Compressor boosts productivity for vehicle repair specialist

The company employs over 30 staff at its headquarters, which is devoted to vehicle repair and body-shop operations, and serves many large fleet leasing groups in Scotland.

Compressed air is a vital utility for the company: supplying air tools and equipment within its three large service pits, post ramp and six standard repair bays; plus, a spray booth and two paint baking ovens.

Atlas Copco offer an iiTrak system energy audit which could check McKinnon & Forbes’ performance of its fixed-speed compressor system. Improvements to the existing compressed air network were possible, which could save the company over 55% in annual energy costs by installing a GA11VSD+FF screw compressor, which automatically adjusts its motor and element speed to match the workshop’s variable compressed air demand.

So when the company’s original compressor approached the end of its working life, the Atlas Copco unit was installed. Energy efficiency savings of over £2,000 a year was not the only benefit to be derived from the new set up.

The small footprint and quiet operation of the compressor enabled it to be sited within the workshop, thereby overcoming the excessive condensation problems emanating from the externally located pipework of the old system. Furthermore, the point-of-use relocation meant residual heat from the new compressor could be used to provide added comfort to the working environment.

The full feature GA11VSD+FF oil-injected, rotary screw compressor, with integrated refrigerant dryer, is powered by Atlas Copco’s own in-house designed interior permanent magnet IPM motor.

This technology has turned the compressed air industry on its head by redesigning the conventional layout of a typical air compressor. Instead of the normal horizontal configuration, the unit has an upright, vertical low footprint layout designed to save floor and work space while improving maintenance access even if placed against a wall.

Steven McKinnon, Director of McKinnon & Forbes commented: “I would recommend Atlas Copco to anyone, even if they were not directly looking to change their compressor. The information I received helped not only to drive down my costs and save space, but also helped bring me right up to date with the latest legislation regarding the treatment and disposal of compressor condensate.”