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Speed-controlled compressor for precision manufacturing at Agorameca
Precision mechanics places the highest demands on machines, materials and not least on the compressed air supply. Agorameca, a leading French manufacturer of precision parts, operates several dozen state-of-the-art CNC machining centers in its workshops. These machines machine the hardest materials and produce complex components that must meet tolerances of a few hundredths of a millimeter. A reliable, consistent compressed air supply is not optional, but a critical success factor for daily production.
The problem: Challenges in CNC production
The requirements placed on the compressed air system in a modern CNC workshop are complex and varied. Compressed air is required for clamping and unclamping tool holders, atomizing coolant during grinding, cleaning workpieces and controlling pneumatic axes. The
Another key problem was the energy efficiency of the existing system. The company was familiar with oil injection compressors with speed control, but integrating them into an existing system with several dozen machines placed high demands on the planning. In addition, there was a desire for an installation that would not unnecessarily interrupt production operations and that could be serviced and maintained with little effort.
The solution: STRONG 37 with speed control from SCC air compressors
SCC air compressors installed for Agorameca a STRONG 37 variable speed screw compressor for Agorameca. This model combines the essential requirements of CNC production in a compact solution:
Key technical data for the STRONG 37:
- Power: 37 kW
- Rated voltage: 3~/400 V/50 Hz
- Maximum pressure: 8 bar (g)
- Volume flow: 6 m³/min at 8 bar
- Motor speed: 3,300 rpm
- Weight: 675 kg
- IE4 permanent magnet motor with direct drive
- Integrated SCC-C80 control unit
Speed control via a frequency converter is at the heart of this solution. While conventional compressors run at a constant speed and produce wasted energy by idling when there is an excess, the STRONG 37 automatically adapts to the actual compressed air requirement. The speed control continuously adjusts the flow rate to the demand and minimizes idling and load change phases. When there is no demand, the machine can go into standby/idle mode; under load, it operates without the typical idle cycles of fixed speed machines. This control ensures a constant pressure of ±0.3 bar, which is ideal for CNC control.
The IE4 permanent magnet motor with direct drive ensures additional efficiency. Unlike geared compressors, there are no drive losses. The motor runs slowly – 3,300 rpm – which reduces wear and significantly extends the service life of the compressor stage. In addition, the large compressor stage helps the machine to operate very quietly (68 dB(A)), which improves working conditions in the workshop.
The integrated SCC-C80 controller provides complete transparency of the operating status. A 7-inch touchscreen display shows pressure, temperature, operating hours and maintenance status. Optional additional software can be used to transfer data live to a tablet or control room – ideal for production planners who want to view the status of the compressed air system at any time.
This not only optimizes the compressed air quality, but also maximizes operating cost efficiency. Energy savings through speed control are typically 20-40 %, depending on the compressed air usage profile.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions
Why is a speed-controlled compressor ideal for CNC machines?
CNC machining centers have a strongly fluctuating compressed air requirement. A lot of compressed air is required during the cutting process, but significantly less during positioning breaks. A speed-controlled compressor such as the STRONG 37 continuously adjusts its output and delivers the exact amount required. This saves energy and stabilizes the pressure much better than machines with a fixed switching point.
What specific advantages does the STRONG series from SCC air compressors offer in precision manufacturing?
The STRONG series is characterized by four factors: firstly, the IE4 permanent magnet motor with the highest efficiency class, secondly, the direct drive without gear losses, thirdly, the speed control for demand-based performance, and fourthly, the long maintenance intervals of 4,000 operating hours. Together, these features enable a safe, reliable and economical compressed air supply for demanding production processes.
How does speed control contribute to energy efficiency and process reliability?
The speed control reduces idling to a minimum and avoids unnecessary load/idle cycles; the machine only switches to standby/idle when the system is fully saturated. At the same time, the pressure is kept constant by continuously adjusting the motor speed – a classic requirement in CNC production in order to avoid tolerance deviations and ensure the surface quality of the workpieces.
Fazit
The installation of the STRONG 37 at Agorameca demonstrates that intelligent compressor selection and modern control technology bring measurable benefits in precision manufacturing. Stable compressed air means stable quality, lower energy costs and less maintenance. SCC air compressors supports precision manufacturers with oil-injected compressors that focus on energy efficiency and reliability – just as demanding manufacturing processes require.
Let our experts advise you and request a customized offer for your application. Benefit from the proven SCC technology and reduce your operating costs sustainably.
