One of the biggest mistakes that utility fleet managers make today is relying on bid specs that are outdated. Inaccurate data can often result in compromised safety, operational issues, and financial costs. By keeping up with the newest equipment and technology advancements, fleet managers can avoid the pitfall of being unaware of air compressor improvements that are designed to reduce downtime and increase efficiency.
“A common mistake fleets make when spec’ing a compressor is basing the decision strictly on the upfront cost of the unit without looking at the life-cycle cost or application,” according to Dean Gary, national sales representative for VMAC.
The right specs help address how the air compressor will be used, desired capacity, and environment where it will be operating. Accurate fleet data and reporting can optimize operations, reduce costs, and improve decision-making.
Gary notes that VMAC has continued to see “a significant trend of customers switching from tow-behind air compressor to compressor mounted in the engine compartment.” With VMAC’s UNDERHOOD air compressor physically mounted in the truck, it reduces the quantity of equipment to haul.
Switching to this type of air compressor solved the space and weight challenges of one VMAC utility customer. The utility crew wanted more space on their trucks and something more compact and lightweight than their bulky diesel-driven air compressor. The placement of the VMAC air compressor mounted in the engine compartment resulted in thousands of pounds of weight savings and almost three feet of storage available in the back of the truck. Choosing an UNDERHOOD air compressor means that you can add more tools and equipment in the truck, carry more materials, or take advantage of improved fuel economy.
It is important for fleet managers to know what to look for in a truck-mounted air compressor - but understanding what not to do is critical.
