Basic questions
What is a UPS?
Abbreviated as "Uninterruptible Power Supplies" means uninterruptible power supply. An uninterruptible power supply is a device consisting of solid components that is connected between the input power supply and the consumer and prevents the occurrence of input power disturbances, including its complete disconnection. In fact, it is a combination of converters, switches and energy storage (battery) that forms the power system to maintain, maintain and connect the load power in the event of a fault in the input power. In fact, using a backup power supply such as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) will enable you to overcome most of the city's power problems, as well as protect against total power outages.
Why do we need UPS?
A sudden power outage disrupts most business activities and in some cases completely eliminates the possibility of it continuing. Many companies can be named that have gone bankrupt as a result of the power outage. Power outages alone do not have a detrimental effect. Many electrical devices are prone to failures such as severe spikes, electrical noises, surges, brownouts, and instantaneous voltage drops (Sags). Blackout, Frequency Variation, Switching Transient, and Harmonics are sensitive. Such loads are often referred to as "sensitive loads" because their consistent performance is important to a company's business. Therefore, there is a need for a power supply in case of emergency or in case of the above problems.
How many types of UPS do we have?
It is generally divided into three types: static, dynamic and hybrid. Static UPS uses electronic power converter, dynamic UPS uses electromagnetic motors (generator and motor) and hybrid UPS which is a combination of these two types. In terms of technology, it is divided into three categories: offline, interactive line and online.
Offline or standby UPS normally draws its power from the mains and switches between the mains and the battery. This model can detect incoming power outages and automatically transfer the power of connected consumers to the energy stored in the battery. Low price and silent performance of the benefits and protection at the lowest level, unregulated output, the possibility of transferring some fluctuations and transfer to battery mode with a time delay are the disadvantages of offline UPS.
Interactive UPS Line is normally charging the batteries when the input power is within the allowable range; By disconnecting or disconnecting the input voltage or frequency from the allowable range, the output power continuity ensures the conversion of energy stored in the batteries without interrupting the output. Battery transfer time is a few milliseconds. Cost-effectiveness, quiet operation and better protection performance than the offline model are the advantages and the lack of power factor correction circuit is one of the disadvantages of interactive UPS line.
Online UPS converts the input power into direct voltage and after correcting the input, ie clearing the input of any fluctuations and noise in the input voltage level, converts the energy stored in the battery into a sinusoidal signal again by using the converter. Because this signal is completely reproduced, it does not transmit any utility problems such as fluctuations and frequency changes to the connected consumers, and the output voltage is completely sine and constant. Permanent and stable energy supply and comprehensive protection of the advantages and high prices are the disadvantages of online UPS.
What are suitable UPS batteries?
Types of batteries that can be used in UPS are:
Sealed lead acid batteries, nickel cadmium batteries, lithium ion batteries and silver alkaline batteries
Each of these batteries with different internal structure and chemical composition has advantages and disadvantages; But in general, the most suitable type of battery for use in UPS are lead-acid batteries with fully closed lids that do not require service and maintenance are 2 or 12 volts.
What is the useful life time a battery?
Batteries come in different types with different lifespans; In general, nickel-cadmium batteries have a long life, but because they are expensive, they are less commonly used. Open-lead (wet) lead-acid batteries are less expensive, have a longer lifespan, and require service and maintenance.
The best battery at a reasonable price is the acid seal type (lead acid with closed cap); First, they do not require service or maintenance. Second, they have a lifespan of 4 years or more. Of course, today these batteries are also produced with a lifespan of 10 years.
What is Backup time?
The time required for a situation where the city electricity is cut off and it is necessary to use the energy stored in the battery to power the load; It is often called Autonomy time. This time depends on several factors, the most important of which are: the amount of active load connected to the UPS, the number and ampere hours of the batteries and their charge level.
For more information about UPS and battery calculations, please refer to this link.
For more information about UPS and battery calculations, please refer to this link.
What should be considered before installing UPS and batteries?
Carry and move the device in accordance with the recommendations in the user manual.
Consider the environmental conditions of the installation site in terms of ground level, the capacity to bear the total weight of batteries and UPS by the floor, temperature, humidity, observing the lateral or upper distance (depending on the device model), etc.
Unfavorable weather conditions affect the proper operation of UPS and batteries; Do not place the device near pop-up windows.
Make sure that a suitable ground connection is available at the installation site.
Consider that the voltage and frequency of the input power of the device correspond to the specifications in the user manual.
Make sure the material, type and cross-section are suitable for all input and output cables and the battery connector, fittings and protective fuses.
Keep in mind that the output of a UPS in any of the city or battery modes can have dangerous voltages.
Batteries can be arranged in parallel to increase support time; Improper use of cables, number and direction of batteries in each battery compartment can cause electric shock and cause high short circuit currents.
Consumers (phase and zero consumers) should be connected directly to the UPS and special panel and load distribution between phases, if it is three-phase.
All installation and commissioning operations must be performed by a trained technician.
What should be the environmental conditions of the installation site?
Sufficient space available to install UPS, batteries and battery compartment; The dimensions of each are listed in their specification table.
The ground surface should be level and to ensure its ability to withstand the weight of UPS and batteries.
The conditions of the installation environment muse be suitable in terms of temperature and humidity. (Ideal temperature range for battery 20 to 25 degrees Celsius; allowable temperature range for UPS operation in normal 0 to 40 degrees Celsius; allowable humidity range up to 90% without dew) Consider that for every 7 degrees increase in temperature Outside the range for batteries, battery life is reduced by half.
Provide sufficient distance to vent the cooling system of the device and also service and maintenance of UPS and batteries.
