Sustainable productivity solutions provider Atlas Copco enhances its low emission, low noise E-Air solutions with electric fixed-speed and variable-speed drive (VSD) compressors.

Throughout 2019, Atlas Copco will be introducing two additional fixed-speed – the E-Air T400 and the E-Air T500 to add to its fixed-speed E-Air T900 – and three new electric VSD air compressors to its E-Air range, which includes the E-Air H 250 and H 450 as well as the E-Air V 1100, covering all air demands from 250 to 1 100 cf/min.

Best-in-class efficiency at partial load is driven by the integrated VSD-driven permanent magnet electric motor which, compared with the fixed-speed electric compressor that needs a startup current peak requires only low power for startup. “This means that there is no need to oversize the power supply nor the pneumatic tools,” notes Atlas Copco power technique business line manager David Stanford.

The new VSD E-Air range’s Pressure Adjusted through Cognitive Electronics system enables users to control the pressure between five and 12 bars in precise 0.1 bar increments, thus assisting them to adjust the flow to the optimal level required for their application. “Therefore, one compressor can handle various jobs that previously would have required multiple compressors,” notes Stanford.

Further, the smart socket system on the E-Air H 250 VSD model provides end-users with the flexibility to use the same machine with the 16, 32 and 63 A outlet sockets.

The E-Air range provides a reliable flow of compressed air without any diesel emissions. The absence of emissions makes the E-Air range a match for work zones that demand low emissions such as underground applications like mining or tunnelling. As air ventilation is a part of these industries’ running costs, the efficient zero-emission VSD electric range will contribute to reduced operational costs.

Additionally, the end-users can be rest assured they are in line with emission regulations not only today but also in the future. With the ability to operate as quietly as 61 dB(A) which is a lower level than a conversation, the new VSD E-Air H 250 is ideal for environments such as residential areas or enclosed spaces such as subways, tunnels or mines that require low noise levels. The VSD E-Air range is also equipped as standard with an after-cooler, providing high-quality air for applications like sandblasting, explains Stanford.

He notes that, from a reliability point of view, Atlas Copco has designed the IP65-rated VSD E-Air range for tough working environments with features, including potted motor windings to prevent dust and water ingression while the proven HardHat canopy for the VSD E-Air H 250 and 450 and three-layer anti-corrosion paint system provide solid protection.

A water-cooled drive and a single-sheet steel, non-welded undercarriage further adds to the ruggedness of this mobile electric VSD range. The standard spillage-free frame offers complete fluid containment.

“These features not only protect the end-user’s investment but also ensure that they have a reliable compressed air source for their application,” adds Stanford.

The VSD E-Air compressors are smaller and lighter than equivalent diesel air compressors; the EAir H 250 weighs less than 750 kg.

“The plug-and-play electric-powered mobile air compressors are all about convenience. There is no need for refuelling and the electric motors require no servicing, while the compressor requires minimum service levels of only once every two years or 2 000 hours.”

The versatile VSD E-Air range is perfect for backup applications, temporary extensions of compressed air systems, or to provide reliable compressed airflow when a stationary compressor installation is undergoing maintenance.

The new electric-powered compressors are in step with Atlas Copco’s new sustainable portable air, power and flow equipment and were unveiled earlier this year at Bauma – a trade fair for construction, machinery and mining machinery that was held in Germany. The compressors reduce operational expenditure through enhanced clean drive technology, connectivity and versatility, Stanford says.

Further, alongside the new fixed-speed and VSD electric mobile compressors, the company has also updated its existing diesel air compressor portfolio through cutting-edge technologies, ensuring that its entire compressor portfolio complies with the latest diesel emission regulations.

Meanwhile, the new E-Air offerings are launched against the backdrop of a successful 2018 which saw the launch of product innovations like the 8 Series Utility and DrillAir compressors with PACE technology that delivers improved efficiencies, highlights Stanford.

“From enhanced efficiency to improved noise levels and no diesel engine emissions, the benefits of going electric within specific applications cannot be overstated. The new VSD electric compressor range is a game changer when it comes to clean drive technology for rough and dusty environments like underground tunnelling and mining,” says Atlas Copco portable air division VP Hendrik Timmermans