High-Pressure Pumps for Industrial Descaling
KAMAT develops and manufactures high-pressure pumps for the hydromechanical descaling of steel, copper and aluminium.
KAMAT’s high-pressure plunger pumps enable the efficient and reliable descaling of slabs, billets and other workpieces. Hydromechanical descaling with high-pressure water removes scale layers without leaving any residue – with minimal thermal impact on the workpiece.
Whether in the steel, copper or aluminium industry, KAMAT systems can be designed for various metal materials and types of scale.
What is Scale – and Why Does it Need to be Removed?
When steel is annealed, oxygen reacts with iron on the hot metal surface. This produces iron oxides, known as scale. This scale must be removed, for example from steel slabs or billets, by descaling. If the scale remained on the metal surface, it would be rolled into the steel during subsequent rolling processes. This would have a significant negative impact on the quality of the steel, meaning that certain parameters, such as a specified strength in the end product, could not be achieved. The prices that a steelworks can achieve for its products on the international market are based on the quality and purity of the steel, making the removal of scale absolutely essential.
How Does Hydromechanical Descaling Work?
Kinetic removal effect through high-pressure water
The water jet hits the surface at a flat angle and generates a high shear and impulse effect. This mechanical energy removes the adhering layers without changing the microstructure of the steel.
For modern high-alloy or higher-heated steels, the pressure is individually adjusted to the material parameters.
Process optimisation through higher pressures and less water
Current developments in hot strip and slab production show a clear trend:
higher pressure – lower volume flow.
Advantages:
- less unwanted cooling of the surface
- more stable temperature control in the rolling mill
- lower energy requirements for pumps, filtration and recooling
- lower water volumes in the circuit → more efficient recycling
Role of pump technology in the descaling process
Pump technology is a decisive factor for efficient hydromechanical descaling. Since the removal of layers depends directly on the stability and precision of the high pressure, pump systems must deliver constant, low-pulsation pressure – even under changing load conditions and at different material temperatures.
Plunger pumps such as those from KAMAT meet these requirements particularly well. Their operating principle as oscillating positive displacement pumps allows precise adjustment of pressure and volume flow, so that the water jet can be optimally adapted to different steels, annealing grades and production speeds. Due to their high efficiency, the required drive energy remains comparatively low even at high pressures, which makes the overall process more economical.
High-Performance Descaling with KAMAT Plunger Pumps
KAMAT descaling pumps are engineered for demanding industrial applications, combining robust construction with advanced technology to deliver reliable high-pressure performance. With adjustable pressure settings, high flow rates, and compatibility with various descaling media, they offer tailored solutions for efficient and precise scale removal.
Key Benefits at a Glance:
- Improved System Efficiency
By effectively removing scale deposits, KAMAT pumps restore optimal heat transfer and operational performance in thermal and mechanical systems. - Lower Operating Costs
KAMAT plunger pumps are highly energy-efficient, particularly at elevated pressure levels. This results in a rapid return on investment—often based solely on energy savings.
- Reduced Downtime
Incorporating KAMAT descaling pumps into routine maintenance helps prevent unplanned outages and equipment failures, supporting continuous production. - Extended Equipment Lifespan
The thorough removal of corrosive and abrasive scale deposits protects machinery from premature wear, maximizing service life and asset value. - Cost Savings Through Efficiency
Increased uptime and reduced repair frequency translate into measurable cost reductions in both operations and maintenance. - Precision in Industrial Cleaning
Adjustable operating parameters enable precise and gentle descaling of sensitive components, minimizing the risk of damage while ensuring complete cleanliness. - Environmental Responsibility
Efficient scale removal enhances overall energy efficiency, supporting reduced carbon emissions and more sustainable industrial processes.
System Solution Instead of a Single Pump
KAMAT not only supplies high-pressure pumps, but also turnkey descaling systems that are precisely tailored to the requirements of modern steel mill lines. These include:
- Oscillating high-pressure plunger pumps with high energy efficiency and stable pressure characteristics
- Pressure control via frequency converters (FC) for dynamic adaptation to different production speeds
- Modular pump units for flexible configuration and expansion options
- Nozzle bars and water supply, tailored to line width, material and process parameters
- Control and automation systems (PLC, DCS) for easy integration into existing control and management technology
- Optional: water treatment and recirculation for efficient circulation systems
Our solutions are suitable for both new plants and retrofit projects. The units can be installed horizontally or vertically – ideal for different spatial conditions in steelworks.
Support with design
On request, KAMAT supports its customers in the early planning phase with the design and design evaluation of the descaling plant. This includes, among other things:
- Definition of the required pressures and volume flows
- Optimisation of water usage
- Selection of suitable unit and pipe dimensions
- Integration into existing processes and control stations
Case Study: Large-Scale Plant for Rolling Mill in India
KAMAT supplied a turnkey high-pressure system for an Indian hot rolling mill, comprising:
- 16 K55000 pumps
- 8,800 kW total installed power
- Integration into eight stations with automated control
- Direct connection to the production line for real-time pressure control
The result: reduced water consumption, consistent surface quality, minimised maintenance costs.
| Descaling of Billets in Rolling Mills | Application Report |  |
346.5 | KB |
| Roll Adjustmentt in Steel Mills | Application Report | |
419.7 | KB |
Why Choose KAMAT’s High-Pressure Descaling Pumps?
Decades of Proven Expertise
With 50 years of experience in high-pressure pump technology, KAMAT has established itself as a trusted provider in the industry. This extensive history is a testament to our ability to deliver superior solutions consistently across various applications, including industrial descaling and steel descaling pumps.
German Engineering Excellence
KAMAT’s products are developed and manufactured in Germany, synonymous with quality and precision engineering. This assures our customers that they are investing in high-pressure plunger pumps that are not only reliable but also incorporate cutting-edge technology to handle the most demanding tasks.
Versatility Across Industries
Our expertise spans multiple industries, making our descaling pumps ideal for a wide range of applications, from heavy machinery cleaning to maintenance of intricate processing equipment. KAMAT’s adaptability ensures that we offer solutions tailored to the specific needs of industries like steel production, where robust and efficient steel descaling pumps are crucial.
Worldwide Support and Service
KAMAT’s global presence means that we provide exceptional worldwide product support, ensuring that our customers receive timely and effective assistance, no matter their location. This extensive network is vital for maintaining the uptime of our industrial pumps and ensuring continuous operational efficiency.
By opting for KAMAT’s descaling solutions, companies benefit from our heritage of innovation, commitment to quality, and comprehensive support. Our high-pressure descaling pumps are not just products but partnerships that foster smoother operations, significant cost savings, and enhanced productivity in any industrial setting.
