Atlas Copco compressor offers improved efficiency

Published: 12-Jun-2018

The new Atlas Copco oil-free VSD compressor offers up to 10% more output, 15% lower energy consumption and 25% less floor-space compared with other VSD compressors


To illustrate the vast potential of the technology, Atlas Copco recently performed live field tests with a number of customers. This included leading Italian-beer brand Peroni, who trialled a ZR 160 kW VSD+ oil-free compressor for over 6000 running hours at its production site in Padova, Italy.

Atlas Copco has launched the ZR 90-160 VSD+, a new range of oil-free rotary screw air compressors. The range has been designed for applications in the food and beverage, electronics and pharmaceutical industries, which require oil-free air to guarantee product integrity and quality.

The water-cooled ZR 90-160 VSD+ is housed in a soundproof, enclosed canopy and equipped with two high-efficiency permanent magnet motors, plus a new state-of-the-art compressor element and cooler design.

The rotatory screw air compressors offer up to 10% more flow and up to 15% less energy consumption compared with other VSD compressors, as well as a 25% reduction in floor-space.

The ZR 90-160 VSD+ compressor incorporates two permanent magnet motors, each independently driving the low and high-pressure compression elements. The speed of the elements is controlled using Atlas Copco’s NEOS variable speed drive (VSD) technology.

The NEOS drive and motors are designed and manufactured by Atlas Copco to ensure a perfect match and optimal performance. The reliable IP66 water-cooled permanent magnet motors contain oil-lubricated bearings to ensure a long maintenance-free lifetime. Moreover, all service parts are grouped together for ease of access for a minimal service time.

Mark Ranger, business line manager at Atlas Copco Compressors UK Oil-free division, said: “Following years of intensive R&D we are proud to unveil our latest leap forward in oil-free compressor technology. Not only does the innovative dual-motor concept enhance energy efficiency and output by up to 15 and 10% respectively, but there is the optional benefit of having an integrated, guaranteed -40°C pressure dew-point dryer that offers almost zero energy consumption."

He continued: "This full feature package will offer users true peace of mind, reduced installation materials and a through-life cost of ownership investment lower than any comparable oil-free compressor available today.”

Atlas Copco’s data monitoring programme ‘SMARTLINK’ is also integrated as standard in the new range. This remote monitoring system provides analysis of the whole compressed air system, advises users on how they can reduce energy costs and can predict preventive maintenance interventions to avoid potential downtime.

ZR oil-free air compressor installation with desiccant dryer

As an added benefit, the redesigned cooler incorporates an efficient water separator. Parallel water flow optimises cooling of the motor, element and the cooler itself. Meanwhile, enlarged stainless steel surface coolers improve cooling efficiency and ensure optimum performance over a long lifetime.

All components in the compressor element, such as the rotor profiles, smart inlet and rotor coating have been enhanced for maximum efficiency and durability, and ensure a guaranteed supply of Class 0 oil-free air.

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