At Airlink Compressors, we’re passionate about helping local Hampshire businesses cut energy costs and boost reliability with modern compressed air solutions. We’re delighted to share details of our latest project: the full supply, installation, and commissioning of a new Hertz Frecon Plus PM 7 (7.5 kW) variable-speed rotary screw compressor complete with refrigerated dryer and air receiver for a leading electronics manufacturing company based right here in Gosport, Hampshire.
This upgrade replaces the company’s well-used Almig Combi 11 (11 kW fixed-speed combi unit) that we originally supplied and installed several years ago. The project demonstrates how switching to the latest permanent-magnet VSD technology delivers dramatic efficiency gains while maintaining the ultra-clean, dry compressed air that electronics production demands.
The Challenge: An Ageing Almig Combi 11
The Almig Combi 11 is a robust 4-in-1 integrated system (compressor + 500 L receiver + dryer + filters) that delivered reliable 1.61 m³/min (57 cfm) at 8 bar for many years. However, like any fixed-speed compressor, it ran at full power or idled inefficiently when air demand fluctuated — typical in electronics assembly, testing, and packaging lines. Over time the unit showed increased wear, higher maintenance needs, and rising electricity bills.
The Modern Solution: Hertz Frecon Plus PM 7 + Dryer + Receiver
We selected the Hertz Frecon Plus PM 7 because it perfectly matches the client’s variable demand profile while slashing energy use. Key features of the new system:
• 7.5 kW (10 HP) IE5-class Internal Permanent Magnet (IPM) motor with variable speed drive (VSD)
• Direct-drive, oil-injected rotary screw block for maximum efficiency and low maintenance
• Refrigerated air dryer ensuring consistently dry, high-quality air (dew point suitable for sensitive electronics)
• 250 L air receiver (tank-mounted configuration) for compact footprint and stable pressure
• Advanced touchscreen controller with real-time monitoring, Modbus connectivity, and energy-performance data
• Extremely quiet operation at just 64 dB(A) — perfect for a busy workshop
The new unit delivers up to 1.24 m³/min (43.9 cfm) at 7.5 bar, with a wide operating pressure range (5–13 bar) and constant output pressure regardless of demand fluctuations.
Energy Savings Breakdown – Real Numbers for a Real Gosport Business
The Hertz Frecon Plus PM series uses VSD + IPM motor technology to achieve up to 55 % energy savings versus traditional fixed-speed compressors. Here’s a clear, illustrative breakdown based on the client’s typical usage (approx. 4,000 operating hours per year at an average UK industrial electricity rate of £0.22/kWh)
Projected first-year savings: approximately £3,700, with payback on the investment typically under 2–3 years. Actual savings can be even higher with a full air-demand audit (we offer these free to local businesses). The VSD eliminates wasteful unload cycles (which can waste 20–30 % of energy in fixed-speed units), while the IE5 PM motor maintains high efficiency even at partial loads.
Professional Supply, Installation & Commissioning
Our Gosport-based team managed the entire project with minimal disruption:
1. Safe disconnection and removal of the old Almig Combi 11.
2. Delivery and precise positioning of the new tank-mounted Hertz system.
3. Full electrical, piping, and dryer integration.
4. Thorough commissioning, leak testing, and performance verification.
5. Operator training on the new controller.
The switch-over was completed in a single day, ensuring the electronics company experienced virtually zero downtime.
Why This Upgrade Matters for Hampshire Electronics Manufacturers
Electronics production requires clean, dry, and reliable compressed air for pneumatic tools, PCB handling, testing rigs, and packaging. The new Hertz system delivers all that — plus lower running costs and a smaller environmental footprint. Local businesses like this one are now better placed to compete while meeting rising energy-efficiency and sustainability targets.
Ready for Your Own Compressed Air Upgrade?
If you operate a business in Gosport, Portsmouth, Fareham, or anywhere across Hampshire and are looking at compressor replacement, energy savings, or a full system audit, Airlink Compressors is your local expert. We supply, install, and service premium brands including Hertz, Almig, Avelair, and more — all backed by rapid local support.
Contact us today for a no-obligation site survey and free energy-saving calculation:
📞 0800 7555 808
📍 Unit E6 Heritage Business Park, Gosport, Hampshire PO12 4BG
Follow us for more case studies, product news, and compressed air tips. Your next energy-efficient upgrade could start right here in Gosport!
Airlink Compressors – Compressed Air Solutions for Hampshire & Beyond
#CompressedAirGosport #EnergySavingCompressor #HertzFrecon #AirCompressorInstallation #HampshireBusiness