Variable Speed Drives: Why aren’t we unlocking their full potential in modern pump systems?
Variable speed drives have the potential to transform your building pump systems, offering significant benefits in energy efficiency, cost savings and system performance. Yet despite their potential, these devices are often underutilised. We recently wrote an article for Water Industry Journal to discuss the reasons behind why this technology is being hindered from widespread adoption, and how to overcome these challenges (from common misconceptions to economic barriers).
Check out the full article here or read the highlights below.
Did you know... fans, pumps, cooling towers and humidification systems account for an average of 40% of energy costs in buildings?! This offers a massive opportunity to invest in technologies that will drive down these costs, and one solution to achieve this is variable speed drives.
These drives will reduce carbon footprints and yield significant savings with minimal payback periods - if used to their full potential.
How they work: Pump systems have traditionally operated at a constant speed, irrespective of demand. Variable speed drives however, adjust pump speeds according to demand fluctuations. During periods of lower demand, these devices reduce speed, resulting in significant energy savings. This adjustment not only extends the lifespan of the equipment by minimising wear and tear, but also reduces your maintenance costs.
Case example: We completed an upgrade project for a public pool, where we installed a custom-made control panel that adjusted the speed of the new pumps according to the required demand - i.e. when there were no swimmers in the pool, the pump speed was reduced. This achieved an impressive 82% reduction in energy consumption at the site!
Beyond speed control: looking at the bigger picture
While controlling pump speed according to demand is the most common application of variable speed drives, it’s not the only use that should be considered.
Variable speed drives offer a range of control options that can enhance system performance. These include:
1. Temperature Control: Integrate your drives with temperature sensors to maintain optimal speed based on real-time temperature readings.
2. Flow Control: Monitor flow rates and adjust pump speeds to ensure your system operates effectively, regardless of demand fluctuations.
3. Pressure Control: Regulate pump speed to maintain a consistent pressure within the system, which is crucial for operational stability.
Technical Manager, Joe Smith says: “In a world where we should all be focusing on energy saving and our carbon footprint, using variable speed drives effectively is key.
"At deckpro, we supply all types of pumps with applications ranging from swimming pools, industrial processes, heating and boiler systems, chiller systems to irrigation, sewage, and stormwater. And this is why we have such a deep appreciation of why no two projects or buildings are ever the same. What’s important, is looking at the wider picture, and understanding the needs of the entire building rather than one component of it.”
Innovative Features of Modern Variable Speed Drives
Modern ABB inverters will usually include a built-in clock, calendar and timer, embedded communication protocols, pre-programmed macros and even a swinging choke. By fully leveraging these features, we can significantly enhance the performance of pump systems – improving the efficiency of your whole building.
The integration of temperature, flow, pressure, and time control features, along with the advanced functionalities of modern drives, can lead to substantial energy savings and operational improvements.
As buildings and industrial processes continue to evolve, maximising the potential of variable speed drives will be crucial in achieving sustainability goals and reducing operational costs.
Get in touch with us to find out more about how these drives will transform your building.
Read our article in Water Industry Journal
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New Podcast
Check out our new podcast from Technical Manager Joe Smith. Listen in and discover the latest innovations in pump technology that could saves you £££s!
This is the first episode in our new series: 'The Curve Podcast: Innovation in Building Services'.
You'll gain insights into:
✨ Optimising Pump Systems for Maximum Savings
⚙️ Common Challenges and Mistakes
🔧 Extending Equipment Lifespan
🚨 The Risks of Pump Neglect
💡 Investing in Reliability for Long-Term Gains
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