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Automatic transfer switch controllers detect when a utility power source is lost, commanding the switch to transfer power from the backup source. They also command the switch to transfer back when utility power is restored while ensuring that the operation sequence is safe.
Automatic transfer switch controller types include the following:
Basic ATS Controllers
As the smallest and simplest type of automatic transfer switch controller, Basic ATS controllers are used to power important yet non-essential electrical loads. They are commonly found in retail outlets, hospitals, schools, and data centers, where the operational cost will increase and the productivity decrease if power outage occurs.
Electro-Mechanical Transfer Switch Controllers
Common in smaller applications, electro-mechanical transfer switches rely on mechanical components to perform the transfer operation. This is one of the simplest applications, as the controller is based on electromechanical devices that measure voltage, frequency, and other parameters on the main power sources. Manual intervention is avoided with electro-mechanical controllers, but the ATS's response time is not as fast as the digital controllers.
Digital/Intelligent ATS Controllers
Compared to electro-mechanical controllers, Digital Transfer Switch Controllers are more advanced. They incorporate sensors to monitor the health of utility power sources and the load, microprocessors for decision making, and communication interfaces for monitoring remotely. Vital electrical parameters are fed continuously to ensure seamless power transfer. These devices also allow customization and configuration of operational settings, which adds flexibility to various operations.
Load-Shedding ATS Controllers
These controllers are designed to manage power efficiently during an emergency by reducing electrical loads in a prioritized manner. They are useful in scenarios when backup power might not be enough to sustain all loads, such as large commercial buildings and industrial facilities. ATS Controllers offer stable automatic transfer and reduce the load by deactivating less important systems.
Automatic Transfer Switch Controllers with Monitoring Capabilities
In addition to their core functionality, such controllers are also equipped with real-time monitoring and diagnostic capabilities. These controllers help identify and troubleshoot potential issues by providing valuable data on system performance, utility power quality, and generator health. Most monitoring options have cloud-based connectivity so that the transfer switch can be monitored from any internet-connected device.
Data Centers
Given its potential risk to a company's operations, power failure is a serious concern in data centers. Automatic transfer switch controllers are critical components in data centers, enabling seamless transfer between utility power and backup generators. These controllers ensure that servers, networking equipment, and critical infrastructure receive continuous power, preventing data loss and downtime.
Healthcare Facilities
Most vital equipment, including life support systems, surgical suites, and patient care devices, needs constant power in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. ATS controllers automatically switch between main power and emergency power during outages, keeping essential equipment operational. In addition, hospitals use UPS to bridge power outages while an ATS controller switches to generator power, ensuring no interruption in services.
Telecommunications
Telecommunication networks require constant and reliable power to ensure uninterrupted communication services. An ATS controller does monitoring and management of power supply to the telecom infrastructure, including cell towers, switches, and routers. No power interruption means seamless operation of all these infrastructures, continuous connectivity, and customer satisfaction.
Industrial Manufacturing
Manufacturing plants run all their processes, from machinery to automated systems, on electric power. Any power outage leads to production slow-down, loss of sensitive data, and even equipment damage. To prevent this in industrial settings, automatic transfer switch controllers are installed to provide a seamless switch to backup power. The controllers do intelligent monitoring to ensure operations run continuously without hitches.
Commercial Buildings
Large retail stores, offices, and other commercial buildings depend on automatic transfer switch controllers to keep their services and environments comfortable. From lighting and HVAC systems to computer networks, these controllers ensure all systems remain powered during outages. They also integrate monitoring features that help facility managers optimize energy usage and reduce operating costs.
Control Voltage
A transfer switch automated controller's control voltage typically ranges from 12 to 240 volts AC or DC, depending on the application and environment. While industrial spaces may require higher control voltages for robustness, commercial environments favor lower ones for enhanced safety.
Utility Power Voltage Sensing Range
This means the operating voltage range for the controllers in which they can accurately detect changes and fluctuations. It usually ranges from 120 to 480 volts AC. Controllers with wider operating ranges and voltage-adjustable features are preferred for their versatile applications in multiple environments.
