Compressors are essential, but large investments for both large and small corporations. However, making the right choices can drastically lower the cost of your compressors. There are two essential ways to avoid unnecessary costs: increasing the lifespan of your machines and minimizing the energy costs. Read on to find out how to lower costs, and how frequency-driven compressors (or variable speed compressors) can help you do that.
First of all, you’ll need to choose the right compressor for your needs. For instance: what size do you need? Many real-life cases have shown that choosing a compressor that’s too big—for instance, because companies are not sure about their actual air demand—can drastically increase costs. Knowing your business and choosing the right compressor is therefore essential.
But how to choose the right compressor? Maybe you already have enough experience to make the right choices. If not, you’ll need to perform a specific measurement before you make a decision. As far as the operation principle is concerned, there are two choices you can make: a load/unload compressor or a frequency-driven compressor. We’ll explain both.
Want to know more about the right compressor for your needs? Let us know and we’ll help you on your way.
These types of compressors have two pressure setpoints: an upper and a lower one. The compressor handles the pressure between these two points.
When the lowest pressure point is reached, the compressor pumps air. This is called the 'loading setpoint'. In other words: air is being compressed and the pressure rises. Since the pressure can’t keep on rising, there is also a maximum pressure setpoint, called the 'unloading setpoint'. When this point is reached, the compressor stops pumping air. The compressor is continually switching back and forth between setpoints.
As you can imagine, stopping and starting again requires lots of energy. That is why load/unload compressors have larger energy requirements than frequency-driven compressors.
Frequency driven compressors have different work patterns. Instead of a constant switching between highs and lows, frequency driven compressors have lower peaks and an overall ‘smooth’ air profile. These types of compressors adjust to the air demands. They produce the amount of air needed at any specific moment.
Frequency-driven compressors use a pressure sensor. This sensor detects the pressure and reports it to the controller. The controller signals the inverter. The inverter will adjust the motor speed in relation to the pressure settings.
So in short, frequency driven compressors are ‘smarter’ than load/unload compressors: since they adjust the motor speed to the specific moment, there is less energy loss. Better for the environment and better for your wallet! Another name for frequency driven compressors are variable speed compressors, since their speed varies depending on the air demands.
How can we help?
Are you looking for the ideal air compressor that combines a long lifespan and energy-efficiency? MARK helps you with everything. Get in touch with us and we’ll help you straight away.
What air compressor do I need?
If you’re still not sure what type of air compressor you need, feel free to get in touch with our experts for personal advice. We’ll assess your situation and help you find the perfect compressor.
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