Advantages of Using Frequency Converters in Water Supply Systems
The integration of frequency converter technology into water supply systems provides significant energy savings — from 30 to 35%, as well as water savings — up to 10%. Typically, the payback period for a frequency converter at the facilities where they are installed is 1.5-2 years.
Payback of Frequency Converter in Water Supply
Let’s consider an example of using a frequency converter in a residential building, which will be relevant for the management of homeowners' associations and owners of private houses.
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In buildings with frequency converters, it is necessary to maintain a stable water pressure. Water is supplied from municipal pipelines to a pumping station, which increases the pressure. However, in the central pipelines, the pressure varies throughout the day: during "peak hours" it is minimal, while at night — maximal. This means that the pump, which operates to increase pressure, functions effectively only during "peak hours"; at other times, it exerts excessive pressure.
- The maximum water consumption is 90-100% (peak hours) — 6 hours (in the morning from 6 to 8 a.m., in the evening from 7 to 11 p.m.);
- The average water consumption is 50-70% (day) — 11 hours (from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.);
- The minimum water consumption is 10-20% (night) — 7 hours (from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.);
During the day, the average water consumption is about 50-70% of the maximum value. This means that a pump without a frequency converter consumes at least 30% more electrical energy than it would with the converter.
It is worth noting that if the pump is incorrectly selected (for example, with inflated capacity ratings), the payback time will be significantly reduced, leading to faster savings on electricity.
Water Savings
Modern people often open the tap at 50%, assessing the pressure, and only then reduce it by 20-25%. This leads to excessive water consumption since the pressure in the system fluctuates, and the user can hardly accurately gauge the pressure in the pipeline.
Advantages for Private Homes
Installing a frequency converter on the water supply in private homes is an effective alternative to a pumping station, as there is no need for a large membrane tank; a volume of 5-10 liters is sufficient. Additionally, motors with frequency converters have a longer service life due to the absence of frequent direct starts.
Savings at Industrial Facilities
For industrial enterprises, water savings are similar. Electrical energy savings at enterprises built during the Soviet era can reach 60-70% due to the use of super-powerful pumps. On average, savings at such enterprises amount to 35%.
The payback period for a frequency converter depends on the actual power of the pump and water consumption and typically equals one year. Unplanned payback is determined by the lifespan of the motor, the stability of network operation, and the absence of hydraulic shocks, which can cause pipe bursts.