November/ December 2021

COMPRESSED AIR 60 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS November/December 2021 www.hpmag.co.uk and technically advanced, asymmetric compression element. The IP55 motor was designed in-house with special attention to cooling requirements and efficiency. With no coupling or gears between the motor and screw element the compressors are exceptionally quiet, 73dB (A) in operation and extremely energy-efficient in performance. The vertical aspect drive train of the VSD+ machines is a closed circuit in which both the motor and the element is cooled with oil, thus contributing additional energy savings. Added to this is an impressive 6% increase in free air delivery for improved efficiency and performance, plus a reduction in the compressors’ total lifecycle costs in the order of 37%. Smart communication The importance of connectivity with advanced monitoring and control systems is an area that is becoming increasingly important because it not only makes the compressor easier to operate but also increases both efficiency and reliability. For example, Atlas Copco’s VSD+ compressors come with a high- tech Elektronikon Touch controller and the optional SMARTLINK monitoring system. In combination, these features make it possible to optimise a compressor remotely from just about anywhere on the planet using only a computer or even a mobile device. That makes compressed air production even more efficient (and greener). In addition, the system anticipates potential issues and alerts the operator before they become problems, which further increases uptime. Technology of the future The entire manufacturing sector is in the midst of a major technological revolution. The move toward connectivity and digitalisation in the era of Industry 4.0 is now a reality rather than a distant future. Atlas Copco uses OPC UA communication technology in compressors. OPC UA is the common language that allows equipment to ‘speak’ with each other. It is technology that ensures that an operation runs smoothly by making sure that every item of equipment can effortlessly communicate with every other device. Because a compressor is too important not to be part of a networked production operation, Atlas Copco has released its first series of compressors that speak this universal language and has assured compressor users that in the future it will be possible to install this technology retroactively and enjoy all its benefits. Atlas Copco comments that the possibilities the new connectivity offers will completely change manufacturing as we know it. The company adds that, in the world of compressed air, it is the biggest thing since VSD compressors redefined energy efficiency and changed the industry forever. www.atlascopco.co.uk/compressors Doosan Portable Power has launched a new range of small portable compressors for the European market, offering four new models with free air deliveries from 2.5 to 5.0 m³/min (90- 180 cfm) and designed with a focus on simplicity, durability, reliability and transportability. About 70% of the EU portable compressor market is represented by machines between 2.0 and 5.0 m3/min. The main European markets are the UK, GAS (Germany, Austria and Switzerland), France and Benelux (Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg), which together represent more than 70% of the industry covering many sectors including rental, construction, utilities, demolition and general industry. Doosan Portable Power has very strong sales in this region and is one of the top three players in the market. In the new small compressors, the first number in the model name indicates the pressure in bar, the second number represents nominal air flow in cubic metres per minute, while the number 5 at the end indicates a Stage V compliant engine. There are three models operating at 7 bar nominal pressure - the new Stage V Yanmar- powered 7/25, 7/45 and 7/55 with outputs of 2.5, 4.0 and 5.0 m³/min (90, 140 and 180 cfm), respectively. The small compressor range is completed by the new 14/35 higher pressure model providing 3.0 m³/min (105 cfm) of compressed air at 13.8 bar. More environmentally friendly compressors Jan Moravec, general manager, Doosan Portable Power for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, says: “The design complexity required for the implementation of the latest Stage V engines led us to completely rethink the design of the small compressor range, while maintaining the well accepted, superior durability of our products, improving the serviceability and fulfilling all possible transportability requirements, at the same time as expanding our focus on environmentally friendlier solutions. “As a result, like in our larger compressor ranges, a leak-free bunded base is now fully integrated into the bottom frame of the new small compressors and includes the central drains for all fluids. For the Stage V units with electronic control, we have also introduced the option of the ECOmizer feature, which reduces emissions, noise and fuel consumption.” Compressors with a fresh new look and features Michele Corsi, product manager, Doosan Portable Power, adds: “The most immediate, noticeable change in the 7/25, 7/45, 7/55 and 14/35 Stage V units is the new dynamic and modern appearance, thanks to an updated design, bringing a fresh new look. The success of the previous Tough Top (polymer) canopies has led Doosan Portable Power to offer this solution as standard. The new easy-to-open canopy creates a fantastic line with the newly designed polymer mudguards and bumpers. The newly integrated LED lights are also offered as standard for all the machines. And of course, the long- standing metal canopy versions will still be available to customers as an option.” All portable compressors are equipped with unbraked or fully braked running gear, both available in fixed and variable height configurations. www.doosanportablepower.eu Small stage V compressors from Doosan Portable Power