Hydraulics & Pneumatics January/February 2023

BOARDROOM REPORT 28 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS January/February 2023 www.hpmag.co.uk and these will optimise energy consumption even further; plus there will be developments in compressed air heat recovery technology,” he says. Atlas Copco has already started to offer smart compressed air systems and Rubinstein points out that this trend will continue. “Whether it’s compressors that can ‘talk’ to other machines with OPC UA or controllers that receive over-the-air- updates, remote monitoring systems that send alerts to the user, or central controllers that allow them to get the most out of their compressors, Atlas Copco is already offering the products of tomorrow today,” says Rubinstein. Jones makes the point that while it is not a new technological advancement, the need for air audits is almost certainly set to increase as operators look to optimise the energy performance of their compressors. “Often, these audits will highlight that retrofit options, such as installing heat recovery or more efficient dryer technologies, will make a positive contribution to energy efficiency, offering rapid payback,” she says. Elsewhere, innovative compressor design is incorporating more recyclable materials into the finished product, Jones explains. “For oil-lubricated compressors, reducing the amount of oil required results in less waste oil to dispose of, for example,” she says. “BCAS members also have a key role to play, by encouraging their customers to implement thorough service regimes, with increasing numbers offering preventative and even predictive maintenance options.” Butcher believes electronics, mechatronics, telematics and robotics will continue to play a bigger part in the industry. “Technology is moving forward with alternative propulsion systems,” he says. “Also, as we embrace the fact that battery-powered EV are not the only option – there is also hydrogen EV and hydrogen IC engine systems development in play – other industries will have to follow.” Loeffler points out that Jubilee Clips is not looking to diversify its products to any major degree. “Our current range of clips and customised alternatives have been well-established and successful for many years,” he says. “However, we are looking to tailor more products for specific market segments, such as marine. For this sector, we are looking to produce more clips made of marine grade aisi 316 stainless steel rather than with aisi 304, which is a standard stainless steel.” Schofield reminds us that pumps were first developed by the Egyptians around 2000 BC, and since then different types have been designed into just two main families – rotodynamic or positive displacement. “The technology within both these pump types is possibly at its manufacturing to breath and take stock as to what its own priorities are. “We do, however, need support from government and a re-look at industrial strategy and how the Shared Prosperity Fund will interface with the manufacturing sector would be very helpful,” he says. Cuthbert considers that in the microprocessor industry there is a steady souring and de-coupling between Western countries and China. “If this path continues, what does that mean for the fluid power supply chain and costs?” he asks. “Perhaps we are heading for two different economies working side by side, which are not competing or supplying so much to each other. This is both an opportunity for more local business but also a threat as selling into East Asia will be more difficult.” Circular economy and lifetime costs Sands believes increasing energy costs will force end users and then OEMs to better optimise their machine designs considering circular economy and lifetime costs, not only in terms of pounds but also CO2. “Engineers should be asking how much energy was expended in the manufacture of the parts of my machines and how can I optimise the overall CO2 consumption during use,” he says. “Digitalisation will support this, for example digital twin information will enable this information to be gathered and simulated during the design process. As digitalisation grows, we see a greater emphasis on highly flexible and transparent machine control architectures from high-level edge devices all the way down to basic actuators and sensors. Even ‘dumb’ devices will be integrated into smart systems using smart e-labels to communicate their digital twin data. Intelligent devices will become smarter to increase flexibility, with wireless commissioning, and in some cases operation, becoming more common.” Sands adds that the chopping and changing of ministers and policy since Brexit has created a lot of confusion and wastage for industry. “A prime example is the UKCA mark where initial deadlines have been followed by staggered postponements and easements,” he says. “Whilst these are cited as being made to help trade and industry, the reality is that the strategy wasn’t clear, and insufficient consultation was made prior to the trade agreement. The result is a two-speed response, penalising the companies that responded in good time to the legislation and rewarding those who didn’t. Companies need to be agile and resilient, but a background of financial and legislative clarity and stability makes it a lot easier to invest and grow.” peak, with only minor design changes taking place in recent years, mainly relating to efficiency levels,” he says. “The main developments have primarily revolved around how pumps are controlled, monitored, maintained, and made to operate more efficiently. This is through electrical devices such as inverters and pump system related software.” Protecting investment Mander reminds us that in the first quarter of 2022, short-term gas prices on the largest European exchange were five times higher than their 2021 average, and future markets are pricing European gas at up to three times its 2021 levels for at least the next three years. “However, we are advising compressed air users that action can be taken now to help protect their investments for the future,” he says. “I believe there is much that compressed air manufacturers can do to help customers during these difficult and uncertain times. We are all aware of the industry statistics around the energy usage of compressed air systems, but we can offer numerous products that can help reduce electricity costs.” Mander stresses that there are so many different ways that customers can lower their energy costs. He maintains that, working with BCAS, it is incumbent on all members to help customers through the current energy crisis with simple and effective energy-saving advice and product solutions. Mander explains that Ingersoll Rand is predicting an increased uptake in variable-speed drive technologies. “When compared with a fixed speed compressor, a variable speed model can achieve energy savings of up to 30%, and can help reduce power surges, avoiding peak currents from starting the compressor’s motor,” he says. Mander also expects more customers to undertake energy audits with Ingersoll Rand’s network of authorised distributors. “Whether it’s buying a new compressor or upgrading an existing system, a sensible starting point is to always undertake a full site energy audit,” he says. “This will establish current compressed air usage and costs, help identify air leaks to determine where energy is being lost and where cost savings could be made, and test air quality to ensure the compressed air generated meets the right standards. Not only does an energy audit help lower a business’ total cost of ownership, but it also helps reduce environmental impact too.” Wright reflects that we are so used to big geo-political disturbances now that a ‘less interesting’ year would allow a retrenchment to take place and allow UK