Blog posts tagged with 'automatic changeover switch'

Can you imagine having to manually switch over to your generator? An Automatic Transfer Switch does all the work for you, automatically.

While a manual transfer switch is an option, an automatic model offers some serious advantages:

• Convenience: No need to manually flip switches - the ATS does all the work for you.

• Speed: The transfer happens in seconds, minimising downtime.

• Safety: Eliminates the risk of back-feeding power to the utility lines.

Our Top-Notch ATS Solutions

At Blades Power Generation UK, we take pride in offering premium automatic transfer switches to keep your world running smoothly. Our ATSs are:

- Engineered for reliability and durability

- Compatible with a range of generators

- Customisable to your specific needs

- Built with user-friendly controls

Residential ATS

Protect your home sweet home from mega-long outages. Our residential ATSs are made for easy setup and to work with your current electrical setup.

Key Features:

• Compact and space-saving

• Simple to use and maintain

• Cost-effective investment

Commercial/Industrial ATS

Keep your operations up and running with our heavy-duty commercial and industrial ATSs. These robust units can handle even the most demanding power needs.

Key Features:

• Built for heavy-duty, critical operations

• Designed for massive power loads

• Advanced monitoring and controls

We offer full support and services to ensure your ATS keeps running smoothly.

• Professional installation by certified techs who know their stuff

• Preventative maintenance check-ups to stop any issues before they start

• Crazy responsive repair service if anything does go wrong

The Blades Power Generation Advantage

When you partner with us for your automatic transfer switch needs, you get:

• Unparalleled product knowledge and expertise

• A wide range of solutions to meet any requirement

• Attentive, personalised customer service

• Commitment to your complete satisfaction

Don't get caught powerless the next time the grid fails! An automatic transfer switch is hands-down the easiest way to keep your lights on and critical systems operational no matter what.

Don't leave your power supply to chance. Invest in an ATS from Blades Power Generation UK and enjoy the ultimate reliability and peace of mind.

Ready to experience the Blades Power Generation difference? Call us today or visit our website to explore our complete line of ATSs and other backup power solutions. Stay powered, no matter what.

An automatic transfer switch automatically switches between your primary and backup power sources. Here are some key points about ATS:

•      Automatically transitions powered loads to a generator or other backup source during an outage
•      Prevents back feed of power into utility lines during an outage
•      Allows safe switching between power sources
•      Provides seamless transition of power to prevent interruption

Used for any application where a power disruption would cause significant disruption, danger and high costs - like data centres, industrial processes, and infrastructure.

Why Are Automatic Transfer Switches Used?

There are several reasons why ATS are a common component of backup power systems:

They prevent injury and damage by preventing the back feed of power into utility lines. This protects workers who may be repairing lines.

They provide a quick, seamless transition to backup power. This avoids interruption and disruption to equipment and processes.

They require no manual intervention to switch power sources. The transition is automatic.

They may be required as part of backup systems for life safety systems in facilities such as hospitals

ATS Key Features and Options

There are several key specifications and options to consider when selecting an automatic transfer switch:

• Transition Time - The time it takes to transfer loads to backup power. Faster times prevent interruption.
• Withstand and Closing Ratings - The amount of current/voltage the switch can handle without damage. Matches the generator size.
• Number of Poles - Single pole (2-wire) or multi-pole (3 or 4-wire) configurations are available. Matches the electrical system.
• Enclosure Type - Indoor and outdoor rated enclosures to match the environment. Outdoor models provide more placement flexibility.
• Controller Logic - Digital microprocessors that supervise and control the switching process. Provide precise timing and control.
• Keypad Programming - Allows easy adjustment of the operating parameters and timing as needed.
• Network Communication - Allows monitoring and control of the ATS remotely over a network for convenience.
• Testing and Simulation - Used to periodically test the generator and ATS operation for reliability. Prevents problems.
• Predictive Maintenance - Advanced models track operation metrics to catch issues early before failure. Maximises uptime.
• Durability - Components designed to handle years of reliable switching cycles, temperature fluctuations, dirt, etc.

ATS are used in a wide variety of facilities across many industries and applications. Proper selection requires consideration of factors like transition time, withstand/closing ratings, number of poles, enclosure type, controller features, and more.

