The Technology behind the VSD Compressor

Fitted with an intelligent drive system, a variable speed drive compressor continuously changes the speed to match supply and demand of air and avoid off-load conditions. This simple concept yields significant energy savings for manufacturers in a variety of industries.

How does the VSD actually work?

The variable speed drive measures the system pressure and maintains a constant delivery pressure of air within a narrow pressure band. The motor speed of the compressor is regulated by frequency conversion, which results in the variation of air flow. With the addition of advanced electronic controls, the delivery pressure is kept within a + 1.5 psi band, rather than the conventional 10-15 psig pressure band used on inlet controls for non-VSD equipment. Therefore, a lower air compressor delivery pressure can be used to maintain the required minimum working pressure of the system, resulting in increased energy savings and profitability.

Additionally, the converter in the VSD system performs a “soft” start/stop operation by automatically controlling both acceleration and deceleration levels, thus eliminating amperage peaks which could result in penalties from your utility company. Eliminating peaks also protects electrical and mechanical components from the stresses that can shorten the life of an air compressor.

By varying the speed of its drive motor as air demand decreases, the VSD lowers the delivered air flow as well as the electrical power consumption as illustrated in this short video animation. Properly sized VSD compressors offer manufacturers the ability to fine tune the compressors output to fluctuating compressed air demands.

If you are looking to optimize productivity and control energy costs, contact us to learn how much you can save by installing a VSD compressor.