Variable Speed Air Compressors

When it comes to energy efficiency in compressed air, nothing tops the savings associated with variable-speed compressors. These compressors can save you anywhere from 35-60% of your total cost of ownership, compared to a fixed speed compressor running the same amount.

Benefits of VSD compressors can be hidden behind the hefty price tag needed to own one. The steep investment can be a deterrent to many, especially when other cheaper options exist. Systems that upgrade to a variable-speed compressor often save so much on energy costs that the upgrade pays for itself.

They might not seem like it, but these machines are the unsung heroes of slow production days, slow second and third shifts, or periods when you might be understaffed. A VSD can significantly reduce energy usage during slow periods by changing the operational speed based on needs.

Should I Use a Variable Speed Air Compressor? 

A VSD compressor excels in instances of fluctuating demand by altering the discharge pressure so that it remains consistent throughout production. A variable speed drive could be the key if your demand peaks during the first shift and slowly plateau over the last two. By throttling down during lower demand periods, your production still has the same amount of compressed air, while reducing the total energy cost.

By limiting the pressure band and operating in a tighter range, Variable Speed Drives make the most out of the air currently in your system. Fixed-speed compressors run flat out, either on or off, costing you the same amount during slow periods as in busy periods. If you run a limited operation, fixed-speed compressors may be the best fit for you, but if you use a lot of air with high levels of variability, the VSD can capitalize on this variability to truly maximize your compressed air energy costs.

Why a VSD makes sense:

• Demand fluctuates significantly between jobs
• Demand varies by shift, on weekends or seasonally
• Manufacturing processes require tight tolerances for operating pressure
• Opportunity for energy incentives 

Depending on the size of your compressed air system, you may have a couple of fixed-speed machines that cover your baseline air and then include a variable-speed machine to “trim” the air to ensure you reach demand without exceeding it during slower periods. However, just because this option might not be right for you doesn’t mean you should pass on a VSD and potential energy savings.

Getting Your Own VSD

If your system can benefit from a variable-speed compressor, then the financial hurdle is less of a hurdle and more of an investment. You are investing in the health of your system, the reliability of your equipment, and the reduction in your energy costs that come with proper use.  Upgrading to a VSD should improve your entire system, not just the compressor. 

The benefits are widespread, following the air from the point of compression to the point of use. By transporting the air at a lower pressure than fixed-speed compressors, less energy is used to create and transport that air of the same volume. Lower pressure means less pressure is maintained throughout the process, generally resulting in fewer pressure drops as the air travels downstream. 

Variable Speed Drive reduces the overall load on the power grid and minimizes sudden spikes in demand that can overload the grid and cause an outage. As a result, governments and power companies may incentivize manufacturers to upgrade to energy-saving systems such as a VSD air compressor.

Having the right compressor for your application has many benefits, from reduced headaches to 60% in energy savings with variable-speed drive compressors. It is important to take into account all the variables that impact your operation so that when you are getting a new compressor, you know exactly what you are looking for. If you need help finding the right compressor or just want to explore your options, click here.