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Edoc-What Is Automatic Transfer Switch Testing and How Is It Done
Edoc-What Is Automatic Transfer Switch Testing and How Is It Done
HOW IS IT DONE
Automatic Transfer Switch Tests Includes mainly three steps. The visual
inspection, the electrical tests and the operational or functional tests:
Electrical Tests
NFPA 110 has the following rules stated in terms of Automatic Transfer
Switch testing
External Inspection
Internal Inspection
• All power sources must be turned OFF afore any internal inspection.
• Verify to see if any external glitches found have disturbed internal
components, while opening the switch door.
• A trained service technician must be called to perform any service work.
If any of the following conditions are detected:
• Only a trained technician must carry out internal service work and
inspection on a standby system that doesn’t permit power interruption in
the course of required inspection.
• When inspections are internal or more than just a visual inspection by the
operator, they should be performed by an authorized distributor or dealer
under a scheduled preventative maintenance agreement.
• Have an approved dealer or distributor replace or repair all damaged
internal parts with the manufacturer’s suggested components.
Functional Test
1. To begin the test, close the normal source circuit breaker. The switch
controller will light up the available LED when right voltage is sensed. If
the source 1 stages the automatic transfer switch mechanism, the LED at
source 1 will turn on. Verify the phase to phase voltages at the utility line
terminals.
2. Start the engine generator after closing the alternate source breaker. The
S2 (Alternate) Available LED will illuminate when correct voltage and
frequency levels are sensed. Turn OFF the engine generator after both
sources have been validated and place the generator’s start control in the
automatic position.
3. Replicate a utility failure by opening the Source 1 i.e. the normal side
breaker. The delay to engine start timer begins its timing cycle. After the
timer has completed its timing cycle, the engine start contacts close to
start the generator.
4. When generator frequency and voltage touch the fixed reinstate points
the Source 2 available LED lights up. Simultaneously, the delay to
generator timer begins its timing cycle. When the time delay is
completed the ATS will transfer to Generator, the S1 position LED goes
off, and the S2 position LED illuminates. Systems shall transfer in no less
than 10 seconds where failure of the equipment to perform could result
in loss of human life or serious injuries.
5. Reclose the Source 1 breaker to re transfer to the normal source. The
delay to utility timer begins its timing cycle. When the timer has
completed its timing cycle, the ATS will transfer. The S2 position LED
goes off, and the S1 position LED illuminates.
6. The delay engine stop timer will begin its timing cycle. The generator
runs unloaded for the duration of this timing cycle. The generator will
Turn OFF, once the timer finishes its timing cycle, The S2 Available LED
goes off. A minimum time delay of 5 minutes should be provided for
unloaded running of the EPS prior to shutdown to allow for engine cool
down (NFPA 110). The minimum 5-minute delay is not required on small
air-cooled prime movers 15 kW or less.
Precautions
• Inspection and Cleaning Before doing any work on the transfer switch, de-
energize all sources of power.
• The switch must be checked for any moisture, dirt or dust and must be
vacuumed or wiped with a soft brush or dry cloth.
• DO NOT use a blower since debris may become lodged in the electrical
and mechanical components and cause damage.
• Any surface deposits must be removed with a clean cloth.