Compressors give better air quality and energy efficiency

Atlas Copco has redesigned and upgraded its popular fixed-speed compressor, the GA 11+-30 and the variable-speed version, the GA 15-30 VSD. To better match air flow to customers' requirements and eliminate the need to oversize, Atlas Copco has released a 26kW model that is also available with the new-generation VSD introduced with the launch. This range of small GA+/GA VSD compressors is used in a variety of applications and industries including workshops, assembly, packaging, automotive, woodworking, printing, textiles, construction materials manufacturing, plastics production and moulding and oil and gas activities.

More air for less energy

Greater Free Air Delivery means that customers can select smaller compressors for the same applications, saving money and energy. All of the models in the GA+/GA VSD ranges are said to offer world-class FAD (the only exception concerns the GA 30, which, depending on customer requirements, is sometimes replaced by the entry-level model of the GA 30-45 range). Atlas Copco's engineering breakthroughs are claimed to have increased FAD of the GA+ by at least 7 per cent and even up to 17 per cent compared to the previous GA models. For the GA VSD, the improvement spans from 9-24 per cent.

Customers wishing to calculate the increased FAD resulting from the choice of a new Atlas Copco GA 11+-30 / GA 15-30 VSD model, or who would like more information, can consult the brochure at propali.atlascopco.be/propali/downloadlit.asp?ProID=117&Lng=EN.

Energy consumption

Specific Energy Requirement (SER) is the true measure of how much electricity a compressor will use. With improvements of 3-11 per cent for the GA+ and 11-13 per cent for the GA VSD, the newly launched compressors are considered to have one of the best SERs achievable today.

Energy consumption can be reduced even further in the full-feature version by integrating the dryer in the unit.

The new-generation technology of the variable speed drive (VSD) increases performance, shows lower sensitivity to dust and achieves standard very low harmonic distortion. Energy savings of 35 per cent on average can be obtained by adopting a VSD model (instead of a GA+), resulting in faster payback times. Additionally, 80 per cent of the compressor's energy consumption can be recuperated (eg for water and air heating in industrial processes or for direct use on site) with the now standard option to connect an energy recovery system.

Smaller and quieter

Size and noise are both barriers to installing compressors closer to where air is used. The further away they are installed, the more energy is lost through pressure drops. Pressure drops of just 0.5bar(e) with a 22kW machine are equivalent to the electricity consumption of one household. With a very small footprint, each of the new GA+/GAVSD models in this range now requires less space. They are characterised by lower noise levels, with the GA 11+ as quiet as 63dBA. All enhancements have a direct positive impact in workshop environments by improving operator comfort.

The new and improved graphical Elektronikon raises Atlas Copco's standards in control and monitoring. The re-engineered GA+/GA VSD is the first compressor range to be equipped with this user-friendly controller developed by Atlas Copco engineers. Its control algorithms save energy by operating the compressor at optimal levels while the advanced timers optimise servicing intervals.

Energy consumption is further reduced by the Patented Saver Cycles that control both the fan and optional dryer.

Follow the link for more information about Atlas Copco's lubricated compressors including the new models described above.