pre-heater units heat engines ranging in size from 3.25L - 27L displacement and up to 65L displacement when two pre-heaters are used on one engine. CB/SB heaters feature conduit-type wire assemblies for hard-wiring the unit on stationary equipment. CL/SL heaters are cord-connected and plug directly into AC power.

The heaters are designed with a ball-valve assembly which allows the reverse flow of coolant back into the heating chamber. This coolant bypass feature eliminates the need for an oil-pressure switch or relay normally required on auto-start engines. If the heater is energized during engine operation, the heater's built-in thermostat will detect the temperature of the reverse-flow coolant and automatically shut the heater off. Once proper flow is maintained through the heating chamber, the pre-heater unit will cycle on and off based on the thermostat settings. The draft angle inside the pressure die-cast aluminum tank provides an efficient flow rate of coolant through the heater and engine, while preventing air entrapment inside the heating chamber. The element and the tank's inlet are positioned low in the chamber to reduce the element's exposure to dry air.

A one-piece element assembly allows for simple field replacement. The flange-style, bolt-on element can only install in one position, preventing the possibility of premature failure that could result from incorrectly positioning a replacement element. All parts are replaceable for both heater lines resulting in extended service life without replacing the entire pre-heater.

All standard models are weatherproof, and explosion-proof models are also offered. Both types are available in the same wattage/voltage configurations: 1.5 through 6 kW ratings in voltages 120, 208, 240, 277, 380, 480 and 575, and single- or three-phase power. Specific configurations are CSA-C/US and UL-C/US listed to United States and Canadian safety standards. All medium- to large-capacity engine pre-heaters meet requirements for installation on any UL 2200 listed generator set.

About HOTSTART

Hotstart® Manufacturing Company (www.kimhotstart.com) is a leading developer and manufacturer of diesel engine block heaters. The company was established in 1942 with the original patent for engine coolant heating. Today, the Hotstart® product line includes coolant heaters, oil heaters, air heaters, battery pads and wraps, controls, harnesses and complete systems. These products are used on diesel engines to provide easy starts, immediate full power, reduced engine wear, reduced emissions and reduced fuel consumption. Applications include standby generator sets, locomotives, equipment/machinery, gas pipeline compressors, heavy duty trucks and marine. Hotstart® is headquartered in Spokane, Washington and is certified to ISO 9001-2000.

Contact information

Michael Floyd
Marketing Communications Manager
(509) 534-6171

Engine Pre-heater for Generator Sets and Mobile Equipment

Sat, 07 Mar 2009 12:20:00 -0800

SPOKANE, WA - Hotstart® Manufacturing offers a range of small, compact engine pre-heaters for stationary engines and mobile heavy equipment. Available in both 120 and 240 V models, the TPS line of pre-heaters are constructed from a polymer called poly phenylene sulfide (PPS). The durable, high-density plastic construction reduces heat loss throughout the pre-heater tank which allows more heating efficiency at 1800 watts as compared to a 2000 watt aluminum tank heater. The TPS series heats engines ranging in size from 150CID to 700CID.

Designed with a dome-type construction, the thermo-siphoning heating action is very efficient and the PPS composition offers excellent resistance to rust and corrosion as compared to metal tank designs. All heaters come standard with a built-in thermostat with three temperature ranges available: 80-100F, 100-120F, 120-140F. In-line adjustable thermostat assemblies and remote thread-in fixed thermostat assemblies are also available. Hotstart® offers replaceable parts for all major components of the heater and the twist and lock type of construction permits ease of servicing, requiring minimal time for replacing the element or power cord.

TPS engine pre-heaters are available in 500W, 1000W, 1500W, 1800W and 2000W. The heater is CSA-C/US and UL-C/US listed to United States and Canadian safety standards. All TPS engine pre-heaters meet requirements for installation on any UL 2200 listed generator set.

About HOTSTART

Contact information

Michael Floyd
Marketing Communications Manager
(509) 534-6171

HOTSTART Products Meet UL C/US Requirements

Sat, 28 Feb 2009 12:24:00 -0800

SPOKANE, WA - Engine pre-heaters offered by Kim Hotstart Mfg. have been approved for a listing by Underwriters Laboratory (UL). Electric engine pre-heaters rated .4kw - 12kw are now UL listed to Canadian/United States safety standards (File #E230789). Engine oil heaters and thermostat controls also meet requirements.