Our ATS specialists can help assess your specific needs and recommend the right model to suit your requirements.

Our specialists are ready to help assess your needs and ensure you get an ATS that meets the requirements of your emergency power, legally required, or mission-critical backup system.

An automatic changeover switch sometimes called an automatic transfer switch, allows switching between two power sources—usually the utility grid and a backup home generator or solar and battery storage system. It detects when the primary power fails and automatically switches to the backup source so there is no interruption to power. 

Key Benefits

Installing an automatic transfer switch provides these key benefits:

Generator Backup Power Systems

When it comes to home generators, almost all of them need an automatic switching device installed next to the main electrical panel. It's wired into critical circuits so when the power cuts out, the switch tells the generator to turn on while disconnecting your house from the neighborhood electrical lines.

Solar and Battery Backup Systems

Many setups have to shut off when the grid is down to prevent backfeeding. Adding batteries and a switch fixes this - it makes your house rely solely on the sun's energy stored in your batteries. This way you can keep the lights on even if it's nighttime or cloudy.

Selecting the Right Changeover Switch

When selecting a transition switch, these key factors must be considered:

•      Application (generator/solar) and home Electrical load
•      Number of amps and voltage rating
•      Enclosure type
•      Single-phase or three-phase power
•      Transition speed
•      Manual operation capability
•      Integrated controller vs external

Our experts at Blades Power Generation can determine the optimal switch specifications and capacity based on your unique home backup system and loads.

Proper Installation Guidelines

To function safely and efficiently, automatic changeover switches must be professionally installed following proper electrical codes and procedures. Our licensed electricians recommend these guidelines:

Locate it close to the main panel

•      Mount securely with adequate clearance
•      Use appropriate wire size to prevent overload
•      Follow all manufacturer mounting and wiring instructions
•      Test operation thoroughly post-installation

Key Wiring Connections

Making the proper electrical connections is critical for automatic transfer switch functionality. Ensure the following circuits are correctly wired according to the installation manual:

•      Utility Power
•      Backup Power Source (Generator/Batteries)
•      Grounding Conductors
•      Main Electrical Panel
•      Control Wiring

Call Blades Power Generation to keep your system operating safely for years to come.

•      Seamless transition to backup power - Prevents lights and appliances from shutting off when transitioning power sources
•      Safety - Isolates the two power sources to prevent back feed accidents
•      Convenience – Operation is fully automated for ease of use even for homeowners without electrical expertise

Two main types of home backup power systems use automatic changeover switches:

1. Generator Systems
2. Solar/Battery Storage Systems

An automatic changeover switch, also known as a transfer switch, seamlessly shifts electrical power sources during outages. They ensure uninterrupted supply by automatically transferring load from the main power source to a backup generator.

These switches detect power loss and initiate the switch to the alternate source, preventing disruptions. Commonly used in critical systems like hospitals and data centres, they provide a reliable solution for maintaining continuous power supply. They swiftly respond to power fluctuations to keep essential operations running smoothly.

Why you can rely on them

These transfer switches are well-regarded for their reliability and dependable performance.

• These switches are designed to detect power source failures almost instantaneously, facilitating a rapid transfer between the main power supply and the backup source and minimizing downtime.

• Incorporating sophisticated sensing mechanisms, these switches continuously monitor the primary power source. Any deviation from normal parameters, such as a power outage or voltage irregularities, triggers an immediate response to initiate the transfer to the secondary source.

• The switches feature robust construction with durable mechanical and electronic components, ensuring longevity and minimizing the likelihood of malfunctions, thereby contributing to overall system reliability.

•  Engineered with fault-tolerant features, these switches can continue to operate effectively even in the presence of minor faults or issues, enhancing the overall resilience of the system.

•  Many switches come equipped with adjustable delay settings, allowing users to customize the delay time according to specific requirements and providing flexibility in managing the transition between power sources.

•   Some advanced models offer closed transition capability, ensuring a smooth and continuous transfer between power sources without any momentary interruption. This feature is particularly valuable in applications where even a brief power interruption is unacceptable.

• Many modern automatic transfer switches are equipped with remote monitoring and control capabilities, enabling users to monitor the switch's status and performance remotely, facilitating proactive management and troubleshooting.

