Engine upgrade boosts compressor efficiency

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Feb 28, 2008

The addition of the QSB 6.7 engine to CompAir's compressors increases the overall efficiency of the compressors by 14%, reducing fuel consumption and boosting reliability.

CompAir has improved the efficiency of its turboscrew portable compressor range with the introduction of a new Cummins engine on its C200TS-14 to C270 TS-9 machines.

The new enhanced models meet level 3A of the Emissions Compliance Legislation - the international exhaust emissions standard.

Developed by CompAir in conjunction with Cummins, the new QSB 6.7 engine increases the overall efficiency of the compressors by 14%, reducing fuel consumption and boosting reliability.

The smallest and lightest in their performance group, the C200TS-14 to C230TS-9 range provides 20 to 23m3/min of air, with the C240TS-14 to C270TS-9 machines producing a higher air output of up to 27m3/min of air.

The use of a second engine exhaust turbo charger, which pre-compresses the inlet air for the screw compressor stage, provides fuel savings of up to 20% when compared to diesel fuel at the same volume flow rate as other similar output machines.

In addition, this technology makes the turboscrew compressors up to 2000kg lighter than other comparable equipment.

The compressors automatically regulate the engine's speed and air intake to match compressed air demand.

The large control range, of between 1000 to 2400rev/min, means that 58% of continuous operation is controlled via speed change, resulting in greater fuel savings in partial load operation.

The compressors feature easier engine starting and automatic shutdown to protect the engine and extend its lifetime.

Equipped with two batteries, the machines are capable of operating from -15 to 50C ambient temperature, making them suitable for a wide range of applications including ship refurbishments, ice blasting, drilling, earth loosening, ground exploration and water well drilling.

Gerry McGettigan, CompAir's UK and Ireland Portables Sales Manager, said: "Environmental issues are top of everyone's agenda and the plant equipment sector is no exception".

"At the beginning of this year, the international Emissions Compliance Legislation moved on to target engines between 37 and 74.9kW and anyone purchasing a compressor with engines of this size will need to ensure it meets the relevant standards".

"We have been successful in using new, greener technologies which go beyond the current legislation without compromising on performance".

"The new Cummins engine not only complies with the directive but also provides superior performance, durability and reduced noise, offering significant benefits for construction equipment users".

As well as targeting emissions, the Emissions Compliance Legislation also sets transient test procedures which better represent real conditions.

Engines must maintain their emissions performance over their life time, which must be demonstrated during durability testing as part of the approval process.

This provides added reassurance for operators looking for compressors that will operate efficiently and cleanly throughout their entire use.