At Switches International we understand that power outages are an inconvenience and a disruption to the daily functioning of homes and businesses. Backup generators have become a necessity throughout South Africa due to the inconsistent supply of power from our utility company. Home and business owners who operate generators will understand the functional importance of Automatic Transfer Switches.
Switches International supply high-quality Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS) which are installed in a system where the mains are connected to a generator and there is a transfer of power loads. ATS are a critical component of any emergency or backup power system.
Automatic Transfer Switches are electrical switches that switch a load between two sources (mains to back up generator). Apart from transferring loads to the generator, ATSs also command the backup generator to start automatically. The transfer process begins once the power cuts. The ATS will detect that the generator is ready to provide electric power and then connect to the backup generator to the business or home’s main power unit. The automatic transfer unit is an important element of the emergency power system.
There are four basic types of automatic transfer switches to choose from:
Open transition
The most common type of the four switches, also known as the break-before-make switch. The load is interrupted during transmission from the main power unit to the emergency source.
Closed transition
This transfer switch is ideal for operational conditions where it is desirable to transfer loads with no interruption of power experienced. It is also known as the make-before-break transfer switch.
Delayed transition (Soft loading)
Allows magnetic fields to completely collapse before reconnection and is best suited for large inductive loads resulting in large inrush currents.
Static transfer switch (Solid state)
This type of switch relies on power semiconductors such as silicon-controlled rectifiers (SCRs) to transfer a load. Static transfer switches can be used where a reliable and independent second power source is available. Even with a technical break in load current the speed of the units prevents negative effects to sensitive equipment.
Properly installed and maintained electrical system components such as automatic transfer switches are cost effective and prevent damage to sensitive equipment in the instance of a power cut. These switches will also ensure that your power load is automatically transferred without manual input. This feature is a convenient addition to your backup power system.
Our aim at Switches International is to deliver high-quality switches and sensors at reasonable prices while meeting our clients’ specific requirements. For more information on our high quality products, contact us today.
