January 14, 2021
Most industrial users of compressed air experience fluctuating demand for compressed air. Variable Speed Drive compressors are designed for these users. Using a VSD compressor makes sense when:
These examples all relate to air pressure, so let’s look at some reasons why VSD offers advantages:
Sometimes, the most efficient compressed air solution combines one or more fixed speed compressors to provide the base load with one VSD compressor that “trims” to meet changes in demand. A system with multiple smaller compressors instead of one big compressor also provides redundancy that allows you to keep part of your facility operational when a compressor is offline for service or repair.
VSD compressors do have many advantages that can benefit most industrial users, but they are not always the right choice. If your demand variations are minimal, a properly sized fixed speed compressor may be more efficient. Fixed speed air compressors cost less up front. However, when demand varies, the additional investment for a VSD compressor typically pays for itself through energy savings. The payback period can be accelerated with financial incentives from your electric utility.
The optimal design of a compressed air system will reflect the specific needs of your processes, your facility and your approach to capital projects. To learn more about how Variable Speed Drive can address your needs, talk to an air system professional.
Learn about VSD technology and how it significantly increases energy efficiency compared to it's alternatives
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