Are the ATS panels single phase or Three Phase?

Ability Power produce ATS panels in single phase or three phase models.

Are the ATS panels a standard physical size for all powers?

NO, depending on whether a single phase or three phase is required and the current capability the ATS panels are of different sizes, however Ability Power Limited can manufacture in oversized enclosures or reduce sizes in certain instances.

Do your ATS panels comply with BS 60947-6?

Ability Power Limited Manufacture ATS panels for Life safety applications and for standard applications. For ATS compliance of an installation for life safety BS8519:2020 we would provide fully compliant equipment.

Can indicator panels or remote panels be attached to the ATS panels?

YES, Ability Power can offer and build into the panels facilities for remote indication panels, remote monitoring or connection to the BMS system.

Does the ATS come with isolation Switches?

Ability Power Limited manufacture optional single line bypasses or double Line bypasses with isolation. This requirement needs to be requested during quotation.

Can you test the ATS while power still available?

Yes, The ATS comes with a front panel mounted test switch to transfer the load from power source 1 to power source 2.

Are the ATS panels bottom or top cable entry?

Ability Power Limited can build the ATS panels with Bottom OR top entry, the cable entry has to be specified prior to manufacturing.

Do standard ATS panels transfer with no break in load supply?

NO, when transferring there is a break in the supply to the load, if you require a no break changeover you will need to install a Static switch or if you need battery back up install a UPS on the load side of the ATS.

Can a Static switch by disconnected and removed without disturbing the load?

YES, if a wrap around bypass is installed with the static switch.

What is a UPS (Uninterruptible Power supply)?

A UPS is a piece of electrical equipment which is installed between the mains power supply and the critical load. The UPS will supply the load with AC power free of disturbances and within strict amplitude and frequency tolerances. The main components of a UPS are a rectifier/charger and an inverter plus an internal or external battery for backup power in the event of a mains failure.

What UPS topologies are available?

There are three major UPS topologies which give differing levels of power protection for computers and other sensitive electronic equipment, these are Off-Line UPS's, Line-Interactive UPS's and True On-Line UPS's. Users who do not require the highest possible power availability to the critical load have the option of off-line or line-interactive UPS devices. What are the differences in UPS Topologies?

What are the differences in UPS Topologies?

OFF-Line UPS (stand by)
This type of UPS does not supply the load through the Battery and/or inverter until the utility supply fails, when the utility supply fails the load is transferred via a switch to inverter, the inverter then starts and runs the load. The action of the transfer will cause a transfer time delay after the command to switch which is usually less than a half cycle or eight milliseconds @ 60Hz and 10 milliseconds @50 Hz. The time from Utility supply failure to end of the transfer time is usually acceptable for most electrical loads. Off-line, (also called stand-by), is a cost-effective choice for small, non-critical stand-alone applications, for example, isolated PCs and peripherals.

Line Interactive UPS
Line-interactive UPS's use a bi-directional inverter to run the load and charge the battery. The inverter "interacts" with the utility Mains to maintain nominal output voltage to the load, this interaction with the utility supply improves the overall UPS performance over that of the off-line products. Line-interactive UPS devices offer protection against wide input voltage swings, sustained brownout and single-phase conditions. For many users, the line-interactive UPS is a very good level of protection.

True on-line UPS
True on-line UPS inverter's supply the load with regulated voltage and frequency at all times and the battery is continuously connected to the inverter, therefore eliminating any breaks in supply to the load. The performance of this type of UPS has a number of benefits which are advantageous for mission-critical applications. The Benefits include:

The Benefits include:
Improved battery life when compared to off-line or Line Interactive.
Supply/Load isolation, resulting in stable output voltage.
Increased reliability with simpler controls.
Continuous Load Supply.
No switching required for battery operation.
Wide input voltage range which optimizes battery life and potentially reduces battery costs by up to 75%.

