Why is hydrogen difficult to compress?
December 5, 2024
5 min
In a compressed air system, every component plays a role, but the central controller is the brains of the operation. It’s what keeps multiple compressors working together, balancing demand, reducing waste, and ensuring you always have the air you need without overspending on energy.
Central controllers also reach end of life because of advancements on hardware, software and control algorithms. If your central controller has already reached the end of life, now is the perfect time to think about upgrading. Here’s why a modern controller can deliver peace of mind, protect your uptime, and optimize your energy use.
The Role of a Central Controller
Atlas Copco central controllers, such as the Equalizer 4.0, Equalizer 4.0 PRO, and Optimizer 4.0, do much more than turn compressors on and off. They coordinate multiple machines to:
- Maintain stable pressure with a tighter pressure band (helping you save up to 7% - 9% energy per PSI reduced)
- Balance running hours across compressors, so maintenance can be done together, minimizing downtime and saving on maintenance costs.
- Match output to demand, reducing unnecessary running time and energy waste
- Give you a single point of control for your entire compressed air system
With optional add-ons like Extender+, you can even control dryers, heat recovery systems, chillers, and gas generators from the same platform.
Why Upgrade Now?
- End of Life = Risk
When a controller reaches the end of life, replacement parts become harder to find, and software support may no longer be available. Upgrading now means avoiding unexpected downtime later.
- Peace of Mind
Modern controllers include remote monitoring and SMARTlink connectivity, so you can check your system’s performance from anywhere. You’ll receive alerts before small issues become costly problems.
- Energy Efficiency
By optimizing compressor sequencing, a new controller helps you use only the energy you need, no more, no less. Over time, that means lower utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
- Future-Proofing for Industry 4.0
Up-to-date controllers are built with Industry 4.0 in mind, offering connectivity to LAN, cloud, and SCADA systems, plus the ability to get over-the-air software updates for continual improvement.
Choosing Your Upgrade Path
|
Current Setup |
Recommended Upgrade |
Key Benefits |
|
No central control |
Equalizer 4.0 |
Entry-level efficiency gains and improved stability |
|
Outdated/EOL controller |
Equalizer 4.0 PRO |
Easy-to-use interface, remote monitoring, better energy performance |
|
Basic central controller |
Optimizer 4.0 + Extender+ |
Full-scale optimization, expanded equipment control, lowest total cost of ownership |
The Bottom Line
Upgrading your central controller isn’t just about replacing an old part, it’s about unlocking efficiency, boosting uptime, and giving you the confidence that your compressed air system is ready for the future.
If your controller has already reached its end of life, now is the time to act. The right upgrade can pay for itself through energy savings, reduced downtime, and extended equipment life.
Ready to explore your options?
Our team can assess your current system and recommend the perfect upgrade, whether that’s the Equalizer 4.0 PRO, Optimizer 4.0, or a complete control solution with Extender+.
Contact us today to schedule your system review and see how a new controller can keep your facility running at its best.
Stay in the know:
Subscribe to
our blog.
Learn how-tos and best practices from industry experts. Whether you are learning about how your compressed air system works, optimising how your air compressor works or looking to increase your compressor energy efficiency, our blog has all the answers.
