LCC research program findings for realising energy efficient fan, compressor and conveyor systems with a frequency converter

Panel: 4. Undertaking high impact actions: The role of technology and systems optimisation

This is a peer-reviewed paper.

Authors:
Tero Ahonen, Lappeenranta University of Technology, Finland
Jukka Tolvanen, ABB Drives, Finland
Jussi Tamminen, Lappeenranta University of Technology, Finland
Jero Ahola, Lappeenranta University of Technology, Finland

Abstract

Frequency converters enable the energy efficient operation of pumping, fan, compressor and conveyor systems by varying the motor speed to desired value. Besides speed variation, a modern frequency converter can estimate the state and performance of the system operation without additional measurement sensors. This ability provides several possibilities to optimise system operation and the resulting life-cycle costs (LCC) that mainly consist of energy and maintenance costs.

LCC research program studies the advanced use of a frequency converter in the monitoring and control of fan, compressor and conveyor systems. The research is based on literature reviews, case studies and laboratory tests with an object to develop LCC optimising methods for these systems. Similar research project has been previously carried out for pumping systems with positive results, showing the converter’s potential to improve both system energy efficiency and reliability with proper selection of the rotational speed reference. As an example, a modern frequency converter can first identify the minimum allowable rotational speed for the pumping system and then select a feasible rotational speed reference with minimised system specific energy consumption.

This paper presents some findings and developed methods for realising energy efficient and reliable fan, compressor and conveyor systems. The methods are based on possibility to estimate system operating state without additional sensors on the device.