All major topologies -- off-line, line-interactive, on-line and hybrids -- work. The decision on which UPS to use is a question of which is appropriate for a given application. A true on-line UPS would be used for truly mission-critical loads, or applications which require continuity. When high reliability of electric service is required, switching between alternate energy sources is not acceptable.

What is Backup time (Autonomy)?

This is the time that the internal or external battery of the UPS can sustain the Critical load during a Utility supply failure. The back up time is dependent on the battery size and efficiency of the UPS. What back up times are available. The typical back up times are normally between five minutes and 30 minutes, although depending on the UPS selected these times can be extended to several hours.

What are Harmonics (current and voltage)?

All alternating current which is not absolutely sinusoidal is made up of a fundamental and a certain number of current harmonics which are the cause of its deformation (distortion) when compared to the theoretical sine-wave.

What is MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures)?

Calculation of the duration of normal operation of a repairable device between failures. The product, expressed in hours, is an indication on the reliability of the device.

What is MTTF (Mean Time To Failure)?

Calculation of the duration of normal operation of a non-reparable device, i.e. for which a MTBF is not possible. The product, expressed in hours, is an indication on the reliability of the device.

What is MTTR (Mean Time To Repair)?

Calculation of the time required to repair a device.

What is Eco-Mode?

The Eco-Mode is a cost-effective operation of a UPS System, when selected the load is supplied by the Utility Supply. If the utility Supply fails, the inverter takes over and provides supply continuity to the load.

What are the advantages of IGBT rectifier UPS?

DSP controlled power factor corrected IGBT rectifiers provide higher input power factor, lower input current total harmonic distortion, wide input voltage and frequency tolerance. Ability Power UPS using this system provide ≥0.99 input power factor PFi, and ≤ 5% input current total harmonic distortion THDi. High power factor reduces reactive power and therefore reduces electrical consumption and reduces cable sizes, associated switchgear, transformer and generator sizing requirements. High power factor reduces reactive power and therefore reduces electrical consumption and reduces cable sizes, associated switchgear, transformer and generator sizing requirements. Low input current THDi eliminates disturbances to other loads connected upstream the power distribution bus and interference reflected back into the utility supply.

What are the advantages of Intelligent Battery Charging?

The battery of a UPS is a very important component of the UPS system, Ability Power UPS's uses technology to maximize the battery life. It provides - charging voltage control according to temperature - protection against deep discharge - protection against over current - very low residual, ripple voltage - battery test with indication of battery condition

What Batteries are used in Battery storage?

Any type of battery can be used, Ability Power Limited generally use Valve regulated Lead acid or Lithium Ion batteries.

Are Lithium Ion batteries Dangerous?

All batteries can be dangerous when working in close proximity to them, only fully trained personnel should work on batteries.

If the Lithium ion battery is subjected to high temperature will they explode or go on fire?

AbilityPower Limited use a certain type of Lithium Ion battery which has been tested under extreme temperatures and has been proven not to explode or to catch fire, these particular Lithium Ion batteries have also been cycled using high charge and discharge currents with no issues.

What are the life of the batteries?

The Lithium Ion batteries have up to 12000 full cycles, depending on the autonomy and usage they can last for over 25 years. Lead acid batteries have a considerable lower life expectancy of between 400 to 600 cycles dependent on Ah sizing and load.

What is Backup time (Autonomy)?

This is the time that the internal battery of the Storage unit can sustain the load during discharge. The back up time is dependant on the battery size and efficiency of the Converter.

What back up times are available?

The typical back up times are normally between 1 hour and 8 hours, although depending on the Storage system selected these times can be extended to meet the back up time required.

What are the physical sizes of Battery Storage systems?

The Battery Storage systems come in 10ft, 20ft, 30ft and 40ft containers, depending on the power requirement and autonomy. The 20ft container systems can be paralleled therefore a system of 4 containers can be used to supply larger loads.

What are Harmonics (current and voltage)?

All alternating current which is not absolutely sinusoidal is made up of a fundamental and a certain number of current harmonics which are the cause of its deformation (distortion) when compared to the theoretical sine-wave.

What is MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures)?

