Atlas Copco, one of the key players in the industrial sector, has launched a new addition to its product lineup—the ‘B-Air’—the world’s first battery-driven portable screw air compressor. This marks a crucial move towards a low-carbon future within the global industrial landscape. Atlas Copco has expanded its portable electric product portfolio by introducing the B-Air 185-12, a battery-driven portable screw air compressor. This pioneering product stands as the first of its kind in the global industrial market, signifying a pivotal achievement in Atlas Copco’s journey toward a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
Established in 1960 with its headquarters in Pune, Atlas Copco (India) Ltd. has a workforce of over 3000 employees and achieved revenues of INR 29,285 million (approximately EUR 341 million) for the fiscal year ending on March 31, 2021. Operating across diverse business areas including Compressor Technique, Industrial Technique, Power Technique, Vacuum Technique, and Specialty Rental, Atlas Copco collaborates with customers to transform industrial concepts into intelligent, connected air and gas solutions. The company is recognized for its cutting-edge compressed air technology, innovative industrial tools, smart manufacturing assembly solutions, as well as advancements in air, power, flow, vacuum, and abatement technologies.
The B-Air 185-12 boasts a pressure range of 5-12 bar, a stable flow rate of 5.4-3.7 m3/min, and an impressive 55-kWh battery storage capacity. Operating on power sourced from its onboard battery pack, a fully charged unit can operate independently without the need for fuel or access to a local power source for an entire typical work shift. This feature ensures both portability and productivity for workers on sites where regular electricity access is impractical.
Transitioning from an internal combustion engine (ICE) to an electric motor brings numerous advantages, including reduced downtime and maintenance requirements. The electric B-Air 185-12, with significantly fewer moving parts compared to a diesel-powered unit, requires servicing only every 2,000 hours, compared to the 500 hours needed for a typical ICE-powered unit. The machine’s state-of-the-art Variable Speed Drive (VSD) and permanent magnet motor contribute to lowering the total cost of ownership by automatically adjusting the motor speed to match real-time air demand, increasing energy efficiency by up to 70%.
Undergoing rigorous testing, including rapid aging tests in harsh conditions and climatic chamber testing, the B-Air 185-12 has demonstrated optimal performance even in extreme climatic conditions. It can operate seamlessly in temperatures ranging from +45°C (+113°F) to a glacial -25°C (-13°F) and at altitudes of 4,500 meters (14,764 ft) above sea level. Designed to excel in densely populated urban areas with strict restrictions on emission and noise pollution, the compressor produces no local emissions and maintains low noise levels. Its quiet operation allows operators to work without noise distractions, enhancing both productivity and safety.
Prasanna Kulkarni, General Manager – Power Technique India, expressed his pride in introducing the B-Air 185-12, “We are proud to introduce the B-Air 185-12, the first battery-driven screw compressor in the industry. This innovative product shows our dedication to creating sustainable solutions for our customers and the environment. Our vision is to offer a green option for every user and application, and this battery powered unit brings us closer to that vision.”
