Screw compressors take dryers onboard

CompAir has now introduced five new models to its L-series screw compressor range - including increased numbers of speed regulated models as well as two new units which incorporate integrated dryers.

CompAir has now introduced five new models to its L-series screw compressor range - including increased numbers of speed regulated models as well as two new units which incorporate integrated dryers.

The first new models are the L55F-L75F which CompAir has included an integrated dryer to its range of L-series screw compressors, after finding that they were often installing a dryer alongside their existing products.

The combined unit has numerous benefits for the customer.

The new compressor with integrated dryer has a smaller footprint than the two individual units, and it also has just one controller as opposed to one on each of the units when installed separately, this makes using the compressor and dryer more simplified.

The final benefits include easier and quicker installation and maintenance.

The dryers used are designed to meet all industry standards, reaching the necessary 3C dew point at an average ambient temperature of 25C.

Design and functionality of the compressor and dryer unit are so closely linked together, that the thermal reserve out of the used radial fans, the large size of after cooler and the minimised pressure loses, will allow to run these units as a global solution without any risks.

The dryer's components are standard and reliable parts, which are efficiently arranged so that inspection and servicing can be carried out easily and quickly.

Some compressors may also be suitable for a retrofit of a dryer.

Graham Roberts, Managing Director of the Industrial Division, explained: "The focus behind the new models in the lubricated screw compressor range is to offer the widest choice of products available and make them as flexible as possible to suit each individual customer's needs".

"Using a modular approach we can meet all customer requirements across the globe, which is much more cost efficient than building single, larger 'one size fits all' solution which will have a higher cost, longer lead times and poorer service and spares availability".

"All our solutions can be 'mixed and matched' to offer a bespoke compressor arrangement tailored to individual requirements".

The L75(S) is another new product and is a super efficient solution which uses a larger air end on the standard L75 product to increase efficiency in the same sized unit.

Instead of the standard EK175 air end, the larger EK230 is used and offers increased efficiency - giving the customer yet another choice of product in line with CompAir's modular approach.

The CompAir air ends from the new Alpha Screw line are characterised by a modular concept for all drive variants, a high integration of additional functions and parts, like oil filter, thermostatic and nonreturn valves.

This modern and cost efficient design concept minimises the number of parts, and also reduces the service and maintenance work needed.

The third innovation is the new L75SR which incorporates the new three-phase SR Drive which has been developed with the customer in mind, as it increases the output of air from the older L75SR by 12%.

The compressor is based on an existing model launched last year but it now it benefits from the new SR Drive speed regulated motor which has an increased protection class of IP55, meaning higher reliability for the end user, especially in polluted industrial areas.

CompAir has also changed from using the two-phase to a three-phase motor design, which improves the total efficiency and allows a flexible use on different rotating direction.

The new three-phase motor features a higher output, better reliability from improved environmental protection and lower cost.

The new SR drive is also being used as part of the L75FSR which can combine the variable speed opportunities with the integrated dryer in one simple unit which offers the same energy efficiency and output of the L75SR but with the added benefits of an integrated dryer.

The switched reluctance variable speed drive system which CompAir manufactures under an exclusive license from SR Drives, uses a digitally controlled switched reluctance DC drive.

The drive system enables the compressor to match output to varying demands and as a result provide considerable energy savings.

Adding an SR compressor to any installation of standard L-series compressors gives the entire system the ability to precisely match output to demand allowing the compressors to consume exactly the right amount of energy to do the job, and no more.

In most production scenarios, demand will vary according to changes in production levels or because shift patterns place differing requirements on the system.

Production realignment can also see processes being added or removed which will directly impact on the air supply.

A common problem with older systems is over sizing on a "just in case" basis - an intelligently controlled modular system eliminates the guesswork and introduces flexibility, as well as maximising energy efficiency.

Designed using a modular concept that reduces total component count, the new models offers reduced lifetime costs, with improved reliability and ease of maintenance.

The new models also incorporate the updated Delcos 3100 controller, which was recently introduced to the CompAir L-Series range.

Enhancements include an increase in programme capacity that enables 17 languages to be incorporated and Flash programmability so programme updates can be implemented via the RS485 port using either a programmer or a laptop with standard RS485 interface.

New features include the maintenance interval counter for motor bearing regreasing, the unlimited automatic restart after power loss and the direct communication and power link to the integrated dryer unit.

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