How to Implement a Seamless Generator Changeover Switch
With ESKOM not being able to manage and provide enough electricity for South Africa, power outages have become a frequent and expected occurrence. The future of electricity in our country doesn’t look much brighter and so alternatives must be implemented in order to mitigate the problems that come with these outages. If a company cannot function for two, four, or even six hours at a time, it doesn’t only affect the company itself but the economy as a whole.
A popular solution to this conundrum has been the implementation of backup generators; however, they come with their own set of problems that need to be accounted for.
How to Switch Over to Generator Power
Our electricity is typically powered by the main grid. When load-shedding or an unplanned power outage occurs, this grid is switched off or not able to provide power. To once again provide you with power, you must switch from the main grid onto the backup power generator.
In order to make this change safely, a switch, otherwise known as a changeover switch or Generator Changeover Switch must be used. If a changeover switch is not used it can cause dangerous surges to occur.
There are two types of switch over switches, namely, a manual switch or an automatic switch.
A Manual Chageover Switch
A Manual Changeover Switch (MTS) is located on the generator and must manually be flipped when the power cuts out. This will then redirect the power supply and will source the power from the generator.
An Automatic Changeover Switch
An Automatic Changeover Switch (ATS) allows for an almost seamless switchover to occur. As a power failure takes place, the changeover switch is automatically triggered and power is pulled from the nearest or next source, which would be the generator.
Where to Find a Changeover Switch for a Generator
At ATI Systems we stock automatic and manual switch over switches. This ensures that no matter your price range, or specific requirements, we can provide you with what you need. We are also skilled and have the necessary experience to advise you on which model, make, and type of switch over switch would best suit your application.
Contact us to find out more about Changeover Switches and ensure that you never lose revenue due to power outages in your area.
