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Energy Savings of Variable Speed Motors
Abstract
This paper investigates the energy savings available by utilizing variable speed motors on pump and fan applications. Conventional control of flow or pressure in process plants is normally accomplished by throttling the various streams with control valves. Depending on the system and the actual operating conditions, this throttling may consume a considerable amount of energy. The hydraulics of different systems are investigated to generalize high energy saving applications. Typical pump characteristics at varying speeds are investigated since most performance curves are only available at a constant speed.
The various types of variable speed electric motors are discussed. However, the primary variable speed system recommended is a variable frequency speed system which utilizes standard induction motors. Specific cases of centrifugal pump applications and cooling tower fan service are presented. Turndown frequencies, stream factors, and electric rates are included in the evaluation. The energy savings of a variable speed system becomes significant when flow rates vary widely and the electrical rates are high.
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Citation
Fishel, F. D. (1979). Energy Savings of Variable Speed Motors. Energy Systems Laboratory (http://esl.tamu.edu). Available electronically from https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /93818.