Fifty per cent energy savings claimed for new VSD compressor 05 July 2013

Atlas Copco Compressors has launched what it's claiming to be the biggest innovation in small variable-speed compressor technology in 20 years.

The firm says its GA 7-15 kW VSD+ unit offers energy savings of up to 50%, compared to fixed-speed compressors – and, since it is vertical, in a canopy size 55% smaller than traditional designs.

The unit is also 15% more efficient than Atlas Copco's current variable speed drive compressor, the GA 7-37 VSD – and quieter (62dB(A)), thanks to its ERP 2015-compliant fan motor and separate compartments for drive train and cooling – while providing "a leap in FA [free air delivery] of 12%".

Atlas Copco states that the improvement is due to its patented interior permanent magnetic (iPM) motors – a first for the company and now manufactured in-house.

iPM is vertically-mounted, protected to IP66, oil-cooled, and was designed specifically to match its screw element. Significantly, the design is maintenance-free and, just as important, IE4 certified to the highest level of motor efficiency.

Hence Atlas Copco's bold claim for a new benchmark in energy efficient compressor technology and its even bolder suggestion that all small compressor users can now switch to variable speed drive compressors.

Interestingly, the company also suggests that its small footprint (610 x 630mm) allows the unit to be placed on the production line. And since only two panels need to be removed for servicing, it can also be placed against a wall.

Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Atlas Copco Compressors

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