Atlas Copco Electric E-Air Compressors Powering Portugal’s Marble Industry
Nestled in the heart of Portugal’s Alentejo region, Solubema Quarry isn’t just the country’s largest marble supplier—it’s a testament to resilience in an unforgiving environment. Here, temperatures soar to a blistering 45°C in summer and plummet to -4°C in winter. Add to that an ever-present cloud of dust, and you’ve got a workplace that pushes equipment to its limits.
But meeting these challenges head-on is all in a day’s work. With efficiency and sustainability at the forefront, Solubema Quarry has turned to Atlas Copco’s E-Air H250 VSD electric portable air compressors to power its operations. Designed for extreme conditions, these units have become indispensable in streamlining quarrying processes while cutting emissions and operational costs.
“The environment here tests every piece of equipment. The extreme heat, the cold, and the constant dust require machinery that can handle any challenge it is faced with,” says Tiago Gonçalves, Operations Manager at Solubema Quarry. “With Atlas Copco’s E-Air portable compressors, we’ve found a solution that is both reliable and efficient, even in these hard conditions.”
Electrifying Productivity
Compressed air is a lifeline in marble extraction. From powering stone-cutting machines and drilling rigs to operating pneumatic hammers, every operation depends on a steady, reliable air supply. Traditionally, diesel-powered compressors have been the go-to solution, but they come with hefty fuel costs, high emissions, and maintenance challenges.
Enter Atlas Copco’s E-Air H250 VSD electric air compressors—a game-changer in quarrying operations. Unlike their diesel counterparts, these electric units eliminate the need for an internal combustion engine, offering a consistent, emission-free air supply. That means:
- No local emissions – Enhancing air quality for workers and protecting the pristine marble.
- Lower operational costs – Reducing fuel expenses and routine maintenance.
- Seamless adaptability – Variable Speed Drive (VSD) technology adjusts airflow to meet precise demands, ensuring energy efficiency at all times.
By swapping out older diesel compressors for these electric alternatives, Solubema Quarry has slashed costs without compromising performance. “Atlas Copco’s E-Air units have delivered transformative results. Their efficiency has lowered our energy usage, while their robustness has reduced the time and cost associated with maintenance,” Gonçalves affirms.
A Partnership Cemented in Trust
Beyond the sheer performance of its equipment, Atlas Copco brings another critical element to the table: exceptional customer support. Quarrying operations run on tight schedules, and downtime isn’t an option. With quick access to spare parts and a responsive support team, Solubema Quarry has been able to maintain uninterrupted operations.
“Atlas Copco’s team is always available to support us, and their equipment consistently performs at the highest level. This partnership has been instrumental in helping us meet our productivity goals,” says Gonçalves.
The reliability of both the machines and the service behind them has made Atlas Copco an essential part of Solubema’s success. When operating in a sector where every minute of uptime counts, having a trusted partner makes all the difference.
Setting the Standard for Quarrying Efficiency
Portugal’s marble industry is built on precision, endurance, and sustainability. As quarries push towards greener operations, Atlas Copco’s electric air compressors stand out as a proven solution for efficiency and environmental responsibility.
By leveraging cutting-edge technology, Solubema Quarry demonstrates that even the toughest working conditions can be transformed into opportunities for innovation and growth. With the E-Air H250 VSD at its core, this operation isn’t just extracting marble—it’s shaping the future of sustainable quarrying.
