Atlas Copco’s T400 electric compressor delivers sustainable solutions for Namibian manufacturing plant

When a leading Namibian manufacturer of corrugated paper products experienced significant downtime due to the failure of its diesel compressor – a situation that was further exacerbated by the inability of their standby machine to meet flow demand – the customer turned to authorised Atlas Copco Power Technique dealer Desert Airpower for a reliable air solution.

The customer also faced with further challenges with the diesel-driven air compressor. Limited access to the compressor room hampered diesel refuelling; there was always the potential of oil spills; the ventilation requirements for diesel exhaust gases were insufficient; and noise pollution emitted by the diesel engine created an undesirable working environment. These issues conflicted with the plant’s operations and values.

Desert Airpower rose to the challenge, recommending an electric air compressor that helped the plant maintain productivity while addressing efficiency, space and environmental concerns.

“Finding the right compressor is about understanding the specific needs of the customer and the application,” states Lesley Page, owner of Desert Airpower. “The Atlas Copco T400 electric compressor provided the customer with the ultimate solution for the plant’s unique requirements, mitigating all these challenges by delivering the perfect balance of efficiency, reliability and practicality.”

She notes further, “The machine’s efficiency was a game-changer for the customer. The energy cost of running the electric machine is significantly lower on a kilowatt-per-hour basis compared to the litre-per-hour basis of a diesel unit, yielding excellent savings and delivering subsequent low total cost of ownership for the customer.”

Moreover, the electric machine can operate continuously 24/7. Eliminating the need for engine oil level checks and periodic refuelling has significantly increased plant uptime, ensuring uninterrupted production. In addition, routine maintenance on the T400 electric machine involves nothing more than re-greasing the bearings at regular intervals, further maximising productivity.

Also weighing in on the electric-versus-diesel decision, Page stresses that this particular project demonstrates the company’s ability to customise compressed air solutions to meet operational and environmental needs. “It’s not about replacing diesel with electric, but about finding the right tool for the job. In this case, the Atlas Copco T400 ticked all the boxes.”

Desert Airpower has been a trusted Atlas Copco dealer for over two decades. With facilities in Walvis Bay and Windhoek, the company brings world-class expertise and innovative solutions to Namibian businesses. It remains committed to assisting the mining and industrial sectors overcome efficiency and environmental challenges by offering reliable and sustainable productivity solutions through cutting-edge technology and equipment.

“Whether electric or diesel air compressors, the combined experience and expertise of the Atlas Copco and Desert Airpower teams ensure the best solution is available to meet every application requirement,” concludes Page.