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Variable Speed Compressor boosts efficiency in Italian workshop
A small mechanical workshop in Italy optimized its compressed air supply by using an SCC BASE VSD 11 kW variable peed compressor. The result: significantly reduced operating costs and, according to the customer, the investment paid for itself in around 18 months.
Problem – Inefficient compressed air supply with variable demand
The mechanical workshop for assembly work in Italy faced a typical challenge: the compressed air demand was highly irregular, as the number of pneumatic tools used simultaneously varied greatly depending on the order situation and work shifts. The conventional fixed-speed compressor previously used ran at constant power even when air demand was low or switched between full load and idling, resulting in inappropriate energy consumption.
The main challenges were:
- Irregular compressed air demand due to fluctuating tool usage
- High energy losses during idle times of the conventional compressor
- Rising operating costs coupled with growing cost pressure
- Inefficient compressed air supply without demand-based modulation of the delivery rate
Mechanical workshops use pneumatic tools intensively for various assembly work, machine maintenance or pneumatic equipment in general. A compressor with on/off technology that is used for variable compressed air consumption often leads to considerable energy losses, as these cannot adapt to the actual requirements in a given production period.
Solution – SCC BASE VSD 11 kW variable peed compressor with inverter technology
After a detailed needs analysis, the workshop decided to install a BASE VSD 11 kW speed-controlled compressor with the latest speed-controlled technology. The system impressed with the following technical features:
Technical features of the SCC BASE VSD 11 kW:
- Nominal power: 11 kW with variable speed
- Volume flow: 0.88-1.49 m³/min at 8 bar, 0.86-1.48 m³/min at 10 bar
- IE4 permanent magnet motor for maximum energy efficiency
- Direct drive to optimize energy transmission
- Speed control by frequency inverter
- Dimensions: 1,100 x 730 x 1,050 mm with a weight of 250 kg
- Sound level: 62 ±3 dB(A)
- Warranty: 24 months full warranty
How inverter technology works:
The Variable Speed Drive (VSD) technology automatically regulates the motor speed according to the current compressed air requirement. This means that only the amount of compressed air that is actually required is produced. This leads to reduced motor switching cycles and significantly lower energy losses.
The IE4 permanent magnet motor protects the environment thanks to its low energy consumption and impresses with its high efficiency thanks to an optimized winding. The intelligent SCC control system with multi-colored touchscreen enables intuitive operation and provides detailed insights into all important operating parameters such as pressure, temperature and maintenance status.
Result – Significant cost savings and rapid amortization
The installation of the BASE VSD 11 kW speed-controlled compressor produced impressive results:
Operating cost savings:
- Reduced energy costs thanks to demand-driven compressed air generation
- Optimized energy use with savings of up to 35% compared to conventional systems
- Elimination of idling losses through continuous speed adjustment
- Constant line pressure with reduced maintenance interventions at the same time
Economic advantages:
According to the customer, the investment paid for itself in around 18 months. The customer saves 3 kW per operating hour. Variable speed compressors can save up to 50% of energy costs, with typical payback periods of between 2-3 years for industrial applications in general.
Additional operational advantages:
- Reduced downtimes thanks to long maintenance intervals for oil filters, air filters and oil separator elements
- Longer compressor service life due to reduced mechanical wear
- Reliable tool supply with ready-to-use compressed air quality
- Flexible installation thanks to low noise emissions of just 62 dB(A)
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
When is a speed-controlled compressor worthwhile?
A variable-speed compressor is particularly advantageous when compressed air demand fluctuates, as is typical not only in mechanical workshops but also in many industrial processes. With variable air delivery, energy savings of 25-50% can be achieved compared to conventional fixed-speed compressors.
How quickly does an investment in an inverter compressor pay for itself?
Payback periods typically vary between 18 months and 3 years, depending on the usage profile and energy costs. With continuous variable use in conjunction with periodic energy price increases, the investment can become economically viable within a year.
What are the maintenance benefits of VSD technology?
Variable-speed compressors have longer maintenance intervals of up to 4,000 operating hours and lower wear costs thanks to gentle starting procedures without abrupt switch-on peaks to cover peak demand.
What types of workshops is an 11 kW VSD compressor suitable for?
The SCC BASE VSD 11 kW is suitable for small to medium-sized mechanical workshops with a compressed air requirement of 0.88-1.49 m³/min and is ideal for the simultaneous operation of several pneumatic tools.
Are you interested in an efficient compressed air supply in your workshop?
Let our experts advise you and request a customized offer for your application. Benefit from the proven SCC technology and reduce your operating costs sustainably.
