How to Cut Your Energy Consumption in Half
This innovative compressed air system is a game changer that reduces energy consumption by a staggering 50 percent on average, compared to idling compressors.
The GA 7-37 VSD+ compressor from Atlas Copco reduces energy consumption by a staggering 50 percent on average, compared to idling compressors.
Posted: December 9, 2014
“In order to remain competitive in a global market, it is important for manufacturers to work smarter and invest in the most energy efficient technologies for their operation,” says Robert Eshelman, the vice president of the Industrial Air Division of Atlas Copco Compressors LLC (Rock Hill, SC), as he introduces the Atlas Copco GA VSD+ line of variable speed drive compressors that bring a game-changing innovation to the general industry.
The GA 7-37 VSD+ compressor reduces energy consumption by a staggering 50 percent on average, compared to idling compressors. At the same time, it offers improved performance, silent operation (down to 62 dB(A)) and a compact footprint, thanks to its vertical drive train design. The heart of the system is an interior permanent magnet motor, directly coupled to a best-in-class screw element, all of which have been in-house designed and have patents pending.
All of these features make the GA VSD+ the compressor of the future, setting a new standard in the industry for years to come:
- Highest reliability – This compressor has proven its reliability during extensive field-testing. The drive train is a completely closed, oil-cooled unit that is both quiet and reliable (IP 66), even in the harshest conditions.
- Exceptional energy savings – GA Variable Speed Drive+ (VSD+) technology closely follows the air demand by automatically adjusting the motor speed to match the compressed air supply to the air demand. Combined with the innovative design of the iPM (Permanent Magnet) motor (efficiency corresponding to IE4 efficiency), this results in average energy savings of 50 percent and an average cut of 37 percent in the lifecycle cost of a compressor. A new, more efficient fan motor achieves another saving on specific energy requirements of up to 7 percent of the compressor power.
On top of the energy savings, this compressor realizes a Free Air Delivery (FAD) increase of up to 12 percent. The design of the motor and the drive train are protected by pending patents.
- Air system integration – This compressor is compact, with a footprint that is less than half of the current GA VSD. Thanks to the silent motor and fully-enclosed drive train, this compressor runs as quietly as 62 dB(A). Thanks to its smart design, all maintenance parts are easy accessible and the compressor allows for installation close to a wall or even in corners.
- Advanced control and monitoring – To maximize efficiency and reliability, the Elektronikon® controls the main drive motor and regulates system pressure within a predefined and narrow pressure band. The Elektronikon® controller can be adapted to your specific needs with extra sensors, digital contacts, fieldbus, Internet and SMS communication functions. In combination with the ES multiple compressor controller, the operation of your complete compressor room is optimized.
- Integrated air treatment – The GA VSD+ compressor is available in a Full Feature version that includes an energy-friendly integrated refrigerant dryer of the newest generation.
Atlas Copco Compressors is located in the Compressor Technique Business Area of Rock Hill with major sales, manufacturing, production, and distribution facilities located in California, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas. The company manufactures, markets, and services oil-free and oil-injected stationary air compressors, air treatment equipment, and air management systems, including local manufacturing of select products. The Atlas Copco Group celebrated its 140th anniversary in 2013.
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