Adapting Lontra’s blower technology to a high level across efficiency, reliability and purity for clean pneumatic conveying applications has progressed considerably. . CAD designs were completed, with production engineers and key suppliers ensuring that components can be manufactured to a high quality, establishing a good view of manufacturing methods and costs. Design work was been supported by silencer development with the objective of creating a class-leading product in noise-sensitive environments. The compressor enclosure and ancillary equipment incorporates some novel features and state-of-the-art features for ease of use, maintenance and reliability.
Design work started on the next sizes of blower, with the objective of satisfying customer requirements for the majority of positive displacement blowers where Lontra’s technology can bring energy savings, high uptime, and failsafe air purity.
The Phase 1 project initiated engagement with end-users. This has been expanded to ensure market needs are captured and addressed, while at the same time raising awareness of the forthcoming new product. Some key end-users have been identified to work with Lontra as early adopters; these are typically environmentally responsible companies which recognise the need to reduce their energy consumption as important to continuing success.
Lontra’s main routes to market will be through distributors (full-service providers who install and maintain air systems) and integrators (who integrate the compressor into a bespoke system for an end-user). Lontra is identifying the most appropriate partners and building a roadmap to roll out the new compressor across markets and geographic regions. At present, many distributors have shown great interest in embracing Lontra’s new technology, with the maturity of the compressor market seen as stagnant rather than stable, and proving to be more accessible than originally perceived.
In the second half of the project technical progress transitioned on to prototype machines, with in-house testing and development, and external independent testing and evaluation. Commercial activities have been extensive, with a successful product launch at ComVac, Hannover. Lontra’s industry visits to external test sites and customer engagement have been supported by a new demonstration model.
All objectives of this project have been met or exceeded:
• The new blower has completed initial durability and is expected to be high-performing and leading in key areas of reliability and ease-of-use. The design in particular addresses the risks of lubricant contamination to the delivered air, making Lontra’s blower among the safest to install in a critical process.
• Independently verified power consumption tests were carried out comparing Lontra performance with a new major competitor machine believed to be among the most efficient. Results show energy savings of up to 34%, as well as a broader range of efficient operation.
• Demonstrations and dissemination have been very well received, showing a keen appetite for this new product.
• Manufacturing methods, key suppliers and costs are in place.
• Documentation, certification, and product support are well advanced.
• Contracts have been signed with first distributors.
