SmartLink 2.0 remote monitoring system is a perfect example of Atlas Copco’s commitment to assisting customers in achieving optimum machine performance by developing ever-more advanced technologies and innovative products.

“Knowing the status of your compressed air equipment at all times and being able to timeously react on it is the surest way to achieve optimal air efficiency and maximum availability,” asserts Max Larue, Business Line Manager at Compressor Technique Service Division. “For any factory to be ‘smart’ it requires data. But data alone is not enough. Data must be analysed so that meaningful feedback can be generated and results extracted, enabling operators to take the necessary actions. By connecting all compressed air equipment throughout the factory, the performance of the entire installation is optimised.

The all-in SmartLink connectivity platform is a web portal that actively monitors all the available data points on the Atlas Copco compressed air equipment. This cutting-edge, tailored programme tracks all the vital signs, self-diagnoses the machines, makes intelligent assessments and translates it to clear insights. SmartLink is able to gather, compare and analyse live data via the easy-to-install, integrated, wireless Smartbox with 24/7 connectivity. The data from all the installations is then automatically uploaded to one server in the cloud. An air compressor audit is provided by AIRScan complete with customised reports that uncover potential energy savings as well as potential problems and makes recommendations on how to improve the energy efficiency of the compressor room. Through SmartLink Energy, the compressed air installation’s energy consumption can be conveniently followed up via an easy-to-read dashboard. Uniquely based on the actual working conditions of a customer’s factory, the energy recommendations present real opportunities to improve air system efficiency which can assist customers in realising potential savings of up to 30%!

Also part of the SmartLink 2.0 solution is Smart AIRnet sensors such as smart pressure, flow meter and dew point sensors that can be added to the customer’s air net installation. Connected with SmartLink, this solution gathers this valuable information throughout the factor and offers recommendations on how to improve the performance of the entire air system.

Regular on-time service is fundamental to optimum machine efficiency, reliability, and life cycle. The SmartLink service timeline indicates the service needs of every machine as well as planned visits, enabling customers to do efficient service planning and parts handling. The added values here are more hours of machine uptime and subsequent boosted production. So SmartLink essentially takes service to the next level by making us better at supporting our customers,” notes Larue.

“In line with of our drive to keep on innovating and make life even easier for our customers, we have gone a step further. We have developed a SmartLink app that is focused on placing key information right in the palm of our customers’ hands.” This customisable, free mobile app highlights the key operational status of the customer’s compressed air installation and provides quick and easy access to air compressor manuals and service history. Moreover, push notifications enable customers to keep their compressed air systems in optimal condition. Customers are now able to receive invaluable insights into their compressed air system’s performance from actionable dashboards by combining the SmartLink portal and mobile app.

It takes five minutes to register and set up the SmartLink app dashboard. Any Atlas Copco machine can be added by serial number through this app and what is more, machines don't have to be connected to access all available information. However, it is recommended that customers connect their machines to the SmartLink cloud to get the most out of SmartLink.

By prompting timeous action, this fully integrated solution from Atlas Copco maximises uptime, reduces the risk of catastrophic failures, improves the overall efficiency and health of the machines helping customers to realise lowest total cost of compressed air system ownership for ultimate business sustainability.