Transfer switches are vital!They are 3rd party certified and at the heart of an emergency power system, providing a dependable power transfer between two power sources (a utility and an emergency standby generator,for example) and facility loads. `When the normal power source fails, transfer switches detect the loss of power, send a start signal to the standby generator and then connect the generator to facility loads when the generator has reached proper voltage and frequency. When utility power is restored, the transfer switch returns the load from the emergency power source to the normal one.
Summary
‘Transfer switches play a significant part in the power system as they are the last link between the power sources and the loads.
Since transfer switches are available in a variety of types, with a wide array of features, selecting the appropriate transfer switch for a specific application requires a clear understanding of site needs and application restraints.Some of the critical items to consider when specifying a transfer switch are: codes and standards, transition type, number of poles, current rating, fault current capability (WCR), short-time ratings, and grounding schemes.` Whether the application is a simple standby power system in a warehouse, a large emergency system in a hospital protecting the lives of patients, or standby service to a data center handling millions of dollars in transactions, a careful consideration of the balance between cost, reliability and the quality of power provided to critical loads is necessary to select the most appropriate transfer switch equipment.