Atlas Copco has introduced the world’s first battery-powered mobile screw compressor, its B-Air electric compressor range, into the UAE.
Hosted by Galadari Energy Solutions, the official distributor of Atlas Copco and subsidiary of Galadari Brothers, the launch event provided industry leaders and stakeholders with an exclusive look at the groundbreaking machine.
The B-Air 185-12, a flagship model in the range, is designed to deliver an autonomous, emission-free performance for up to eight hours on a single charge. It features an innovative battery array cooling system that prevents overheating, ensuring seamless operation even in extreme climates.
“Even at 70 degrees, if your load is low enough, the compressor will work,” explained Bart Hendricks, one of Atlas Copco’s global product managers. “So there is some headroom for operators when working in the region’s demanding conditions.”
The B-Air 185-12 provides 5-12 bar of pressure, a stable flow rate of 5.4-3.7 m³/min, and a 55-kWh battery storage capacity. These specifications make it ideal for various industrial applications, including construction, oil and gas, and remote worksites where traditional diesel-powered compressors may not be practical.
Photo: Rahul Gajjar
“We are launching a battery-powered air compressor which companies can take to their sites and run it without any electric connections. This unit is environment-friendly as there is no smoke and the noise level is very low. Customers can just charge it in their workshop and send it to the site to operate for up to 10 hours,” explained Billal A. Razaq Hazza, general manager of Galadari Energy Solutions.
He added that B-Air can be used in construction, energy, industrial equipment and other key sectors. Previously, old compressors were powered by diesel. Last year, Galadari Energy Solutions introduced Atlas Copco’s electric air compressor — E-Air.
“It is the first battery-powered in the Middle East. No other manufacturer has introduced such a product in the region,” said Hazza while suggest that there might be new regulations coming up in the UAE to support greater environment and sustainability.
Driving Sustainability and Electrification
The launch marks a significant milestone in Atlas Copco’s sustainability strategy in the region. The company has long been a pioneer in electrification, having previously introduced the E-Air compressor series. However, the B-Air range sets a new benchmark by integrating a dedicated battery-powered unit, eliminating the need for external power sources or separate battery packs.
Jamil Ireifej, regional business line manager – APE at Atlas Copco, said the company continues to have a strong focus on innovation and sustainability.
“We have set very serious objectives to revolutionise the industry to make it more sustainable. Therefore, we are investing a lot into research and development and this is the first battery-driven compressor ever produced. Weuae are happy to introduce and launch it in the UAE – which cares about sustainability and the environment,” said Ireifej.
The product was previously launched in Europe and US where it saw a strong interest from customers, and will now be rolled out across the region.
“After UAE, we are planning to launch in Riyadh and Dammam in Saudi Arabia and then in Qatar, Oman and Egypt. In Europe, B-Air received success and there is a good demand and interest here in the UAE as well,” he added.
“We want to drive sustainability, and we want to drive electrification,” said Panagiotis Papaioannou, Atlas Copco’s Product Marketing Manager Sustainabilityanager “Our zero-emission compressors lower costs and maintenance while supporting clean operations around the world.”
With stricter environmental regulations in place across the UAE and the wider Middle East, companies are increasingly looking for energy-efficient and low-maintenance alternatives to traditional diesel-powered equipment. The B-Air’s electric design not only reduces carbon emissions but also provides significant cost savings by cutting fuel expenses and minimizing servicing needs.
Designed for Harsh Environments
The UAE’s extreme temperatures posed a key challenge in the compressor’s development. However, Atlas Copco ensured that the B-Air 185-12 could operate reliably in the harshest conditions. The integrated cooling system prevents overheating, and an optional air-conditioning unit further enhances battery cooling efficiency.
“We subjected the unit to extensive testing in high temperatures and tough job sites,” said Hendricks. “If the ambient temperature exceeds 50 degrees, the system automatically adjusts to prevent overheating, ensuring uninterrupted performance.”
A Game-Changer for Contractors
For contractors in the UAE, the B-Air electric compressor represents a major step forward in efficiency and sustainability available through Atlas Copco. The low noise levels, zero emissions, and reduced operating costs could make it an attractive choice for businesses seeking to future-proof their operations while staying compliant with evolving environmental policies.
Galadari Energy Solutions, as Atlas Copco’s trusted distributor, will play a crucial role in rolling out the B-Air range across the UAE. The partnership ensures that local industries have fast access to sales, support, and after-market services, reinforcing Atlas Copco’s commitment to the region’s growing demand for sustainable solutions.
