Introduction In today's safety focused world, where the smooth operation of essential services and life safety systems is non-negotiable, the reliability of the power supply is paramount. Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS) with single-line bypass capabilities play a pivotal role in safeguarding uninterrupted power flow to critical systems. In this blog, we explore the significance of ATS units, specifically focusing on single-line bypass functionality, and how iPower Ireland stands as a beacon of quality in this critical domain.
Reliability is Not an Option In critical applications, be it healthcare facilities, data centres, or buildings housing life safety and firefighting systems, a momentary power interruption is simply not an option. These applications demand a secondary power source that seamlessly takes over in case of a utility power failure. This is where an Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS) come into play.
What is an ATS and Why Does It Matter? An Automatic Transfer Switch is an ingenious device designed to ensure a continuous supply of power by seamlessly switching between two power sources. In a standard configuration, an ATS connects to the primary power source (utility supply) and a secondary source (backup generator). When the primary source fails, the ATS detects the disruption and automatically shifts the load to the backup generator, thereby preventing downtime and ensuring the continuity of vital services. Sensing the loss of voltage on one or more phases, the controls automatically operate a motorised changeover switch to take the load from primary to secondary supply, simultaneously sending a ‘start’ command to the standby generator. On restoration of healthy mains power, the transfer switch operates automatically in the other direction, restoring mains power to the load after an adjustable ‘mains healthy’ delay timer.
The Critical Role of Single Line Bypass In applications where the integrity of the power supply is non-negotiable, such as life safety and firefighting systems, adhering to industry standards like BS9999 and BS 8519 is crucial.
BS 8519:2020 recommends that where the availability of the life safety asset is critical to the occupation of the building, then single line maintenance bypass should be provided to the primary mains on the ATS unit. The standard offers opportunities to obviate this requirement with ‘risk-assessment’, but as a Chartered building services engineer the author would hazard caution with this approach, particularly where sleeping accommodation is involved.
Single-line bypass ensures that maintenance or servicing of the ATS can be carried out without interrupting power to the critical load. It's a fail-safe measure,ensuring that even during maintenance, power keeps flowing to the essential systems, which can be a matter of life and death. That is to say, if the motorised transfer switch fails under routine test and the operator has no spare part available (which they are unlikely to have), there is no way to provide any power to the asset (generator or mains) without major alterations to the fixed wiring installation. With a bypass switch present in this scenario, the primary mains can easily be switched to bypass the ATS entirely, allowing the ATS itself to be removed and replacement sought while preserving primary power to the load.
The iPower Difference: Quality that Matters When it comes to ATS units, quality is paramount. It's not just about isolated reliability; it's about the safety and integrity of the systems they protect. iPower Ireland takes this responsibility very seriously.
We pride ourselves on assembling ATS units to the highest standards. We understand that the critical nature of these devices demands nothing less. Unlike some competitors' 'mass-produced' products that may lack internal cable management or require post-purchase adjustments, our ATS units are meticulously crafted, leaving no room for error and are designed with installing contractors in mind.
The Power of Partnership: iPower and Socomec / iPower and Cummins Quality is not a compromise. That's why we choose Socomec components, renowned for their high quality and reliability. Our ATS units are assembled using these top-tier components, ensuring that our customers receive products that are second to none, fully complying with BS EN 60947-6-1, as is required by BS 8519:2020
Furthermore, we offer a seamless solution. When you choose iPower, you're not just investing in an ATS unit; you're investing in peace of mind. We can supply both the ATS unit and the backup Cummins generator on your project. This integrated approach means that you receive a harmonious system with combined commissioning, meaning that ATS and Generator inter-operability is verified by one party, ensuring that the entire secondary power supply system operates as a single, well-oiled machine. Particularly when one considers the unparalleled quality and reliability of a Cummins power product.
Conclusion: Powering a Brighter, Safer Future In a world where continuity is king, Automatic Transfer Switches with single-line bypass functionality are the unsung heroes of countless critical systems. iPower Ireland stands as a paragon of quality in this realm. Our commitment to assembling ATS units to the highest standards, our reliance on trusted Socomec components, and our integrated solution approach are what set us apart.
When it's not just about power, but about reliability, safety, and peace of mind, you can count on iPower Ireland. We're not just in the business of power; we're in the business of powering a brighter, safer future.