• Reliable switches adhere to rigorous industry standards and undergo thorough testing to ensure compliance. This commitment to quality and adherence to standards significantly contributes to their overall reliability.

4 Types of Automatic Changeover Switches you must know:

     A. Open Transition Switches:

1. Brief interruption during the power transfer.
2. Suitable for most applications.

      B. Closed Transition Switches:

1. Smooth, continuous transfer between power sources.
2. Ideal for sensitive equipment and critical operations.

       C. Delayed Transition Switches:

1. Adjustable delay settings for customized power transfer timing.
2. Provides flexibility in managing transitions.

       D. Static Transfer Switches (STS):

1. Instantaneous transfer without mechanical components.
2. Suitable for high-reliability applications.

Now that you know what an automatic changeover switch is, give us a call for an Annual Service Contract to keep your switches trouble-free.

The crucial element of a power generator is an Automatic Transfer Switch. As the name suggests, when the primary power source fails, this switch will automatically shift to a reserve power-generating source. All industries install such automatic transfer accessories in their power generation systems for safety and convenience. Let us find out what to consider for identifying the suitable ones.

Key considerations for  Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) selection

Power rating

The power rating of an ATS indicates its capacity to handle electrical loads. It is measured in amperes (A) and represents the maximum current the ATS can manage. Choosing the right power rating ensures unhindered transitions during power outages and safeguarding your electrical systems effectively. This power rating of ATS is also called total amperage. Check and understand the power rating that suits your requirements.

Voltage requirements

The ATS must align with the voltage requirements of the primary power source and the backup generator. Mismatched voltages can lead to equipment damage or failure during power transfers. Confirming that the ATS is rated for the specific voltage of the electrical system it will connect to is essential. Understanding the voltage factor ensures a proper transition between power sources. It also guarantees the optimal ATS functions and safeguards against potential disruptions.

The wattage of the generators

These switches are generally measured or rated in kilovolt amperes (kVA). This rating indicates the maximum current an ATS can handle. On the other hand, generators are often rated in watts. We should know that the wattage of a generator is the result of multiplying device amperage and circuit voltage. Hence, calculate the power requirement by checking the generator’s output capacity.

Safety features

Prioritise checking safety features such as overcurrent protection, surge protection, and load-shedding capabilities. These features safeguard electrical systems during power transitions, preventing damage and ensuring user safety. Prioritising ATS models with robust safety features is essential for a reliable backup power setup.

The degree of reliability

Last but not least, the final factor describes the reliability factor of an ATS manufacturing brand. The material used, build quality, certifications, industry standards, etc., of an ATS design must be checked along with the brand’s reputation in the market.

Get Suitable and Reliable ATS!

Consider the aforementioned factors to find the most suitable Automatic Transfer Switch in Blades Power Generation and stay compliant with industry standards. Remember, a proper choice from a reputed brand will go a long way to save your appliances and equipment.

An emergency backup power source, mostly in the form of a backup generator, plays a crucial role in various sectors due to its ability to provide essential power when the primary power source fails. Especially in the UK, where power supply can sometimes be spotty, it is a necessity. Here are some of the major areas for which they are absolutely necessary. Furthermore, at the end of this article, you will find our recommendation on what the best emergency power source in the UK is.

Safety and Security -  Backup power sources are vital for maintaining essential safety and security systems. They ensure that emergency lighting, fire alarms, security cameras, and access control systems remain functional during power outages, helping to protect lives and property.

Preservation of Critical Data - In the digital age, the loss of power can result in data corruption or loss. Backup power sources, especially in data centres and server rooms, keep servers and storage devices running, preventing data loss and ensuring data integrity.

Healthcare and Medical Equipment -  Hospitals and healthcare facilities heavily rely on backup power to operate life-saving medical equipment, cold chains for medicines and vaccines, and maintain a suitable environment for patients during power failures. Here, an automatic changeover switch is also needed to ensure no interruption in medical procedures.

Industrial Processes -  In industrial settings, power interruptions can lead to equipment damage, production delays, and safety hazards. Backup power sources are essential to prevent these issues and maintain production continuity. In facilities that house sensitive equipment or materials, backup power ensures that environmental controls like temperature and humidity remain stable, preventing damage or spoilage.

