Emergency Electrical Panels (ATS Panels)

Emergency electrical panel features

In this type of electrical panels, a common approach -ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch)- is been used. In other words, it uses central control which we will discuss later.

Designing and manufacturing Emergency electrical panel

Emergency electrical panels are designed in vertical shape and a door in front of it in singular and dual cell variation, cable inlets are usually at the bottom but it is customizable according to clients need, a 2mm thick metal sheet with furnace or electropainting proportional to generator’s power and type of control needed is put in use.
All the joints, knots and busbars in this panel are taken into account with consideration of electrocution hazards, and the power busbar in this panel are designed in a way which they are able to withstand mechanical stress in cases of short circuit.
The body work assembly of Emergency Electrical Panels is done before the paint work and all the punching needed accomplished and finalized with assembly and paint work as a result it is well resisting against moisture.

What is ATS panel switch?

Automatic transfer switch panels or ATS panels are kinds of panels in which use diesel generators for automatic switching between power distribution grid and the generator in case of a power outage. Relative to power source, the generator automatically starts up or disconnects.

Why is it essential to use ATS panel switch?

Well, it is compulsory by law during installation of generators in places with power source, the existence of a switch -either manual or automatic- is essential. A transfer switch will prevent the followings:

• Generator in contact with the main power grid, which in case it happens the power would almost go out.
• In cases that generator break down, the generator prevents reconnection and puts people lives in jeopardy.

In fact, in terms of importance, a manual and an automatic switch serve a same function, nevertheless in ATS panels, automatic transfer switch does it automatically, and saves time and reduces down time.

How are ATS panel and Automatic transfer switch functionalities in change over switch panels?

• ATS panels with power grid detection
• ATS panels without power grid detection

ATS panels with power grid detection

Automatic transfer switch in ATS panels with power grid detection is mounted in power source monitor. When it detects the main cause of the break down, normally it uses the defect detector relay.
Typically it disconnects from the main power grid and sends start up signals to the generator. When the generator starts to work it sends an “available” signal behind which ATS has received, and alters the generator’s source.

ATS panels without power grid detection

Automatic transfer switch in ATS panels without power grid detection, do need power grid detection! Which either placed in generator or other places.
When the generator detects the power grid presence, it sends a signal to ATS so it disconnects from power grid and starts to work automatically. When the generator starts to work it sends a signal and upon receiving the ATS switches over to the generator.

Possibilities which you may encounter with the Changeover Panels:

1. Possibility 1: When the Nation power distribution system or power grids are available, generators output has been cut out and after a certain amount of time power grid switch connects by the user.
2. Possibility 2: In this situation when power grid cuts out, after a certain amount of time the operator switches the generators power into active and power outlet connects to the circuit.
3. Possibility 3: When the power grid is available immediately the emergency generators power will cut out and after a while the power grid connects.

ATS Electrical Panel

ATS Electrical Panel or changeover electrical panel is a device which automatically switches the power source from power grid to back up source (Generator) in case of power outage.
It ensures that electrical components have reliable and continuous power source and prevents power outage.

Why we need ATS Electrical Panel?

• Damage inhibition at work place: In many industries and places, power outage can result in irreversible damages. ATS electrical panel prevent these damages by switching the power source.
• Protecting decisive facilities: Electronic and computing facilities are fragile against sudden voltage alteration. ATS electrical panels by providing a sustainable and continuous transfer protect facilities from getting damaged.
• Safety enhancement: In some industries, such as medical, power outage can save or jeopardize people lives. ATS electrical panel via providing emergency backup power enhance the safety.

ATS control panel’s main components

• Main switch: A switch which connects the power grid to the busbar.
• Bypass switch: A switch which connects the backup (Generator) source to the busbar.
• Programable Logic controller: It is the brain of ATS electrical panel which handles controlling over all the processing that happens in the panel.
• Sensors: To detect connection to power and the generator.
• Relays and Contactors: To connect or disconnect the main switch and bypass switch.

How ATS control panels operates

• Safe state: In safe sate the power grid is connected to the busbar and the generator is operational.
• Power grid outage: In case of power grid outage the sensors will detect this change and transmit it to PLC.
• Generator start up: PLC sends the startup signal to generator.
• Load transfer: After generator reaches to a suitable RPM, PLC sends a signal the generator.
• Power grid return: When the power grid is back PLC sends a signal to transfer the load to power grid and the generator shuts.

Different types ATS electrical panel

• Automatic ATS electrical panel: It operates automatically and does not require any interference.
• Semi-automatic ATS electrical panel: Some of the functions are automatic and some are manual.
• Manual ATS electrical panel: Every action needs to be done via an operator.

ATS electrical panel application

• Industry: Factories, oil and gas industries, hospitals and data centers
• Commercial zones: Hotels, shopping centers, departmental sites.
• Residential zones: Villas, luxurious apartments.

Important tips upon choosing ATS electrical panels

• Load capacity: panels’ capacity must be relative to load capacity.
• Transfer speed: Transfer speed from a load to another must be so fast to prevent any trouble.
• Reliability: Electrical panel must be reliable in cases of emergency.
• Safety standards: Electrical panels must obey civil national and international rules and regulation.

Attention

In case power grid shortage there must be a system that can start the diesel generator and after stabilization of the voltage and frequency in circuit the switch. For this matter you can use either contactor, automatic, double and changeover switches.
At last, you must know that most of the emergency lightning and other emergency systems require emergency source or generator. The emergency ordinarily is provided by the generators and can be seen in industrial zones.
Also ATS electrical is an essential device to provide a reliable and non-stop power source in different places, and with the enough knowledge you can choose the perfect panel for your need to prevent any electrical damage.

Conclusion

ATS and emergency electrical panels are essential for maintaining power continuity, protecting equipment, and improving safety during outages. If you want the right panel for your application, prepare your load capacity, generator details, and required control type, then choose a solution that meets your reliability and safety standards. Contact your panel builder or engineering team to specify and build an ATS panel that matches your site needs and helps prevent avoidable electrical damage.