Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) : I. History and Background

Term Paper No.
1
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
I. History and Background

An automatic transfer switch (ATS) is a device that automatically transfers a power supply from
its primary source to a backup source when it senses a failure or outage in the primary source. When a
failure occurs in a primary power system, the ATS invokes a standby power source, such as
an uninterruptable power supply. An ATS can also start up more long-term backup power systems, such
as local diesel generators, to run electric equipment until utility power is restored.
In its most basic form, a transfer switch for a 120/240V single-phase service is simply a double-
pole, double-throw switch of proper ampere rating with a middle off position. By design, it is a physical
impossibility for both power sources to supply the load simultaneously, unless, of course, that is the
intent. It's also impossible for the two sources to mix — or for one source to backfeed into the other.
II. Principle of Operation
An automatic transfer switch having two sets of phase switches, one set for connection between a
normal source of power and a load, and the other set for connection between an emergency power source
and the load. The transfer switch includes two pairs of neutral switches, one pair for connection in parallel
between the normal source neutral and the load neutral, and the other pair for connection in parallel
between the emergency source neutral and the load neutral. The phase switches can operate to provide an
"open transition" transfer, wherein the phase switches connecting the load to one source open before
closing of the phase switches which connect the load to the other source, or a "closed transition" transfer,
wherein the phase switches connecting the load to one source open after closing of the phase switches
which connect the load to the other source. Prior to transfer operation, the pair of neutral switches
corresponding to the closed set of phase switches are closed and the pair of neutral switches
corresponding to the open set of phase switches are open. During transfer of the load, whether by open or
closed transition transfer, one neutral switch of each pair are closed before the open set of phase switches
close and those neutral switches remain closed until after the closed set of phase switches opens.
Thereafter, the pair of neutral switches which had originally been open are both closed, and the pair of
neutral switches which had originally been closed are both opened.
III. Components and Functions

The ATS monitors the supply of voltage from a single phase line and a generator supply, it then
base its control operation on the availability or unavailability of power supply from either sources. It consists
of a series of relays contactors and protective devices that help form the control circuit of the ATS. The ATS
switchgear system can be divided into four main functional blocks namely; the relay switching block, timer
relay block, the contactor switching block and the Digital MultiMeter (DMM) Unit:
Relay Switching
Relay switching block comprises the voltage monitoring relay that monitors the supply voltage level and the
11-pin relays that act as sensor relays.
Timer Relays
Delay timer multifunctional relays of the utility and that of the generator sections provide some delays
before energizing the contactors which in turn provide power supply to the connected load
Contactor Switch
An electrically controlled switch (relay) used for switching an electrical power circuit.
Digital Multimeter (DMM)

DMM measures the output voltage current and frequency of the supply to the load.
The block diagram of the working principle of the ATS is as shown in figure
IV. Application
An ATS is a device that interfaces with a generator and the building's electrical system. It monitors
the utility power and signals the generator to start if the utility power goes out of spec or drops out entirely
(blackout). Backup power is now fed to the main utility panel or an emergency panel via the ATS.
V. Circuit Diagram
An ATS, typically, has two inputs and one output. The inputs are a standby generator and utility
power. The ATS will automatically turn on the generator in the event of a power failure or it can be
manually turned on due to an approaching storm or for UPS maintenance. Most critical facilities consider
their generators to be a more reliable and cleaner source of power than the utility.
VI. Conclusion
In some facilities, it is vitally important to have uninterrupted power. To achieve this goal, the
systems in the power path must be properly maintained and tested. To ensure reliability in the event of a
power outage, the importance of installation of the ATS is a must. As embodiment, an ATS or Automatic
Transfer Switch is a device that interfaces with a generator and the building's electrical system. It monitors
the utility power and signals the generator to start if the utility power goes out of spec or drops out entirely
(blackout). Backup power is now fed to the main utility panel or an emergency panel via the ATS.
VII. Reference
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Term Paper No.

I. History and Background

II. Principle of Operation

III. Components and Functions

Digital Multimeter (DMM)

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