Powering sustainability Atlas Copco

POWERING SUSTAINABILITy

Atlas Copco is a global leader in the development of compressors, power plant and vacuum technology for the construction and mining industries. The multinational conglomerate is driven by its long-term commitment to sustainability. This can range from reducing the emissions of ocean going vessels to advanced, heavy hydraulic systems for the mining and construction industries. Philip Yorke reports.

The Atlas Copco Group is a Swedish multinational company that was founded in Nacka, Sweden in 1873 by Edvard Franckel. In the beginning the company focused on the manufacture of equipment for state railroad operations. Today the group is comprised of some of the world’s most respected industrial brands and operates more than 100 production facilities in over 20 countries worldwide. It is the world’s leading producer of construction and mining equipment. In 2017 it recorded consolidated sales in excess of SEK 120 billion and employed more than 46,000 people.

Pioneering heavy-duty hydraulics

Recently Atlas Copco has announced the launch of what it says is the first 700kg class solid body breaker on the market. The group is renowned for being one of the world’s top 100 most innovative companies by Thomson Reuters. The company developed the SB702, which is a solid body hydraulic breaker that can easily be attached to a variety of carriers. The new product is unique in that it has no tie rods, no side plates and no hammer box; however it does boast an advanced integrated accumulator. The company, which recently celebrated its 140th anniversary, says it is the only product of its kind on the market.

The new SB702 is also extremely durable and easy to maintain with very low running costs. This is mainly due to its high performance and lower weight, thus making it possible to run on smaller excavators and save on machine costs.

In addition to its broad range of capabilities, the SB702 uses double tool retainer bars to minimise stress and wear on working tools. The product’s excellent energy recovery profile also boosts its productivity output. The company told Industry Europe that while the product’s

impact remains constant, the breaker increases blow frequency, which in turn increases its percussive performance. This enhances efficiency, enabling higher productivity gains combined with lower fuel consumption.

New division announced

Recently Atlas Copco set up a new division for construction equipment, which will be separate from its mining and drilling operations. The Construction Technique division will cover portable compressors and generators, road construction equipment and construction tools. The new division will include drilling products, crushing, loading and hauling, and exploration equipment.

Two other recently introduced divisions are Compressor Technique, which includes stationary equipment for air and gas and related services, and Industrial Technique. “With more focused business areas, each will have a strong platform from which they can develop the offering for their customers,” said the group president and CEO Ronnie Leten. “The modified structure also allows us to capture the sales and service synergies between our construction businesses and capitalise on the future growth of construction projects around the world, especially in the emerging markets.”

Doubly efficient

In 2017 Atlas Copco announced that the group will be split into two companies in 2018. Epiroc AB of the Atlas Copco Group will be listed on the stock exchange this year and has already been operating as an independent business. In future Epiroc will be focused on mining and civil engineering customers, whilst Atlas Copco will concentrate on its industrial customer base.

The parent company believes that the new arrangement will increase efficiency and productivity while strengthening yet further its leading position by delivering sustainable productivity solutions for all customers worldwide.

“With this new set-up, Epiroc will be much more focused on our core industry, with the ability to advance our innovations at a quicker pace. Epiroc is devoted to providing customers with products and services that enhance their productivity, energy efficiency, safety and ergonomics. We are a new company that has over 144 years of mining experience,” said Jason Smith, General Manager, Epiroc customer centre. “With its cutting-edge technology, Epiroc develops and produces innovative drill rigs, rock excavation and construction equipment and provides world-class service and consumables. Epiroc was founded in Stockholm, Sweden and serves customers in more than 150 countries.” lower emissions on the high seas

Powering large cruise ships and merchant vessels requires an enormous amount of energy, and shipping companies are always looking for ways to reduce fuel costs, as well as their carbon footprint. One recent innovation, developed by Silverstream Technologies of London, is an air lubrication system that incorporates Atlas Copco’s air compressor and blower technology to reduce hull drag and improve efficiency. Silverstream is the first company to offer fuel savings using this patented system. n

For further details of the Atlas Copco Group’s innovative products and services visit: www.atlascopco.com