VSD versus VSD+
A Variable Speed Drive (VSD) air compressor saves energy by automatically adjusting its motor speed so compressed air production matches demand. Standard VSD compressors accomplish this using induction motors coupled with gears to the rotary screw elements. It’s a time-tested approach that works, but Atlas Copco never stops innovating. Our VSD+ range of air compressors applies our patented technology to raise energy efficiency and performance to even higher levels.
VSD+ explained
Atlas Copco’s VSD+ compressors are a revolutionary in-house design featuring an interior Permanent Magnet (iPM) motor. The iPM motor shares a rotor with the unit’s best-in-class asymmetric compression elements, so it’s direct-drive and highly energy efficient. The entire VSD+ drive train is a closed circuit, where both motor and elements are cooled with oil, which provides further energy savings. With no coupling or gears between the motor and screw element, VSD+ compressors are exceptionally quiet.
VSD+ compressors feature a patented sentinel valve that completely seals the element during stop. This prevents any escape of compressed air, eliminating blow-off losses. Maintaining pressure in this manner also requires less energy to restart the compressor, avoiding power spikes.
VSD+ compressors feature a patented sentinel valve that completely seals the element during stop. This prevents any escape of compressed air, eliminating blow-off losses. Maintaining pressure in this manner also requires less energy to restart the compressor, avoiding power spikes.
VSD+ advantages
- Highly energy efficient – The iPM motor provides energy savings of 50 percent on average compared to idling compressors.
- Smaller and taller – VSD+ machines feature a unique vertical design concept that reduces the system’s footprint by about 60 percent.
- Improved free air delivery – An impressive 6 percent increase in FAD further improves VSD+ efficiency and performance.
- Less noise – VSD+ machines feature an innovative cooling fan that produces as little as 73 dB(A) during operation. This allows compressor installation on the factory floor rather than in a separate room, potentially freeing a dedicated compressor room for other another use.
- Easy service – VSD+ machines feature easy-to-access parts, a maintenance-free sentinel drive and electronic water drain.
- Monitoring – The VSD+ range incorporates Atlas Copco’s a state-of-the-art Elektronikon® smart controller system that features embedded connectivity with SmartLink. This allows simple and effective remote monitoring and integrates with plant management systems.
- Built to last – During research and development, Atlas Copco engineers designed individual VSD+ components to be robust and long lasting, making downtime for service less likely.
- Lower total cost of ownership – Total lifecycle cost is reduced by approximately 37 percent compared to a similarly sized VSD machine.
- Flexibility – VSD+ technology is available in a wide range of Atlas Copco GA models.
Main differences between GA VSD and GA VSD+
GA VSD
- Induction motor IE2 efficiency
- Air cooled IP55 protection
- Greased for life motor NDE motor bearing
- Gear driven
- Horizontal drive train: standard unit size
- VSD inlet valve
- Wide speed range
- NEOS drive (GA37-90 VSD)
- Radial fan
- Low pressure drop design
- Market leading FAD
- On average 35% energy savings
GA VSD+
- iPM motor equal IE5 efficiency
- Oil cooled IP66 protection
- Oil cooled motor NDE bearing
- Direct driven - no transmission losses
- Vertical drivetrain: super compact (-25~57%)
- Latest generation Atlas Copco air end
- Sentinel inlet valve
- Wider speed range
- NEOS drive (GA37L-110VSD+)
- ERP2020 high efficiency fans*
- Designed for very low pressure drop
- Market leading FAD +3-12%
- On average 50% energy savings
Ask an air system professional about your best solution for energy-efficient compressed air production.