What is an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)?
An Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) panel automatically transfers the electrical load from utility power to a backup generator when the main power fails. It's essential for facilities requiring uninterrupted power.
Operating Principle
- Normal Operation: Utility power feeds the loads
- Utility Failure: Control unit detects, sends generator start signal
- Generator Active: Load transfers to generator
- Utility Returns: After stabilization period, transfers back to utility
Types of Transfer Switches
1. Contactor-Based Transfer System
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Transfer Time | 50-100 ms |
| Cost | Low |
| Lifespan | 50,000-100,000 cycles |
| Application | Industrial facilities |
Advantages:
- Economical solution
- Easy maintenance
- Spare parts availability
Disadvantages:
- Mechanical wear
- Relatively slow transfer
2. Motorized Switch Transfer System
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Transfer Time | 3-4 seconds |
| Cost | Medium |
| Lifespan | 10,000+ cycles |
| Application | Commercial buildings |
Advantages:
- Wide current range
- Compact design
- Long mechanical life
3. Static Transfer Switch (STS)
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Transfer Time | 4-8 ms |
| Cost | High |
| Lifespan | Unlimited (no mechanical parts) |
| Application | Data centers, hospitals |
Advantages:
- Ultra-fast transfer
- Seamless transition
- Silent operation
Selecting the Right Transfer Switch
Application-Based Recommendations
| Application | Recommended Type | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Factory | Contactor | Cost-effective, adequate speed |
| Office Building | Motorized | Compact, medium speed |
| Hospital | STS | Seamless for critical loads |
| Data Center | STS + Bypass | Uninterrupted during maintenance |
| Residential | Contactor | Economic solution |
Capacity Determination
Transfer switch capacity is based on generator power and load current:
Rated Current (A) = Generator Power (kVA) / (√3 x Voltage)
Example: 250 kVA generator, 400V
I = 250,000 / (1.73 x 400) = 361 A
Selection: 400A transfer switch
DOA Enerji Transfer Switch Solutions
Standard Features
- ✅ 63A - 4000A current range
- ✅ Contactor and motorized options
- ✅ Auto / Manual / Test modes
- ✅ LCD display control unit
- ✅ Generator start/stop control
- ✅ SCADA compatible communication
Optional Features
- Remote monitoring and control
- Synchronization capability
- Parallel generator support
- Bypass switch
Reference Projects
- Shopping centers
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Industrial production plants
- Hotels and residential projects
Get technical support for your transfer switch project.