Power Transfer Switch: Routine Commissioning Guarantees Proper Source Switchover

Backup power systems use a series of electrical controls to begin operation and ensure safe current flow to your building. The transfer switch is a generator component designed to facilitate the electrical connection to your standby source. These components can be manually operated; however, automatic methods are more common for larger standby systems. A power transfer switch allocates the load supply to a secondary system and facilitates startup procedures. When the secondary system is supplying electricity, primary power remains isolated by this component. The switch may be open in nature; meaning contact is broken from one source before made with another. These types prevent the generator from back feeding into the main utility line during operation. Closed transition switches make the necessary contact connection before breaking the main supply contacts. This is common with emergency power systems because some devices cannot do without an electrical source for even a second. Usage greatly determines which type best meets the need for your system setup.

Power Services in Georgia: What Happens During Switchgear Maintenance?

Power services in Georgia help you determine the type of switch at the time of system design or purchasing. Closed versions are common with data processing environments, electronic loads, and in other situations where even the smallest outage can cause damage. Open transition switches can be used whenever the entire building or devices suffer a short outage before standby power is initiated. It is the driving force of your backup or emergency electrical source. This component monitors incoming electrical feeds and determines when an outage has actually occurred. Current supply is shifted from the main source to your secondary system once an outage has been verified. These sources may supply power to designated circuits or to every building circuit. Advanced models allow circuits to be prioritized to enable optional circuits and load shedding capabilities.

Specific maintenance must be applied to these components to make certain your system is capable of starting appropriately. Switches without an isolation bypass feature are de-energized prior to removing the arc chutes or pole covers. Once these items have been removed, a technician will visually inspect your switching component to verify contact condition. Trip and time delay functions in the gear are tested and then recalibrated. This process helps a professional acquire current settings to make the necessary adjustments aimed at meeting your specific electrical requirements.

Dust is also vacuumed from both the switchgear and the accessory panels. Power services in Georgia inspect the component for moisture, clean grime off with an approved solvent, and evaluate all insulated parts. Cracks and discoloration are signs of overheating that often affect individual switchgear components. An initial infrared scan may be recommended by a service provider to achieve easier problem area identification. Technicians verify contact condition, operation, and wiring connections prior to re-energizing the power transfer switch.

Prime Power offers these comprehensive services, along with many additional services geared toward guaranteeing the reliable operation of your generator. Call today to have this critical component serviced or to receive additional care for your secondary electrical unit.