Spoiler alert: False. Atlas Copco’s Neos and Neos Next inverters are custom-built for compressor performance.
Contrary to many other variable speed drives, they are not off-the-shelf components intended for general industrial applications. As a result, Atlas Copco customers enjoy superior VSD performance, from improved cooling to higher durability and smarter integration.
Fact: Atlas Copco designs its own inverters – and it shows
Most inverters used in industrial equipment are general-purpose drives supplied by third-party vendors. They’re built to be flexible, not optimized. Atlas Copco’s Neos inverters are different: designed and manufactured in-house specifically for compressors, they eliminate unnecessary components and are built to help produce efficient, stable, and reliable compressed air.
Fact: Neos Next handles more heat, dust, and pressure
Standard inverters often require derating above 40°C. Neos Next is rated to deliver full performance at 50°C and operate – if needed – up to 60°C with power derating. It's also built for harsh conditions with an IP54 protection rating (vs the IP2X typical for generic drives) against dust and moisture ingress.
These specifications aren’t just intended for favorable comparisons with other inverters. Neos Next is used in countless Atlas Copco GA compressors that run reliably in hot, dusty environments around the world.
Fact: Fewer components for greater reliability
Neos Next includes built-in I/Os and eliminates the need for bulky external electrical cubicles. It uses long-life film capacitors instead of standard electrolytic capacitors to extend service life and reduce failure risk.
The streamlined design leads to fewer connection points, fewer parts, and less chance of electrical failure.
Fact: Efficiency and performance come included
The Neos Next inverter is instrumental in delivering up to 60% energy savings in the latest GA VSD compressors. It manages the motor and the fan, regulates oil temperature via Smart Temperature Control (STC), and helps maintain optimal oil injection conditions.
From an electrical perspective, its total harmonic distortion (THDi) is lower than that of many standard third-party drives (around 35% versus 45%), reducing stress on the electrical network and supporting long-term system stability.
Most standard inverters control motor speed using a quadratic torque profile. While this approach suits variable-torque applications such as fans and pumps, compressors typically perform better with constant-torque control, which demands a more specialised regulation strategy.
Atlas Copco’s Neos and Neos Next inverters are designed specifically for this, allowing for an improved torque regulation.
Fact: In-house design means in-house expertise
With third-party inverters, support issues can sometimes bounce between suppliers. With Neos and Neos Next, everything is handled by Atlas Copco, from design and testing to service and upgrades. That means fewer dependencies, faster fixes, and support from engineers who actually designed the system.
Fact check summary
Claim: Atlas Copco’s inverter is no different than standard inverters
Verdict: False. Atlas Copco’s Neos and Neos Next inverters are compressor-specific, more durable, better integrated, and deliver superior energy savings and reliability compared to generic industrial drives.
