NEMA Standards Publication PE 1-2012 (R2107)

Uninterruptible Power Systems (UPS)—

Specification and Performance Verification

Published by

National Electrical Manufacturers Association

1300 North 17th Street, Suite 900
Rosslyn, Virginia 22209

www.nema.org

©
2017 National Electrical Manufacturers Association. All rights, including translation into other languages,
reserved under the Universal Copyright Convention, the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary
and Artistic Works, and the International and Pan American copyright conventions.
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NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER

The information in this publication was considered technically sound by the consensus of persons engaged
in the development and approval of the document at the time it was developed. Consensus does not
necessarily mean that there is unanimous agreement among every person participating in the development
of this document.

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) standards and guideline publications, of which
the document contained herein is one, are developed through a voluntary consensus standards
development process. This process brings together volunteers and/or seeks out the views of persons who
have an interest in the topic covered by this publication. While NEMA administers the process and
establishes rules to promote fairness in the development of consensus, it does not write the document, and
it does not independently test, evaluate, or verify the accuracy or completeness of any information or the
soundness of any judgments contained in its standards and guideline publications.

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or seller’s products or services by virtue of this standard or guide.

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information not covered by this publication.

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the statement.
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Foreword

This standards publication is a NEMA Adoptive Standard based on IEC 62040-3, Uninterruptible power
systems (UPS)─Part 3: Method of specifying the performance and test requirements. The current edition
of IEC 62040-3 is adopted in its entirety with certain differences described in the Amendments clause. As
these differences could, in the future, be a contribution to a revision of IEC 62040-3 or a related IEC
standard, this publication has been prepared in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives Part 2, Rules for the
structure and drafting of International Standards.

The purpose of this publication is to provide guidance to manufacturers and users on specifying and
verifying the performance of Uninterruptible Power Systems. This publication covers both installation and
manufacturing criteria obtained from manufacturers and users.

This publication represents the technical judgment of the NEMA Power Electronics Section with respect
to the performance and construction of Uninterruptible Power Systems. This judgment is based on sound
engineering principles, research tests, manufacturers’ records, and field experience.

PE 1-2012 revises the content of PE 1-2003. As future major revisions to this publication are proposed,
appropriate individuals and organizations will be consulted. Proposed or recommended revisions should
be submitted to:

Vice President, Technical Services

National Electrical Manufacturers Association
1300 North 17th Street, Suite 900
Rosslyn, Virginia 22209
At the time PE 1-2012 was approved, the NEMA Power Electronics Section consisted of the following
member companies:

Ametek Solidstate Controls

APC by Schneider Electric
Eaton Corporation
Emerson Electric Co.
GE Transportation
Minarik Drives
National Semiconductor Corporation
ONYX Power Inc.
S&C Electric Company Thomas &
Betts Corporation Toshiba
International Corporation

© 2017 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

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CONTENTS

Foreword ....................................................................................................................................................... i
1 Adoption of IEC 62040-3 .................................................................................................................... 1
2 Amendments to IEC 62040-3 .............................................................................................................. 1
2.1 Format of Numeric Values ............................................................................................................1
2.2 Conflicts with Other NEMA Standards Publications..................................................................... 1
2.3 Conflicts with ANSI/NFPA 70 ....................................................................................................... 1
2.4 Backfeed Protection ..................................................................................................................... 1
2.5 UPS Batteries............................................................................................................................... 1
2.5.1 General .............................................................................................................................1
2.5.2 Battery Definition ..............................................................................................................1
2.5.3 Battery Types ...................................................................................................................1
2.5.4 Battery Life Factors ..........................................................................................................1
2.5.5 Optimum Battery Life........................................................................................................ 2
2.5.6 Valve-regulated Batteries .................................................................................................2
2.5.7 Routine Maintenance ...................................................................................................... 2
2.5.8 Battery Charging/Discharging ..........................................................................................2
2.5.9 Battery Replacement ....................................................................................................... 2
2.5.10 Battery Terminal Maintenance ..........................................................................................3
2.5.11 Special Safety Handling of Batteries ................................................................................3
2.5.12 Battery Storage................................................................................................................. 3
2.5.13 Battery Operation Monitoring ........................................................................................... 3
2.6 UPS Efficiency Allowances ..........................................................................................................3
2.7 Requirements for UPS Used in Power Generating Stations........................................................ 4
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1 Adoption of IEC 62040-3