The complete line of HOTSTART® in-block direct immersion heaters ranging from .4kw - 1.5kw are UL C/US listed. Available in 120v or 240v, in-block heater models are designed to fit most engine applications. Tank type pre-heaters listed UL C/US are available in three designs. The TPS product line covers the range from .5kw - 2kw. Model CB and SB heaters are rated 1.5kw - 3kw. The CL and SL models are applicable for heating requirements ranging from 3kw - 6kw. For larger displacement engines, HOTSTART® offers the CSM circulating heating system rated 3kw - 12kw. Both single and three phase configurations are UL C/US listed. The CSM is a turnkey system incorporating an adjustable thermostat, circulation pump and all necessary electrical controls.

HOTSTART® products are listed by UL to standard 499 and meet requirements for installation on any UL 2200 listed generator setas well as any UL558 listed industrial truck.

About HOTSTART

Company (www.kimhotstart.com) is a leading developer and manufacturer of diesel engine block heaters. The company was established in 1942 with the original patent for engine coolant heating.Today, the HOTSTART® product line includes coolant heaters, oil heaters, air heaters, battery pads and wraps, controls, harnesses and complete systems.These products are used on diesel engines to provide easy starts, immediate full power, reduced engine wear, reduced emissions and reduced fuel consumption.Applications include standby generator sets, locomotives, equipment/machinery, gas pipeline compressors, heavy duty trucks and marine.Kim Hotstart is headquartered in Spokane, Washington and is certified to ISO 9001-2000.

Contact information

Michael Floyd
Marketing Communications Manager
(509) 534-6171

Preheating for Savings

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 11:36:00 -0700

Consulting-Specifying Engineer, 11/1/2008

Using forced-circulation preheaters instead of thermosiphon preheaters can reduce electrical consumption 25% to 36%. This provides another energy-saving strategy when specifying heaters for new gensets or upgrading heaters on existing installations.

"Every little bit counts” has become a mantra in the effort to maximize energy efficiency and reduce facility operating costs. Today, reducing electricity consumption is a priority with nearly everyone, from homeowners to Certified Energy Managers of large organizations. For operators of standby generators, a simple change to engine-preheating methods can add just such incremental savings to a facility's overall electrical usage.

Preheater Basics

Engine-coolant preheaters are a standard accessory on most emergency power supply systems (EPSS) that use diesel, propane, or natural-gas fueled engines. These devices, also called jacket water heaters, are designed to keep engine temperature at an optimum level for startup and load acceptance. Typically, this means maintaining the coolant at a minimum of 90 F.

Preheaters are a critical component wherever NFPA 110 – Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems applies. This standard details specific requirements for an EPSS, generally requiring generator sets to be capable of starting and powering attached loads within 10 seconds after normal power is lost. Engine coolant preheaters help ensure the generator set can meet this requirement. They are powered by a facility's available electrical service and, with exception of weekly exercising and loss of normal power, operate continuously.

Conventional engine preheaters are of an external tank-type design using thermosiphon method of circulation. These units feature a heating chamber with a thermostatically controlled element, and supply and return lines to the engine water jacket. Heated coolant circulates as the result of a thermosiphon effect—as heated liquid rises out of the chamber, it is simultaneously replaced by colder liquid from the engine. Thermosiphon heaters require strict adherence to installation guidelines to operate effectively. Proper hose routing and size, in addition to the heater's mounting location, are critical. And outlet temperatures need to be high—sometimes exceeding 200 F—to ensure proper circulation.

Forced Circulation Alternative

An alternate design can end up both saving energy and improving reliability, as shown in testing conducted by Kim Hotstart Mfg. Co., Spokane Valley, Wash., in cooperation with Avista Utilities, Spokane, Wash. Called “forced circulation,” this method cycles the heating element on and off, based on the control thermostat setting, using a pump to push fluid throughout the system.

With forced circulation, the heater control thermostat is exposed to temperatures closely coupled to engine temperature. This results in lower electricity use, reduced outlet temperature, and more uniform engine heating. With lower outlet temperatures, heater hoses, heating elements, and engine seals all may last longer. Thermal images of heater operation illustrate the performance differences of thermosiphon preheaters compared to forced circulation preheaters featuring electric pumps.

