Atlas Copco Rental contingency plan keeps factory running after fire on the premises

July 31, 2019

How our contingency plan keeps Australian chemical manufacturer Solvay up and running when a fire brings down their main compressor

Solvay Interox in Banksmeadow manufactures Hydrogen Peroxide, using a large volume of compressed air at 6 bar during the process. With their air compressor being critical to continued production, we were contacted to develop a contingency plan in the case of breakdown or emergency. In conjunction with Solvay, our sales engineers developed a plan that utilized four portable air compressors running in series to provide 11,000 m3/hour of oil-free compressed air at 6 bar. They also identified tie-in points for the temporary air, as well as space requirements for the portable units. The plan would allow any repairs to the main compressor to be completed without significant loss of production. This would allow Solvay to meet its customer expectations and contractual requirements regarding the supply of Hydrogen Peroxide. At 3AM on the 11th of February this year Solvay experienced a fire to its main compressor that resulted in major damage to the unit. Shortly after the incident the contingency plan was put into effect while steps were taken to repair the existing compressor. We were able to have four compressors, hoses, manifolds and fuel tanks onsite quickly after receiving the call. An additional standby compressor was brought in shortly after to cover all possible issues. This allowed Solvay to continue production and meet its customer’s requirements while the main compressor was brought back online. The compressors used were the PTS 1600 units. They provide oil-free air critical to the manufacturing process, and excel at 24 hour operation with minimal maintenance required – a requirement of the project.

Atlas Copco Rental realised the urgency of the situation and were able to meet all challenges during the 8 week period while the main compressor was repaired. The portable air compressors were running 24/7 and any issues that arose were rectified swiftly. Technical personnel were available 24/7. I would not hesitate to recommend Atlas Copco Rental. They supplied exactly what we needed in an expedient manner and were able to meet any challenges to help Solvay Interox Banksmeadow remain in production during this time

Jason Woodward , Engineering Manager, Solvay Australia

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Atlas Copco is a world-leading provider of sustainable productivity solutions. The Group serves customers with innovative compressors, vacuum solutions and air treatment systems, construction and mining equipment, power tools and assembly systems. Atlas Copco develops products and services focused on productivity, energy efficiency, safety and ergonomics. The company was founded in 1873, is based in Stockholm, Sweden, and has a global reach spanning more than 180 countries. In 2017, Atlas Copco had revenues of BSEK 116 (BEUR 12) and about 47 000 employees Learn more at www.atlascopcogroup.com. Specialty Rental is a division within Atlas Copco’s Power Technique business area. It serves customers in all industry segments around the world with temporary air, power, flow, steam and nitrogen rental solutions. The specialty rental services are offered under several brands. The divisional headquarters is located in Belgium.