The existing compressor plants at railroad marshalling yards (MYs) are equipped with automatic compressed air supply control systems. However, this is implemented using outdated and ineffective methods. Taking into account the current trends in the field of three-phase motor control, as well as the requirements for energy saving, the most effective is the frequency regulation of performance. The work provides a justification for the need to use a variable frequency drive of a compressor unit (CU). A mathematical model has been developed for controlling an asynchronous motor (AM), taking into account the setting coefficient of performance. As a result, a computer simulation model for controlling the drive motor of a reciprocating compressor at an MY has been proposed and tested. The diagrams and values obtained made it possible to study in detail the automatic control system of the drive and select the optimal control laws for the frequency-controlled unit. An analysis of the results of simulation modelling showed that at the moments of starting and stopping the machine, transient surges of currents, voltages, and mechanical shocks are eliminated, which will significantly extend the service life of electrical and mechanical components. And the control characteristic will reduce energy consumption due to the optimal control of the motor speed and, as a consequence, the unit performance. Thus this model and principle can be applied in real installations. As a result of this approach, an economic effect is expected due to optimal performance management and savings on maintenance and replacement of compressor station power units.