As Charles Darwin once said, "it's not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It's the one that is most adaptable to change."

A compressed air system is one of a mine's biggest energy consumers. Gaining energy efficiency can have a big impact on costs, while also helping to reduce CO2 footprint. We want to make sure our customers are always connected and informed.

Connect

Monitors captures live data from compressed air equipment and translates that information into clear insights. Users can check uptime, energy efficiency and CO2 emissions at a glance.

Users can get a quick overview on the dashboard or delve deeper into customised reports. Uniquely based on machines actual working conditions, recommendations present real opportunities to improve the efficiency of an air system.

Connecting via a SMARTLink Energy Plan means the compressors' data will be fed into our Big Data Framework. This allows the company to activate diagnostic supervision of compressors. Enabling it to spot and fix any deviations at an early stage. Based on algorithms and expert analysis, proactive troubleshooting keeps customer's energy efficiency at its top level.

Scan

AIRScan is a compressed air auditing and leakage detection service. An AIRScan energy audit includes a full survey of the compressed air net parameters This includes the energy consumption of the equipment, flow rates and pressures, to get an accurate picture of the compressor room.

With measurements performed during operation, production does not need to stop during an audit. The logged information is used to stimulate several energy-saving scenarios. The system's unique analysis software can stimulate different configurations of a compressed air system, allowing insight into realistic savings figures.

Approximately 20-30% of the energy used by a compressed air system is wasted due to leaks. A leak as small as 3 mm can be very expensive, with an energy loss equivalent to 16 tonnes of CO2 emissions.

During an AIRScan leak detection survey, a state-of-the-art camera can detect leaks twice as fast as traditional tools. The air leaks report includes the savings potential and a priority list for repairs.

The vibration analysis is a health check for the compressor element, gearbox, coupling, drive train and other rotating components. It is a powerful tool in preventing expensive breakdowns. The air quality analysis uses advanced tools to check the purity of compressed air. It comes with a clear report, including recommendations on how to achieve the air quality you need.

Optimise

If a compressed air system has multiple compressors or blowers, they have to be started, stopped and regulated to meet fluctuation in air demand.

By automating compressor operation, these master controllers increase system stability, minimise wear and achieve optimal energy efficiency.

ARTICLE SOURCE: Atlas Copco