What is an Automatic Transfer Switch?

You have now chosen what you think is the best solar generator for your needs. Now, it’s time to look at the different things required when installing it. One of them is having an automatic transfer switch or ATS. It is a must-have component for anyone with a generator system.

In this post, let’s explore what it is, its importance, how it works, and the qualities to look for an ATS that’s compatible with your solar generator.

What is an automatic transfer switch?

The automatic transfer switch, or ATS, is a device connected to both a backup power source (such as a solar generator) and the main power source. It works as an electrical relay, intermediary, or middleman between the power supplies and equipment.

It is different from its manual counterpart because of its ability to seamlessly transfer power between two power sources, such as the generator and power grid. Thus, it gives owners a level of convenience compared to a manual transfer switch.

But, whether automatic or manual, the high demand and easy access to generators means that the global market for transfer switches will continue to rise. It is valued at $1.3 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow as a $3.1 billion market by 2033. 

How Does an ATS Work?

 It is able to immediately detect when the primary source of power supply is about to have an outage or failure, which then automatically moves the power source away from the primary source to its backup source.

In short, it aids in minimizing power supply disruptions, especially where electricity is needed to be up and running all the time, such as hospitals and data centers. Once the main power source is back, the ATS immediately switches back to it.

In summary, the ATS works like this:

1. The main power source fails.
2. The ATS moves the load to the backup power source. 
3. The ATS moves back to the main power source once it is restored.

What are the Different Kinds of ATS?

The way an ATS transitions from one power source to another can be done in various ways, which also forms the different kinds of ATS options to choose from.

• Delayed Transition - this method gives the inductive load residual voltages time to dissolve by having a bit of delay before moving to the backup source after the primary source has failed.
• Closed Transition - is best for facilities that require no downtime. It is also known as the make-before-break transfer, it works when the ATS connects with its backup power solution before closing the primary source connection.
• Open Transition - also known as the break-before-make transfer. This method means that the ATS stops the connection with the main source of energy first before connecting to the secondary supply.
• Bypass Isolation ATS -  is the most complicated setup on the list. It is used for critical fields such as telecommunications, air traffic control systems, and critical life support systems. It is made up of two systems that run in parallel, which allows for one set-up to be inspected and maintained while the other runs.
• Soft Loading Transfer Switch - similar to closed transition but has a more dynamic and flexible capability. It can adjust the amount of load it carries depending on the situation.

The ATS timing delays play a significant role as it allows the transfer switch time to recognize what is happening. Is it a power outage or just an anomaly? This helps avoid unneeded transfer and ensures optimal equipment operation.

What about the different ATS arrangement?

Besides the different kinds of ATS, there are also different arrangements to consider. Are you going to be using two or three power sources? 

Two Power Sources

• Utility - Utility - this means having two power grid sources that can be independent of each other. It can come from a single electric company that is able to distribute via redundant paths, or the company is able to provide dual electric services.
• Generator - Generator - commonly used at remote installations. This type of arrangement allows a two-generator set-up to share run-time instead of just using one generator set 24/7. Allowing for one generator time to recuperate.
• Utility - Generator - is the standard set-up and is usually called the emergency standby generator system. This means having access to the power grid for the normal power source and the generator for the emergency power source

Three Power Sources

• Utility - Utility - Generator- this set-up expands on the dual power source arrangement by the power company by including a generator source.
• Utility - Generator - Generator  - for critical facilities that require a continuous power source, a permanent generator is installed onsite while the second power source can be rolled up when needed.

Automatic Transfer Switch For Generator: Home Edition

For home usage, you don’t need to overcomplicate things. You can use the two-power source setup with a utility-generator arrangement, which is the most common setup. This allows you to be connected to the main power source via the power grid and the generator of choice.

There are different kinds of automatic transfer switches for generators depending on the power capacity and voltage compatibility. It is best to reach out to the experts and do thorough research when it comes to electricity to ensure that you get the correct information in order to make an informed decision.

But suppose you want more capacity and flexibility. In that case, an option to consider is Nature’s Generator’s 125A, which has twenty-four spaces and can be expanded to forty-eight circuits. It can be used either in 120/208 V or 120/240V applications.

But what exactly do you need to consider when looking for an ATS for your solar generator? Fear not, here’s a quick checklist:

• Price
• Number of circuits needed to be powered
• Your required voltage and amperage
• Purpose of application
• Easy to Use
• Easy to Install
• Brand

Conclusion

Now that you’re a little bit more equipped with all this information about the automatic transfer switch, its importance, and how it works, you may continue on your journey toward sustainable energy. If you require more information about it, you may reach out to us here, and we’ll assist you further.

We want to acknowledge the valuable contributions of professional writer, Cris Ilao, for the research and content provided in this blog titled: What is an Automatic Transfer Switch? Thank you, Cris, for your expertise and hard work!