Powering the future of global industry

15 May, 2018

Under the theme ‘Powering the Future’, Atlas Copco explained how its latest advances in air, power and flow technologies – such as portable compressed air machinery, electrical generators, dewatering pumps and light towers – have been designed to reduce both carbon and noise emissions, providing end users with more efficient operation and lower cost of ownership.

The company said these advances will allow professionals working across multiple industry sectors – from construction to manufacturing, equipment rental, utilities, oil and gas, demolition and above-ground mining – to make the most of opportunities presented by mega-trends, while overcoming forthcoming legislation such as new emission regulation changes.

Three pillars

Andrew Walker (pictured), president of the Atlas Copco Power Technique business area, commented: “Our core competency is providing power solutions to thousands of sites all over the world. We are now focused purely on three pillars – air, power and flow – and will continue to accelerate our research and NPD efforts in these areas to pioneer the technology of the future.”

A number of new and recently introduced machine, rental and service focused developments – designed to reduce both carbon and noise emissions, and increase energy efficiency –

were unveiled at the event, including a product display and strategy overview from the Power and Flow division, formed on 1 January this year.

The Power and Flow division said low-load operation problems are now a thing of the past due to the introduction of the new QAS 35 VSG Variable Speed Generator.

Solutions for Modular Power Plant (MPP) applications were presented, including the new QAC 1450 TwinPower; a 20 ft ISO containerised unit housing two compact 725 kVA generators. With noise pollution in public spaces a growing concern, Atlas Copco outlined how its new ultra-quiet, diesel-driven, LED light tower has been specifically designed for use in urban areas.

New safety and efficiency enhancements for light towers were also introduced. The HiLight B5+, and future light towers Atlas Copco produces, will be able to be equipped with a new innovation for light towers called the SmartMast. Dewatering pump technologies were also exhibited, including both electric submersible pumps and diesel-driven centrifugal machines.

Recent additions to the Atlas Copco family of submersible dewatering pumps were also shown. In particular, the company highlighted its WEDA+ range that recently underwent a top-to-toe design overhaul, resulting in several innovative new pumps that offer up to 20% overall reduction in power consumption compared to previous models; combined with greater efficiency, simplified maintenance and increased capacity.

The Portable Air division announced the forthcoming introduction of its E-Air 250 plug-and-play portable, electric-powered compressor with Variable Speed (VSD) drive. Focused on efficiency, the electric technology of the E-Air compressor is claimed to offer up to 40% greater flow for the same power consumption compared with conventional portable compressors.

The XATS 138 model was also on display. It provides a combination of efficiency and flexibility through its intuitive PACE pressure adjustment system that enables end users to precisely match air flow and pressure to their specific application needs. With the PACE (Pressure Adjusted through Cognitive Electronics) system, operating flow and pressure can be adjusted, in a matter of seconds, by increments of 0.1 bar via an intuitive XC2003 controller.

At the event, the Atlas Copco Speciality Rental division showcased the PTS 800 – part of its 100% guaranteed oil-free compressor range – that provides an optimised and reliable source of reliable compressed air for a wide variety of rental applications.

Connectivity and service

Over the past few years, manufacturers in the construction, mining and rental segments have experienced growing demand from end users for intelligent digital solutions capable of providing accurate and timely information. Being able to adapt and manage challenges on site is key, no matter how big or small a machine fleet is, and Atlas Copco commented that it recognises customers want to be closer to their jobsite, machines and teams.

As a result, the company has developed two smart connectivity solutions, FleetLink and Power Connect that give customers the information they need, in the palm of their hands, to increase productivity and make it easier to do business. FleetLink is an intelligent telematics system designed to optimise fleet usage, reduce maintenance costs and ultimately save time and money. It enables customers to remotely manage their machines, whether big or small, anytime and anywhere; with the latest fleet information always at hand. Power Connect is an online portal that enables customers to find specific information about Atlas Copco machinery. In February this year, the Power Connect App was introduced to make it even easier to access and share information.

www.atlascopcogroup.com