News 1997

Munich, February 1997

Compressors: BAUER JUNIOR

The Munich-based manufacturer BAUER KOMPRESSOREN launches a limited edition of 500 BAUER JUNIOR entry-level compressors.

The JUNIOR compressor is ideal for end users and small diving schools with a limited number of trainees. Thanks to the lightweight design and its comparatively small dimensions, the unit is well adapted for trips, which require complete autonomy from stationary filling stations.

In detail: the unit is 75 cm long, 38 cm wide and 48 cm high. It weighs 46 kg. The free air delivery is 100 litres per minute. It is available in three configurations: the J2B has four-stroke petrol engine, the J3 is designed for three-phase alternating current, the J3W can be employed using single phase alternating current.
BAUER has planned ahead and ships the so-called H version, designed for a maximum filling pressure of 300 bar.

The compressor block is engineered by BAUER, the petrol engine is purchased from Honda. The engine data are also worth noting: the four-stroke petrol engine has a power of 5,5 hp (around 4 kW). Both electrical units have a power consumption of 3 hp (2,2 kW).

Guaranteed Safety

Of course breathing air compressed by BAUER units conforms to DIN EN 12021 (former DIN 3188) standards. Safety aspects were a prime concern during the unit's design: the belt and pulley have been encased as an accident prevention measure.
The compressor is supplied with the relevant documentation and certificates. The informative operating manual includes all the relevant information. Even inexperienced users will have little trouble in handling the unit safely.

A commendable fact about the operating manual is that it lists the telephone and fax extensions of BAUER's Customer Service Department. During office hours a qualified BAUER engineer will be able to answer your queries. The manual is put together systematically. The first chapter generally deals with the basic design of the compressor block, motor, filter system, filling device and base frame. A flow diagram of the tubing is also provides. A compendium of technical data completes this section. Importance has to be attached to the maintenance and service of the unit. Of course the legal norms and regulations are also reviewed.

Design

The JUNIOR compressor has a 'classic' design. The air intake employs a telescopic suction tube with intake filter. The air is then compressed to final pressure in three stages. Inter and after coolers reduce the air temperature. Safety valves protect each stage. The compressed air is cleaned in intermediate filters and treated by the TRIPLEX filter system. A manual condensate drain allows you to remove fluids. A hose connects the compressor with the adapter. The attached pressure gauge displays the filling pressure.

Maintenance and Service

The intake filter is a micronic mesh. This filter has to be cleaned frequently. BAUER recommends that the filter be turned by 90° after cleaning for extended filter life. After the second stage, a separator tank causes moisture to separate out. The third stage is receives clean, dry air. The condensate is drained through a valve, which has to be manually unfastened every 15 to 30 minutes. The filter ought to be cleaned using soapy water and blown dry with pressurised air. Compressed air from the third stage is 10-15 °C above ambient temperature. It is then fed into the filter system, which is equipped with a TRIPLEX cartridge. The filter system consists of a cyclonic separator and a cartridge housing. The separator, which separates out suspended, liquid particles, is placed around the TRIPLEX housing. The filter cartridge itself removes gaseous impurities by means of activated carbon and molecular sieve. Consequently air is oil free, odourless and tasteless. To prevent the system from being run without a cartridge, a special security lock is incorporated. This locking device prevents pressure from building up whenever the system is run without a cartridge.

Filter Systems Guarantee Top Air Quality

BAUER's filter technology is largely responsible for the Munich-based company's market leadership. No other company attaches greater importance to air quality.

Verdict: the JUNIOR is an extremely well designed product. Clever, trusted and robust technical solutions go hand in hand with a reasonable price. DM 3500 for a top quality diving compressor is by no means exaggerated.

Report: "Divemaster", issue 2/1997, page 45