Atlas Copco’s B-Air compressor is the newest eco-friendly piece of machinery set to revolutionise the roads and infrastructure industry with powerful, portable air.
There is a new electric air compressor on the market, which hopes to transform how the roads and infrastructure industry uses air compressors on site.
The Atlas Copco B-Air has been tipped as the world’s first mobile screw compressor powered by a battery.
David Buttigieg, Brand Leader for Atlas CEA, says this means operators will be able to use the B-Air in sensitive environments and urban areas, where strict noise and pollution regulations need to be adhered to.
“With a low noise level of 61 decibels at seven metres, it can deliver a full working shift of operation under typical conditions on a single charge, so it doesn’t hamper the ability to complete tasks,” he says. “It also removes the challenge of having to adhere to strict timeframes or environmental conditions when completing larger jobs.”
The B-Air has been crafted with autonomy at the forefront, ensuring the machine can run for long periods of time without requiring a recharge.
Key features
Buttigieg says the B-Air presents a suitable solution for the roads and infrastructure sector, given the industry’s increased focus on sustainability and operational efficiency.
“Making the switch from an internal combustion engine to an electric motor brings with it several benefits, including no local emissions being produced,” says Buttigieg.
The B Air saves 140 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions, which is equivalent to the yearly use of about 30 passenger cars.
“With zero local emissions and significantly reduced noise levels, it directly addresses stringent environmental and occupational health and safety (OHS) requirements, particularly in enclosed or sensitive areas,” says Buttigieg.
“It is not only the way of the future, but more and more becoming a requirement to offer sustainable solutions, which is in turn driving industry behaviour.”
The B-Air is equipped with a 57-kilowatt-per-hour (KW/H) lithium-ion battery for emission-free operation.
Buttigieg says lithium-ion batteries are recognised in the industry for their versatility and high efficiency.
“This makes them suitable for a diverse range of applications due to their high energy density, relatively low self-discharge rate and lack of memory effect, making them suitable for electronics,” he says.
“One of the most notable advantages of lithium-ion batteries is their ability to withstand numerous charge and discharge cycles without significant degradation in capacity.”
Other batteries can experience a rapid decline in performance after a limited number of cycles.
However, Buttigieg says lithium-ion batteries can withstand hundreds of cycles while maintaining optimum performance, making them a clear choice for the B-Air.
Buttigieg says efficient design and reduced number of parts guarantees extra durability and peace of mind for operators, while extended intervals between regular maintenance grant savings on operating costs.
“The triple-enclosed, liquid-cooled battery pack and the overall rugged construction are critical for ensuring durability in the face of dust, moisture, and temperatures changes found on site,” he says.
“It also drastically reduces downtime and maintenance because the B-Air electric motor has far fewer moving – and therefore wearing – parts compared to a diesel engine compressor.
“It only needs service every 2000 hours, as opposed to 500 hours for a diesel engine unit.”
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The B-Air has a range of safety features including PACE (Pressure Adjusted through Cognitive Electronics) technology.
This technology allows the compressor to have an adjustable working pressure from five to 12 bar (72-175 pounds per square inch).
Buttigieg says the PACE feature optimises the output specific to the task, reducing unnecessary strain on the compressor.
“While a regular compressor is limited to a certain pressure and flow rate, the B-Air can be used for a variety of applications, including running as a handheld tool, for sandblasting, or for cable blowing,” he says.
At the core of the air compressor is a Variable Speed Drive (VSD), a permanent magnet motor which helps achieve the exceptional efficiency Atlas Copco air compressors are known for.
Buttigieg says the VSD enables operators to match the motor speed to the air demand, ensuring it is not working overtime, all while remaining stable during operation.
“A triple enclosure for the battery not only protects critical components but eliminates the risk of potential hazards in and around the compressor,” he says.
“The motor is also sealed from water and dust to further deliver consistent and dependable performance and ensure uninterrupted operations.”
Both the motor and NEOS Xtreme inverter are unique Atlas Copco designs that have been specifically developed to thrive in the most challenging environments.
The NEOS Xtreme is part of Atlas Copco’s series of oil-injected screw compressors, typically designed for harsh mining conditions.
Buttigieg says the NEOS Xtreme is a game changer due to its design for operators to get the most out of the battery.
“These designs allow the B-Air compressor to operate reliably in a wide range of temperatures, ranging from -25 degrees Celsius to 45 degrees Celsius, as well as dusty or wet environments,” he says.
“This makes the B-Air a highly versatile solution for various industries and applications, regardless of the environmental rigors.”
This article was originally published in the June edition of our magazine. To read the magazine, click here.
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