HPC Trailblazing The Way

Advancing Technology Elevating Outdoor Designs

Steve Jobs Once said, “You’ve got to start with the customer experience and work back toward the technology, not the other way around.” HPC is always striving to create innovative designs that enhance and elevate our consumers’ experience. HPC’s Research and Design team as well as our Engineers continuously seek knowledge to inform their designs providing our customers with the latest and greatest technology. This Tech Talk will take you through the Technological advancements HPC has made over the years to improve the overall quality and functionality of our signature fire designs.

First Generation Technology:

HPC saw the demand for extending the use of outdoor spaces and sought to fill the need by curating outdoor fire designs that offered consumers ease of use through enhancing existing technology. In 2005, when outdoor fire features were in their infancy, HPC introduced the Intermittent Pilot Ignition (IPI) to the marketplace. This model used flame rectification which sent electrical currents that passed through ions to the flame rod. Knowing IPI technology was built for indoor use, HPC diligently worked to quickly advance the indoor technology to outdoor environments.

Second Generation Technology:

In 2007, The IPI Technology used intermitting flame. In turn, HPC wanted to further enhance our ignition system and developed the Direct Spark Ignition. The Direct Spark Ignition senses the flame right off of the burner without using a true pilot. The Spark Igniter sparks the grounding rod to ignite the main burner flame.

Third Generation Technology:

In 2008, HPC introduced the Hot Surface Ignition, which is the 3rd generation of ignition systems developed by HPC. HPC’s research and design team utilized a smart valve paired with a true pilot. The advancement in technology enabled the control module to be built into the gas valve itself. However, though the development increased efficiencies in the fire design; The fire appliance utilized flame rectification, which can be susceptible to dropouts and condensation in the outdoor elements. Recognizing that HPC could push the design further HPC continued to investigate materials and ignition systems that would create safe reliable designs that stand the test of time.

Fourth Generation Technology:

In 2010, HPC’s Research and design team introduced a true outdoor model using a Hot Wire Ignition (HWI) system. HWI technology was built for the outdoor standard. HPC worked closely with CSA to achieve certification and adhered to ANSI standards. This advancement in technology truly paved the way for the future of the outdoor fire industry. HPC developed technology that enabled a thermocouple to be paired with the module for the first time in the history of the fire industry. The HWI system operated with pilot heating the thermocouple. Once heated, the thermocouple would send a message to the module to open the valve. The paired thermocouple proved to be more reliable in the outdoor harsh environments.

Fifth Generation Technology:

In the next phase of our evolution, HPC moved away from HWI to continue improve on the previous technology. In this stage of development HPC’s goal was to improve upon the reliability of the ignition system.  In 2016, HPC introduced Bluetooth Electronic Ignition (EI), which included enhancements on Bluetooth, high low flame control, and the ignition system.  We continued pairing the pilot flame and thermocouple remained reliable in the face of elements.  With the EI series HPC introduced a 24 volt silicone nitride igniter resulting in longer life span. The new control module was built to uphold the latest standard for outdoor use. In turn, this enhanced the fire designs reliability and longevity.

Generation 6th Coming Soon – New SmartArctm Technology:

HPC is now developing new core technology that will be launched in 2022, named SmartArc™. We are currently field testing the technology with our patented tiki designs. HPC is working closely with CSA to certify this cutting edge technology. The SmartArc™ eliminates the need for a thermocouple and a pilot flame. This technology increases the reliability of the fire designs and because of the designs’ efficiencies it will require less maintenance. HPC’s SmartArc™ technology improves electronic ignition without the use of a flame sensor. The system senses the strength of the plasma arc through a feedback circuit which ensures the reliability of the flame. If there is a weak signal or no arc is detected the flame will shut off for safety reasons. This latest advancement is just another example of how HPC anticipates the needs of the market and delivers safe reliable products to the public.

Customer Service:

HPC values quality and safety to ensure our products light every time. Our Certified NFI Tech Team will service all your needs guiding you with their knowledge and expertise. Any questions or concerns don’t hesitate to contact us at 937-436-9800. Let us partner to build an oasis for your patrons that will tantalize their senses.