Atlas Copco Power Technique is addressing frequently asked questions to increase customer efficiency on jobsites. These topics include the E-STOP, adjusting the pressure on your compressor, what dirty power means, rugged drives, food grade oils, how to limit the AMPs, power available objection, and how to determine the difference between horsepower and CFM. 

Dirty power in air compressors refers to fluctuations in the power supply that harm compressor performance and efficiency. It is best to avoid these voltage drops.

The Atlas Copco E-Air VSD range of air compressors maintains operation within a range of 100% to 60% voltage fluctuation.

In the event of a voltage drop exceeding 40%, the compressor drive will initiate a shutdown of the unit.

No, you won’t have blown fuses, the controller will initiate shutdown.

The unit requires a restart from the controller just like the typical startup procedure.

Rugged drives are essential in electrical air compressors to offer durability and reliability in demanding environments. It’s engineered to withstand voltage or frequency dips, which ensures uninterrupted performance and lasting durability.

The rugged drives in the air compressors can continue operating even if voltage drops within the range of 100% to 60% of the nominal voltage for a limited duration.

In case the voltage supply deacreases below the 60% threshold of nominal voltage, our robust drive takes self-protective measures by shutting down. An operator can easily reset the drive via the controller to restore its functionality.

The emergency stop (E-STOP) function on air compressors is designed to swiftly initiate shutdown in emergencies.

When utilizing the E-STOP function on both diesel and electric air compressors, it’s important to note that it bypasses the programmed cool-down process and timing. As a result, the system does not have the opportunity to cool down, leading to thermal stress on the components.

To minimize the potential for damage, it is crucial to reserve the use of the E-STOP for genuine emergencies. Allowing for proper cool-down procedures ensures the system can safely and effectively manage thermal conditions.

Yes, by adjusting the access level in the setting menu, the pressure setting can be fixed to match the rental agreement with the operator. This functionality is available for both diesel and electric compressors, utilizing the same controllers and regulation systems, ensuring a consistent and user-friendly experience. 

PACE (Pressure Adjustment through Cognitive Electronics) offers a range of benefits that enhance the versatility of Atlas Copco units. The advantages include: Two adjustable pressure setpoints, automatic flow adjustment to match pressure, and simple navigation between pressure and flow ranges.  

The use of food grade oils is permissible in E-Air units. It is a requirement to use Atlas Copco branded oils in conjunction with branded filters.

Atlas Copco offers a choice between two types of food grade oils: non-synthetic and synthetic. Both Roto-Xtend options fulfill the requirements for food-grade applications, allowing the flexibility to select the right oil based on your specific application needs.

To convert to Roto-Xtend food grade oils, the system must be flushed of the original oil. In addition to the system flushing, the compressor must be kept within the specified temperature and pressure ranges.

The AMPs can be limited from the initial startup screen of the compressor for the complete range of E-Air unit, allowing for convenient and immediate control.

By limiting the AMPs, the compressor is available to be utilized in a broader range of applications and job-sites, as it can operate within the power available on-site. When limiting the AMPs, it is important to note that your air output will be impacted; however, since the compressor was sized to the power available on-site you are able to improve your rental utilization and complete the job.

If an operator is concerned about power availability, customers have offered creative solutions. One such solution is partnering with the operator to extend power to where a drop is needed versus having the operator commission a new installation. In exchange for extending power, customers can benefit from longer-term rental agreements, exclusivity, and strengthened partnerships. 

If a customer’s utilization is high on 400 cfm class diesel compressors, they could consider replacing diesel units with the electric comparable. For example, a diesel compressor at an industrial plant could be replaced with an electric unit, to ensure that production continued. This benefits the plant through reduced service and energy costs, and allows the customer to service and rent the diesel unit where diesel is required. Utilization for both classes increases, the plant recognizes savings in operational costs, and the customer was able to complete another job with the diesel compressor.

HP refers to the power output of an air compressor’s motor. CFM indicates the output volume of air that the compressor can deliver. Operators who are familiar with stationary compressors, typically speak in HP while portable compressor operators reference CFM.  

For a convenient reference, a general rule of thumb is to estimate CFM by multiplying the HP by four.