KNF at virtual.drupa 2021

KNF will present custom-fit solutions for modern inkjet and 3D jetting technologies at virtual.drupa. Diaphragm pumps for neutral and aggressive gases and liquids are configured in a modular system for versatile use. These pumps are used in many different settings, including for supplying print heads with inks and binders, recirculating pigmented inks, degassing, print head cleaning, purging and vacuum generation on the print head for the meniscus effect, and ink circulation.

Professionals in this field can find out about the entire range of uses online. The company has plenty of innovations to share.

FP 70 smooth flow pump

The FP 70 is the latest and the most compact pump to be added to the smooth flow series. Pulsation-damping technology is already integrated into this series, eliminating the need for further precautionary measures. The FP 70 combines the advantages offered by KNF’s diaphragm pumps with the key strengths of gear and centrifugal pumps. This self-priming pump features dry-run protection and ensures low-pulsation operation in a confined space. With its patented 4-point valves, the FP 70 reliably transfers inks and binders to the print head even at low rotational speeds. It is also chemically resistant and low-maintenance. No additional suction pump is needed in the printing system.

The diaphragm pump can achieve a flow rate of up to 850 ml/min and is designed to operate at pressures of up to 2 bar. As part of KNF’s modular system, the FP 70 can be customized with motors of various performance classes.

FP 150 with 5-diaphragm design

The FP 150 will also be making its debut at virtual.drupa. The maintenance-free diaphragm pump scores big with minimal pulsation and shearing force. With its special 5-diaphragm design, this pump is also self-priming and can operate dry. At the same time the very low pulsation level makes secondary measures to avoid pulsing superfluous. Depending on the system set-up and speed, the values at the pump outflow at nominal flow rate are below 150 mbar, meaning that even sensitive inks and binders can be transported gently. Another winning feature of the FP 150 is its infinitely adjustable flow rate of a maximum 1.3 l/min and outstanding linearity between 10 and 100 percent of this value. Not only that, but it is capable of resisting a back pressure of up to 2 bar.

The FP 150 is available in a range of different versions within the KNF modular system. With a choice of EPDM, PTFE or FFKM diaphragms, the pump can be equipped for applications involving very aggressive media.

Comprehensive options from the NMP 850 HP pump series

KNF is introducing the NMP 850 HP for degassing, vacuum generation on the print head for the meniscus effect, purging and print head cleaning in inkjet as well as for 3D printing systems. The versions of this comprehensive pump series are also suitable for vacuum generation for fixing 3D printing work pieces in place. This diaphragm pump’s parameters include a flow rate of up to 16 l/min, an ultimate vacuum of 200 mbar absolute and an operating pressure of 2.5 bar relative. Both a single-headed and a double-headed version of the NMP 850 HP are available with pump heads made of resilient PPS. The valves and seals are available in highly chemically resistant FFKM, FKM or EPDM, and the diaphragm in FKM, PTFE or EPDM.

The high-performance NPK 012

The NPK 012 can generate a flow rate of up to 13.5 l/min to purge and clean print heads of inkjet as well as 3D printing systems. The brushless DC motor allows for excellent adjustable control of the rotational speed. With a maximum power consumption of just 43 W, the NPK 012 builds up 2.5 bar of high, continuous positive pressure, and up to 5 bar during intermittent operation. The ultimate vacuum can reach up to 140 mbar abs. The NPK 012 delivers this high level of performance quietly and with minimal vibration.

N 96 for complex operating profiles

The N 96 is ideal for generating a vacuum to fix 3D printing work pieces in place. With a highly efficient brushless direct current motor and rotational speed control, the diaphragm pump can dynamically meet the requirements of complex operating profiles. The pump can start up without discharge in the range of 2.5 bar relative pressure / 100 mbar abs vacuum and achieves a flow rate of up to 8.5 l/min.