Kelly Aerospace Thermal Systems

Kelly Aerospace Thermal Systems, known as KATS, designs and makes all-electric air conditioning systems for general aviation aircraft in the United States. It also makes backup alternator kits. Its products serve OEM, military and aftermarket customers.

The main product is THERMACOOL, an all-electric air conditioning system. It uses a 28 volt brushless DC motor and compressor that runs on either a ground power unit or the aircraft electrical system. The compressor is hermetically sealed and uses R134A. The company says this design removes taxi, takeoff, landing and in-flight restrictions. Owners can also pre-cool the cabin on the ground without even unlocking the door.

The system drops cabin temperature by 20 degrees F or more within five minutes. A digital controller with an LED screen and a three speed fan lets the pilot set the temperature and forget it, and it has built-in freeze protection. Air is ducted from overhead, so it reaches the passengers better.

For Beechcraft aircraft, THERMACOOL is FAA certified under an STC for the Baron 55, Baron 58 and Bonanza A36 series. On these aircraft the system draws about 55 amps and weighs 52 pounds installed. It moves the center of gravity only 2 inches aft, keeps the full baggage area, and takes about two weeks to install. The company also lists product pages for Cessna, Cirrus, Mooney, Piper and Tecnam aircraft. It offers electric air conditioning for experimental and light sport aircraft as well. An FAA STC covers its installation on the Enstrom 280FX helicopter.

The company also sells backup dual alternator kits. The kit gives a fully redundant 70 amp power source and weighs 16 pounds installed. It is belt driven and needs no blister on the cowling. Pilots can run either alternator from either voltage regulator. The kit can be installed in the field or at the Kelly factory, and discounts apply when it is bought with an air conditioning system.

The Service and Support pages hold installation manuals, schematics, weight and balance reports, flight manual supplements and maintenance instructions for each aircraft make.

Services

• THERMACOOL electric air conditioning
• STC air conditioning kits
• Experimental and light sport air conditioning
• Backup dual alternator kits
• Factory installation
• Technical documentation and support