Atlas Copco Bolting Solutions expands rental operation

Atlas Copco and its bolting distributor, Torque Solutions, have extended their agreement to ensure companies operating within the energy production sector have quick and cost-efficient access to tooling and equipment for infrastructure assembly and maintenance projects.

Sheffield-based Torque Solutions has been appointed by Atlas Copco to provide a full spectrum rental service, including the hire, maintenance, refurbishment and calibration of its complete portfolio of hydraulic torque and bolt tensioning products. This expanded partnership facilitates rental access to all areas of Atlas Copco's expertise in the UK, such as design, manufacturer and test, under one roof.

Additionally, Torque Solutions will offer customers a bespoke rental package with hire periods starting from 24 hours and equipment calibration with a quick turnaround.

Stephen Hamer, Sales Manager at Atlas Copco Energy Division, said: "Having appointed Torque Solutions as the distributor for our Smart Connected Bolting technology at the end of 2019, the development of this partnership will further strengthen Atlas Copco's presence within the energy industry and in particular, the expanding renewable energy segment, where full traceability of safety critical assembly and maintenance needs to be audited."

Nick Murphy, Sales and Marketing Manager at Torque Solutions, added: "Atlas Copco's reputation for quality and product innovation is the perfect fit for our customer base and the growing renewables industry in particular. Atlas Copco products are robust and reliable and are fully supported by an equally strong service and support infrastructure, which is essential for our customers."

Renewable energy installations, such as offshore wind farms, continue to develop in scale and productivity with manufacturer designs in progress for individual turbines to generate up to 12 megawatts of electricity. Requiring towers of over 150 metres in height, such infrastructure utilises some of the largest bolts in global construction.

James McAllister, General Manager at Atlas Copco, commented: "Through this exciting partnership with Torque Solutions, Atlas Copco extends its offer to UK customers from pure equipment supply to include professional rental services. Our customers can now rent to complete range of bolting products from pneumatic, hydraulic tightening and tensioning, right through to the most advanced electric and battery tools.

"Products are available at very competitive prices with a range of fast delivery options. Providing a range of innovative and flexible solutions will help our customers reduce costs and drive long term success."

Back in January, Atlas Copco opened a new calibration laboratory, accredited by the UK Accreditation Service (UKAS) in order to deliver complete audit traceability and measurement assurance to its manufacturing customers.