Renewed focus on energy efficiency, process optimisation and operating cost reduction is driving interest in variable speed drive (VSD) technology across Southern Africa, owing to the operational and energy-saving benefits of modern drive technology, says VSD and control panel supplier iTek Drives sales director Ryan Bisnath.

Among iTek Drives’ offerings, Bisnath puts forward variable frequency drive (VFD) manufacturer Invertek’s Optidrive range, which provides flexible motor control capabilities that can be tailored to the differing operating characteristics of rotary screw and reciprocating compressors.

By optimising motor speed to process demand, companies can improve efficiency and reduce mechanical stress on equipment, he says.

He explains that rotary screw compressors typically benefit from precise speed control to match compressed air demand, which reduces energy consumption during periods of partial load.

Meanwhile, reciprocating compressors often require higher starting torque and robust control during cyclic operation, which can be achieved through appropriate drive configuration.

Bisnath notes that Optidrive configuration selection depends on the specific application, motor size and operating environment.

While many configuration features are common across various industries, compressor applications often require specific control strategies and protection settings that differ from those used in fan, pump or crane applications.

For compressor applications, iTek typically recommends the Optidrive ECO model, which offers advanced motor protection, process control functions and flexible parameter configuration.

VFDs can also be retrofitted onto previously fixed-speed compressors, however, actual energy savings following the retrofitting depend on the application and operating profile, Bisnath warns.

“While every site is different, the greatest benefits are generally realised where compressors operate for extended periods under varying load conditions,” he explains.

In installations where compressed-air demand fluctuates, he points out that variable speed control can deliver significant energy reductions by eliminating inefficient, unloaded running and reducing pressure fluctuations.

Additional Support
iTek Drives started distributing Invertek’s Optidrive range in 2016 owing to the range’s combination of quality and competitive pricing. In 2024, iTek expanded its capabilities by establishing a comprehensive testing, repairs, programming and software centre in Johannesburg to further support Optidrive end-users.

To offer further value to customers, iTek is pursuing closer collaboration with heavy-duty electric motors supplier Electrical Motors and Components. The collaboration will focus on combining flameproof, explosion-proof and slip-ring motor types with Optidrive VFDs specifically for compressor installations in hazardous environments, such as mining and petrochemicals processing.

“By combining suitable motors with correctly specified VFDs and control systems, we can support applications where safety, reliability and regulatory compliance are critical requirements,” Bisnath says.

He adds that projects will be evaluated according to site-specific classification and operational needs to ensure customer requirements are met.

The solution will also comprise iTek’s control panels, ensuring that the relevant protection and monitoring devices required by each application are integrated. These include pressure transmitters, temperature monitoring, overload protection, interlocks, alarm management and communication interfaces.

As the panels are assembled locally, solutions can be customised to suit individual customer requirements while ensuring compliance with applicable standards, Bisnath assures.

He adds that iTek aims to serve as a single-source supplier, with an objective of simplifying the procurement and implementation process for customers, noting that a typical turnkey solution encompasses application assessment, motor selection, VFD specification, control panel design, commissioning support and after-sales service.

By providing these elements through a single supplier, customers benefit from improved integration, accountability and support throughout the project life cycle.

Meanwhile, iTek’s in-house testing, repairs, programming and software centre enables pre-commissioning and load-testing of compressor-VFD packages before dispatch from its Johannesburg facility.

These expanded technical capabilities assist in reducing on-site commissioning time, improving reliability and providing customers with greater confidence that systems will perform as expected upon installation.

Meeting Demand
Further aligning with growth in the compressor and pump markets, iTek Drives has relocated to larger premises in the industrial and commercial hub of Meadowdale, in close proximity to the O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

“We are focused not only on supplying equipment but also on supporting customers with technical expertise, training and application-specific solutions,” says Bisnath.

Through this, the company asserts that it is well-positioned to meet growing demand as more industries adopt variable speed technology to improve efficiency, reliability and sustainability.

The new premises is anticipated to assist the company in aligning opportunities across manufacturing, mining, water and wastewater treatment, food and beverage processing and general industrial applications.

Bisnath enthuses that iTek’s proximity to the airport serves as a logistical advantage, enabling the company to rapidly respond to customer requirements.

He notes that faster access to incoming stock, expedited shipments and efficient distribution channels helps minimise downtime when replacement drives, spare parts or repair services are required.

“For critical operations, reducing response times can have a significant impact on productivity,” he says.

The new facility features a warehouse with dedicated areas for goods receiving and dispatch, a VSD showroom, reception area, training room, offices and a workshop for product assembly and repair with additional capacity available to accommodate further growth.