Atlas Copco and Airlif Compressors: Deliver toughest mobile compressed air solution for opencast mines in South Africa

Atlas Copco Power Technique and long-standing distributor, Airlif Compressors & Pumps, have once again collaborated to deliver a reliable compressed air solution to a foremost opencast mine customer in Mpumalanga, South Africa. The ultra-robust Atlas Copco U110PACE unit was chosen as the ideal partner for the application, having been specially engineered to bring mobility and reliability to even the toughest mining landscapes.

Airlif Compressors is a leading Level 2 B-BBEE supplier to prominent mines and companies in the Mpumalanga region. The company was first approached by Atlas Copco Industrial South Africa 2 years ago to market their range of industrial air products, and has since established itself as a trusted distributor.

“We are proud of being consistently amongst the top three distributors for Atlas Copco in South Africa and we received the ‘Distributor of the Year’ 2009/2010 award,” says Airlif Compressors Sales Representative, FC Basson.

Airlif Compressors supplied the U110PACE to the service vehicle manufacturer who was responsible for mounting the unit on to a refurbished Water Bowser. Basson points out that this particular configuration is currently only being used in the mining sector, predominantly for demanding open cast mining projects.

Weathering any terrain 

Climate and environment are ever-changing variables in open cast mining, meaning the air compressors reliability depends on its ability to adapt quickly. The U110PACE has been rigorously tested and proven to weather any terrain, and achieves a consistent, reliable output of compressed air through snow, mud, rain or dust. All units are equipped with a high-speed fan for optimum performance in high temperatures, and they undergo full footprint data tests to track flow and pressure optimization, contact surface temperature and starting capability.

“Reliability and increased productivity are essential for open cast mining projects, no matter how testing or unique the environments we are working in. The U110PACE has proven its ability to seamlessly meet our various compressed air requirements across multiple locations, increasing uptime and productivity”. Basson comments.

Ultra-tough, by design

The U110PACE is part of Atlas Copco’s 8 Series Utility range and is renowned for its compact and box-shaped design; subsequently making it easy to move, lift and mount the compressors onto vehicles. “Atlas Copco mobile compressors enable end-users to seamlessly move between sites and conveniently access compressed air even in the most remote and difficult-to-reach areas” notes Power Technique Sales Manager, Pamela Finniss.

The machines are designed to be transported to any point of work. “Moreover, with a 10% smaller footprint on average compared to other machines, the U110PACE is extremely fuel efficient and boasts a short approximate one-hour service time, and lower transport costs.” Finnis explains.

Toughness and versatility unite

The unit also features Atlas Copco’s innovative PACE (Pressure Adjusted through Cognitive Electronics) technology, offering construction contractors and fleet operators a compelling mix of toughness and versatility. Basson explains:

“The smart PACE software allows operators to control pressure and flow settings, meaning the U110PACE is able to do the job of two compressors to meet several different compressed air requirements. This delivers substantial CAPEX savings and a rapid return on investment”.

Basson confirms that Airlif Compressors is extremely satisfied with both the compressor and the service that it receives from Atlas Copco. “The team gave us their full cooperation, including the provision of the appropriate and necessary training on the U110PACE, it’s features and software. They are always available and ready to provide us with assistance.”

Owing to its the innovative features and unparalleled toughness, the U110PACE continues to open up new markets for Atlas Copco and Airlif Compressors, positioning the two companies as leading partners in the portable air compressor space.