Air compressors are used in a wide range of industrial applications and there is an increasing demand for the most optimal and efficient air solutions that meet sustainability and environmental compliance requirements.

Atlas Copco notes advancements in electric technology are making electric compressors a sought-after alternative to traditional diesel-driven compressors – highlighting its mobile electric E-Air range, which is said to offer a cleaner, quieter and more efficient option when applied in the correct settings. Advantages of the electric model include optimal performance, cost savings, reduced environmental impact, enhanced operational reliability and support for corporate sustainability goals.

“With up to 65% savings on fuel alone, just one of several factors driving a lower total cost of ownership, coupled with a significantly reduced environmental footprint, it’s easy to see why more businesses are making the switch to electric," says Atlas Copco Power Technique portable air sales engineer Johnathan Cassell.

Cassell urges operators working on job sites with grid access to strongly consider using a mobile electric air compressor. “Running silently and emission-free, electric compressors present an ideal solution for urban areas, indoor applications and underground work.”

The E-Air mobile electric compressors are available in two configurations: fixed speed (FS) and variable speed drive (VSD). Cassell explains that both deliver reliable, high-performance compressed air but the key difference lies in how each unit controls the motor.

“As the name suggests, a FS compressor runs at the same speed whenever it is operating, providing the motor with frequency and voltage at a constant rate, while a VSD model automatically adjusts the motor speed to match a production plant’s air demand in real time.”

The Atlas Copco E-Air T400, E-Air T500, and E-Air T900A’s FS electric compressors are engineered to draw enough power to meet maximum compressed air demand, even when actual requirements are lower. An air inlet valve adjusts airflow output; however, the motor itself continues operating at a fixed rate.

The company’s VSD models, comprising the E-Air H185 VSD, E-Air H250 VSD, E-Air H450 VSD and E-Air V1100 VSD, modulate motor speed to align with fluctuating air demand, designed to maximise efficiency, minimise energy consumption, reduce operational costs and prolonging equipment lifespan.

The E-Air compressors offer a plug-and-play solution with a compact footprint for safer transportation and reduced space requirements. In addition, the lack of diesel components means there are fewer parts that require service and maintenance leading to simpler, quicker and more cost-effective maintenance.

Cassell, however, underscores the importance of planned inspections based on each customer’s machine usage. “Electronic parts need to be inspected and maintained. Investing in genuine spare parts, preventive maintenance and inspections at regular intervals are fundamental to driving enhanced uptime. Planned inspections help optimise performance by identifying issues early, preventing premature failures and ensuring machines run at their best.”

Cassell highlights that both diesel and electric-driven equipment options have merits and the choice should be based on factors such as cost of electricity compared to diesel, job site location, infrastructure availability and project duration.