Compressor firm partners with Mazak

Coventry-based Lontra is working with multinational machine tool maker to develop products for process sector

Coventry-based firm Lontra is to partner with machine tool maker Mazak to apply its “Blade Compressor" in the food and drink and pharmaceuticals sectors.

Lontra says its compact, double acting rotary compressor provides 20% energy savings over traditional compressors in industrial applications. It says the compressor design can replace the traditional piston and cylinders that form the basis of devices from compressors in factories and fridges and can also be used for vacuum pumps or automotive superchargers.

In Lontra's design, the piston is wrapped into a ring doughnut shape. As the piston rotates, air is drawn in behind it and compressed air in front of it in an almost continuous cycle. The company says the compressor is quieter, smoother, more reliable and efficient.

The partnership with Mazak follows a similar agreement made with Shield Group Engineering last year. Shield supplies machining and assembly solutions to the power generation, off highway, construction and automotive industries.

Mazak are to support the development of cost optimised production techniques for the Blade compressor for application in new markets including the food & drink and pharmaceutical sectors.

Mazak is also working with Shield Group Engineering to optimise Lontra’s entry into the global air compressor market, which Lontra says is estimated to be worth over £25 billion.

Steve Lindsey, chief executive of Lontra, said: “Thanks to the work of our engineering team and the support of innovative multinationals like Mazak, our technology now has the potential to drive a very large UK based compressor manufacturing sector.”

“It is refreshing to see much larger companies such as Mazak and Shield taking forward looking approaches to the engineering sector. It could be the key route for Britain to outcompete its rivals and strengthen its position in the global market.”