KOPA Charcoal Oven SC Type 500sc for High-Volume Grilling

A charcoal oven that grills food with radiant heat from burning charcoal, concentrating the energy inside a sealed chamber rather than dispersing it into the air. The thick refractory steel walls absorb and reflect the heat, raising the temperature around the food so it sears quickly and evenly without drying out. This method shortens cooking times and increases throughput compared to open grills, allowing more portions to be served in the same period.

The oven stands on legs or wheels, with a matching storage area underneath for utensils and charcoal. A heated cabinet sits on top, extending the oven's function: it can warm plates, hold cooked food at serving temperature or slowly cook vegetables. The entire unit is designed for front cooking, where the appearance of the appliance becomes part of the customer experience.

To operate, the charcoal is loaded into the firebox and lit. Once the temperature reaches the set range of 250 to 350 °C, the food is placed on the grill surface. The operator monitors the cooking process through the oven's window and adjusts the airflow to control the heat. After cooking, the food can be transferred to the heated cabinet above to keep it warm until service.

The oven is built from thick refractory steel, chosen for its ability to retain and reflect heat. The exterior matches the stand, creating a unified look suitable for open kitchens. The grill surface measures 530 by 764 mm, providing space for multiple portions at once.

Controls include a temperature regulator to set the desired heat level within the 250 to 350 °C range. The exhaust system removes smoke at a rate of 3400 cubic metres per hour, maintaining a clear cooking environment.

A capacity of 110 trays per 24 hours indicates the volume of food the oven can handle in a full service day. The 7.5 kW power rating reflects the electrical load required for any fans or controls, while the 310 kg weight shows the unit is designed to be moved with a trolley or pallet truck. The footprint of 912 by 700 mm determines the floor space it occupies, and the 2216 mm height includes the heated cabinet on top.

Charcoal consumption ranges from 8 to 12 kg, which influences the running cost and the frequency of refuelling during service. The maximum smoke flow of 7.2 grams per second helps plan the extraction requirements for the kitchen.

Cleaning involves removing ash from the firebox after each use and wiping down the grill surface. The refractory steel interior should be brushed to remove residue, and the exterior can be cleaned with a damp cloth to maintain its appearance.

The SC Type 500sc is categorised as a charcoal oven with a heated cabinet, designed for high-volume grilling in professional kitchens.