11 kW VSD Air Compressor Guide: Tanair TAN-S 11 VSD
The Tanair TAN-S 11 VSD is an 11 kW VSD air compressor designed for workshops and industrial sites where air demand changes throughout the day. It delivers 46 CFM at 10 bar and adjusts motor speed to match real-time demand, helping reduce unnecessary energy use.
Key areas covered in this guide
Whether you manage an automotive workshop, engineering facility or light manufacturing site, this guide explains how the TAN-S 11 VSD works, where it fits and what to consider before installation.
Why Choose an 11 kW VSD Air Compressor?
The 11 kW VSD air compressor from Tanair matches its output to real-time demand, delivering 46 CFM at 10 bar while helping avoid the waste associated with running a fixed-speed machine at full output when demand is lower.
This air-cooled, direct-drive rotary screw compressor combines a permanent magnet motor with variable speed control. As a result, it can suit UK workshops and light industrial settings where demand rises and falls during the working day.
Variable speed drive technology adjusts motor speed to demand. This can reduce unnecessary energy use where airflow requirements vary, although actual savings depend on operating hours, load profile, pressure settings and system condition.
Tanair TAN-S 11 VSD direct-drive variable speed compressor.
How Variable Speed Drive Technology Works
Variable speed drive (VSD) compressors use an inverter to adjust motor speed in real time according to air demand. Unlike fixed-speed models that run at full power or idle, a VSD unit slows down when demand drops and accelerates only when required.
This control method can improve efficiency in suitable applications because the motor does not need to run at full speed continuously. The Tanair TAN-S 11 VSD uses a permanent magnet VSD motor with IP55 protection for workshop and industrial environments.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 11 kW (15 HP) Permanent Magnet VSD |
| Free Air Delivery | 46 CFM (1.3 m³/min) at 10 bar (145 psi) |
| Maximum Pressure | 10 bar |
| Power Supply | 415 V / 50 Hz / 3 phase |
| Drive Type | Direct drive with PM VSD motor |
| Cooling | Air cooled |
| Motor Protection | IP55 rated |
Direct Drive Design: Low Maintenance and Higher Efficiency
The Tanair TAN-S 11 VSD features a direct drive airend that eliminates belts and associated components, avoiding slip, tension adjustments, and premature wear.
The air-cooled design simplifies installation with no need for water connections, making the unit suitable for a wide range of workshop environments.
Energy Use and Return on Investment
VSD technology is most useful where demand varies rather than remaining constant. In those conditions, the TAN-S 11 VSD can reduce wasted running time compared with a fixed-speed equivalent.
The purchase price should be considered alongside electricity use, operating hours and maintenance requirements. Softer starts can also reduce electrical stress, while variable speed control reduces repeated load and unload cycling.
- Potential energy reduction where demand varies
- Stable pressure improves tool performance and reduces waste
- Lower lifetime operating costs
- ROI calculator available to estimate savings based on your usage
Ideal Applications for the Tanair TAN-S 11 VSD
This 46 CFM model is particularly well suited to medium-sized operations that require reliable yet flexible compressed air supply.
Is an 11 kW VSD Air Compressor Right for Your Business?
An 11 kW VSD air compressor can be a strong fit where demand changes during the day and the site needs reliable pressure without running a fixed-speed machine at full output continuously.
A VSD compressor is not automatically the best option for every site. Where demand is constant, a correctly sized fixed-speed machine may be more suitable.
Installation Requirements and UK Support
The compact, air-cooled design can simplify installation, but the electrical supply, ventilation, service clearances and downstream equipment must all be checked before commissioning. Compressed Air Systems UK can provide installation advice, genuine parts and ongoing support.
- 415 V, 50 Hz, three-phase electrical supply
- 63 A Type D protection recommended for the 11 kW model
- Minimum 16 mm supply cable, subject to electrician confirmation
- Suitable ventilation and service clearances
- Separate 230 V spur for a matching dryer where fitted
- 12-month warranty on screw compressors
- Service kits and regular maintenance programmes
- Finance, delivery and collection options available
Electrical installation should be confirmed by a qualified electrician. Businesses can also review HSE guidance on the safe use of work equipment .
Frequently Asked Questions
Common queries about the Tanair TAN-S 11 VSD premium variable speed drive compressor.
What is the main advantage of a VSD compressor over a fixed speed model?
A VSD compressor adjusts motor speed to match air demand, reducing energy waste and maintaining more stable pressure. Savings of 20 to 35 per cent are common in applications with fluctuating loads.
Is the Tanair TAN-S 11 VSD suitable for continuous duty?
Yes. Its industrial rotary screw airend and direct drive design support reliable continuous operation in demanding workshop environments.
How much does the 11 kW VSD compressor cost?
The listed price is £3,750.00 ex VAT. Finance options may be available, and delivery or collection can be discussed before ordering.
What maintenance does this compressor require?
Direct drive construction reduces belt-related maintenance. Regular servicing with genuine parts ensures long-term reliability. Tanair offers service kits and full UK support.
Can the TAN-S 11 VSD be integrated into an existing system?
Yes. It performs effectively as a standalone unit or as part of a complete compressed air setup with dryers and filtration for enhanced air quality.
Ready to upgrade your compressed air system?
Contact our team for a quotation, ROI assessment or practical advice on whether the TAN-S 11 VSD suits your airflow, pressure and operating requirements.
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