More and more organisations are exploring energy efficient solutions to meet their sustainability goals and combat global warming. To meet this growing demand, Atlas Copco continues to innovate, developing leading edge technologies and engineering energy-efficient products that deliver sustainable, green solutions to industry. 

A perfect example of this steadfast commitment is the Atlas Copco E-AIR electric compressor that provides clean quality air without the harmful fuel emissions. The compressor’s efficiency, paired with quiet operation, versatility, and reliability, prompted Atlas Copco Authorised Distributor, Henri Fraise Fils & Cie (HFF) in Madagascar to recommend the machine to a long-standing customer.

“Our customer needed an efficient air solution for their sandblasting and painting workshop that operates 24/7 on a mine site,” explains Aina Rajaonarivelo, Miscellaneous Equipment Sales Manager at HFF. “Air is required to simultaneously operate two sandblasters that individually consume 6 000 litres/minute (210cfm), subsequently requiring 6 bar permanently. Special requirements sometimes also demand the use of a third and even a fourth sandblaster.  The pneumatic paint pumps use 2 000 litres/minute (70cfm) and need 4 bar.”

“The customer requested a particular Atlas Copco compressor model,” says Rajaonarivelo. “However, we proposed instead the E-AIR T-range. Our experienced HFF team knew that the application needed a compressor that could push 937cfm to ensure that the machine does not run permanently at full capacity, especially when the equipment operates 24 hours a day. The E-AIR has the same specifications as the model proposed by the customer but incorporates more advanced technology, making it much more efficient air solution.” Presented with technical data on the T400, T500 and T900 E-AIR compressors, the customer opted for the T900 machine together with an air receiver to ensure continuous operation.

“This a complete Atlas Copco package as Atlas Copco Compressor Technique Business Area supplied the air receiver,” says Pamela Finniss, Product Development Manager for Portable Products at Atlas Copco Power Technique. “The T900 E-Air electric compressor offers great productivity, reliability and green energy savings and is ideal for tough environments. The IE3 motor reduces running costs by up to 50% and the compact design makes the compressor up to 50% lighter and 33% smaller compared to diesel driven machines.”

Moreover, with a 2000 hours / 1 year service interval, maintenance on the T-range is minimal and fast. Featuring low operating costs, best-in-class performance, unrivalled energy efficiency, ease of use and long service intervals, the E-AIR is a sustainable, low total cost of ownership air solution. 

As the first electric powered compressor to be sold by Atlas Copco in Africa, the T900 E-AIR is a new product for HFF. “However, we have a well-equipped workshop and a team of qualified Atlas Copco diesel and electric compressor technician specialists with the necessary tools and skills to take care of our customers’ service and maintenance requirements,” affirms Rajaonarivelo. “We also know that we can count on support from Atlas Copco if needed.”

Founded in 1921, HFF joined the Atlas Copco distributor network in August 2000 and is a specialist supplier to the mining and construction sectors and has a comprehensive fleet of Atlas Copco portable diesel compressors, pumps, and lighting towers.

"We have built a reputation of trust with our customers for meeting all their compressor needs through the delivery of premium quality products and excellent after-sales service. Being an Atlas Copco distributor further augments our position as a leading supplier of quality machines and equipment across the region,” concludes Rajaonarivelo.