Wiktor Wise
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is a device that provides emergency power to connected equipment when the main power source fails. It is used in any situation where electrical equipment is sensitive to power loss or issues with power quality. UPS systems come in several forms and sizes, with the two most common forms being tower and rack-mount. UPS devices can be differentiated by their topology or type, which comes in three basic configurations: single-conversion, double-conversion, and multi-mode. UPS units may also introduce problems with electric power quality, so it is important to select a UPS not only by capacity but also by the quality of power required by the equipment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is a type of continual power system that provides automated backup electric power to a load when the input power source or mains power fails. |
| Use | UPS is typically used to protect hardware such as computers, hospital equipment, data centers, telecommunications equipment or other electrical equipment where an unexpected power disruption could cause injuries, fatalities, serious business disruption or data loss. |
| Function | UPS units range in size from ones designed to protect a single computer to large units powering entire data centers or buildings. The primary role of any UPS is to provide short-term power when the input power source fails. |
| Common forms | The two most common forms are tower and rack-mount. Tower models stand upright on the ground or on a desk or shelf, and are typically used in network workstations or desktop computer applications. Rack-mount models can be mounted in standard 19-inch rack enclosures and can require anywhere from 1U to 12U (rack units). |
| Voltage | UPS systems stabilize the voltage supplied to connected devices, protecting them from voltage fluctuations. |
| Power quality | UPS systems filter out electrical noise and harmonics, ensuring clean power for sensitive equipment. |
| Battery | The battery is the core of the UPS. It stores energy and provides backup power when the main source fails. The type and size of battery determine how long the UPS can support connected devices. |
| Switch | The switch, either static or automatic transfer switch, is responsible for switching the load between utility power and battery/inverter power without interruption. |
| Charger | The charger maintains the battery's charge when utility power is available. It ensures the battery is always ready to provide backup power when needed. |
| Software | Most modern UPSs include software or network interfaces that allow for real-time power condition monitoring, event logging and alert notifications. |
| High voltage | High voltage DC (380 V) is finding use in some data center applications and allows for small power conductors, but is subject to the more complex electrical code rules for safe containment of high voltages. |
| Flywheel | A rotary UPS uses the inertia of a high-mass spinning flywheel (flywheel energy storage) to provide short-term ride-through in the event of a power loss. |
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What You'll Learn
UPS as an emergency power source
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is an electrical device that provides emergency power to connected equipment when the main power source fails. It is a type of continual power system that offers guaranteed power protection by providing automated backup electric power to a load when the input power source or mains power fails. The primary role of any UPS is to provide short-term power during a power interruption.
The battery is the core of the UPS. It stores energy and provides backup power when the main source fails. The type and size of the battery determine how long the UPS can support connected devices. Rechargeable batteries are the most common form of energy storage, but kinetic energy can also be stored in heavy, rotating flywheels or energy can be stored as fuel. The more energy stored, the longer backup power can be maintained.
UPS systems also stabilize the voltage supplied to connected devices, protecting them from voltage fluctuations. This is achieved through automatic voltage regulation (AVR), which adjusts the incoming voltage to safe levels without using the battery. This helps in preventing damage caused by overvoltage and undervoltage conditions, ensuring a consistent power supply.
UPSs are typically used in settings pertaining to computer systems, data servers, or industrial devices, or in settings with mission-critical equipment, such as medical and laboratory systems. UPSs are also used to protect hardware such as computers, hospital equipment, data centres, telecommunications equipment, and other electrical equipment where an unexpected power disruption could cause injuries or fatalities.
UPS systems can be configured in several ways, including:
- A motor driving a mechanically connected generator
- A combined synchronous motor and generator wound in alternating slots of a single rotor and stator
- A hybrid rotary UPS, which uses a flywheel instead of batteries
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UPS system categories
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is an electrical device that provides emergency power to connected equipment when the main power source fails. UPS systems are categorised into three types based on how power flows through the unit:
Standby
In a standby ("offline") system, the load is powered directly by the input power, and the backup power circuitry is only invoked when the utility power fails. The on-battery run-times of most UPS systems are relatively short, typically lasting only a few minutes. However, this is usually sufficient to initiate a standby power source or properly shut down the protected equipment.
Line-interactive
Line-interactive UPS systems provide both power conditioning and battery backup. They maintain the inverter in line and redirect the battery's DC current path from the normal charging mode to supplying current when power is lost. This technology is particularly effective in areas where outages are rare, but power fluctuations are common. Line-interactive UPS systems support a wide range of input voltage fluctuations before switching to battery backup.
Online double-conversion
Online UPS systems are also known as double-conversion UPS systems because incoming power is first converted to direct current (DC) and then converted back to AC. This AC-DC/DC-AC design ensures an increased degree of isolation of the load from the irregularities on the main supply. Online systems also provide frequency regulation, which is essential for use with backup generator systems to protect from variations common at generator start-up.