The current edition and any amendments and corrigenda of IEC 62040-3, Uninterruptible power systems
(UPS)—Part 3: Method of specifying the performance and test requirements, are adopted in their entirety
with the differences noted in clause 2.

2 Amendments to IEC 62040-3

2.1 Format of Numeric Values
Commas used in numeric values shall be understood to be decimal points, e.g., 3,25 mm is 3.25 mm.
Spaces used in numeric values shall be understood to be commas, e.g., 1 500 W is 1,500 W.

2.2 Conflicts with Other NEMA Standards Publications

Where a conflict exists between the provisions of PE 1-2012 and other NEMA Standards Publications, the
provisions of PE 1-2012 shall govern in the area of Uninterruptible Power Systems (UPS).

2.3 Conflicts with ANSI/NFPA 70

Where a conflict exists between the provisions of PE 1-2012 and the current edition of ANSI/NFPA 70,
National Electrical Code®, the provisions of ANSI/NFPA 70 shall govern.

2.4 Backfeed Protection

The provisions of Annex I (normative), Backfeed protection test, of the current edition of IEC 62040-1-1
Uninterruptible power systems (UPS)—Part 1: General and safety requirements for UPS, shall also apply
to PE 1-2012.

2.5 UPS Batteries

2.5.1 General
The provisions in IEEE 1184 Guide for Batteries for Uninterruptible Power Supply Systems, and
subclauses 2.5.2 to 2.5.13 shall apply to PE 1-2012.

2.5.2 Battery Definition

In UPS applications, the battery is the device that can be used to store electrical energy by chemical
conversion “charging” and, when needed, provides the stored energy to power the load “discharging.”
Since the load side of a UPS is alternating current (AC), an inverter changes the direct current (DC) from
the battery to AC.

For more detailed information on batteries, refer to the battery manufacturer’s recommendations where
available.

2.5.3 Battery Types

Many types of batteries are used in UPS applications. The most common is the lead-acid battery and its
derivatives.

Other types of batteries, such as nickel-cadmium, may be used in some applications. Refer to the UPS
supplier’s data for specific recommendations. The two most common constructions are valve-regulated
and vented.

2.5.4 Battery Life Factors

The useful life of a battery can be affected by many factors, such as:

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a) specific gravity or pH of the electrolyte

b) depth of discharge
c) rate of discharge
d) ripple current
e) float voltage
f) temperature differential between cells
g) non-operating storage temperature
h) number of discharge cycles
i) rate of charge
j) temperature of the battery
k) overcharge
2.5.5 Optimum Battery Life
The manufacturer’s specifications should be carefully followed. Incorrect charging or discharging can
destroy a battery very quickly (possibly within hours or days). Many cycles of excessive discharge can
drastically reduce a battery’s expected life.

2.5.6 Valve Regulated Batteries

Sometimes valve-regulated (sealed) batteries are referred to as maintenance-free batteries, incorporating
oxygen recombination systems, absorbed electrolyte, or gelled electrolyte technologies.

These batteries require routine maintenance, as recommended in 2.5.7 if rated performance is to be

achieved. A maintenance-free battery is one in which routine addition of water is not necessary. These
batteries are designed to vent when their internal pressure becomes sufficiently high. Excessive
overcharging, which results in venting, will eventually dry out the battery and shorten its useful life.

2.5.7 Routine Maintenance

Routine maintenance includes inspection of cables; connector and termination tightness; and terminal
cleanliness. It might be necessary to periodically disassemble the cable connections from the battery,
clean the terminals of corrosion, and reconnect the cables. Extreme care is urged when performing this
operation as high voltages could be present. In every case, the manufacturer’s instructions should be
followed.