Calculation of the duration of normal operation of a repairable device between failures. The product, expressed in hours, is an indication on the reliability of the device.

What is MTTF (Mean Time To Failure)

Calculation of the duration of normal operation of a non-reparable device, i.e. for which a MTBF is not possible. The product, expressed in hours, is an indication on the reliability of the device.

What is MTTR (Mean Time To Repair)?

Calculation of the time required to repair a device.

What is Eco-Mode?

The Eco-Mode is a cost-effective operation of a Battery Storage System, when selected the load is supplied by the Primary Source. If the utility Supply fails, the converter takes over and provides supply continuity to the load.

What are the advantages of IGBT rectifiers?

DSP controlled power factor corrected IGBT rectifiers provide higher input power factor, lower input current total harmonic distortion, wide input voltage and frequency tolerance. Ability Power Battery storage systems provide ≥0.99 input power factor PFi, and ≤ 5% input current total harmonic distortion THDi.

High power factor reduces reactive power and therefore reduces electrical consumption and reduces cable sizes, associated switchgear, transformer and generator sizing requirements.

Low input current THDi eliminates disturbances to other loads connected upstream the power distribution bus and interference reflected back into the utility supply.

What are the advantages of Intelligent Battery Charging?

The battery is a very important component of the Battery Storage system, Ability Power rectifiers use technology to maximize the battery life. It provides:

- charging voltage control according to temperature
- protection against deep discharge
- protection against over current
- very low residual, ripple voltage
- battery test with indication of battery condition.

How do you deliver large heavy systems?

The large systems can be delivered on a flat bed lorry for lift off by the customers preferred method or depending on the size and weight Ability Power can arrange a Hiab delivery to Off load the system on the customers site.

What if the system has to go into a building?

Depending on the size and location Ability Power Limited can arrange for skating of the system into position.

What times are available for delivery?

The systems can be arranged for a delivery at any time if this has been requested by the customer, however additional charges may apply.

Do we have to be present during delivery?

A customer representative has to be present during delivery to ensure the system is not damaged and that the system is delivered to the correct location.

Can we have a FORS delivery?

Yes, specialist delivery companies are employed by Ability Power to meet this requirement.

What if the system is damaged during delivery?

Please inform Ability Power Limited at once, take pictures immediately and an overview of the delivery process.

Generators

Backup Generators:

A backup generator is a standby source of energy usually maintained by a diesel engine. They are used in times of emergencies when there is a shortage or sudden loss of power. They can come on automatically and restore power quickly with a power transfer time between 10 and 30 seconds.

Diesel generator:

A diesel generator generates electrical power through the use of a diesel engine and an alternator. Used most often as a backup generator, diesel generators are also used at locations with no access to a power grid. Diesel generators are quick and — if for backup purposes — start automatically during power outages.

Generator:

A generator is a device that converts mechanical energy — a type of fuel using, for example, diesel or natural gas — into electrical energy used to power other machines and places. The electrical current results in either direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC). There are different types of generators with the primary difference being the fuel it uses to power units.

Genset:

A genset is interchangeable with a generator (a less accurate term), generator set, or engine generator. A genset is an apparatus consisting of four main parts: (1) an engine, (2) alternator or generator end, (3) a control panel, and (4) a skid. It is used to convert energy to electric power.

Marine generator:

A marine generator is a generator found on larger boats that converts mechanical energy — usually diesel or gasoline — to electrical energy. This electrical energy is then used to power equipment or other appliances on the boat. The primary difference between a marine generator and any other generator is location: land versus the open waters.

Natural Gas Generator:

A natural gas generator is a generator that converts natural gas into electrical power. These generators are used both as portable generators and as backup generators.

Portable Generator:

Portable generators are generators that can be moved from one location to another location with relative ease and are not meant for permanent use.

Rebuilt Generator:

A rebuilt generator is a generator that has been rebuilt and tested in accordance with the original equipment manufacturer’s (OEM) specifications. The manufacturer’s warranty is also usually attached to a rebuilt generator. The advantage of rebuilt generators is cost reduction without losing quality, reliability, and performance.