Energy Saving Results

Testing found that the benefits of forced circulation can be realized on any generator set, regardless of engine size. Comparative reviews of thermosiphon and forced-circulation preheaters was completed on 50-kW, 750-kW, and 1,500-kW generator sets with respective engine sizes of 4.4-L, 27-L, and 50-L displacement. Results were consistent in all three situations.

Engine preheater specifications for a 50-kW set with a 4.4-L diesel engine call for a 1,500-W thermosiphon preheater. Side-by-side testing was done using two identical gensets. Data collection showed energy consumption of 0.71 kWh and maximum heater outlet temperature of 190 F for the original thermosiphon installation. Temperature gradient across the engine was 75 F. The heater outlet hose of the thermosiphon heater was routed close to the engine thermostat. Due to the high outlet temperature, the engine thermostat opened and resulted in lost heat to the engine radiator.

Testing with a forced circulation preheater featuring an integral 5-gpm pump produced a reduction of 0.21 kWh in electrical consumption and maximum outlet temperature of 117 F. This eliminated opening of the engine thermostat. The temperature gradient across the engine was just 10 F. Total energy consumption was reduced 29%.

Comparative testing of preheaters also was performed on two identical 750-kW generator set installations with 27-L, V-12 diesel engines. A 6,000-W thermosiphon preheater was compared with a 6,000-W forced circulation system with integral 10-gpm pump. Test results using the forced circulation heater produced a 1.0-kWh reduction in electrical consumption and 100-F lower outlet temperature. The temperature gradient across the engine was reduced by 90 F. Electrical use in this application was reduced 36% compared with the thermosiphon heater.

On larger generator sets, dual thermosiphon preheaters are common. To evaluate these installations, testing was conducted using a 1,500-kW genset with a 50-L V-16 diesel engine. The original preheater installation included dual 4,990-W thermosiphon heaters, one for each side of the engine, totaling 9,980 W. For comparison, one 9,000-W forced circulation preheater featuring a 10-gpm pump was used on the same genset. Testing revealed that heater outlet temperatures dropped from 205 F to 127 F and energy consumption was reduced 25% (see Figure 1).

Consider your options

Replacing an existing thermosiphon preheater with a new forced-circulation model will have a first cost that will need to be worked into any facility's calculations. Such a move might not be the right one for every genset installation. However, as this testing shows, forced-circulation preheaters offer an option for managers seeking to lower ongoing energy costs through incremental operational improvements.

Genset Size	Thermosiphon	Forced Circulation	Savings
50 kW	0.71 kWh	0.50 kWh	0.21 kWh
750 kW	2.8 kWh	1.8 kWh	1.0 kWh
1,500 kW	2.97 kWh	2.23 kWh	0.74 kWh

To estimate annual dollar savings, the kWh savings can be multiplied by the number of hours of preheater operation in a year (8,760 hours/year less time of genset operation due to loss of normal power and exercising), with the resulting figure then multiplied by the cost of electricity. The cost of a forced circulation installation will depend on the genset size and if it is a new or existing installation. Local generator set distributors or service companies can help with heater specifications and cost estimates. In addition, the local utility can be contacted to determine if incentive programs are available for engine heater replacement.

Forced Circulation Engine Heater Saves Energy and Money

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 12:11:00 -0700

SPOKANE, WA - A coolant pre-heating system is available from Hotstart® that offers energy-efficient engine heating for engines ranging in size from 15L to 100L. The pump-driven CSM offers more efficient heating than thermo-siphon tank heaters, delivering uniform heating throughout the entire engine. On larger engines, one CSM eliminates the need for two thermo-siphon tank heaters, reducing the cost of installation and material. The heater is UL listed to United States and Canadian safety standards with CE compliant models available.

The CSM is a turnkey system that includes all required controls and a 10GPM circulating pump. Forced circulation of the coolant extends element life and offers a significant reduction in electrical consumption. Outlet temperatures are greatly reduced which results in extended hose life and reduced maintenance. The CSM features a low-watt density heating element and adjustable thermostat with optional temperature settings. The compact design requires minimal space for mounting and requires less installation time compared to two tank heaters.

The unit is available in 3KW, 6KW, 9KW and 12KW with all standard voltage ratings in 50Hz or 60Hz. CSM pre-heaters meet requirements for installation on any UL 2200 listed generator set.

