Custom Motor Solution Brings 20 Years Of Reliability

Pumps on the Dirt Driver pressure washers were belt driven by electric motors – either single or three-phase according to the model – and three different suppliers had failed to provide the dependability demanded to ensure customer satisfaction. Problems previously encountered included failure of centrifugal switches and capacitors snapping off.

John eventually located specialist motor manufacturer, Lafert. After a period of proven reliability, he committed his production to 100% to Lafert motors.

The relationship developed further when the Dirt Driver washers were being redesigned to eliminate the belt-drive mechanism and its inherent maintenance requirements.

The obvious solution was a direct-drive arrangement compatible with the 3-piston ‘Hawk’ pumps used for the pressure washers but this would necessitate a special motor. However, to John’s delight Lafert said they could provide a solution. The result was a custom-engineered motor with a special mounting flange and a female threaded shaft mounted on a single rear-end bearing.

This design permits a close-coupled assembly using the existing standard twin bearing Hawk pump whilst also minimising any stress resulting from potential misalignment. The result is an efficient, compact and low-maintenance system.

“Lafert motors initially gave us the reliability needed to help develop the company,” said Nigel Driver, who now runs the company. “Since then that reliability has been combined with continuous engineering solutions and support that has over twenty years assisted Dirt Driver to become established market leaders in the pressure washer market.”

The motors supplied by Lafert for Dirt Driver’s water and steam pressure washers are smooth running 2.2kW single phase and 4kW three phase units – both are 4-pole machines to give smooth, low stress pump operation. The motors are used on static washers that are enclosed units (can be supplied ‘tamper proof’) and trolley based units, respectively. Standard production steam and cold water units offer 3000psi at 30 litres.

The company also manufactures petrol and diesel driven units for use on sites where electricity is not available.

Areas of application for the Dirt Driver washers include: cars, lorries, trains, agricultural vehicles and military (tanks & aircraft).