ATS Panels / Automatic Transfer Switches

Generator Automatic Transfer Switches

All businesses know that time is money, which is why your operation simply cannot afford to let power outages interrupt productivity. When mains fails, a generator can be used as a backup source to provide power to essential equipment/appliances. For this to happen, a transfer switch is needed to swap the power load between the primary source (mains) and the secondary source (generator). An automatic system is able to perform this safely and efficiently due to the utilisation of an electronic control panel on the generator itself.

While a manual transfer switch is controlled by a human, an ATS works autonomously to provide a fast and reliable changeover. The intricate system can automatically detect power failures before immediately sending a start signal to the generator. Once the generator has started and reached the desired voltage and frequency, the ATS panel will autonomously switch the load over to the genset, restoring power to your building/equipment.

Voltage & Frequency

Diesel generators need to be able to match the voltage and frequency in order to provide power to equipment. The Automatic Transfer Switch can detect a drop in voltage as well as a complete lack of power from the utility source. When it does, the sensors direct the ATS so that it can start the generator and check it has the ability to accept the load. Once the minimum levels are reached, the power can be transferred to the generator. All phases are monitored against preset settings, so this detection and transfer of power occur in a seamless fashion.

 Time Delays

While an auto transfer switch can detect and rectify issues far quicker than a human user, they need a short time delay function too. This is because a drop in power from the utility company can often be a momentary lapse in voltage or frequency before correcting itself. This delay is most commonly set to one second although it can range anywhere from 0-6 seconds, and this essentially prevents your generator from being started unnecessarily during those momentary power dips.

Likewise, a delay will be used once the mains power source is restored in order to ensure that the traditional systems are running smoothly. This can last for up to 30 minutes, but this can be programmed to your liking.

Engine Control Contact Point

When power from the grid fails, the control system can use a closed contact point to complete the circuit from the genset's cranking batteries to the engine controls. Alternatively, the contact point automatically opens to break the circuit and allow the generator to shut down. Some ATS switches may incorporate several contact points to avoid the threat of one single point of failure. Control systems within the automatic transfer switch should also include a manual control point.

Get in touch with our experts today via enquiry form, email, phone, or live chat, to discuss your power requirements and find the perfect ATS Panel for your project, ensuring your operation remains powered, no matter the circumstances.