Both are crucial components in managing standby diesel generator power for various businesses, ensuring seamless transitions during outages or power cuts. Let's delve into their distinctions to understand their roles better.
ATS Panels:
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) panels serve as an integral part of standby generator control systems. Their primary function is to automate the process of shifting power sources from mains to generator. With an ATS panel in place, manual intervention during power outages becomes unnecessary. These systems autonomously detect outages and execute the switch, mitigating the risk of process disruption.
ATS panels monitor the mains AC power supply, seamlessly transferring the load to the generator upon detecting a mains outage. Once mainline power is restored, the ATS panel seamlessly transitions the load back, conserving generator power.
AMF Panels:
Automatic Mains Failure (AMF) panels, sometimes synonymous with ATS panels, fulfill a similar purpose. They monitor the incoming power supply from the mains and automate the switch to the standby generator during outages, eliminating the need for manual intervention in emergencies.
Distinguishing ATS from AMF Panels:
While both ATS and AMF panels facilitate the transfer of electrical load from the mains to the backup generator, their initiation methods differ. ATS panels employ a volt-free contact system integrated with the set control panel to start and stop the generator. Conversely, AMF panels feature a dedicated generator controller equipped with alarms for various parameters such as start, stop, water temperature, fuel oil pressure, and fuel level.
Nevertheless, the terms ATS and AMF are often used interchangeably, leading to potential confusion. Therefore, relying on guidance and regular inspections from the Vital Power team is advisable to ensure the optimal functioning of your critical power setup.
In systems equipped with a Generator Control Panel, ATS panels are typically recommended for switching to generator power. Conversely, if the generator lacks its own Generator Control Panel, an AMF panel becomes essential to ensure proper functionality.