Compressor cuts energy consumption

Claimed to be the first air compressor to feature a hybrid permanent magnet (HPM) synchronous motor, Ingersoll-Rand's new Nirvana model is said to allow plants to reduce their energy consumption and costs by a minimum of 28% during the unit's operating life.

By matching the HPM motor with a standard frequency inverter, I-R claims to be the first to the market with a true variable speed drive compressor.

According to the company, existing variable speed compressors use an inverter rigged to a conventional induction motor compressor drive train, but they end up using the same power to produce 10-15% less air.

The Nirvana delivers compressed air at a constant pressure, regardless of demand, at maximum efficiency. It is said to feature fewer rotating parts than any other compressor in its class, saving money on maintenance and servicing.

Since the HPM motor directly drives the compressor, there are no gears, pulleys, belts, couplings or motor shaft seals to wear out, leak or need replacing.

A simulator on the company web site calculates energy costs against demand capacity - it reveals the life cycle energy savings provided by Nirvana's VSD compared to other control systems.