Why Your Facility May Want to Consider a Variable Speed Quincy Compressor

If compressed air is essential to your operation, you already know that demand can often fluctuate and sometimes lead to inefficiency and/or over worked machines – all of which may lead to higher energy and maintenance costs. An overworked machine will break down much faster than one that is able to adjust to demand. Traditional fixed-speed compressors run at one pace regardless of how much air you actually need, which may waste energy, increase wear, and drive up your utility bills.

That’s where variable speed drive (VSD) compressors come in and Quincy Compressor’s VSD lineup stands out as a top choice for facilities looking to boost efficiency and cut operating costs.

What Variable Speed Means

A VSD compressor adjusts its motor speed in real time to match the air demand of your system. Instead of idling or cycling on/off like a fixed-speed machine, it slows down when demand is low and speeds up when demand increases. This results in:

• Lower energy consumption, because the motor only uses the power needed at that moment
• More stable pressure delivery, reducing fluctuations across your compressed air system
• Reduced mechanical stress, minimizing peak current draws and extending equipment life significantly

In short: you waste less energy and get more consistent performance, a huge win for your industrial operations/facility.

Quincy Variable Speed Compressors

NCA Ltd. offers multiple Quincy VSD-equipped rotary screw compressors that serve different facility sizes and demand profiles:

• Quincy QGV Series (40-400 hp)

A workhorse for mid- to large-scale operations, this series delivers 65–2,113 cfm and holds system pressure within ±2 psi (ideal where stability matters). It also includes a “low demand mode” that eliminates unnecessary cycling and maximizes energy savings.

• Quincy QGDV Series (15-30 hp)

Perfect for smaller facilities or workshops with variable demand, this series pairs VSD control with industrial-grade enclosure and premium controls for lightweight yet efficient operation.

• Smaller VSD Units (5-50 hp)

Including options like direct drive configurations, these units fit light to medium-duty industrial air systems and are optimized for reduced maintenance and operating cost over time.

When to Consider a Variable Speed Compressor

Not every installation demands VSD, but here are common scenarios where the benefits are clear:

• Fluctuating Air Demand

If your operation doesn’t require a constant high flow, for example, intermittent machine cycles or variable shifts, VSD compressors can dramatically reduce wasted energy.

• Facilities with High Energy Costs

Electricity is often a top operational cost. Facilities paying more per kWh see the biggest return from VSD drives because energy usage falls sharply when demand drops.

• Operations with Tight Pressure Requirements

When processes need consistent pressure (± few psi), VSD systems outperform fixed-speed units by modulating output smoothly based on actual demand.

Potential Energy Savings & ROI:

One of the most compelling reasons to invest in a Quincy VSD compressor is cost savings:

• Energy reductions of up to ~35 % compared to conventional fixed-speed rotary screw compressors are commonly reported when machines run at partial loads.
• Over time, reduced energy use adds up quickly — and most plants see payback in just a few years depending on electricity costs and runtime.
• Switching to a properly sized VSD machine has shown the ability to reduce annual electricity expenses by tens of thousands of dollars, with ROI often reached in under 2 years.

Beyond energy, benefits like reduced peak current, longer service life, and lower maintenance contribute additional value that accelerates your return.

Save Energy, Save Money, Boost Performance

In today’s competitive industrial landscape, efficiency isn’t optional — it’s essential. Variable speed Quincy compressors from NCA Ltd.:

✔ Dynamically adjust to your air demand
✔ Lower energy consumption and cost
✔ Deliver tighter pressure control
✔ Extend equipment life
✔ Often pay for themselves in just a few years

Whether you operate a small shop or a large manufacturing plant, choosing the right VSD compressor, like those offered by NCA Ltd., can transform your compressed air system from a cost center into a performance and savings engine.

Ready to Upgrade?

If high energy costs or inconsistent air demand are slowing you down, it’s time to explore NCA’s variable speed solutions. Get in touch with an NCA Ltd. Sales Representative today to assess your system and identify the best VSD compressor for your facilities needs.

Phone: 519-659-2691
Email: info@ncaltd.ca