For a company that provides maintenance, repair and overhaul services on more than 450 aircraft each year, energy efficiency and cost savings measures are incorporated into all phases of the operation, including the compressed air system. Compressed air is used in nearly 90 percent of the company's operations, including applications where the compressed air is used directly, such as in paint booths and with sand blasting, mills, drills, rivet guns and grinders.
When performing composite repairs, compressed air is used to create a vacuum for five to six hours while the repair is being performed. If the vacuum is lost during the repair process, quality control requires that the repair is torn down and started over, which costs the company valuable time and money. Therefore, the compressed air system must be absolutely reliable in order to meet the demands of the application.
Because there is typically more demand for air during the day shift than during the evening, the company uses variable speed drive compressors in its compressed air system. Variable speed drive compressors monitor the compressed air demand, measure the energy and air needs and adjust output accordingly. With variable speed drive, you only use compressed air when it is needed and the result is increased efficiency and significant energy savings.
In addition, the company chose to install 2,000 feet of AIRnet aluminum piping to deliver compressed air to the end process. Aluminum piping is preferable to black iron or copper because it is more efficient, lightweight, easy to install and reconfigure.
By investing in energy efficient Atlas Copco products and services, the company has reduced its costs, improved reliability and increased customer satisfaction. If you'd like to learn more about increasing energy efficiency in your operations, contact us.
