AC variable speed drives on pumps, fans, compressors and other equipment
The advantages, gained in both productivity improvements and reduced energy consumption by using AC variable speed drives (VSD) on pumps, fans, compressors and other equipment, has been widely documented in the past few years.
Variable speed drives (VSDs) can reduce energy costs and prolong the life of equipment by adjusting motor speed to meet load requirements. For example, by lowering fan or pump speed by 15-20%, shaft power can be reduced by as much as 30%.
There are many advantages to variable speed drives (VSDs) on pumps, fans, compressors and other equipment over other forms of control. The primary advantages of this are:
1. Energy is saved by replacing mechanical fluid flow controllers with integrated motor speed control. Generally, these energy savings translate into cost savings and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions for a given level of production. The soft start characteristic of VSDs eliminates voltage dips and reduces starting shock on motor, couplings, gears and driven equipment, in turn reducing maintenance.
2. Running at reduced speed reduces wear on all drive train components and reduces the need for high maintenance items such as dampers, throttling valves, etc.
3. The range of flow control is generally higher with variable speed drives (VSDs), compared to mechanical controllers. And the likelihood of surges and vibration is reduced.
4. Operating speeds in excess of 3000 rpm for 2-pole AC motors are possible without the use of gearing, where required.
