Hydraulic pumps are one of the essential components in countless vehicles and machines used daily all around the world and across various industries, such as agriculture, industrial, automotive, and earth-moving equipment.
We’ve already shared the case in which our pumps and motors were used to build two conifer cutting machines for the Christmas tree market.
Today, however, we want to tell you about what is probably the most unusual and original project we’ve ever been involved in: Andrew Morris’ project. Morris is a former British hydraulic engineer with a passion for engines who, in 2017, contacted us about a pump for his jet engine go-kart project. His goal: to break the world speed record for vehicles in this category. What surprised us the most at the time wasn’t just the idea itself, but the fact that Morris was developing a jet engine in his own garage!
The request then and now: Vivoil hydraulic pumps with very specific features
Morris needed a hydraulic pump with very specific requirements. And when we asked him why he chose one of our components, this was his reply:
“I chose a Vivoil pump for several reasons. As a former hydraulic engineer, having worked in hydraulics for many years I became familiar with your products during that time. I was always impressed by their exceptional build quality, not to mention their unique, colorful design––they truly showcase your commitment to making them both functional and visually appealing.
Your website also played a role in this decision. Unlike many others, which can be overly complicated, your site is straightforward and efficient, providing all the necessary information without any unnecessary frills. This made the selection process smooth and hassle-free. When it came time to select a pump for my project, the choice was clear.”
The Vivoil pump selected in 2017 during preliminary testing.
Thanks to the help of his partner Myra Roberts, who assisted him during the go-kart construction and road testing, and with Tom Bagnall – a mechanical engineer and passionate driver – behind the wheel, Morris achieved his goal. On September 5, 2017, he set the world speed record for jet-powered go-karts – 112.29 mph (180.72 km/h) – earning a place in the 2019 Guinness World Records!
Over time, the record was broken, and Morris came back with a new project – Project 175 – and the same goal he had in 2017: to reclaim the world title.
Recently, he got back in touch with us for help with this new adventure and to request two Vivoil hydraulic pumps. And of course, we gladly accepted!
“My new project aims to set another world record with a jet-propelled go-kart – an evolution of an earlier version that has already been successful. But this time, it is not only a matter of speed: it will be the world’s most powerful homemade jet, and the first to use 3D stainless steel printing”
Morris’ new request was very clear:
“One pump, mated to a 3-phase RC motor, will be used for the oil system. It will serve as the main oil supply for the jet engine, with an advanced oil control system regulated by the engine’s running P2 pressure. This setup is similar to the system used on the 2017 world record go-kart.
The other will be used for the main fuel supply. Initially, I had tried using a pump from another manufacturer, but given the significant fuel amount and pressure, it was no longer adequate. Yours, instead, will perfectly meet these new demands.”
The solution: two Vivoil X0P1312BCBA hydraulic pumps
Morris had already identified two of our X0P1312BCCA pumps. However, we didn’t have the version with an enlarged outlet port, because the main concern is with the inlet – to prevent cavitation issues – while on the outlet side, it’s better to leave more material, to keep a higher mechanical resistance. So we proposed a custom model:
X0P1312BCBA with the following specifications:
- XV0P/2.30 – Ø22 BH /D – CF001
- 3/8″ BSP – 1/4″ BSP
This is a version of our Group 0 unidirectional hydraulic pumps with a displacement of 2.28 cm³/rev, a maximum operating pressure of 190 bar, and a peak pressure of 210 bar. The minimum operating speed of the pump is 700 rpm, while the maximum speed reaches 5000 rpm.
Project 175 is underway, and we can’t wait to see the go-kart in action
We thank Andrew Morris for the trust he has placed in our components and for choosing us once again for his project. We are eagerly awaiting the first tests and are confident he’ll once again succeed in his mission!
Are you looking for a hydraulic component for a special or custom application? Contact us, we will be happy to help you find the product that best suits your needs.