Investment in VSD compressor units

There are many versions of Variable Speed Drive (VSD) compressors on the market. Some seem the same but that the price level is very high on first view. Logically, the initial budget for the majority of purchases is dictated by the purchasing department.

A user ask me recently: Can you point out the differences between the price levels and explain how the extra investment brings extra value?

In reality the difference is hidden deeper in the concept of VSD compressor units. Over the years the VSD compressor unit has proven itself to be a good investment in saving energy. On the other hand the same VSD compressor unit can be more expensive due to oil-carry over and more wear in E-motor bearings or more wear in shaft seals in oil pumps and the compressor itself .

One of the reasons can be found in the design. With the use of VSD compressor units, a variable load will be created in the entry of the compressor. In other words, the speed drive is variable; therefore the generated heat, the load on the oil separator and the heat to the oil cooler are variable as well. Please login or register to read the rest of the article.
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