World-first battery-powered portable air compressor

Atlas Copco has unveiled what it hails as the first battery-operated portable screw compressor that incorporates variable speed drive (VSD) and pressure adjusted through cognitive electronics (PACE) technology.

The B-Air 185-12 is designed to be compact and portable, reliable, clean, with no local emissions, energy efficient and quiet. The compressor provides a working pressure of 5 bar to 12 bar (and free air delivery of 5.3 m3/min to 3.7 m3/min.

The 55 kWh battery can be connected to the grid or to a renewable power source. Once fully charged, the battery can power the machine for at least one full working shift in typical conditions and applications.

“Operators will be able to operate their pneumatic equipment during loadshedding, ensuring uninterrupted production and high productivity,” says Atlas Copco Power Technique Portable Products business line manager David Stanford.

The 37 kW permanent magnet (PM) motor is said to be exceptionally energy efficient and ultra-quiet. “VSD technology works best with rotary screw compressors as their flow rate and power consumption are virtually proportional to speed,” explains Stanford. “The rotary screw elements adapt in sync with the motor so that the amount of compressed air delivered matches air demand. Owing to this PM motor-VSD combination, the compressor is 50% more energy efficient than a fixed speed unit in partial or unloaded conditions. As the compressor operates under these types of conditions for most of its working life, it means that operating costs are significantly reduced over the machine’s lifespan.”

The incorporation of PACE technology enables the intuitive electronic pressure regulation system to adjust its output depending on requirements, and allows multiple pressure and flow combinations, delivering a wide operating pressure range within a single compressor. Compared to a regular compressor which is limited to a certain pressure and flow rate, a compressor equipped with PACE can provide extra flow at lower pressure levels. This technology allows the motor speed to be adjusted according to the load, resulting in substantial energy and cost savings.

“This smart technology enables users to accommodate different applications with one compressor,” notes Stanford. “For example, the operator can, on the same machine, select 6 bar (90 psi) to power a handheld tool, or 10.3 bar (150 psi) and 12 bar (175 psi) respectively for sandblasting and cable blowing applications.”

The compressor’s portability offers flexibility and autonomy. Atlas Copco says the IP-66 rated PM motor is designed to withstand stringent outdoor applications and is completely sealed from water and dust ingress. The liquid-cooled battery pack is contained in a triple enclosure to ensure optimum protection.

The B-Air is able to operate in ambient temperatures ranging from -25 °C to 40 °C (with a standard heater and a minimum battery cell temperature of -20 °C), offering a sustainable compressed air solution suitable for harsh conditions.