Power switching equipments: What are the differences between STS and ATS, in the working principles and application scenarios?
1.Working principle:
ATS (automatic transfer switch):
ATS automatically switches the load circuit from one power source to another backup power source through mechanical contact switching.
The power will be temporarily cut off during the switching process, which is suitable for applications that are not sensitive to short-term power outages.
The switching time is usually more than tens of milliseconds, which may cause load power outages.
STS (static transfer switch):
STS uses solid-state electronic switches to achieve conversion between power sources without cutting off power.
The switching speed is very fast, with a standard switching time of ≤8ms, and will not cause power outages on IT loads.
Suitable for scenarios that require fast and uninterrupted switching.
2. Application scenarios:
ATS:
Applicable to emergency power supply systems, such as important industrial production, data centers, hospitals, etc.
Applicable to commercial buildings, hospitals, hotels and other occasions that require reliable power backup.
Due to its mechanical structure and zero arcing design, it is suitable for emergency power supply systems in important places such as high-rise buildings and hospitals.
STS:
Applicable to occasions with high requirements for power quality, such as communication base stations, precision instruments, laboratories, etc.
Applicable to power industry automation systems, petrochemical industry power systems, computers and remote communication centers, etc., which are sensitive to power outages.
Particularly suitable for critical infrastructure such as large data centers and telecommunications facilities.
3. Structure and Features:
ATS:
Consists of a switch body and a controller. The switch body can be divided into PC level (integrated type) and CB level (circuit breaker type).
The design takes into account both manual and automatic operation modes, providing more flexibility and safety.
STS:
Consists of an intelligent control board, high-speed thyristor and circuit breaker.
The standard switching time is 5ms to 10ms, which has almost no impact on the load.
The design not only ensures high-reliability power supply to the load, but also ensures safety during the switching process.
Summary
ATS is mainly used in emergency power supply systems. It switches through mechanical contacts, with a longer switching time, but is more cost-effective and suitable for applications that are not sensitive to short-term power outages.
STS uses electronic switches to switch quickly, which is suitable for occasions with extremely high power quality requirements, such as data centers, medical equipment, etc., and can achieve almost uninterrupted power conversion.
According to specific application requirements and scenarios, you can choose a suitable dual power switching device to ensure the continuity and reliability of the power system.