Emergency Response - Backup power sources are crucial for emergency response teams, enabling them to operate communication equipment, deploy resources, and coordinate disaster response efforts effectively.

Natural Disasters -  Backup power sources are particularly important in regions prone to natural disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, and wildfires. They provide a lifeline for affected communities until primary power is restored.

Critical Infrastructure - Many critical infrastructure components, such as water treatment plants, transportation systems, and sewage treatment facilities, rely on backup power to prevent disruptions that could affect public health and safety.

An emergency backup power source is indispensable in ensuring the continuity of operations, safety, and security across these sectors, which could otherwise have disastrous consequences. If you are looking for the best emergency power source in the UK, it's hard to go wrong with Blades Power Generation, who have the best prices, quality and service in this highly competitive market. Click here to get started!

Can you really imagine spending an hour without your mobile phones, laptops, wi-fi and other electronic appliances and technologies? Seems impossible, right? Well, it is!

In today's fast-paced life, power cuts and loadsheddings are no longer acceptable. To ensure that your homes and offices have power throughout, you must have a source of backup power, like generators with automatic changeover switches.

What is an automatic changeover switch?

An automatic changeover switch, also known as an automatic transfer switch, is used in generators that automatically transfer power from a main source to the backup source when it detects power outages. Unlike a manual transfer switch, here, you do not have to turn on the generator manually. Hence, it is more convenient.

How does an automatic changeover switch work?

An automatic transfer switch plays a key role in connecting a standby generator to your home. Electricity flows from the utility to your home's main electrical circuit, powering all the appliances and components. Here the ATS acts as the brain of the entire secondary power unit. Once it is connected, then it can switch automatically between utility power and generator power. Unlike the manual transfer switch, the ATS can detect power failure automatically and restores power within a few seconds.

How does an ATS detect power loss and restores power automatically?

An automatic changeover switch monitors the incoming and outgoing lines to detect power loss. A voltage sensor monitors the incoming line. It checks whether enough voltage is coming into the system to operate safely. In case there is insufficient voltage, an alarm will go off, and the automatic transfer switch will switch the power source over to the standby generator.

Similarly, the outgoing line is monitored by a frequency sensor. It detects if enough frequency is coming out of the system. If there is inadequate frequency, an alarm goes off, and the ATS switches over to the standby generator.

Light up your spaces with Blades Power Generation:

A 24/7 power supply is necessary in commercial and residential spaces. Unfortunately, you cannot predict power cuts; but with Blades Power Generation, you can stay prepared for it. We offer state-of-the-art power backup to our large clientele ranging from homeowners or businesses. If you are tight on the budget and looking for inexpensive options, buy used generators in the UK from us, and keep your homes and offices functional all the time.

Generators for the home have become increasingly popular in recent years as people seek to ensure that their homes have a reliable source of electricity in the event of a power outage. These generators are particularly useful in areas that are prone to severe weather conditions such as Northern Scotland, or where power outages are common. One of the most important components of a home generator system is the automatic changeover switch, which allows for seamless switching between the main power supply and the generator.

Automatic changeover switches are designed to ensure that the generator is activated automatically when there is a power outage. This means that homeowners don't need to worry about manually starting the generator and can rest assured that their homes will have electricity even when the mains power supply is disrupted. Automatic changeover switches are typically installed by an electrician and are connected to the home's electrical panel. When the switch detects a power outage, it automatically switches the power supply to the generator.

One of the advantages of using an automatic changeover switch is that it ensures a seamless transition between the mains power supply and the generator. This means that there is no interruption to power supply, and homeowners can continue to use their electrical appliances without any interruption. It also ensures that the generator is not overloaded, which could lead to damage and potential safety hazards.

Another important aspect of home generators is the use of new generators, which are designed to be more efficient and reliable than older models. New generatorsuse advanced technology to produce electricity more efficiently, which means that they use less fuel and produce fewer emissions. They are also designed to be quieter, which is an important consideration for homeowners who want to use their generators without disturbing their neighbours.

More Reliable

New generators are also more reliable than older models. They are equipped with advanced safety features that protect against damage from overloading or overheating, and they are designed to be easy to maintain. This means that homeowners can be confident that their generators will work when they need them, without the need for frequent repairs or maintenance.

