Germany, November 2016 – At the EuroBLECH 2016 in October, KMT Waterjet Systems launched an alternative pump technology as an addition to its portfolio. In the Triline TL-I 30 model, the company is offering for the first time a direct-drive pump for waterjet cutting. Calculable cost-of-ownership is a standout feature of the new pump, and it can be deployed as a standalone unit for everyday cutting applications.

The Triline TL-I 30 direct-drive pump has a power rating of 22 kW (30 HP) and so attains a delivery volume of 3.1 ltr of cutting water per minute. At a working pressure of 3,800 bar, this is sufficient to operate a water jet with a diameter up to 0.3 mm – this is where the greater efficiency compared to a pressure intensifier pump comes into its own because a higher delivery volume can be attained for the same motor power.

An electric motor provides power directly to three crankshaft-driven pistons via an easy to maintain belt pulley system. The pistons operate with a phase displacement, meaning they deliver a virtually constant high-pressure flow of water. A direct-drive pump has a relatively high efficiency (up to 85%) by virtue of this direct power transmission. This method of power transmission is also uncomplicated and comprises fewer parts than a hydraulic circuit. So operators of direct-drive pumps benefit from easier fault rectification when problems occur in the drive system.