The Atlas Copco Guide to Getting ISO 50001 Certification for Compressed Air Systems and Networks

Atlas Copco supports companies in navigating the complexities of energy management by offering advanced compressed air systems, services, and expertise that align with ISO 50001 standards. This extends beyond supplying equipment to providing comprehensive audits, remote monitoring, actionable insights, and continuous improvement strategies that facilitate significant energy efficiency improvements.

Compressed air systems, often referred to as the "fourth utility," are crucial in various industrial applications but can be highly energy-intensive. Proper management of these systems is essential as even minor efficiency improvements can significantly reduce energy consumption and costs. Integrating these systems into a comprehensive energy management strategy not only enhances operational efficiency and compliance with global energy policies but also extends system reliability, lowers maintenance costs, and improves a company's sustainability image. This approach offers strategic benefits, especially in energy-intensive industries like manufacturing.

Achieving ISO 50001 certification requires setting up a continuous improvement-based energy management system. Organizations must establish efficient energy use policies, set measurable goals, analyze data, and consistently seek improvements, fostering a culture of responsible energy consumption.

Integrating compressed air systems with an ISO 50001 - compliant energy management system enables organizations to significantly boost their operational efficiency. This integration helps in identifying significant energy uses and establishing specific energy performance indicators, which are crucial for tracking performance improvements. The data-driven insights gained from monitoring these systems allow businesses to make informed decisions that lead to substantial energy savings and operational enhancements.

Atlas Copco's comprehensive strategy for enhancing air compressor energy efficiency integrates a three-step approach that ensures substantial energy savings and operational excellence. Analyze - Optimize - Monitor.

The process begins with an AIRScan energy audit, which assesses current energy usage and identifies inefficiencies, providing realistic projections for energy savings. Following the audit, Atlas Copco implements SMARTLINK, a sophisticated monitoring solution that continuously tracks energy performance and provides real-time data for proactive management.

The strategy is further enhanced by the Optimizer 4.0, a central controller that optimizes the entire compressed air system, ensuring optimal pressure and flow, and maximizes energy efficiency by regulating variable speed drives and managing load distribution among compressors.

Additionally, the AIRnet piping system guarantees efficient air delivery from compressor to point-of-use with its modular design, allowing for easy network modifications and expansions without disrupting operations. Together, these elements form a cohesive and effective strategy that not only boosts efficiency but also advances Atlas Copco's commitment to sustainable energy use.

The process begins with a professional pre-assessment to define the specific audit requirements. During an AIRScan energy audit, the current energy usage gets assessed by an Atlas Copco Energy Consultant who identifies inefficiencies and areas of improvement. The type of audit can vary from a leak detection to a more advanced system & air quality audit. As a result a comprehensive report is generated which provides realistic projections for tangible energy savings.

Depending on the outcome of the analysis, specific recommendations will be provided to improve the processes resulting in lower energy consumption and increased equipment efficiency. Possible improvement steps can be:

• Installing a central controller like the Optimizer 4.0, which ensures optimal pressure and flow, and maximizes energy efficiency by regulating variable speed drives and managing load distribution among compressors.
• Upgrade from mineral lubricant to synthetic to increase the machine’s uptime, availability and efficiency.
• Eliminate restrictions in the distribution system by installing  AIRnet piping system. This piping system guarantees efficient air delivery from compressor to point-of-use with its modular design, allowing for easy network modifications and expansions without disrupting operations.
• Include more buffer capacity to eliminate pressure dips caused by demand peaks
• Introduce timers to switch machines off when not needed

To enable continuous insights of the as-is status and the impact of improvement steps taken, being connected is key. Therefore, the equipment and respective users get SMARTLINK, a sophisticated monitoring solution that continuously tracks energy performance and provides real-time data for proactive management. 

ISO 50001 certification provides numerous benefits, including structured management of energy resources, reduced operational costs, and enhanced corporate image. For businesses, achieving this certification not only signifies compliance with an internationally recognized standard of energy management but also demonstrates a commitment to sustainable business practices, making them more attractive to clients and investors who prioritize environmental responsibility.

Atlas Copco simplifies the process of achieving ISO 50001 certification through their Energy Saving Cycle, which includes Audit, Optimization, and Monitoring. This cycle supports companies in establishing the required processes and documentation for certification. Atlas Copco's expertise and tools enable businesses to effectively implement and manage their energy management systems, ensuring they meet the rigorous standards of ISO 50001.

After achieving ISO 50001 certification, it is vital to continue monitoring and optimizing energy use to ensure that the established energy management practices are effective and continue to yield benefits. Ongoing monitoring allows companies to adjust their strategies in response to any changes in energy use or operational conditions, maintaining high efficiency and compliance with ISO 50001 standards.

Maintaining energy efficiency requires more than just technical solutions; it necessitates a cultural shift within the organization. Building a culture of efficiency and sustainability involves training employees, encouraging innovation in energy management, and continuously seeking improvements. This cultural commitment is essential for sustaining the long-term benefits of an effective energy management system.

Effective energy management is vital for reducing costs, boosting efficiency, and meeting social and environmental duties. ISO 50001 offers a structured approach to achieving these goals through continuous improvement.

Ready to enhance your company's energy efficiency and sustainability? Let Atlas Copco guide you towards ISO 50001 certification. Contact us today and propel your business towards a future driven by energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.