When selecting a generator for their home, homeowners should consider a range of factors, including the size of their home, the power requirements of their appliances, and their budget. They should also consider the type of fuel that the generator uses, as this can affect both the cost and the efficiency of the system. Some generators run on diesel, while others use natural gas or propane. Each type of fuel has its own advantages and disadvantages, so homeowners should carefully consider their options before making a decision.

In conclusion, generators for the home are an important investment for homeowners who want to ensure that their homes have a reliable source of electricity in the event of a power outage. 

Do you also hate power cuts? They are sure annoying, especially when 24/7 connectivity has become the way of life. ATS or automation transfer switch can come to your rescue during  load shedding. But what is an ATS? 

ATS is a switch that automatically transfers power from a standby system to the main source during power outages. These switches are connected between the primary and backup power sources. Hence, they act as an intermediary between the equipment and the power supplies, acting as an electrical relay. It can switch & control between the two power sources within a few seconds.

An ATS can also start up more long-term backup power systems, such as local diesel generators, to run electric equipment until utility power is restored. These switches are simple and reliable equipment that ensures an uninterrupted power supply. There are three types of ATS, namely, contactor ATS, compact ATS and circuit breaker ATS. 

Additionally, an automatic transfer switch includes built-in sensors that identify the power outage and fluctuations within the frequency of the main power supply & voltage. It also helps start a standby generator automatically whenever there is a power outage from the main supply. Although these switches are expensive and high-maintenance, the ample advantages make them a worthy investment. 

Where is an ATS used?

 The uses of an ATS are as follows:

1. ATS is used in essential public facilities to ensure unhindered operations, such as schools, malls, hospitals, restaurants, warehouses, factories, medical buildings, etc.
2. It is used to protect telecommunication & data networks, industrial processes & critical installations like financial transaction centres & healthcare facilities.
3. Other electricity switching applications, like three-source, generator-to-generator, and utility-to-utility systems, also use ATS.
4. Finally, ATS is used to transfer power from two sources, such as the primary and backup sources. 

The use of an ATS is not limited to commercial spaces. You can also use an automatic transfer switch at residential properties. 

Wrapping up:

Whether you are starting a cafe or opening a new factory, a constant power supply is a must. However, there could be periods of prolonged power cuts, and it is always better to be prepared than sorry. Blades Power Generation provides the best emergency power source in the UK. Several homeowners and organisations rely on us for emergency power during blackouts. Now it is your turn! Get in touch with us to learn more. 

The manual transfer switch simply connects the home circuit to the generator. In the event of a power outage, the operator should turn on the backup power supply so that the backup power supply turns on all loads connected to the circuit. This switch can be easily used indoors and outdoors. You can manually connect the number of circuits based on the generator power. 

A Lifesaver in Disguise

Manual transfer switching (MTS) is a lifesaver when you need a safe and very fast power supply. Therefore, choosing the right size manual toggle switch can be difficult, especially when the supply capacity required for the building is unknown.

Selecting a manual transfer switch mainly depends on various parameters, such as an amplifier, circuit, and power supply. Take a look: 

Amp

The use of this switch mainly depends on the size of the generator and the properties you have, so a small or large manual transfer switch is used. Larger switches draw more amperes, and smaller switches draw fewer amperes. 

For example, a large company with large stores with multiple systems will need a larger manual transfer switch due to the use of larger generators.

Circuit

Some business owners may choose to power more circuits than their competitors during a power outage. Regardless of the cause or duration of the power outage, there is a need to power a variety of systems critical to daily operations. So manual switches handle a lot of dedicated switching.

Wattage

The wattage required for a generator to operate safely depends primarily on the electrical capacity of the building and the number of circuits it runs. If you need to control more circuits, you need maximum wattage

Watt meter

Many manual switchers have built-in power meters that track what is being powered. Without a power meter, the system can be overloaded and damage your device or generator.

Things to Remember

Do not connect the generator directly to a household outlet. It is called back feeding. It may cause an electric shock or a house fire. Proper installation of these switches can therefore eliminate these risks. 

Take away 

Several options are available for automatic changeover switches, but using manual switches has many advantages. They ensure better security, easier powering of wired devices such as air conditioners, and connectivity across service panels. 

Visit Blades Power Generation for a variety of manual transfer switches and build your understanding of the product based on your needs and budget.