Karp Productions KP1 Hot Box

KP1 Hot Box

The Karp Productions KP1 Hot Box is a compact precision thermal processing system designed specifically for medical device manufacturing. By combining integrated pressure and vacuum with precise temperature and airflow control, the KP1 delivers the functionality of a full-featured hot box in a compact, bench-friendly platform.

Developed from years of hands-on experience servicing, repairing, and supporting thermal processing equipment, the KP1 was built around the needs of real manufacturing environments with an emphasis on repeatability, operator control, serviceability, and dependable long-term performance.

Integrated Pressure & Vacuum

One of the defining features of the KP1 is its built-in pressure and vacuum capability.

Rather than relying on separate external equipment or a larger traditional hot box platform, the KP1 integrates pressure and vacuum directly into the system. Operators can select between pressure and vacuum from the front panel while maintaining access to temperature, airflow, and cooling controls within the same compact platform.

This integrated design gives operators greater flexibility for catheter manufacturing and other precision thermal processing applications while helping preserve valuable production and cleanroom workspace.

Built for Repeatability

Repeatable processes depend on consistent control of the variables that matter.

The KP1 combines closed-loop temperature regulation, real-time digital airflow monitoring, integrated pressure and vacuum, and straightforward operator controls to help establish repeatable process settings and maintain greater consistency from one cycle to the next.

Standard System Features

• Integrated Pressure & Vacuum: Built directly into the KP1 for greater process flexibility without requiring a larger system.
• Watlow PID Temperature Control: The Watlow PM Legacy controller continuously monitors nozzle temperature and automatically regulates heater output to maintain the selected setpoint. Auto-Tune capability helps optimize temperature stability and reduce overshoot.
• SMC Digital Airflow Monitoring: The integrated SMC flow meter provides real-time airflow measurement and adjustment with 0.1 L/min resolution for precise, repeatable process control.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: The Watlow controller supports Bluetooth connectivity through the EZ-LINK® mobile app for compatible remote monitoring and configuration.
• Compact Benchtop Design: The main control unit measures just 9.5” × 9.5” × 5.65”, helping maximize available bench and cleanroom space.
• Separate Cooling Air Control: Integrated cooling airflow provides additional process control during operation and cooldown.
• Interchangeable Thermal Nozzles: Each KP1 includes a 0.250” × 0.250” two-port U-shaped nozzle and is compatible with alternate hot-box nozzles for different process requirements.
• Serviceable Construction: Key service and wear components, including the thermal nozzle, heating element, and fuses, can be replaced when required to support long-term operation and reduce unnecessary downtime.

Applications

The KP1 is designed for precision thermal processing applications used throughout medical device development and manufacturing, including:

• Catheter balloon bonding
• Polymer reflow
• Lamination
• Other controlled thermal processing operations

What’s Included

Each KP1 system includes:

• Main control unit
• Satellite heating assembly
• 0.250” × 0.250” two-port U-shaped nozzle
• IEC power cord
• KP1 Operator’s Manual

Technical Specifications

• Temperature Range: 200–650°F (93–343°C)
• Airflow Range: 0.5–25 L/min
• Airflow Resolution: 0.1 L/min
• Pressure: 0–100 psi
• Vacuum: Atmospheric to -18 inHg
• Power Input: 120 VAC, 50/60 Hz
• Main Unit Dimensions: 9.5” × 9.5” × 5.65”
• Weight: Approximately 10 lb

Warranty & 90-Day Service Commitment

Every KP1 is backed by a one-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal operating conditions.

For the first 90 days, every KP1 is also protected by the Karp Productions Service Commitment. During this period, Karp Productions will repair the system whether the issue results from a manufacturing defect or accidental operator error, with a seven-business-day repair target after the equipment is received.

Customers located in the San Francisco Bay Area are eligible for priority local support, including service at the customer’s facility or at our Santa Clara location, as well as temporary replacement equipment when available.

Every KP1 is designed, assembled, and thoroughly tested by Karp Productions before shipment.

Built with experience. Backed by people who care.