Remanufactured Generator:

A remanufactured generator is a generator that can be provided relatively quickly, like hours or days rather than months. If you want to reduce the expense of downtime, a remanufactured generator can get you up and running quickly. These generators are remanufactured to be as close to new as it is possible with all internal components disassembled and inspected against the OEM specifications.

Stationary Generator:

Stationary generators are also known as standby or backup generators. They are usually permanently located to address business or industrial emergency needs. Stationary generators are usually connected to the main distribution panel and have the option of either being manually or automatically started when needed.

Used Generator:

A used generator is a generator with a previous owner and/or previous service. The generator is inspected and tested and can be deemed operational or repairable. Price is dependent on its lifespan and, if necessary, the cost to repair.

Systems

Air-Cooled System:

An air-cooled system is a system to cool generators. Generators while operating produce a lot of heat, requiring the interior of the generator to be cooled constantly to protect it from damage. Air circulation is used to bring the interior temperature down. Cool air is taken from the atmosphere and blown into the genset. Relatively smaller generators use an air-cooled system to keep the generator running efficiently.

Dual Fuel System:

A dual fuel system is sometimes referred to as a bi-fuel generator. It is a genset that can simultaneously operate on diesel and natural gas.

Liquid-Cooled System:

A liquid-cooled system employs a radiator, water pump, and oil or a coolant to maintain the temperature of the generator’s interior. The pump distributes the cooling liquid to the generator’s engine. A liquid-cooled system is more durable but more expensive.

Parts & Accessories

Alternator:

An alternator is also known as a gen end or generator end. It is the component that converts mechanical energy into electrical power using electromagnetic induction. It can be a stand-alone unit, or it can be part of a genset.

Battery Charge Rectifier:

A battery charge rectifier is an electrical device used to charge a battery by converting a battery charge winding from AC voltage to DC voltage.

Bearings:

A bearing is a machine component resembling a wheel that allows the machine to function smoothly. Bearings help limit motion to the desired motion rate and reduce friction between the moving parts. There are many different types of bearing for different purposes.

Brush:

Brushes are conducting elements controlling sliding electric contact between static and moving elements. They are made of graphite and/or copper and are used only on very small or very large generators.

Core:

A core is the laminations or bundle of wires in the central portion of the generator.

Enclosure:

An enclosure is a housing of a genset. It is an assembly used to protect the genset from damage caused by weather, animals, and other harmful elements. Most enclosures are NEMA 3R-rated and are equipped with locks that prevent unauthorized persons from tampering with the genset.

Flywheel:

A flywheel — a substitute for chemical batteries — is a heavy revolving wheel-like machine that stores rotational energy — the amount of energy stored is proportional to its speed.

Generator End:

A generator end is also referred to as an alternator or gen end. It is the component in a generator that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.

Load Bank:

A load bank is a machine that mimics the real load of a generator to test, support, and determine the generator’s capability to handle its electrical load.

Lubricator:

A lubricator is a device that supplies lubricant (e.g. oil or other liquid) into a pneumatic system in controlled or metered amounts.

Magneto:

A magneto is a small generator using permanent magnets to generate current for some internal combustion engines.

Relay:

A relay is an electrical device activated by a current in a circuit with the purpose of opening or closing another circuit. In other words, it is an electrically operated switch used in control circuits.

Rotor:

The rotor is the moving or rotating part of the generator.

Skid:

A skid is a base used to mount the components of a genset.

Starter:

A starter is a device used to start an engine; it can be manual or electric.

Stator:

The stator is the unmovable or stationary part of the generator.

Transfer Switch:

A transfer switch is a switch that either manually or automatically changes an electrical load from its regular and preferred source to an alternative and usually stationary or portable source. A transfer switch is most often used in emergency times when there has been a power outage. Transfer switches can also incorporate controls to do things like setting timers or activating/deactivating the backup generator.

