Gardner Denver’s Ultima compressor continues to set high benchmark in oil-free technology

09 October, 2018

Gardner Denver comments that when considering other models available, a major drawback that traditional two-stage oil-free compressors have is the reliance on a gearbox. The company adds that not only do these consume large amounts of energy, but they also require high volumes of oil to lubricate the gears.

In contrast, the CompAir Ultima compressor has been engineered with two highly-efficient, permanent magnetic motors that replace the traditional gearbox design. These two, variable-speed motors are capable of achieving speeds of up to 22,000 RPM and efficiencies greater than IE4, which directly drive the airend without the need for a gearbox.

Furthermore, while conventional models still use oil to lubricate and cool both a system’s motors and airends, Ultima uses water in a closed-loop circuit to cool these components. This allows greater heat transfer and cooling efficiencies, as well as ensuring as little oil as possible is used in the system for assured air purity. Water-cooling also places less stress on these components, limiting the opportunity for any maintenance issues that might otherwise arise during the compressor’s lifetime and reducing servicing costs.

Ultima is offered as standard from 75kW to 160kW, with each unit fully upgradeable between this kilowatt range. This means that if a site’s energy demands increase in the future, customers can choose the optimal Ultima variant based on the increased capacity. There is no need to purchase a new compressor, eliminating the associated downtime or delivery wait that comes with upgrading to a new system.

Space optimisation

Emitting a quiet noise level of only 69 db(A) and a particularly small footprint available for an oil-free model, Ultima can be installed easily at the point of use, rather than in a separate compressor room. Ultima’s highly-efficient internal cooling also means adjacent compressors can be sited close to one another, optimising the space available.

David Bruchof, product manager for Industrial Compressors at Gardner Denver, said: “Launched only last year, our Ultima compressor has been installed on sites around the world, quickly establishing itself as a proven and trusted oil-free technology from the CompAir brand. There is no question that Ultima continues to deliver high levels of air quality and purity, due to its highly innovative design and the fact that so many conventional models still rely on the traditional gearbox and single motor set-up.

“Supported by our six-year, PureCare warranty, which is completely free of charge, users can rest assured that they have selected an oil-free compressor that will save considerable cost and deliver high operational efficiencies.

“For those operating in production sensitive environments, such as the food and beverage industry, electronics manufacturing or pharmaceuticals sector, you need to be confident that you can invest in a system that offers assured air quality and purity. Ultima meets this need and continues to drive the oil-free compressed air market forward.”

www.gardnerdenver.com/industrials