The Atlas Copco ZR and ZT oil‑free rotary tooth compressors deliver clean, oil‑free compressed air that safeguards production lines and guarantees uncompromised, superior end‑product quality, redefining profitability in manufacturing and processing applications where air purity is non‑negotiable.
With over 60 years of pioneering the development of oil-free air technology and 45 years of in‑house rotary tooth engineering mastery, Atlas Copco’s air compressors embody decades of innovation, setting the benchmark for unmatched performance and reliability, remarkable operational flexibility, exceptional efficiency and long‑term cost control.
Processes and products in pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, electronics, automotive, medical, textiles, power generation, chemicals, etc. demand high‑quality compressed air as contamination can potentially halt production and escalate scrap costs, directly eroding profitability.
Too little air quality reduces equipment reliability, while excessive purity wastes energy, making it crucial to strike the right air balance to achieve the most efficient and dependable production. Atlas Copco’s ZR and ZT compressors are in full compliance with ISO8573-1 CLASS 0 (2010), the highest international air purity standard, which defines solid particles, moisture and oil as three critical contamination risks within air compression process.
Eliminating these three contaminants delivers several key benefits – safeguarding equipment reliability, reducing energy consumption, optimising uptime, ensuring consistent product quality and protecting brand reputation.
Taking the compliance topic one step further, JC Lombard, Compressor Technique Business Line Manager: Oil Free Air Division, highlights that Atlas Copco’s oil‑free compressors also meet the highest quality standards demanded by the food and beverage industry. “Our oil‑free production facility in Antwerp, Belgium, has achieved ISO 22000 certification for its food safety management system. This certification covers all Z‑type Class 0 oil‑free air compressors, as well as related dryers and filters, ensuring uncompromising standards of safety and quality.”
JC explains that the key difference between ZR and ZT compressors lies in their cooling method: “ZR compressors use water to cool the compressed air, while ZT compressors utilise air for cooling.” Available from 4 to 10 bar, the oil-free rotary tooth compressor range comprises the ZR/ZT 15-55 standard VSD (Variable Speed Drive), the ZR/ZT 30-55 Dual-Speed FLX and the ZR/ZT 30-50 Premium VSD⁺ machines.
“Before delving into each range, I want to explore the benefits of VSD and the substantial energy savings it delivers,” continues JC. “Over a typical ten‑year life cycle, the initial investment and installation of a compressor account for only around 15% of total cost, with maintenance representing another 15%. The remaining 70% is driven by energy consumption, making efficiency the single most decisive factor in air compressor selection. Every percentage point gained in efficiency directly reduces life cycle cost.”
“Our VSD technology, incorporated into the ZT 15‑55 VSD and the ZR 30‑55 VSD machines, enables compressors to match motor speed to fluctuating air demand, guaranteeing precise air delivery and remarkable energy savings of up to 35%.”
JC adds that the ZR/ZT rotary tooth compressors can unlock even greater energy savings when paired with an Atlas Copco Energy Recovery system. “By reclaiming the heat generated during compression, these systems convert waste into usable energy and measurable savings, turning the compressor into an energy source that delivers hot water up to 90 °C for practical use.”
Atlas Copco’s standard ZR/ZT 15‑55 VSD compressors are suitable for applications that require reliable, everyday performance paired with consistent energy efficiency. With a focus on straightforward operation, they provide dependable compressed air with simplicity and cost‑effectiveness at the core.
The latest powerhouse in Atlas Copco’s lineup, the ZR/ZT 30‑55 Dual‑Speed FLX, harnesses dual‑speed technology to automatically adjust motor speed for optimal performance at any pressure set point. Engineered to deliver energy savings well beyond the capabilities of traditional fixed‑speed compressors, this unit offers superior performance and unmatched flexibility, presenting the ideal solution for operations that demand adaptability and efficiency.
Atlas Copco’s ZR/ZT 30‑50 VSD⁺ high‑end compressors are engineered for top‑tier performance and energy efficiency, serving demanding operations such as pharmaceutical manufacturing, packaging and automotive paint spraying. These applications require a continuous supply of the highest‑quality, clean, dry compressed air, with reliable production, zero risk of oil contamination and the lowest possible energy consumption.
Atlas Copco’s premium desiccant and refrigerated dryers, together with its high‑performance filters, further enhance air purity to exceptional standards. The ZR/ZT compressors are also available with an optional Full Feature package, offering an all‑in‑one compact air quality solution. This package integrates a built‑in Heat of Compression or Refrigerant Dryer to save installation space, together with an integrated VSD that further reduces energy costs.
The ZR/ZT range is conveniently offered as a complete, ready‑to‑use and -service package, integrating internal piping, coolers, motor, lubrication and control systems within a compact footprint. Low noise levels of just 70 dBA create a quieter environment that supports safety and comfort in the workplace.
Atlas Copco combines oil‑free reliability, ISO‑certified purity and advanced energy‑saving technologies across the ZR/ZT oil-free range to deliver uncompromising performance. Supported by a global service network, these compressors empower industries to safeguard end-product quality, protect reputations and achieve sustainable efficiency. A true master class in innovation, compliance and efficiency, the ZR/ZT oil-free air compressor range creates customer confidence and sets the standard for compressed air solutions demanded by industries where 100 percent pure air is paramount.