When mains power fails, a diesel generator provides an alternative source of electricity. But how does the building switch to generator power automatically?
An automatic transfer switch (ATS) transfers connected electrical loads between the mains supply and a backup generator. For businesses in Dubai and across the United Arab Emirates, it is an important part of an automatic standby power system.
When correctly specified and integrated, an ATS can work with Kirloskar diesel generators to restore power without requiring someone to operate a manual changeover switch.
What Is an ATS Panel?
An ATS panel contains the switching equipment and associated controls used to transfer electrical loads between two power sources.
In a typical diesel generator installation, these sources are:
- Mains power: the normal electricity supply.
- Generator power: the standby supply used when mains power becomes unavailable or unacceptable.
The ATS and generator controls coordinate source monitoring, generator starting and load transfer. The exact division of these functions depends on the system design.
How Does an Automatic Transfer Switch Work?
1. Monitoring the Mains Supply
During normal operation, the mains supplies the connected equipment. The control system monitors whether the supply remains within its configured limits.
2. Detecting a Power Failure
If an unacceptable mains condition continues beyond the configured delay, the control system initiates the generator starting sequence.
3. Starting the Diesel Generator
The generator starts and establishes its output. Before transferring the load, the system checks that the generator supply is acceptable and allows any configured transfer delay to complete.
4. Transferring the Load to Generator Power
The ATS connects the designated loads to the generator. The generator then supplies those loads while the mains remains unavailable.
5. Returning to Mains Power
Once the mains supply returns and remains stable for the configured period, the ATS transfers the load back. The generator typically completes an unloaded cooling period before stopping.
The full sequence depends on the generator controls, ATS settings and project requirements.
Does an ATS Provide Uninterrupted Power?
A conventional diesel generator and ATS system includes an interruption while the generator starts and becomes ready to accept the load.
A common design uses open-transition switching, also called “break before make.” This disconnects one source before connecting the other.
For equipment that cannot tolerate an interruption, a suitably designed uninterruptible power supply (UPS) may be needed alongside the generator. An ATS does not store electricity to bridge the outage.
Using an ATS with Kirloskar Diesel Generators
When specifying a Kirloskar diesel generator in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE, consider the automatic transfer arrangement as part of the complete backup power system.
The generator must support the required automatic starting interface, and the ATS controls must be compatible with it. The connected load, electrical protection and operating sequence also need to be assessed.
Explore MYSPAN’s Kirloskar diesel generator range to discuss a suitable generator for your project. You can also learn more about Kirloskar and its engineering heritage.
Choosing an ATS Panel for Dubai and UAE Projects
Choosing an ATS panel requires more than matching it to the generator’s kVA rating. The specification should consider:
- Rated current: the electrical load the switch will carry.
- Voltage and phase: compatibility with the installation and both power sources.
- Short-circuit ratings: suitability for the available fault current and protective devices.
- Load characteristics: including motors and equipment with high starting demands.
- Control compatibility: coordination between the ATS and generator.
- Installation conditions: ambient temperature, enclosure protection and exposure to dust or moisture.
For a Dubai or UAE project, provide the actual site conditions when requesting a quotation. This helps the system designer assess equipment suitability for the installation.
Generator Maintenance and Backup Power Readiness
Automatic operation depends on the complete system being ready when required. Generator maintenance should therefore be considered alongside checks of the transfer controls and switching equipment.
For support with your Kirloskar generator, explore MYSPAN’s generator maintenance and genuine spare parts services. MYSPAN offers maintenance contracts, technical assistance and genuine parts support for customers in the UAE and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an ATS Automatically Start a Generator?
In a typical standby installation, the ATS or associated control system sends a start signal when mains power becomes unacceptable. The generator must be configured for automatic operation.
How Quickly Does an ATS Restore Power?
There is no single restoration time for every installation. It depends on failure-detection delays, generator starting and stabilisation, and transfer settings. The switch operating time is only one part of the total interruption.
Can an ATS Work with a Kirloskar Generator?
Yes, provided the selected generator supports the required automatic starting interface and the transfer equipment is correctly specified and integrated. Confirm compatibility for the particular generator model and installation.
Can One ATS Supply the Whole Building?
It may supply the whole building or selected essential circuits, depending on the system design. The generator, transfer equipment and distribution arrangement must be sized for the intended loads.
Discuss Your Generator and ATS Requirements with MYSPAN
Looking for a Kirloskar diesel generator in Dubai or across the UAE?
MYSPAN Power Solutions has offices in Dubai and a showroom and warehouse in Sharjah. Contact the MYSPAN team with your site location, required generator capacity and connected loads to discuss your backup power requirements.