Fact check: VSD compressors are not designed to run at full speed, 100% of the time

Spoiler alert: Not true. High-quality VSD compressors, like Atlas Copco’s, are engineered to perform at full speed all day if required – without sacrificing efficiency or reliability. That’s the benefit of a system designed from the ground up without retrofitted add-on components.

Fact: Sizing affects performance more than speed does

Regardless of compressor type, proper sizing is the foundation for reliable and efficient operation. Running any machine – VSD or fixed-speed – outside its ideal load window will compromise performance, energy use, and equipment life.

A well-sized VSD compressor should operate near 80% of maximum flow to balance efficiency and demand flexibility. However, if your setup requires running at or near 100% capacity, Atlas Copco’s VSD are built to handle it – and still remain efficient.

Fact: Not all VSD are engineered for continuous full-speed use

Some manufacturers add an inverter onto a fixed-speed compressor and call it a VSD. This shortcut creates mismatches between components, leading to thermal inefficiencies and performance issues – especially when the unit is pushed to its limits.

Atlas Copco’s VSD are built as integrated systems. Every component – from motor to inverter to cooling – is designed to operate in sync, including at maximum speed and load, without losing efficiency or reliability.

Fact: VSD still deliver top efficiency – even at full demand

It’s easy to assume VSD only save energy at partial loads – but that’s a narrow view. While variable speed benefits are most visible when demand fluctuates, VSD with high-efficiency designs (like iPM motors) also outperform fixed-speed models at full speed.

Even when running flat out, Atlas Copco VSD deliver higher efficiency than conventional machines, thanks to their optimized design and advanced motor technology.

Fact check summary

Claim: VSD compressors are not designed to run at full speed, 100% of the time
Verdict: False. Atlas Copco VSD compressors are engineered to run continuously at maximum speed if needed – and still deliver better energy efficiency than comparable fixed-speed units.

Related VSD articles

Fact check: Every VSD compressor has the same working principle

While it's true that VSD compressor equipment is typically more efficient than fixed speed machines, there is more beyond the surface.

HVAC engineer monitors airflow data in modern industrial facility. Pro uses laptop to analyze system performance. Tech-driven environment filled with machinery, equipment. Focus on tech, automation

Fact check: Fixed speed compressors are better for stable air demand

A stable airflow doesn’t automatically justify a fixed-speed compressor. Advanced VSDs reduce energy losses and deliver superior efficiency under all demand profiles.

A service engineer checks a pneumatic valve in oil and gas industry.

Think your airflow is stable? Think again – and audit before you choose a compressor

Most air systems experience demand fluctuations. A proper audit can reveal the truth – and a well-designed VSD compressor usually delivers the best energy efficiency in real-world conditions.

Are VSD compressors less efficient at full load? Not if they’re built right

High-quality VSD compressors like Atlas Copco’s are more efficient than fixed-speed models – even at maximum load – and offer far greater savings in real-world conditions.

Why multiple VSD compressors outperform mixed compressor setups

Forget the old base-load logic. Full-VSD compressor rooms offer better energy efficiency, lower running costs, and tighter pressure control than traditional fixed-speed+VSD installations.

CNC in the small to medium workshop with VSD comrpessor

Why VSD compressors are a great choice for workshops

Compact VSD compressors like the Atlas Copco G 2–7 VSD range are ideal for small workshops, offering a small footprint, low noise, energy efficiency, and advanced control, even in low-demand settings.

VSD compressors related

New GA 37+ - 45+ oil-injected rotary screw compressor

The demands on air compressors are growing. Businesses investing in a compressed air system want it to be more energy-efficient, more reliable, smarter, quieter and smaller, at a low total cost of ownership. With its new GA 37+-45+ (30-45 kw/40-75 hp), Atlas Copco delivers all of the above and more.

oil-lubricated screw compressor GA 160 VSD refrigerant air dryer FD 870 VSD, control unit Optimizer 4.0

GA (VSD) oil-injected screw compressors series

Our market-leading GA oil-injected rotary screw compressor deliver outstanding performance, high productivity and low cost of ownership - even in the harshest environments.

GA VSDs oil-injected screw compressor coverimage

GA 5-37 VSDˢ air compressor

When you need the best, choose VSDˢ. With energy savings of 60% on average compared to fixed-speed models, the GA 5-37 VSDˢ is the most energy-efficient compressor on the market. It also raises the bar in performance, reliability and connectivity to support your sustainability and productivity goals – now and in the future.

GA 22 FLX FF Oil-injected dual speed compressor - Ga 11-30 FLX series

GA FLX air compressor (dual-speed compressor)

With the GA FLX, Atlas Copco gives you a completely new compressor type: the dual-speed screw compressor. The GA FLX was developed and built to give you double-digit energy savings no fixed-speed compressor can, pressure setting flexibility and optimal flow at any pressure.

AIRCUBE - Containerized compressor room

Atlas Copco’s AIRCUBE containerized compressor rooms quickly and flexibly supply a complete, high-quality compressed air system when and where you need it.