Is a transfer switch required for a generator?

Aug 30 ,2022 Site Editor

The data center is an essential part of a company business. It holds your company’s financial history, customer information,development plan and more.

 

Keeping these systems in tack can cost a lot of money and the company do thire best to make sure there aren’t any security breaches. However, there are times when you can’t prepare for situations like power outages.

 

Certain environmental factors can hinder the power supply, which can cause the data lose data. Some companies have the equipment to generate electricity, but have to start the generators manually.Sometimes this can cause great financial losses to the company.

 

If with the help of an automatic transfer switch (ATS), you’ll be able to seamlessly continue your processes without worrying about data corruption and security breaches when the power outage.

 

What Is An Automatic Transfer Switch?

 

An automatic transfer switch is used with a backup generator to supply power whenever the main power fails. As the name suggests, the power transfer is automatic, leaving you with nothing to worry about. A typical transfer of power goes like this:

 

  • The main power fails
  • An ATS switches the load to the emergency power source within its prescribed voltage preferences
  • Once power is restored, the transfer switch returns the load back to the primary power source

These ATS switches are essential for companies that house multiple server rooms, factories, and hospitals.

 

Are you worreid about your data center’s carbon footprint? If so, get an ATS for your data center,One Two Three Electric will give you the best ATS solution.

 

What Type Of Automatic Transfer Switch Do You Need?

 

There are various types of ATS panels to choose from. However, the best one for you will depend on your daily processes. Let’s take a look at the various switches below.

 

Open Transition ATS

 

An open transition switch, also known as a break-before-make switch, is designed for systems that can withstand a brief power interruption before changing the power source. The delay is only about a second long, but it ensures there’s a safe transfer of power and minimizes the risk of power surges from devices.

 

There is also a variation of this ATS called a Programmed Transition switch, which fluctuates between utility and generator power. This pause allows residual voltage to decay before restoring loads to the primary power source.

 

Closed Transition ATS

 

A closed transition ATS is used for establishments that can’t tolerate a brief interruption of power. These systems are essential for hospitals and care centers.

 

The internal system in these switches allows both the backup and primary power sources to work together to allow a seamless switchover of power. However, due to the complexities of these systems, they cost more than an open transition ATS.

 

Soft Loading ATS

 

A soft loading ATS works like a closed transition ATS, but instead, it has the ability to dictate the load it handles, depending on the situation. For example, if your data center was running on reserve power but needed a boost, your soft loading switch could increase the demands slightly to give you what you need.

 

Soft loading switches provide your establishment with dynamic flexibility for multiple situations. However, it will come with an additional cost.

 

Bypass Isolation ATS

 

The bypass isolation ATS is the most complex system out of all panels. However, it has the highest capabilities.

 

It consists of two parallel systems, which allow for maintenance, inspection, and testing to be done while it’s in use. These systems are typical installed in spaces with critical life support systems, air traffic control stations, and telecommunication companies.

 

How Automatic Transfer Switches Benefit Your Business

 

As you can see, there are various ATS panel systems that you can use to power your establishments in the event of power failure. To recap, here are some of the benefits that you can avail of by installing an ATS.

 

Power Reliability


Most places will use a generator when their power fails, but that manual switchover can be costly and life-threatening. By installing an ATS, you’ll save time and increase the reliability of your generator.

 

Increased Safety


During a power outage, manually handling any power switches to a generator becomes a safety hazard, especially in the dark. You’ll increase your exposure to power surges and sparks. With the help of an ATS, you’ll reduce all associated risks since the switchover is done for you.

 

Simplified Operations


By having an ATS installed, operations are chosen to get switched on automatically. So your HVAC system, lights, and other equipment will have increased reliability since they don’t need to be turned on manually.

 

With simplified operations, you can increase the functionality of your generator too.

 

If you’re looking to ATS of your data centers or need ATS solutions, contact One Two There Electric today!

 

GET A QUOTE

Get in Touch

×