Abrasives Recycling: How to save costs and resources when waterjet cutting

The STM OneClean system with a module for fully automatic recycling of abrasive sand makes waterjet cutting systems even more profitable and at the same time, more sustainable.

Eben. Waterjet cutting systems need water and abrasive sand to operate. The latter is the biggest variable cost factor in waterjet cutting and a scarce resource. Waterjet cutting systems manufacturer STM identified the potential here and developed the OneClean modular system for the protection of this natural resource. The abrasives recycling module of the OneClean system makes it possible to recycle more than half of the garnet for additional cutting tasks. That saves procurement, disposal and transportation costs, which make amortisation possible within about 3 - 5 years at an approx. annual abrasive consumption of 50 tons. "We are delighted that the system has not only captured the imagination of our customers but also that of the expert panel for the Austrian State Prize for Innovation," says STM`s CEO Jürgen Moser. The STM OneClean system has been nominated for the ECONOVIUS 2018 AWARD by which means especially innovative accomplishments by Austrian SMEs are honoured. Interested parties can partake in in-depth discussions on the STM stand no. A16 in hall 1A at the Cutting World in Essen from 17. - 19. April 2018, experience live cutting presentations and get information or an initial consultation any time at www.stm.at.

The recycling technology

Using a patented process, a specific hydrofilter screens out coarse and fine fractions from the used abrasive into the collection tank of the basic module whereby too coarse or too fine constituents are discharged.

The used abrasive is dried energy-efficiently and automatically mixed with new abrasive from the abrasive container in order to ensure high abrasive quality. With this system and depending on quality and cutting speed, up to 55% of the used abrasive can be reused. The expenditure of energy required for recycling the abrasive is at 3-6 kW minimal. "Cutting quality remains the same compared to new abrasive", says Jürgen Moser. "That not only protects the environment, but also the budget".

Abrasive recycling is one of five linked modules of the OneClean system. The system can be put into operation with a small investment and expanded as required at any time. Without exception all modules are high-quality branded components which have been jointly developed with STM. A consistently solid construction as well as central frame of stainless steel and panelling of aluminium, guarantee the highest wear resistance and mechanical resilience.

Space-saving and compatible

Unlike competition in the USA, the STM OneClean system stays so compact that it can be used directly at customers' plants even if they are using a system from an external contractor. All modules are built to take up the smallest possible space and the energy consumption is five times less than that of comparable systems. By this means STM is able to demonstrate clearly that cost efficiency is by no means a contradiction in terms of sustainable and environmentally compatible operating methods.

Nominated for Innovation Award

The thrill of anticipation of 22 March 2018 at the waterjet cutting system manufacturer is considerable since that is when The Austrian Federal Economic Chamber will be presenting the special ECONOVIUS award to the most innovative small and medium enterprise (SME) as part of the state awards presentation. With the nomination STM was able to prevail against numerous candidates with respect to innovation level and entrepreneurial performance and thus ranks throughout the country as one of the most innovative enterprises in Austria.

STM is a leading provider of waterjet cutting systems with its head office in Eben, Austria and Schweinfurt, Germany. For more than 25 years, the traditional company has developed future-proof production solutions, mainly for the steel, aluminium, metal, plastic, stone and glass industries, which are most notable for their efficiency, ease of use and resistance to wear. Alongside future-proof technology and quality as standard, STM places great emphasis on innovative full service. In so doing, the brand manufacturer ensures that its individual manufacturing processes are continually matched to the latest requirements of its customers.

STM Waterjet Germany, formerly Maximator JET, has been the development and sales location in Germany since 1999. The company focuses on developing and realising highly specialised waterjet cutting systems for all kinds of special applications here. The company STM stands for pioneering production solutions and unlimited individualization options.