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS):

Also known as a battery backup, a UPS provides power during a power outage or reduction in voltage instantly and automatically. It is used together with a standby generator to ensure that there are no power disruptions. UPSs are often used by data centers, medical facilities, laboratories, process centers, and other professional establishments that would be negatively impacted by an electrical outage.

Water Jacket Heater:

A water jacket heater is a setup where a water jacket — a water-filled casing around a device — is used to control the temperatures around a piece of machinery. The water jacket is designed with a metal sheath with intake and outlet vents through which water is pumped and circulated to maintain a precise temperature.

Windings:

Windings are the coils of a generator. In other words, it is wire that has been turned one or more times to form a continuous coil to allow an electric current to pass through it. There are two main windings: stator and rotor.

Generator Rating Types

Continuous Power Rating:

Continuous power rating is used when power load is constant (at 100%) for an unlimited period of time each year. The non-varying load factor is 70%-100% of the published continuous power rating. This power rating system is used when the power grid is inaccessible, especially for applications in the mining and agricultural industries.

Generator Set Ratings:

A generator set rating is a system of rating generators so that you can purchase or lease the generator that is best suited for your intended purpose. The ratings fit an application’s needs to optimum reliability, costs, and overall performance.

Emergency Standby Power (ESP) Rating:

An ESP rating refers to a standby generator with a typical usage of up to 50 hours per year. Average variable load factor is 70% of the ESP rating. No overload capability.

Mission Critical Standby:

The mission critical standby rating means a generator’s typical usage is 200 hours per year and maximum usage is 500 hours per year with varying loads. Average variable load factor is 85% of the Standby rating. No overload capability. Typical applications are data centers and health care facilities.

Prime Power Rating:

Prime power ratings provide the indefinite running time or the limited running time of generators under the prime power category. Average variable load factor is 70% of the prime power rating. There is a 10% overload availability. Prime power rated generators are used by persons who do not purchase electricity from a public utility but who provide their own electricity.

Standby Power Rating:

A standby power rated generator is used during power outages to supply emergency power for a specific and limited period of time. Typical use is 200 hours per year and maximum use is 500 hours per year with varying loads. Average variable load factor is 70% of standby rating. There is no built-in overload capability.

Other Relevant Ratings

Emissions Rating:

In the United Kingdom, emissions ratings are used to confirm emission standards are met. There are certain legal requirements that govern air pollutants (such as nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide) released into the atmosphere via generators.

kW Rating:

A kW rating is based on the horsepower of an engine and refers to the power output a generator is capable of supplying. A kW rating is determined by the horsepower rating of the engine times .746.

Rated Voltage:

A rated voltage references the voltage measurement a genset can begin operating. The genset’s rated voltage is equivalent to the voltage at which the genset was meant to function according to its specifications.

Process Terms

Alternating Current (AC):

Alternating current is an electric current that occurs when the electric charge reverses direction of movement.

Direct Current (DC):

Direct current is an electric current that flows only in one direction and is the product of a chemical action or electromagnetic induction.

Frequency:

Frequency is the number of electrical waves that pass by per second. Frequency is measured in cycles per second known as Hertz (Hz). The UK standard is 50 Hz.

Generator RPM:

A generator’s revolutions per minute (RPM) is the number of turns in one minute needed to reach the required frequency of 50 Hz. Most generator engines must operate at 1500 or 3000 RPM to produce 50 Hz. Generally speaking, 1500 RPM sets are common for prime generators while 3000 RPM sets are for stationary units.

Generator Sizing:

Generator sizing is a method a certified electrician employs to help a client determine the size of a generator needed to perform the specific intentions and functions of the client. Determining the size can be complex and difficult and under-sizing can damage equipment and interrupt operations. We’ve put together a step-by-step guide to make it as simple as possible.

Off-peak:

Off-peak is a specific time period when the demand for power/electricity is comparatively low.

Peak:

Peak is a measurement that defines the maximum load that can be consumed within a specified time period for each respective type of generator.