KTI Hydraulics Inc., a California-based manufacturer of hydraulic components for commercial and industrial equipment, has introduced a submerged direct current (DC) hydraulic power unit (HPU) that can reportedly increase the reliability of recycling equipment.

In the recycling industry, hydraulic processes are critical to collecting, transporting and processing bulk materials such as metal, plastic, glass, paper and cardboard. While front and rear loaders hydraulically lift and load large bins of materials into trucks, hook lift trucks transport materials using hydraulic rams to hook, lift and hoist the roll-off container onto the truck.

Source: KTI Hydraulics Inc.Source: KTI Hydraulics Inc.

Further, compactors and balers use hydraulics to save space and reduce large volumes for easier transport while hydraulic shears and shredders cut larger materials into smaller pieces that are easier to process and recycle. HPUs are the so-called “muscle” behind all of this operating machinery, KTI explained, but frequent exposure to moisture splashed from roadways as well as weather, washdowns, humidity and other corrosion-causing factors can damage and even destroy hydraulic component parts.

KTI explained that there has been little variation in the basic component configuration of HPUs, which convert electrical power to hydraulic energy and feature systems that consist of parts like manifolds, directional valves and the system’s motor and pump, which are mounted to the top of the oil reservoir.

However, KTI suggests that though the design is technically sound, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have wanted to improve the reliability of hydraulic systems that must operate in inhospitable, moisture-prone environments. A challenge is that high-value components like the motor and pump also are the most likely to require repair or replacement in many cases, though the current HPU design involves mounting the motor and pump to the reservoir, which exposes the components to the environment and potential corrosion damage. Accelerated corrosion can lead to premature service, repair and replacement.

As such, the company explains that in its patented design, the motor and gear pump are protectively submerged in the reservoir fluid, rather than the typical configuration of mounting the motor/gear pump and manifold to the top of the reservoir. KTI added that when the motor and gear pump are submerged, the parts require significantly less maintenance and replacement. Consequently, the new units are considered ideal for equipment and machinery operated in harsh, corrosive environments. The oil also functions as coolant, resulting in a longer duty cycle.

KTI says it offers the submerged HPU with a 1.8 kW, 12 V and 24 V DC motor with ingress protection ratings. The HPU features a pressure-loaded gear pump, potted solenoid and a reservoir with five quarts of usable volume.

The new HPU configuration also enables a more compact design, 15½ inches by 9 ½ inches by 8 inches, which KTI says is ideal for OEMs looking to minimize the space required for hydraulic components.

For more information, visit the KTI website.

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