Supporting Rowan Precision’s Energy Efficiency Programme
Project Overview
Rowan Precision, a manufacturing company based in Birmingham, undertook a major energy efficiency programme as part of its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and progressing towards net zero targets.
As part of this initiative, West Midlands Compressors Ltd supported the compressed air element of the project, focusing on reducing energy consumption through accurate system analysis and optimisation.
The Challenge
Compressed air systems are often one of the largest energy users in manufacturing environments.
Initial observations suggested:
- The existing compressor may be oversized for actual demand
- There were energy losses within the compressed air network
- Overall system efficiency could be significantly improved
The installed HPC ASK40 appeared to be operating inefficiently, but accurate demand data was required before making any changes.
Our Approach
Data Logging & Demand Analysis
We installed data logging equipment to monitor the system over a defined period.
This allowed us to:
- Accurately measure air demand and load profile
- Identify inefficiencies and excessive unloaded running
- Confirm that the existing compressor was oversized
All decisions were based on real operational data, ensuring the correct solution was implemented.
Correctly Sized Compressor Installation
Based on the data collected, the existing unit was replaced with a Mattei Blade 18i Plus.
By downsizing to a correctly matched compressor, we achieved:
- Improved efficiency under actual operating conditions
- Reduced unloaded running time
- Lower energy consumption
Leak Detection & Repair
A full inspection of the compressed air network identified multiple air leaks.
All leaks were repaired, resulting in:
- Reduced compressed air wastage
- Lower system demand
- Improved overall system performance
System Optimisation
Following installation and repairs, the system was reviewed and adjusted to ensure optimal performance across all operating conditions.
The Results
Rowan Precision’s April 2026 project announcement gives the following projected annual savings for the wider programme, which includes lighting, monitoring, solar PV and the compressor upgrade:
- 104,856 kWh projected annual energy reduction
- 23.63 tonnes CO₂e projected annual carbon saving
These are whole-programme projections, not measured savings attributable solely to the compressor. WMC supplied the compressor upgrade as one part of the programme.
Why This Matters
This project highlights a common issue across many manufacturing sites:
Compressed air systems are frequently oversized and inefficient
Without proper analysis:
- Energy is wasted through incorrect equipment selection
- Air leaks increase demand and running costs
- Systems operate far below optimal efficiency
A data-driven approach allows businesses to:
- Accurately match equipment to demand
- Reduce energy consumption
- Improve reliability and performance
- Support sustainability and net zero objectives
Conclusion
The compressor upgrade forms part of Rowan Precision’s wider energy-reduction programme. Verifying compressor-specific savings requires a comparable baseline and follow-up assessment.
West Midlands Compressors Ltd is proud to support manufacturers across Birmingham and the wider Midlands with data-driven compressed air solutions that deliver real, measurable results.
Not sure if your compressor is correctly sized?
We offer:
- Data logging & air demand analysis
- Leak detection surveys
- System optimisation and upgrades
Discuss your compressed air system
Contact West Midlands Compressors for help with equipment selection, installation or maintenance.