Hydrovane Regulated Speed

Why Regulated Speed Saves More Than You Might Expect

Most compressed air systems do not run at constant demand. Shifts change, production lines start and stop, cleaning cycles run at set times. A fixed speed compressor handles this variation by loading fully or going off-load – there is no middle ground. A regulated speed compressor matches its output continuously to demand, operating efficiently at any point between minimum and maximum flow. The energy that a fixed speed compressor wastes in off-load running is simply not consumed.

On Hydrovane regulated speed models, the potential saving is up to 50% compared to an equivalent fixed speed unit – higher than the typical 25–35% quoted for screw compressor VSD technology – making it a cost effective choice. The reason is that the vane compressor’s inherent intake modulation system works in conjunction with the variable speed drive, providing two complementary mechanisms for matching output to demand rather than one.

The REVS System – How Hydrovane Manages Off-Load

All Hydrovane regulated speed models include REVS – Reduced Energy Venting System. When the compressor goes off-load, REVS uses solenoids to vent the internal pressure in the airend down to 2 bar within seconds. Running at reduced internal pressure cuts off-load power consumption to as low as 20% of full-load – significantly better than a compressor that simply idles at full internal pressure.

REVS also reduces starting current – the compressor starts against 2 bar internal pressure rather than the full system pressure, reducing the peak electrical load at start-up. This matters for sites with tight power capacity or where multiple compressors share a supply. The compressor can restart immediately at any pressure within the venting cycle, so there is no delay in air availability.

Range Overview – 7.5 kW to 75 kW

Hydrovane regulated speed models are available from 7.5 kW to 75 kW in vertical enclosed ACE format. All models in the 4 kW to 22 kW RS range are fitted with the Hydrovane Pro electronic controller as standard, providing full parameter monitoring, programmable inputs and outputs, and connectivity for system integration. The Super Soft start function is standard across all RS models – reducing peak starting current and minimising start-up stress on internal components.

The HV11-HV22 RS models are available with integrated receiver and refrigerant dryer options – providing a complete Hypac plug-and-play package for operations that need a self-contained compressed air system. The HV75 RS offers energy savings of up to 50% through combined VFD and auto-idle operation.

Advance 10 Warranty and Service from Air Energy

Hydrovane regulated speed models from 4 kW are covered by the Advance 10 extended warranty – 10 years or 48,000 operating hours on the airend – when serviced by an authorised distributor using genuine parts. Air Energy is an authorised Hydrovane service partner. We supply, install and maintain the full RS range across Hertfordshire, Greater London, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Essex and Cambridgeshire. 

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Not sure which Hydrovan Compressor model is right for your application?

Call 01992 238 339 to discuss Hydrovane Air Solution packages, our Service Agreement packages, and our compressed air leak detection services. 

FAQs 

How much energy can a Hydrovane regulated speed compressor save?

Hydrovane regulated speed compressors can save up to 50% on energy costs compared to an equivalent fixed speed model in applications with variable air demand. The actual saving depends on the demand profile of the application – the greater the variation between peak demand and average demand, the larger the saving. Air Energy can carry out a data-logging assessment on your existing system to measure actual demand variation and calculate a realistic energy saving before you commit to a purchase.

What is the REVS system on a Hydrovane compressor?

REVS stands for Reduced Energy Venting System. It is a pneumatic system fitted to Hydrovane regulated speed models that rapidly vents the internal pressure of the airend down to 2 bar when the compressor goes off-load. Running at reduced internal pressure cuts off-load power consumption to around 20% of full load. REVS also lowers the starting current by allowing the motor to start against reduced internal pressure – useful for sites with limited electrical capacity. The compressor can restart and deliver air immediately at any point during the venting cycle.

What is the difference between Hydrovane fixed speed and regulated speed?

The core rotary vane technology, build quality and operating life are the same in both ranges. The difference is in how the motor is driven. Fixed speed models run at constant speed and use an intake modulation valve to regulate output. Regulated speed models add a variable frequency drive that adjusts the motor speed to match demand – eliminating off-load running and delivering greater energy savings in applications with variable demand. Regulated speed models cost more to purchase but typically recover that difference through energy savings within two to three years.

Is a Hydrovane regulated speed compressor quieter than fixed speed?

Both fixed and regulated speed Hydrovane models are quiet – enclosed ACE format models in both ranges operate at noise levels suitable for production floor installation. Regulated speed models can be marginally quieter at partial load because the motor runs slower. However, the primary noise advantage of Hydrovane over screw compressors applies equally to both fixed and regulated speed models. If noise level is a key criterion, Air Energy can provide the specific dB(A) ratings for the models being considered.

What maintenance does a Hydrovane regulated speed compressor need?

Maintenance requirements cover oil and separator element changes at the specified running hour intervals, intake filter replacement, drive belt inspection on applicable models, and a check of the REVS system solenoids and operation. All Hydrovane RS models have spin-off/spin-on oil filters and separator elements for straightforward servicing. The variable frequency drive should be inspected and its cooling checked at each service visit. Air Energy includes VFD inspection in all Hydrovane RS service visits.

Can a Hydrovane regulated speed compressor be installed at point of use?

Yes. Enclosed ACE format RS models are designed for point-of-use installation. Noise levels are low enough for a production floor, workshop or plant room installation without a dedicated compressor room. Because Hydrovane output is pulse-free and no receiver is required as standard, installation is straightforward – compressed air pipework and electrical supply are the primary requirements. Air Energy handles site surveys and installation for all Hydrovane RS models.

What is the maximum pressure available on Hydrovane regulated speed models?

Hydrovane regulated speed models operate at working pressures of 7, 8 or 10 bar depending on the specific model in the range. 10 bar is the standard maximum for the RS range. If your application requires higher pressure, please discuss this with Air Energy at the specification stage – compressor selection, receiver sizing and downstream equipment all interact with the required working pressure.