An Emergency Power Supply System or EPSS is a preventative measure installed for industrial and commercial settings. It is designed to provide backup power when the main power source of a building fails. In a factory setting, failure of both systems can be devastating to production because it will result in a complete shutdown. EPSS failures are also life threatening to anyone occupying a commercial or industrial structure. They are sometimes utilized in multi-resident buildings as an additional safety precaution. If you own one of these industrial, commercial or residential buildings, you are probably already aware of their importance.
Maintenance is required on these systems to ensure they function when needed most. Switchgear is a grouping of EPSS equipment which includes transformers, breakers, fuses, electrical disconnects,, controllers, and relay panels. Regular testing of these items reduces the likelihood of a malfunction. Switchgear testing can entail many different tasks which are best handled by a professional. These components act as an intermediary between supplied electricity and all utilized circuits. Cable inspection, wire functionality, power factor testing, relay calibration, and polarity testing are just a few of the tests your EPSS may be subjected to over a set period of time.
NFPA 110: Providing a Baseline for System Care
Professionals must abide by the NFPA 110 regulations when working on these systems. These standards apply to every aspect of installation as well as maintenance. Testing is a vital component of maintenance because it allows a technician to detect a problem while the backup source is not needed. Switchgear is not one particular component within the system. Instead, it entails many electrical disconnects, fuses, and breakers which perform electrical equipment isolation. These items determine the supplies' reliability in the event of power failure.
Circuit breakers are pertinent because they perform fault current interruption. Additional components work with breakers to provide a safe electrical source. Testing ensures the system's electrical performance is reliable. All switchgear components must function reliably so they can work together to provide consistent and safe electrical current throughout a building. Your switchgear can be categorized by its voltage rating, interrupt rating, voltage class, the insulating medium, how it was constructed, or many other factors. They supply protection from circuit shorts and current overloads. Switchgear also increases system availability by providing multiple sources for load feeding.
The NFPA 110 is designed to ensure these components are working correctly and remain safe for everyone within their general vicinity. Internal arc containment is tested to protect individuals from the large amounts of current being sent through the system. Technology such as thermal imaging may be used to determine the current system state as well as locate signs of failure beforehand. Prime Power technicians are highly trained in switchgear testing. With years of experience in creating custom switchgear, installations, diagnostics, and testing, our technicians can ensure the safety and reliability of your system. All of our processes meet the standards set by the NFPA regulations. Call us today to be certain all backup units are ready for unexpected power failure.
