Technical Press release May 2008Leading compressor manufacturer, CompAir, has completely redesigned its 90 kW to 132 kW oil-injected screw compressors, to deliver a high-end range of machines that addresses operators key concerns for reduced cost of ownership.
“Using the design principles already well proven in our 30 kW to 75 kW ranges, we looked carefully at how we could improve each area of the existing units and have delivered a range of compressors that is better in every way - including a new compact footprint, reengineered components, increased air output and reduced parts’ and maintenance requirements.”
There are four models in the new range: L90, L110, L132 and L132 SR variable speed unit, delivering capacities from 17.45 to 22.87 m3/min and pressures of 7.5, 10 and 13 bar. CompAir is also planning to launch another variable speed model in the near future.
Richard Hilton continues, “With rising energy costs being a major concern for customers across the globe, we considered the products’ lifecycle costs at every stage of development, incorporating specific features and components that would improve energy usage, reduce maintenance downtime and parts’ costs and deliver better overall performance. The result is a range of gear driven machines that deliver up to 15 % more air output with a lower CO2 burden improving the compressors’ environmental credentials too.”
Improved energy usage
A compressor’s electricity usage can be up to 80% of the machine’s total operating costs and owners are keen to use technologies that can reduce the overall energy consumption. The new range of compressors provide a minimum 15 % increase in air volume flow with greater energy efficiency than the previous models, and also uses CompAir’s new gear drive, which increases reliability and efficiency even further.
Customers can gain maximum energy efficiency improvements with the L132 SR variable speed machine, which can reduce running costs by 25% on average. This compressor uses an innovative Switched Reluctance (SR) drive that varies the speed of the compressor according to air demand and could give a minimum saving of at least €15,000 running at 4000 hours a year, based on average energy costs.
Typical variable-speed compressors uses a frequency inverter and a high-speed AC induction motor, but this can affect overall machine performance by increasing heat and noise. The SR unit’s motor design has low energy losses, meaning that the components run cool continuously, for better energy efficiency.
Easier maintenance
The combination of innovative component design, a 20% reduction in parts and excellent accessibility to all areas of the machines makes the new range of compressors easier to service and more cost-effective to operate.
The Alpha Air End EK230 has an integrated oil filter and thermostatic valve, limiting the number of tubes and hoses that would otherwise require routine replacement. Higher reliability is also achieved with fewer points of leakage and the unit design means that there is greater space for cooling air to circulate, to prolong its life.
All major components are arranged to enable maintenance engineers easy access for routine servicing, helping to reduce equipment downtime. Specific attention has been paid to the oil separator, which includes a hinged cover and also an easy-view oil-level indicator.
Intelligent design
At just 3.2 m2, the new compressors have an exceptionally small foot print, meaning they can take up to one third less floors pace than comparable models, making them ideal for installations where space is at a premium. The low speed air-end, radial fan and a noise damper at the cooling air inlet also ensure that the machines run quietly, with low noise levels starting from 73 dB (A) on the L90 model.
To help companies get consistently high performance from their new compressor, CompAir provides its well-known Assure™ free extended warranty scheme on all models.
Unlike typical yearly-based warranties, Assure™ is based on the number of compressor running hours and is provided free-of-charge for up to 44,000 hours operating time. Assure™ is designed to protect the customer’s investment by ensuring that scheduled maintenance is carried out by CompAir’s network of authorised service providers, using genuine CompAir spare parts and lubricants.
About CompAir CompAir is a leading global manufacturer of compressed air and gas solutions providing quality, reliable, highly efficient compressors for a broad range of applications, including general industry, offshore, oil-free, construction and CNG refuelling. With an extensive network of dedicated sales companies and distributors across six continents, CompAir offers global expertise with a truly local service capability.
About J&J Pneumatics J&J Pneumatics are the largest and longest established independent CompAir distributor and service company in the UK. We provide companies with energy saving Compressed air and Vacuum solutions for a wide range industries and applications.
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For more information on CompAir’s new L90, L110, L132 and L132 SR compressors,
Customer Service 01494 530291 Visit www.jjp.co.uk