Battery maintenance should be performed only by qualified personnel. Battery maintenance information
can be supplied by the battery manufacturer.

Battery systems should be designed to allow for routine maintenance.

2.5.8 Battery Charging/Discharging

Batteries shall be charged in accordance with specifications provided by the manufacturer. Recharging a
battery at too high a rate can reduce battery life.

The charging system in a UPS shall provide the necessary charging rate and control the maximum
charging voltages. The discharge shall be inhibited when the battery has reached its minimum allowable
terminal voltage. Consult the UPS supplier before changing to another size or type of battery.

Excessive battery equalizing and excessive equalizing voltage can decrease battery life. Battery
equalizing shall be done only as recommended by the battery manufacturer.

2.5.9 Battery Replacement

When battery replacement is required, it shall not be undertaken without consulting the UPS
manufacturer’s recommendations. Batteries of different types and capacities shall not be mixed unless
authorized by the UPS manufacturer.
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2.5.10 Battery Terminal Maintenance

Terminals should be kept clean and free of chemical deposits that might form on the interface between
the battery terminal and the battery connector.

Nuts and other hardware should be tightened only to the torque level prescribed by the manufacturer.
Loose connections and/or excessive tightening can cause premature failure of the battery. Prior to
assembly of post connections, all surfaces should be cleaned in accordance with the battery
manufacturer’s directions and surfaces coated with a corrosion-inhibiting material that will not change
state under heating or other conditions that might form an insulating barrier.

All post-to-post and terminal connections should be tested for proper resistance after all terminal
connections are completed and prior to use of the battery.

When working on electrical connections to a battery, insulated tools should be used.

2.5.11 Special Safety Handling of Batteries

Batteries should be handled with extreme care or they can cause severe injury. Spilled electrolyte can
destroy clothing, burn skin, or cause blindness. Batteries should be serviced only by a qualified
technician.

CAUTION: Always Wear Goggles and Rubber Gloves when Working with Batteries

Always wear eye protection, and never smoke when in the vicinity of vented, lead-acid batteries. The
gases vented are hydrogen and oxygen, a potentially explosive mixture. If electrolyte gets into the eyes,
flush with copious amounts of water and seek medical help immediately.

Batteries should be used and stored in an upright position unless they have been designed for all-attitude
use.

2.5.12 Battery Storage

Batteries normally self-discharge if left unattended for a long period of time.

Lead-acid batteries should be stored in a charged condition; otherwise sulfation of the plates occurs,
which is often an irreversible failure of the batteries. The suggested storage temperature range is 0°–
25°C, or in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

When lead-acid batteries are to be stored for long periods of time, it is advisable to keep them on a very
low rate of trickle charge, in accordance with the battery manufacturer’s recommendations. When such
trickle charging is impractical, the batteries may be charged periodically.

2.5.13 Battery Operation Monitoring

A battery monitoring system may be implemented for each bank of batteries in order to obtain a history of
the battery system’s operation and to assist in battery evaluation.

2.6 UPS Efficiency Allowances

The following paragraph shall replace the first paragraph in Annex I.4 of the current edition of IEC
62040-3:
Certain features, when added to the basic UPS configuration, permit allowances to be deducted
from the UPS efficiency specified in Tables I.1 to I.6. The allowance shall apply only when the
UPS, as a result of providing the corresponding feature, facilitates conditions that could otherwise
not be supported. Allowances are limited to active transformers in the AC power path and one
filter per AC power path. The allowances in Table I.7, when applied to an auto transformer, shall
be 50% of the equivalent isolation transformer value. Examples of allowance calculation are
provided in clause I.5.

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2.7 Requirements for UPS Used in Power Generating Stations

See ANSI/IEEE 944, IEEE Recommended Practice for the Application and Testing of Uninterruptible
Power Supplies for Power Generating Stations, for requirements concerning UPS intended to be installed
in power generating stations.