Location:
Chatoga Spur
Dann Road, Glen Marais, Kempton Park, 1619, South Africa
Date:
July 2024
Overview of Variable Speed Drive (VSD) Technology
Energyrite are continuously searching for innovative solutions to reduce consumption and operational costs. One such solution they offer, which is proving extremely beneficial, is the Variable Speed Drive (VSD).
A Variable Speed Drive is an advanced technology that controls the speed and torque of an AC motor. In the context of the restaurant industry, a VSD is utilised to manage the speed of the extractor motor, which plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal air quality and ventilation in the kitchen.
The Issue: Unnecessary Energy Consumption
Traditionally, when the extractor fan is activated, it operates at full power until it is manually turned off. This binary operation—either completely on or entirely off—means that once switched on, the fan runs at maximum capacity for the entire day, regardless of the actual needs of the restaurant.
The challenge was clear: How could Chatoga Spur maintain effective ventilation while reducing energy consumption during quieter periods?
The Solution: Implementing Variable Speed Drive Technology
To address this issue, Energyrite proposed and installed a VSD system to control the speed of the extractor motor at Chatoga Spur. Instead of running the extractor fan at full power throughout the day, the VSD modulates the motor’s speed to match the actual ventilation needs.
The installation of the VSD system brought several key benefits to Chatoga Spur:
Energy Efficiency: The ability to adjust the extractor fan’s speed based on real-time needs led to a substantial reduction in energy consumption.
Cost Savings: By reducing the energy consumption of the extractor fan, Chatoga Spur was able to lower its operational costs. The savings on electricity expenses directly contributed to the restaurant’s bottom line.
Enhanced Control: The VSD system provides restaurant staff with enhanced control over the extractor fan. The control switch, conveniently located next to the griller, allows for easy adjustments to the fan’s speed.
Sustainability: The implementation of the VSD is in line with Chatoga Spur’s commitment to sustainability.
Conclusion
The introduction of Variable Speed Drive technology at Chatoga Spur represents a significant step forward in the restaurant’s pursuit of energy efficiency and cost savings.
This case study highlights the importance of innovative energy management solutions in the hospitality industry. With the support of Energyrite, Chatoga Spur has successfully addressed one of its energy consumption challenges, ensuring that the restaurant operates more efficiently and sustainably.
What is VSD?
A VSD controls the speed and torque of an AC motor. In our business, we use a VSD to control the speed of the extractor fan motor in a restaurant.
Solution
Energyrite installed a variable speed drive to control the speed of the extractor fan motor. The VSD effectively reduces consumption during quiet or off-peak times.
How Energyrite’s Solutions Can Transform Your Energy Management
If you’re dedicated to improving your business’s energy efficiency, Energyrite’s extensive support services are designed to assist you at every stage of your energy management process. Our Analytics and Reporting solutions provide crucial insights, while our Proactive Alerts ensure you stay informed about any potential issues. Additionally, our Loadside Devices and Automation services can help optimise your operations, and our Staff Behavioural Change programmes encourage energy-saving behaviours within your team.
If you’re looking to reduce costs, our Tariff Analysis services offer valuable strategies for savings, and our Real-time Monitoring tools give you constant visibility over your energy use. To discover how we can help your business with intelligent energy efficiency solutions tailored to your specific needs, follow the link for more information.