Operating Temperature Range
The operating temperature range of a controller for automatic transfer switches helps determine the environment where it can work reliably. Most controllers are rated between -40°C and +70°C to cater to extreme environments and those with moderate temperatures. This ensures that the ATS remains functional through heating and cooling.
Transfer Time
Transfer time is an important metric that indicates how long the controller will take to switch from utility power to backup power during an outage. It typically ranges from a few seconds to less than a second, depending on the application. Facilities that require uninterrupted power, such as hospitals and data centers, will prefer controllers with very low transfer time, while less critical applications can settle for longer times.
Compliance
Automatic transfer switch controllers are designed to meet various electrical codes and standards, such as those set by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE). Commonly found in types of industries, regulatory bodies require adherence to pertinent standards, which makes compliance an important specification in controllers for commercial and industrial applications.
The automatic transfer switch controller should keep the switch working reliably and efficiently. Here are some factors to put into consideration when choosing them:
Application Needs
Determining the specific application will help decide on the controller required. What level of power reliability and which features are desired in a controller in critical environments, such as hospitals and data centers? Load shedding and remote monitoring capabilities: is the controller just for basic functionality, or should it also monitor performance? Knowing the application requirements helps narrow down the options.
Type of Control
Automatic transfer switch controllers come in different types: manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic. Fully automated controllers provide power management and ease of operation for critical applications; semi-automatic and manual controllers are better suited for less critical environments where power management might not be as much of a concern. The level of automation required depends on the operational needs of the environment.
Power Rating
The controller must be adequately sized to match the power needs of the transfer switch. Under-powering a controller leads to failure, while over-powering wastes resources. Always select a controller that meets the power requirements of the associated ATS to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
Monitoring and Communication Features
Many transfer switch controllers come equipped with real-time monitoring through mobile apps and dashboards. These features give important insights into the power system's operation and allow proactive maintenance. Monitoring interfaces can also be integrated into existing building management systems (BMS), which contractors will find convenient. Selecting a controller with the desired level of monitoring and communication capability helps improve its management and maintenance.
Environmental Conditions
Weather conditions can affect the performance of automatic transfer switch controllers. Those rated for hazardous and extreme environments will ensure reliability in these exposure conditions. Ensure the controllers are resilient enough to endure exposures to harsh chemicals, moisture, and excessive heat or cold.
The automatic transfer switch controllers' job is to manage the transfer switch that will automatically switch the power source from the main utility to a backup, such as a generator, in case of an outage. They do continuous monitoring of the utility power conditions, and when it goes out, they initiate a switch to use backup power. Once the utility power is back, the controllers will transfer back to their original source safely and seamlessly.
Power sources are switched by manual transfer switch controllers that require human operation, while automatic transfer switch controllers do it automatically. Because ATS Controllers provide automatic power transfer during outages, they are commonly used in critical applications like hospitals and data centers. In contrast, manual controllers are used in applications where power management might not be as critical.
Automatic transfer switch controllers are designed for seamless and continual power management, but failure can cause significant problems. Loss of control can lead to an offline transfer, resulting in power for critical loads. This could damage sensitive equipment, data loss, and even operations downtime. Safety must always be ensured during power management. Routine maintenance and monitoring the operating conditions of the controller will help reduce the impact of its failure.
Automatic transfer switch controllers with Load-shedding capability are important in situations where backup power might not be sufficient to handle all the electrical loads. By prioritizing and deactivating non-essential loads during power management, these controllers prevent overload and potential damage to the generator or other power sources. The load-shedding feature helps keep critical systems running smoothly even under constrained power condition.
There are low maintenance requirements for automatic transfer switch controllers, making them very useful. Routine inspections for wear and tear, firmware or software updates for performance improvements, and general power system condition monitoring are part of the maintenance. Cleaning the sensors and contacts can prevent false readings and power interruptions. Following the manufacturer's guidelines for routine maintenance will help keep the controller in optimal condition.
