Energy saving JX inverter drive from Omron UK.

It is easy to assume that everyone knows the benefits of installing VSDs for energy saving.  Once the domain of large motor users, increased energy costs mean it is now cost effective to install variable speed inverter drives inverter on smaller applications.

Inverter drives continue to develop as manufacturers integrate new components and technologies to improve their efficiency.  The JX inverter drives are available from Omron UK in 240 V single-phase from 0.2 to 2.2kW, in 240V three-phase from 0.2 to 7.5kW and 415V three-phase from 0.4 to 7.5kW.

Motor efficiencies are also are improving.  Since January 1, 2015 it became compulsory in Europe for  new installations of single speed three-phase induction motors in the range 7.5 to 375 kW that are connected direct online to be Class IE3. IE2 motors can still be placed on the market but they need to be used with a VSD (variable speed drive).

Enhanced Capital Allowance scheme (ECA)

The UK Government agree, and the Climate Change Levy (CCL) was introduced as part of the Government’s commitment to reduce a number of greenhouse gases. One part of the CCL is the Enhanced Capital Allowance scheme (ECA). It is designed as an incentive for users to invest in energy saving technologies. Certain designated technologies, including Omron inverter drives qualify for tax relief in the form of an ECA.

Fan & pump applications offer the most savings, but this is not always the case.  Any motor application has the potential to save money and payback times or typically less than eighteen months. This is because the motors are sized for maximum demand and flow is controlled by valves or dampers.

Cube Law

Fitting AC inverter drives to motors controlling fans and pumps can save considerable amounts of money. This is because the load follows what is termed the cube law, which simply means any reduction in motor speed reduces the power by the same factor cubed.

Example of energy saving with Cube Law

For example, reducing a motor’s speed by 5% reduces the energy uses to (0.95 x 0.95 x 0.95 or 86%, giving a 14% energy saving.  By the same token, a 10% speed reduction offers up to 27% saving and 20% speed reduction almost halves the power used.

To demonstrate their confidence in using VSDs for energy saving, 999Inverters.com can arrange a loan drive to prove your fan and pump applications’ savings.  Then email us with your details and requirements

See our range of OMRON JX and other VSDs from stock at discounted prices