Things You Should Check Before Buying An Automatic Transfer Switch

By Author: Mark Blades
Total Articles: 22
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Both residential and commercial establishments require a stable electric supply, this goes without saying. General power cuts can happen from time to time. What's worse, is when there's not much anyone can do about it. With inverters or even backup generators though, users have a perfect exit route to bypass a power cut. This is just where an Automatic Transfer Switch or ATS comes into the picture.

What is an ATS?

As the name itself suggests, ATS is just an electrical switch which comes into use while transferring an electrical load between two sources. To explain, if there are two separate power sources A and B, an ATS finds utility while switching between A and B as per necessities.

These are also known as AMF panels or Automatic Mains Failure panels. Etymologically, these panels aid in switching power of the setup to stand by or emergency generators.

What's obvious is that ATS or AMF panels are all about making sure that there's going to be something to keep the power running. There's no point otherwise in having a back-up if it won't back up electricity.

Types of ATS and Varied Features:

Now, ...
... ATSs come across in nearly the same shapes and sizes but different functions. As apparent, pricing comprehensively does change between variants of ATS and their features. So, installing the right one requires knowing the types and features first.

• Open Transition –

Break-before-make, this is the concept behind Open Transition ATSs. So when the power goes out from A, this switch will first cut all power and then start sourcing it from power source B. These switches first break the chain of power transition and make a new one.

The obvious disadvantage to this type of switch is that it may cause a slight lapse of power. Common OTTS (Open Transition Transfer Switch) have a transition time of about 30 seconds.

• Closed Transition –

Closed Transition Transfer Switch is simply just the opposite of OTTS. Instead of the break-before-make thingy, these switches function on the make-before-break concept. So, if there's a break of supply from source A, a CTTS will first make a power coupling with source B before cutting its linking with A. It does have a similarity with OTTS though. These switches too will cause a power lapse of around 30 seconds before going online.

• Soft Loading –

Power outages are not the only place where these generators come into the picture. Soft loading switches work on the same lines as a CTTS. But instead of shutting down one source and turning the other on, this switch functions by making both power sources function in tandem.

Matter of fact, these switches can be found mostly in large power circuits, both commercial and residential ones. There are more than a few things which come into the picture for a proper installation. In short, soft loading CTTSs are complex as they function primarily on synchronization between multiple power sources.

• Static Auto Transfer Switch –

This is another common type of ATS. These variants use semiconductors such as SCRs or Silicon-controlled rectifiers. 'Static' refers to the fact that they have zero moving mechanical parts.

Integrating semiconductors inside, these ATSs are a perfect choice for securing system outputs, that is, electrical devices which draw power from that system. They can protect a system from severe power loads, surges and frequency fluctuations.

Safety Pointers:

Safety is the most vital reason behind going for something like this. For, any would-be user, ATS is NOT something which they should try installing straight up. It's always advisable to get it done with the help of an electrician.

Worth a mention though, some providers add up their equipment with the in-house installation. That is, if you buy an ATS or anything similar which demands installation, these guys do it. To repeat something from before, installation of these switches requires professional expertise.

Some Tips: -

• Avoid being near to any water source.

• Ensure that the footwear has a rubber sole.

• Power down the whole circuit before starting your installation procedure.

• Pre-check and confirm live wires.

Most importantly though, while using an ATS, always refer to the best products. Cheaper alternatives can save up on the budget but not in the longer run of things.

Blades Power Generation continues to be one the leading names in the UK in the electrical equipment market. Devices available are products such as an automatic transfer switch and its other variants. With a range of modern products and services, they add up to multiple consumer-first services continuously expanding their market range.