We all know January is a time to set new goals and look forward to a brighter future. January is also a time to look back to measure how far you’ve come, and examining past successes can help you build a goal-oriented roadmap for years to come.
Today, we’re looking back to 1994, when we introduced our revolutionary variable speed drive (VSD) technology. Over the past 20 years, VSD technology has saved customers in the U.S. an estimated $300 million in energy costs. Plus, based on the number of Atlas Copco VSD compressors currently operating in the U.S., approximately 538 million kilowatt-hours and approximately $53 million in energy savings are saved annually.
According to greenhouse gas calculations by the Environmental Protection Agency, the amount of kilowatt-hours saved annually by Atlas Copco VSD compressors is equivalent to avoiding the carbon dioxide emissions of 51,029 homes’ electricity use, or removing 78,101 passenger vehicles from the road.
While we’re certainly proud of these numbers, we know there are always additional opportunities to increase efficiency and reduce energy consumption through new innovations like the GA VSD+.
GA VSD+ reduces energy consumption by up to 50 percent.
Launched in 2013, the 10-50 hp (7-37 kW) GA VSD+ range of compact, oil-injected rotary screw compressors reduces energy consumption by up to 50 percent, compared to a traditional load/unload compressor of the same type. The award-winning GA VSD+ range also increases free air delivery by up to 13 percent. Other features and benefits include:
- Premium efficiency – the GA VSD+ patented motor exceeds the latest NEMA Premium efficiency requirements
- Small footprint – the vertically aligned motor and drive train share a single drive shaft and reduce the total footprint by up to 55 percent compared to other similar-sized compressors on the market
- Ultimate protection – the completely enclosed motor drive train results in a NEMA 4 rating for protection against dust, debris and water
- Reliable, compact, quiet – the single closed oil-circuit cools the motor and lubricates the element and bearings, resulting in a very reliable and compact compressor that is also extremely quiet
- Condensation prevention cycle – the first in the market for variable speed drive compressors, the condensation prevention cycle is integrated with the Elektronikon® controller and prevents condensation in compressor oil, even in extremely low load conditions.
Being committed to sustainable productivity pays.
A focus on sustainable business practices will only become more important as we move into 2015. In the United States, millions of dollars in rebates and tax credits are available for investment in clean energy manufacturing and new technologies that continue to reduce carbon emissions. Sustainability is no longer a buzzword; companies that invest in new, more efficient technology will see the benefits of energy savings both environmentally and financially.
Are you ready to save up to 50 percent on compressed air costs?
As the result of many innovations over the past 20 years, VSD+ technology is available for 75 percent of the oil-injected screw compressor applications worldwide. We believe the future of industrial compressors is 100 percent variable speed drive; we hope to see the continued adoption of VSD technology across industries, resulting in a reduction of energy costs and ultimately, a more sustainable industry.
If you’d like to partner with Atlas Copco to help meet your energy savings goals in 2015, contact us by filling out our Request a Quote form or by calling 1-866-871-5407 and an Atlas Copco representative will be in touch with your shortly.
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