Flow vs Pressure ??

[bgbrew01]

I have been in a discussion with my partner and our PW distributer. Now I want to pose it to anyone out there who can help. I getting ready to buy four more machines but I am wanting something with a little a more kick to it. The two largest machines we are running now are 20HP honda's with general pumps. They are running 5.5 GPM @ 3500 psi. We are wanting to increase our performance. We concentrate almost exclusively on flat surface commercial concrete. I have been looking at General Pumps I can buy a EK18 that is 7.9 GPM at 4350 psi this would require a 25 hp motor. The other one we are looking at is a HD18 which will go 7.9 GPM at 7250 psi but it requires a 40 hp motor. What I am asking is will I get that much more performance out of the extra psi vs cost of the 40hp motor. Or will the increase in GPM and small increase in psi versus my older machines be enough?

Also, if anyone has seen any set ups similar to these (hot, belt-driven, electric start, skid mounts, etc). What kind of prices were they asking for them? I have not talked prices with this guy yet and I want to go him with a resonable dollar estimation.

One more thing, if have seen any set ups like these what brand and type of motor were they using? I know Hondas small motors stop at 20 HP and Briggs and Stratton's Vangaurds go to 22. Thanks alot.


PS. I placed this post in the equipment help section by mistake if you happened to read it twice..sorry.
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[Hotwaterwizard]

Hmm this looks like double vision. I already answered this post on the problem board.

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Hotwaterwizard@aol.com If You have a problem with your machine, just ask me for help. Check out the Machine Problem Board

 

[Dave Olson]

Keep in mind if you elect to go with higher pressures (above 5000 psi) all of your fittings, hoses, etc would need to be upgraded!

I suggest that you stay with equipment in the 3000 psi range. Higher flow rates can be a problem keeping supplied with water, and maintaining high temperatures. Suggest that you consider a burner output around 1,000,000 BTU and water storage of 1000-1500 gallons. If you want higher performance 8-12 gpm is the way to go!

This link will take you to a picture of our primary unit. http://www.tps-inc.com/tpsredsm.jpg Produces 3000 psi, 9 gpm, 750,000 BTU boiler, 1000 gallon water storage.

Dave Olson

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Tidy Powerwash Service, Inc. P.O. Box 781, Catlin, Illinois 61817 Phone 217-427-5557, Fax 217-427-2632 We are a commercial cleaning contractor serving East-Central Illinois and West Central Indiana since 1984. http://www.tps-inc.com/preswash.htm