The Basics of Automatic Transfer Switches
Every business or home will succeed based on the reliability of power supplied to them. An Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) ensures that customers and/or clients of those facilities receive uninterrupted power supply from both main and backup sources. An ATS works by changing power sources from primary to backup, without any break. It is therefore important for businesses to have a thorough understanding of ATS – its importance, operation and selection in order to be sound in the investment of time, money and energy into this part of their electrical system.
The Definition of Automatic Transfer Switch
An Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) is an electrical device that continuously monitors electrical build-up from both supply sources. As soon as there is an interruption or failure of the main electrical supply, the ATS automatically changes over to the generator until the main electric supply has been restored, at which time the ATS would change back to the main source. During this time the ATS will continuously monitor all aspects of operations and therefore can assure a quick (typically in milliseconds) and smooth (seamless) transition of power to the secondary source. The seamless operation of the ATS makes it a critical component in many facilities that are dependent on an uninterrupted supply of electricity (i.e., hospitals, data centres, etc.).
The Operation of an Automatic Transfer Switch
As mentioned above, the operation of the ATS is relatively simple to understand but is extremely important. The ATS constantly observes the main electrical supply; if something happens to disrupt that power, such as losing it completely or having a voltage or frequency issue, the ATS will send a signal to start up a backup generator or alternative electric supply. Then, once the backup is ready to go and is sending power into the system, the ATS transfers that electrical load to the backup. Once the main electrical supply is restored, the ATS will shift the electrical load back again from the backup to the main, and will then shut down the backup generator. Automatic transfer switches (ATS) work automatically and provide seamless, uninterrupted flows of electricity to loads without requiring any human intervention.
Types of Automatic Transfer Switches
Usually, two basic types of ATS exist:
1. Open Transition ATS
Open transition ATS are sometimes referred to as “break-before-make” switches because they break away from an electric utility source before making a connection to an emergency generator. In situations when open transition switching occurs, a short amount of time (2-5 seconds) exists between when a load on the utility is turned off and when a load on the generator is connected. Because of the above description, open transition is the best approach for applications in which a brief amount of time without having power would not be problematic.
2. Closed Transition ATS
Closed transition ATS are designed to simultaneously create an overlap between connecting the utility side to the generator side (known as “make-before-break”), for a period of time during the transfer of the electrical load from one side to the other. Switching that takes place during a closed transition is performed without interruption of electrical power to the load. Therefore, they are an ideal choice for critical loads.
There are other methods of classifying automatic transfer switches. These switches may be classified by their method of technology (For example: Class PC — Automatic Transfer Switch versus Class CB — Automatic Transfer Switch [power contactor versus circuit breaker technologies]) and by application (Dual Power Automatic Transfer Switch for applications that have two separate and independent sources of power versus Automatic Changeover Switch for applications that use a generator and require the automatic start-up of a generator).
Finding an Automatic Transfer Switch
Ultimately, to find the best automatic transfer switch for your application, you’ll need to consider many factors, including:
1. Load Size
What size switch will you need for your application, and how do you determine if you have the correct size? To determine the load size, calculate the total load that the switch will need to support during the transition to power from an alternate source. For assistance with determining your load calculations and determining the correct switch size, seek a qualified professional.
2. Transfer Speed
Facilities providing healthcare, data centres, and many other businesses generally require the immediate transfer of electrical power from the primary to the backup source. As a result, low latency switches such as closed transition automatic transfer switches or soft load automatic transfer switches are the best fit for these applications. An open transition ATS can be used in either a residential setting or commercial setting.
3. Compatibility with Backup Systems
When connecting your ATS to a generator for backup power, you must ensure that the ATS is compatible with generator control. If the generator has to be capable of automatically starting and stopping based on loss of utility power, an automatic transfer switch must be used.
4. Manual or Automatic Transfer Switch
A manual transfer switch is less expensive and simpler than an automatic transfer switch in providing backup electrical power; however, there is a risk of using a manual transfer switch in the event of an electric outage because it cannot be switched without human intervention. By contrast, an automatic transfer switch provides continuous power to loads without human intervention; therefore, its initial cost is greater than that of a manual transfer switch.
Common Questions About Automatic Transfer SwitchesIs an Automatic Transfer Switch Also A Switchgear?
No, switchgear is a type of equipment that is used generally as a reference to a class of equipment used to control an electrical system. The function of an automatic transfer switch is to convert automatically between two sources of power.
How Do I Know What Size ATS To Use?
The size of your ATS will be determined by calculating the total number of watts (kW) or amps (A) that your equipment will draw during maximum demand and sizing your ATS equal to or greater than the maximum demand on your equipment.
What is the Most Common Type of ATS?
The most frequently found type of ATS is the dual power automatic transfer switch. They are so common because they can function effectively with either of the two independent power sources available to them.
How Do I Wire My ATS?
Your ATS must be wired from the primary power source to the backup generator and back to the load. You should have your ATS wired by a qualified electrician to meet all local electrical codes and also ensure it is done safely.
Conclusion
Automatic transfer switches are becoming more popular in today’s society. They are required in many applications; therefore, understanding how they work and what types are available will help you make an informed decision as to which type of ATS will best fit your application. When the power goes out, you can rest assured that no matter what type of ATS you choose, whether it is a dual power automatic transfer switch, an automatic transfer switch compatible with a generator, or a new version with features your current ATS does not have, you will be prepared when electrical power is lost.
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