HOTSTART

Contact information

Michael Floyd
Marketing Communications Manager
(509) 534-6171

HOTSTART Introduces 690V Heaters for Diesel Electric Propulsion Applications

Wed, 07 May 2008 12:14:00 -0700

SPOKANE, WA - The surge in popularity of marine Diesel Electric Propulsion (DEP) systems based on low voltage 690VAC has generated a need for electrical equipment that can run on the main generated voltage. In response to engine dealers and marine operators, Hotstart® Mfg. has developed a range of engine coolant heaters that can operate on 690V (50 or 60Hz) without the need for transforming the voltage down to the more common 440/480V.

In a DEP system, where a large main propulsion engine is replaced by many smaller engines driving electrical generators, the electrical coolant pre-heaters are becoming an important part of the DEP system as each engine must be kept warm and ready to start when in standby mode. Being able to use the main generated voltage at 690V eliminates the need for transformers, reduces transmission losses and allows for smaller cable sizes due to the lower amperage.

"We're getting heavily involved in the marine diesel electric drive business as it continues to gain popularity across a number of applications," explained Trond Liaboe, International market manager for Hotstart®.

He said that early adopters included companies operating offshore supply vessels serving the North Sea oil and gas infrastructure. "Our customers depend on each engine being ready to go to full power when needed. The engine pre-heaters we offer ensures the overall readiness and reliability of the DEP system even in the challenging conditions found in the North Sea," Liaboe said. The new DEP systems have also been ordered for use on two new jack up oilrigs currently being constructed in Asia.

HOTSTART's new heaters require only the connection of 3ph 690VAC prime power. An additional 24VDC engine start/stop signal permits automatic operation of the heater. The power range of the heaters is 3kW to 12kW. Another range of heaters from 24-108kW is set to be released towards the end of the year.

About HOTSTART

Contact information

Michael Floyd
Marketing Communications Manager
(509) 534-6171

HOTSTART Introduces Low-Cost, Diesel-Powered Heating System For Locomotives

Sun, 22 Apr 2007 13:42:00 -0700

SPOKANE, WA - Kim Hotstart Manufacturing has introduced Junior, a compact, competitively priced diesel-powered locomotive heating system that eliminates wasteful idling and is small enough to fit in any locomotive.

The addition of Junior to Hotstart's® idle reduction product line provides short lines and switching operations a low-cost option for diesel-driven locomotive heating. Compared with Hotstart's® larger, more sophisticated Diesel Driven Heating System (DDHS) and other APUs in the market, Junior is small enough to fit in the nose of most locomotives as well as any car body or walkway. Junior's simplified design features accessible components that allow for quick and easy servicing.

Junior eliminates idling when a locomotive is shut down or put in layover where no electrical service is available. Operating independently of other locomotive systems, Junior circulates heated coolant through the engine, compressor, expansion tank, oil cooler and wet cab heater to keep the entire locomotive's water system warm during shutdowns. Depending on ambient temperature, Junior will maintain the prime mover's coolant between 90-120°F while also maintaining the battery's full charge.

Junior includes a 2-cylinder Yanmar water-cooled diesel engine coupled with a water-circulation pump plus a belt-driven 72-volt DC alternator. During engine shut-down, Junior consumes less than a half gallon of fuel per hour compared with 3-5 gallons per hour idling locomotives typically use. Fuel savings are significant. Butte Anaconda & Pacific Rail in Anaconda, Mont. installed Junior on a GP9 in January 2007 and has accumulated over 2000 hours of run-time on the heating system. At a conservative estimate of $2 per gallon, BA&P has saved approximately $14,000 in fuel in four months.

In addition to lower fuel consumption, BA&P reports reduced wear on the prime mover and the elimination of wet-stacking. "Since we stopped idling we've eliminated the slobbering and that means fewer trips back to the shop for cleaning", reports CMO, Doug Krattiger.

About HOTSTART

Founded in 1942 with the original patent for engine coolant heating, Kim Hotstart (www.kimhotstart.com) designs, engineers and develops innovative engine heating solutions.Kim Hotstart engine heaters and accessories are installed around the world in locomotives, generator sets, heavy-duty trucks, construction and mining equipment, pipeline compressor stations, hydraulic power units, fuel tanks, ships and other applications.Kim Hotstart is headquartered in Spokane, Washington.

Contact information

Michael Floyd
Marketing Communications Manager
(509) 534-6171