Revolutionising construction
Portable air compressors are indispensable assets in the realms of mining, infrastructure, and construction. Mining, in particular, assumes critical importance due to its role in providing aggregates vital for infrastructure and construction projects. Moreover, the extraction of minerals like iron ore, manganese, coal, and limestone relies heavily on reliable portable air compressors with minimal energy consumption. These versatile machines also kick-start the construction process through excavation activities.
India's air compressor market is poised for modest growth, with an estimated Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 6.2 percent during the forecast period. This growth owes much to the Indian government's concerted efforts to bolster the country's manufacturing industry. India is vigorously positioning itself as a technological and industrial powerhouse, with a significant contribution from industrial manufacturing sectors such as electrical and metal products, cement, building materials, machinery, rubber and plastic products, and more.
Key players contributing to the growth of the Indian industrial air compressor market include Atlas Copco, Bauer Compressors, ELGi Equipments, Doosan Power, Hitachi, and Siemens AG, among others. These companies are propelling market growth through strategies like new product launches, mergers, acquisitions, government collaborations, startup funding, and technological innovations to maintain their competitive edge.
Electric and diesel-powered screw air compressors have emerged as indispensable tools in the construction industry, providing a reliable source of compressed air for a diverse range of applications. Electric screw air compressors are the top choice for construction sites with stable power supplies, offering benefits like energy efficiency, reduced operating costs, and minimal environmental impact. Their low noise output makes them ideal for noise-sensitive construction sites, and their compact, portable design ensures easy transportation and maneuverability.
In situations where a reliable electricity supply is lacking or mobility is essential, diesel-powered screw air compressors come into play. These compressors are often mounted on trailers or skids, allowing effortless transportation between construction sites. Designed to withstand harsh conditions and heavy-duty applications, diesel air compressors excel in demanding construction environments. They offer greater flexibility, operating in remote or off-grid locations without relying on electrical power sources. Diesel compressors frequently provide higher airflow and pressure capabilities, making them suitable for challenging construction tasks requiring substantial compressed air output.
Energy-efficient solutions are at the forefront of portable air compressor innovation. Manufacturers are continually introducing solutions to the market, featuring breakthrough technologies that focus on fuel efficiency, emissions reduction, noise reduction, adaptability to specific market applications, optimised operational and maintenance costs, serviceability, and safety. In the construction and mining industry, portable compressors are available in the range of 180-1,000 cubic feet per minute (cfm) and power capacities of 100-300 pounds per square inch (psi).
Doosan has introduced state-of-the-art electronic engines, marking a significant milestone in the segment. These engines prioritise low fuel consumption, reduced carbon footprint, and upgradability to the latest applicable emission norms. This initiative aims to raise awareness among customers about advanced technology and eco-friendly solutions in the portable compressor sector, maximising Return on Investment (ROI) while remaining environmentally responsible. Collaborations with renowned engine manufacturers are underway to develop diesel-free engines.
ELGis PG Series of low-noise electric-powered portable air compressors feature IE3 motors integrated with proprietary-V profile air ends designed for maximum efficiency and minimal energy consumption. ELGis PG series diesel-powered portable air compressors are driven by globally recognised reliable engines, offering excellent fuel economy and low emissions within their class.
Ramesh Kumar G, General Manager “ Portables, ISAAME (India, South Asia, Africa, and Middle East) at Elgi Equipments, emphasised the crucial role of electric and diesel-powered portable screw air compressors in the construction industry. He highlighted that the ELGi PG series is revolutionizing the industry with cutting-edge features and exceptional performance. These compressors deliver unmatched energy efficiency, reliability, and versatility. The innovative rotary screw airend, a standout feature, not only ensures efficient operation but also maximizes energy savings. The ?-V rotor profiles are specifically engineered for optimal energy efficiency, resulting in minimized energy expenses.
Atlas Copco's zero-emission electric compressors offer contractors and companies a path to sustainability by reducing dependence on fossil fuels, contributing to a cleaner, greener future. These electric compressors not only cut CO2 emissions but also address noise pollution, a critical environmental concern. Compared to noisy diesel engines, Atlas Copcos portable electric compressors operate quietly, enhancing productivity and noise safety. Furthermore, their simpler design with fewer parts translates to reduced maintenance requirements. Their lighter weight and smaller footprint make them easier to transport and maneuver.
Atlas Copco Group has embarked on the construction of a new manufacturing facility in Talegaon, Pune. This facility will produce air and gas compressor systems for both local and export markets. It includes a manufacturing plant and an office building covering approximately 25,000 square meters. The investment is estimated at around MINR 1400 (approximately 180 MSEK), with completion slated for Q2, 2024. The facility will create employment opportunities for over 200 people and increase production capacity.
Also, Elgi Equipments announced the introduction of Air~Alert, an IoT-based Air Compressor Monitoring System, for the Indian market. After a successful launch at the Hannover Messe in Germany earlier this year, the ELGi Air~Alert smart 24/7 remote monitoring and alert system is now available to ELGis customers in India for new and existing installations*.
Air~Alert is a data transmission and analysis service that monitors critical parameters and sends out actionable insights and alerts to users. With these insights, customers can improve uptime and maximise efficiency with smart monitoring and data related to air compressor performance. The service also enables customers to act in time and avoid potential failures. Additionally, Air~Alert enables 24/7 remote monitoring of the air compressor. It delivers trend graphs and information about operating parameters, including discharge pressure, oil temperature, variable frequency drive (VFD) speed (where fitted), total running hours, trips, and alerts on a live online interface accessible remotely from anywhere in the world.
Philippe Ernens, President of Oil-free Air division at Atlas Copco, highlighted the significance of the new facility. He stated that the expansion in India is aligned with their strategy to remain a top choice for customers and to serve the growing demands of both Indian and export markets. The facility's sustainability initiatives include deriving around 80 percent of energy from solar panels and 75 percent of water from rainwater harvesting, adhering to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) principles.
Recently, KSB, a leading supplier of pumps valves and systems, recently announced the acquisition of Bharat Pumps and Compressors technology. With this acquisition, KSB becomes the sole and exclusive owner of the Technology of the products manufactured by BP&CL, KBL stated.
BP&CL is a major manufacturer of reciprocating pumps centrifugal pumps reciprocating compressors and high-pressure seamless gas cylinders. This newly acquired venture will handle spare parts business and service around 5000+ BP&CL products installed in various industries and locations across India through KSB SupremeServ a dedicated segment of KSB for aftermarket services.
Farrokh Bhathena, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, KSB, stated, We are delighted to announce the technology acquisition of Bharat Pumps and Compressors. This acquisition will allow us to expand our pump business further. This is a significant milestone in the company's history as we continue to serve industries of national importance such as oil and gas exploration refineries nuclear power plants and other projects while strengthening the 'Make in India' initiative.
Through this acquisition KSB will leverage its existing strengths and market potential to expand its product line in both the new pump and aftermarket markets by leveraging BP&CLs technology the company stated.
The Road Ahead
The future appears promising for mobile compressors as various demand segments continue to advance. Infrastructure development, alongside upgrades to existing infrastructure, is creating fresh opportunities in construction on a large scale. The escalating construction activities drive the demand for aggregates, spurring growth in aggregate mining and quarrying. Limestone and granite requirements are also on the rise, further boosting mining activities. With coal and iron ore mining making a resurgence, mining operations are poised for expansion in the coming years. Additionally, the dwindling groundwater levels underscore the need for efficient bore wells, presenting yet more opportunities for portable air compressors across diverse applications.
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