Remote Control Enclosures (RMB)

• Why can't a standard light switch be used to operate Strip Heaters (Foodwarmers), and is a Remote Control Enclosure (RMB) always required?

  UL requires that Hatco supply the switch required for the Strip Heater. The most economical option is to order the toggle switch or infinite control remote (loose) without the Remote Control Enclosure. In this situation, the switches are attached to a plate that is designed to be mounted to a standard electrical junction box.

• Where are Remote Control Enclosures (RMBs) typically mounted?

  Remote Control Enclosures can be mounted on a wall or under a counter but should always be mounted away from any heat source. THEY SHOULD NOT BE ATTACHED TO THE STRIP HEATER!

• When would it be desirable to use a Remote Control Enclosure (RMB) instead of mounting the switches onto the Strip Heater (Foodwarmer)?

  Hatco strongly recommends that switches be mounted remotely (away from the Strip Heater) whenever possible. The Remote Control Enclosure is ideal for mounting and wiring the switches and/or indicator lights at a location away from the Strip Heater. NOTE: WHEN USING INFINITE CONTROLS ON DUAL STRIP HEATERS, THE INFINITE CONTROLS ARE REQUIRED TO BE REMOTELY MOUNTED DUE TO HEAT AND AMPERAGE FACTORS.

• What would be the proper Remote Control Enclosure (RMB) for a GRAHL-48D Glo-Ray® Dual Aluminum Infrared Strip Heater (Foodwarmer) with Lights in 120 volt with infinite controls and indicator lights?

  RMB-14AL would be the correct choice. This includes two (2) infinite controls for the heating elements, two (2) indicator lights and one (1) toggle switch for the incandescent lights.

• What is an electronic infinite control?

  RMB-14AA or AB include an electronic infinite control for very precise control of the Strip Heaters. A relay that allows the operator to switch up to 20 amps of heat load is also included.

• What is a Remote Control Enclosure (also known as a Remote Box or RMB)?

  A Remote Control Enclosure is an aluminum box specifically designed to hold toggle switches, infinite controls and/or indicator lights when these controls are NOT mounted on the Strip Heaters themselves. They come in several sizes depending upon the number and type of control being housed in the enclosure box.

• There are currently four (4) different standard size Remote Control Enclosures (RMBs) shown in the current Hatco literature. What are the dimensions of each box, excluding switches?

  RMB-3: 5-1/2"W x 3"D x 2-1/2"H (140 mm x 76 mm x 64 mm). RMB-7: 9"W x 3"D x 2-1/2"H (229 mm x 76 mm x 64 mm). RMB-16: 16"W x 3"D x 2-1/2"H (406 mm x 76 mm x 64 mm). RMB-20: 20"W x 3"D x 2-1/2"H (508 mm x 76 mm x 64 mm).

• How are the model numbers for Remote Control Enclosures (RMBs) determined? How does the operator know which box to order?

  Typically, the number, the type of switch and the voltage determine which Remote Control Enclosure is appropriate.

• Can Remote Control Enclosures (RMBs) for Strip Heaters (Foodwarmers) be painted?

  Yes, Remote Control Enclosures can be painted with the same standard finishes available on Hatco Glo-Ray® Strip Heaters.

• Can one Strip Heater (Foodwarmer) with multiple switches, such as a dual with tandem elements, have more than one Remote Control Enclosure (RMB)?

  According to UL, Strip Heaters with multiple switches must have all switches in one Remote Control Enclosure. In extreme cases, where there are more switches than will fit in one, a specially sized Remote Control Enclosure will be recommended. (The factory should be consulted in these cases.)