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UPS as voltage stabiliser
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is an electrical device that provides emergency power to connected equipment when the main power source fails. It protects devices from power problems and enables seamless system shutdown during complete outages. UPS systems stabilise the voltage supplied to connected devices, protecting them from voltage fluctuations. This is achieved through automatic voltage regulation (AVR), which adjusts the incoming voltage to safe levels without using the battery. This helps prevent damage caused by overvoltage and undervoltage conditions, ensuring a consistent power supply.
UPS systems can be used as voltage stabilisers, protecting electronic devices from power surges and spikes. They act as a barrier, absorbing and diverting excess voltage away from connected equipment. This protection is essential for safeguarding sensitive electronics from potential damage.
UPS units can be selected based on capacity and the quality of power required by the equipment. They may include software or network interfaces for real-time power condition monitoring, event logging, and alert notifications. The battery is the core of the UPS, storing energy and providing backup power. The type and size of the battery determine how long the UPS can support connected devices.
When using a UPS as a voltage stabiliser, it is important to ensure it is appropriately sized for the load. For example, a UPS may be used to stabilise the voltage for a refrigerator, but it must be large enough to meet the demand. In some cases, a voltage stabiliser may be installed in cascade with a UPS to manage very large voltage fluctuations and prevent wear and tear on the UPS batteries.
In summary, UPS systems can effectively stabilise voltage and protect equipment from voltage fluctuations, surges, and spikes. They are valuable tools for ensuring data and device safety and can be sized and configured to meet specific power needs.
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UPS battery types
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is an electrical device that provides emergency power to connected equipment when the main power source fails. It protects devices from power problems and enables a seamless system shutdown during complete outages. UPS systems also stabilise the voltage supplied to connected devices, protecting them from voltage fluctuations.
There are three main types of batteries used in uninterruptible power supplies: Nickel-Cadmium, Lead-Acid, and Lithium-Ion. There is no single "best" UPS battery technology, and the choice should be made on a case-by-case basis.
Lead-Acid Batteries
Lead-acid batteries have a proven track record for reliability when used in an uninterruptible power supply system. They are the most economical choice when weight is not a concern, such as in large power applications. They combine cost-effectiveness with other performance qualities like low internal impedance and high tolerance.
Within the lead-acid battery family, there are two subtypes: Valve Regulated (VRLA) and Vented (VLA). VRLA batteries are the most common type found in modern UPS systems. They are sealed inside a case with a valve that vents to release gas if internal pressure becomes too high. VRLA batteries have a design life of around 5 to 10 years and should be stored in a dry, climate-controlled room at a temperature of 20-25°C.
VLA batteries, also known as "flooded" batteries, have plates that are flooded with electrolyte acid. They have a longer design life of up to 20 years and are typically used in large installations needing a high ampere-hour (Ah) rating. However, they require more powerful ventilation systems due to the risk of acid leaks and pose greater safety hazards.
Nickel-Cadmium Batteries
Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) batteries were once a popular option for telecoms installations and are still used for UPS applications in locations with very high ambient temperatures, such as the Middle East. They offer a long design life of 20 years, can handle a wide temperature range (-20°C to +40°C), have a high cycle life, and are tolerant of deep discharges.
However, NiCd batteries are more expensive than VRLA batteries, and their toxic materials make disposal and recycling challenging and costly.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) batteries have long been the standard for laptops and smartphones, and they are now being used in electric vehicles. They offer higher reliability than lead-acid batteries due to built-in monitoring and management systems. They are smaller, lighter, and have faster charge times. Their longer service life balances out the increased upfront capital cost.
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UPS applications
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is an electrical device that provides emergency power to connected equipment when the main power source fails. It is used in any situation where electrical equipment is sensitive to power loss or issues with power quality. UPS applications are diverse and include:
Computer Systems and Data Servers
UPS units are commonly used to protect computer systems and data servers from power loss. In the event of a power outage, a UPS will switch to battery power, providing enough time to safely shut down the systems and prevent data loss or corruption.
Industrial Devices and Mission-Critical Equipment
UPS is also crucial for industrial devices and mission-critical equipment, such as medical and laboratory systems. These applications require uninterrupted power to ensure the proper functioning of sensitive equipment and to maintain data integrity.
Telecommunications and Data Centers
UPS technology is essential for telecommunications equipment and data centers, where even brief power interruptions can cause significant disruptions. UPS units provide near-instantaneous protection, ensuring continuous operation and data security.
Portable Devices and Lower Power Devices
Smaller UPS systems, such as portable battery banks, can be used for lower-power devices. These UPS units can be in tower or rack-mount forms, providing flexibility for various device setups.
High-Voltage Applications
High-voltage UPS applications are also possible, although they are subject to more complex electrical code rules for safe containment. These UPS systems allow for smaller power conductors, making them useful in data center applications.
UPS systems play a vital role in safeguarding equipment and data in various sectors, ensuring continuous power supply and protecting against power-related issues.
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