Pentruder’s New HFi Technology Platform Near Completion
Published: 5/5, 2020
Development of a new technology platform for Pentruder concrete cutting equipment is nearing its end, as Tractive AB has readies to take a big step into the future with its new HFi technology.
Kristoffer Johnsen, Manufacturing Director at Tractive, admits that while the project has taken far longer than planned, “we have reached our high goals regarding weight, performance, and safety. We have invested a lot in operational reliability both for mechanics and electronics, which the users will notice. One challenge, however entirely necessary, has been to achieve the highest EMC rating. This will increase reliability, especially when a generator is used. Kristoffer adds that every element of HFi technology has been developed from the ground up, and is based on a groundbreaking engine with extremely high power-to-weight ratio and advanced motor control.
“The efficiency is as much as 93 percent, which enables high power in a compact saw,” he says. “All components and manufacturing methods are selected to provide a durable product, such as the highest quality of magnets and innovative manufacturing technology to keep them in place.”
The fact that a relatively small company such as Tractive has been able to take this technological leap is a credit to cooperation with a few important partners with cutting-edge knowledge
“To be completely honest we were on the wrong path for a while,” says marketing director Marie Piel, “but we took the time to start all over with a new concept with a separate power pack instead of integrated electronics on the saw head, and with a new partner for motor control. We are certain this was the right decision, although it has delayed the market introduction substantially.”
Concrete cutting is a tough job, and Pentruder always has the concrete cutters in focus. Priority was therefore given to weight and ease of use. One of the most important goals when Pentruder RS2 was developed was to bring out a wall saw weighing less than 55 lb (25kg), a target that was achieved even with the integration of a 24-hp (18 kW) motor.
Both power pack and radio remote control are developed by Tractive and partners and are adapted to the tough conditions in the concrete cutting business. The radio remote control is sturdy, water proof, has a long battery life, clear display and very secure radio transmission. The Pentpak 3, which drives the RS2 wall saw, is also waterproof and very robust.