MechChem Africa March-April 2025

⎪ Hydraulic, pneumatic and automation solutions ⎪

Integrated Air Solutions delivers first ELGi compressors Integrated Air Solutions has secured a landmark achievement with the supply of the first three ELGi 1 200 cfm, 500 psi/35 bar (1200 - 500) high-pressure diesel air compressors outside the Indian market to two customers in South Africa, who hold several large drilling contracts in Southern Africa.

A s the exclusive regional sales and service partner for ELGi Equip ment, Integrated Air Solutions has, over the past six years, established a solid reputation as a leading supplier of quality air solutions to mining, construction, engineering, cement, pharmaceutical, auto motive, food and beverage, agri-processing, water well, and oil and gas exploration sectors in Southern Africa. “When one of our long-standing custom ers, already operating two 24 bar ELGi com pressors, needed a high-pressure unit, they turned to us for a machine that could meet their specifications,” says Wayne Jacobs, MD of Integrated Air Solutions. “The timing was ideal, as ELGi had in fact recently launched its pioneering 1200 - 500 high-pressure 35 bar diesel air compressor, expanding its renowned and highly respected 28 bar range. We duly arranged for a 1200-500 machine to be built in ELGi’s factory in India. “The word that ELGi has now officially en tered the high pressure compressed air arena spread quickly and we soon found ourselves requesting two more machine builds for a new customer.” Both customers hold significant drilling contracts across Southern Africa. “The introduction of these pioneering high-pressure machines into Africa marks a significant milestone for both Integrated Air Solutions and ELGi and revolutionises deep drilling and Reverse Circulation (RC) drilling which are known for their stringently high demands and technical challenges,” asserts Jacobs. “At the core of the ELGi 1200 cfm 500 psi compressor lies a groundbreaking innova tion,” notes Integrated Air Solutions Diesel Compressor sales manager, Franz Lottering. “The ELGi machine features dual pressure

ranges, allowing operators to work at 24 bar and 35 bar, transitioning seamlessly between the two pressure settings with the simple adjustment of a lever. This unique compressor essentially offers the best of both, ensuring optimal performance at different drilling depths!” In addition to its unparalleled flexibility, the ELGi machine reduces cost per meter drilled by offering significant cost savings in mainte nance and lifespan as well as in operational and fuel efficiency. Lottering explains that using a 35 bar machine for applications that do not require high pressure is a costly exercise that can lead to damage, breakdowns and higher diesel consumption. “Typically, when depths exceeding 300 m are reached, which requires high air pressure, operators must add either a second compressor or a diesel booster, both of which increase fuel con sumption. In contrast, the versatile ELGi unit enables operators to use 24 bar with diesel consumption matching the required pressure. Only when necessary do they switch to 35 bar, significantly minimising operational costs.” Reliability is key for customers, especially in the drilling sector as projects are typically located in remote areas, where access to services is limited. “These air compressors are built for rugged, reliable performance, and are powered by the same reliable Cummins diesel engine that has been the stalwart in all our tried, tested and proven ELGi machines,” notes Lottering. “Moreover, the normal service interval of the ELGi 1200 - 500 is 250 hours – but possibly less, depending on the severity of the working conditions. And in addition to supplying service kits, we dispatch qualified technicians to attend to major services.” Integrated Air Solutions considers the delivery of quality after-market support as

The ELGi compressor features dual pressure ranges allowing work at 24 bar and 35 bar.

important as the supply of quality products. Aligning to this ethos, the company is widen ing its after-market support footprint across the African continent by fostering strategic partnerships with distributors and other stakeholders in key regions. “Expanding our footprint reflects our commitment to delivering excellent products supported by exceptional service,” states Lottering. “Integrated Air Solutions’ proud long standing partnership with ELGi underscores our commitment to innovation and reflects our strategy of integrating premium products and cutting-edge technology to meet the diverse needs of the continent. We are well positioned to offer advanced compressed air solutions designed to optimise productiv ity and reduce operational costs, backed by excellent service and after-market support,” concludes Jacobs. www.air-solutions.co.za

March-April 2025 • MechChem Africa ¦ 29