The Atlas Copco B-Air 185-12 a revolution in Portable Compressors
In a world increasingly conscious of its carbon footprint, the construction industry stands at a crossroads.
The recent launch of the Atlas Copco B-Air 185-12, the world’s first battery-driven portable screw compressor, heralds a pivotal shift in this journey.
Maarten Vermeiren, Product Marketing Manager Sustainability and Digitalization at Atlas Copco, Portable Air Division, said: “The launch of the world’s first battery-driven portable screw compressor, the B-Air 185-12, marks a defining moment in the market’s transformation towards a low carbon future.”
Breaking Free from Diesel’s Grip
For ages, the hum of diesel-powered compressors has been a constant on construction sites, especially in remote areas bereft of electricity. However, societal shifts and technological advancements are now challenging this norm. Atlas Copco, with its legacy of 150 years in engineering innovation, has always been at the forefront of aligning its products with societal needs.
Today, as the world grapples with climate emergencies and energy crises, the focus is sharply on decarbonization. Atlas Copco’s commitment to this cause is evident in their goal to slash product lifetime emissions by 28% by 2030, with steps already taken through improved internal combustion engines and the adoption of biodiesels.
The Electrification Revolution
The B-Air 185-12 is not Atlas Copco’s first foray into electric solutions. The 2018 release of the E-Air VSD range of plug-in electric portable air compressors set the stage. However, the B-Air 185-12 goes a step further by eliminating the need for continuous external electricity, thus offering true autonomy.
This innovation is particularly ground-breaking for industries like road construction, fibre optic cable blowing, and crash barrier work, where access to electricity is limited.
Harnessing the Power of Batteries
The transformation in battery technology, particularly lithium-ion batteries, has been a game-changer. Not only do they power countless portable devices, but they’re also now the heart of Atlas Copco’s latest portable screw compressor.
This shift is not just about reducing emissions and noise pollution, but also about ushering in a new era of energy efficiency. The B-Air 185-12, with its 57kWh internal battery, exemplifies this, offering a greener, more efficient alternative without sacrificing performance.
The Industry’s Paradigm Shift
Every step taken away from diesel dependency is a stride towards a sustainable future. Atlas Copco’s plug-in electric E-Air series has already shown the potential of electric compressors. The B-Air 185-12 is a significant leap in this direction, aiming to provide a diesel alternative for every user and application.
Atlas Copco is not just creating products; they are leading an industry-wide decarbonization movement, understanding the need for a collective effort to embrace renewable alternatives and new technologies.
Echoing Industry Leaders
In the words of Richelle E. Goodrich, ‘The direction you choose to face determines whether you’re standing at the end or the beginning of the road’. For Atlas Copco and the construction industry, the B-Air 185-12 is not just a product; it’s a symbol of a new beginning, a step towards a greener, more sustainable future.
With each innovation, the industry moves closer to breaking its age-old dependence on diesel, embracing a low-carbon, efficient future.
The B-Air 185-12 is more than just a technological marvel; it’s a beacon of change. It represents a collective aspiration to build a future that is not just structurally sound but also environmentally responsible. Atlas Copco’s commitment to sustainability and innovation shines through this landmark development, offering the industry a glimpse of a cleaner, greener tomorrow.
