Quality products and availability lead to an oil-free scroll compressed air solution for Australian Government Department of Defence

THE BRIEF

After a disappointing experience with competitor equipment, our customer – the Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) – was looking for a reliable, durable and high quality replacement package that would stand the test of time. They needed a scroll compressed air solution, delivering high-quality, clean and certified Class Zero oil-free air that would meet their setup specifications. Low running noise levels and vibrations, as well as speedy installation and seamless commissioning process were all critical requirements when posing a solution to the customer.

A DSTG representative explains, “We needed an upgrade on total capacity for our scale-up experimentation. It is being used for the development of air purification technologies so the oil-free part of it was critical.” Sullair’s expertise in oil free equipment was therefore crucial in the implementation of their solution. “One important factor was the quality of air supply in terms of the pressure stability and drop, with the stop and start of multiple scrolls. We do have a smaller scroll air compressor from a cheaper supplier but we effectively had to rebuild it when we commissioned it, every seal was leaking – it was pretty poor performance and stability.”

“We seriously looked at about three or four other competitor options. Capability-wise Sullair was spot on, as was the pricing of products, but availability was a distinct drawcard. Availability of anything over the last year has been tricky.”

THE SOLUTION

After proposing a number of in-depth solutions to help the client select the right package for their air flow needs, an SRL-11ME5A Oil Free air scroll compressor 11kW – 44.5cfm – 8 bar was selected, which is third party certified to Class Zero as 100% oil-free.

Jean-Philippe Leclercq, Oil-free Air Specialist with Sullair explains the advisory process. “Initially, they weren’t sure what size equipment would best suit their needs, so I gave them a number of recommendations including advising what one package could do for them and what another couldn’t. I think this detail helped them make their decision and ultimately set us apart from the competition. That and the availability.”

This availability was also a key factor in the customer’s choice to go with Sullair. “The compressor was with us within a couple of weeks. We were very keen to progress the work to the next stage and we were limited on compressor availability for that scale, so it was very important that we got installed in 4-6 weeks rather than the 6-12 weeks from Europe.” A DSTG representative explains. “We seriously looked at about three or four other competitor options. Capability-wise Sullair was spot on, as was the pricing of products, but availability was a distinct drawcard. Availability of anything over the last year has been tricky.”

In addition to the compressor itself, Sullair accessories including an air receiver, and refrigerated dryer and filters were also specified, and successfully installed and commissioned, in partnership with on-site engineers and technicians. The compressor is regularly serviced by Sullair’s highly qualified technicians, and has provided trouble-free operation since October 2020.

The solution was fit-for-purpose because this air compressor:

• Doesn’t require lubricating oil, meaning that it doesn’t experience oil emulsifying issues due to low operating temperatures caused by infrequent running conditions.
• Is also extremely quiet with a noise level of only 59 dBA, about the same noise as a dishwasher.
• Is equipped with Remote Start capability and Black Start on mains power loss as standard.
• Has a controller with alarm outputs for remote monitoring, offering the customer peace of mind.

THE RESULT

The Defence Science and Technology Group is extremely happy with their solution. This high quality air allowed them to operate reliably and to quality without interruption. The installation of the compressors itself was seamless and without business disruption, despite strict security measures. The low noise levels of the compressor meant that no expensive additional sound attenuation was necessary.

The customer enjoys lowered servicing costs and frequency by using an oil-free air compressor, as there’s no need to regularly change oil and oil filters, as is the case with oil-lubricated screw air compressors. The main service items for Sullair Scroll Air Compressors are simply replacement of the air intake filter and annual greasing of the bearings. “So far, it’s been a reliable quality machine and pricing and service is pretty good too,” says DSTG.

Our client now uses a variety of Sullair products across their setup. Our partnership is founded on strong personal relationships and high technical knowledge, and has enabled them to achieve their aims across their output. “We’re very happy with the Sullair machine,” concludes DSTG.

Interested in finding out more?

To learn more about Sullair’s oil-free solutions, call Sullair today on 1300 266 773 or contact us here.