What equipment can not be connected to the UPS?
In general, equipment with electric motors and coils should not be connected to the UPS; Because, firstly, for technical reasons, UPS is not a good solution for this issue, and secondly, it is not cost-effective.
Also, equipment that consumes a lot of instantaneous current from the power supply when starting work should not be connected to the UPS as much as possible, as it may overload the UPS and reduce the voltage or cause an error. As a result, they cause damage to sensitive UPS components.
Due to the above, equipment such as washing machines, refrigerators, air conditioners, gas lamps, fluorescent lamps, laser printers, copiers, counters and other devices that have very high power consumption should not be connected to the UPS.
What is the difference between UPS and Diesel generator?
Diesel generators, like UPS, are an uninterruptible power supply, except that the diesel generator plays no role in the face of input power problems; In the event of a power outage, there is a delay in starting the diesel generator to supply energy to consumers. While the UPS supplies power to the consumer equipment through the energy stored in the battery by interrupting the input power. It also protects consumers from damage and possible fluctuations in incoming electricity.
Technical questions
What is Line-interactive UPS?
This type of UPS includes devices that have tried to provide better performance than the Offline series by adding a voltage regulation system in the Bypass path. Two of the most common systems in this category are UPS equipped with Buck / Boost transformer and Ferroresonant transformer. Similar to offline models, the Line-interactive model feeds its load through the bypass path and transmits it to the inverter in the event of any accident that causes a power outage in the city. In terms of battery, charger and inverter circuit are similar to the offline system, but due to the addition of voltage regulation circuit in the bypass path, less load is transferred to the inverter. Such a system has a greater impact on reducing costs and longer battery life compared to the Offline series.
What is the difference between Online UPS and Line-interactive UPS?
"Offline" UPSs, abbreviated to standard (VFD), are UPSs whose inverter is off or on in normal conditions and in the presence of city electricity, but is useless and ready to serve, and consumes power. Connected to the device is provided via the Bypass path. The inverter will only be in the circuit when the city power is cut off or out of the allowable range. Reducing the price of the converter, lightness and increasing the efficiency of the device during the presence of the city's electricity are the main advantages of the offline system, but the transmission of quality problems of the city electricity through the bypass to the consumer and inverter thermal limitation of these systems in long-term operation One of the weaknesses of this type of system is between the city electricity and the inverter. For this reason, these systems are mainly designed and offered for low power (less than 10 kVA). It is not possible to use offline UPS in industrial environments and in networks with low power quality.
"Online" UPSs are referred to by the standard abbreviation (VFI). There are UPSs that even in normal conditions and in the presence of city electricity, their consumers are supplied and powered only through the inverter, and only in case of failure and error in any of the device converters, the bypass path for a limited time (troubleshooting and returning the device to Service) is responsible for providing power to the load. Due to the conversion of AC voltage to DC and its conversion from DC to AC, this device is also called "Double conversion" converter. In fact, with this type of conversion, it is practically possible to change the output frequency relative to the input and also to create a different voltage from the input and independent of it (VFI). This capability can provide the consumer with better quality and higher power supply than city electricity.
Single-phase or three-phase UPS? What are the characteristics of each?
There are many factors involved in choosing a single phase or three phase UPS. For three-phase consumers, there is no choice but to choose a device with three-phase output; But what is the preferred option for other consumers, all of whom are single-phase loads?
In the UPS market for low power (less than 10 kVA) you can have single-phase to single-phase UPS, and in some cases their cost compared to three-phase single-phase UPS and Three-phase to three-phase is also desirable and is a mandatory option for users whose single-phase power network is; But for higher powers, UPSs are made in two forms: three-phase to single-phase and three-phase to three-phase. Three-phase to single-phase models (sometimes up to 100 kVA) provide good facilities for the aftermath of the device, and the electrical network after the device will be easier and cheaper. But when the device is bypassed, the load will be completely imposed on only one of the phases, which is undesirable for the network; For this purpose, three-phase to three-phase UPS is a much wiser option.
What should be the input specifications of the device?
Use phases that do not have high instantaneous current consumers; The entry of these types of consumers causes an unusual voltage drop.
Provide a separate fuse for the UPS input voltage on the city electrical panel.
Select the UPS input fuse according to the maximum input current with a factor of 2.
Observe the order of phases (S, R and T) in three-phase UPSs.
Match the UPS input voltage and frequency with the specifications in the user manual.
How to estimate UPS power and battery capacity calculations?
A UPS can support a certain amount of consumers. There are two defined metrics for UPS. One is the maximum apparent power characteristic of the load (in terms of volts amperes and kilovolts amperes) and the other is the maximum maximum actual power characteristic of the load (in terms of watts). To choose the right UPS, the power of consumers must first be calculated. According to the calculated total power, it is better to choose a higher power UPS.
UPS power estimation and battery calculations are fully explained in this link.
UPS power estimation and battery calculations are fully explained in this link.
What are the UPS output specifications?
The output specifications of each UPS are according to its technical specifications table and include the following:
- Power: according to the amount of consumer determined and in terms of kilovolt ampere (kVA) or kilowatt (kW).
- Power factor: The ratio of real power to apparent power and has a value between zero and one.
- Voltage and frequency: The voltage and output frequency range (Tolerance) is included in the technical specifications.
What is the importance of power factor (PF) in UPS?
Power factor in an electrical system is a term that refers to the apparent power relative to the actual power and has a value between zero and one. Real power is the ability of a consumer to convert electrical energy into other forms of energy; While the apparent power is due to the difference between voltage and current. Depending on the type of consumers and their active power, the apparent power can be more than the actual power. Low power factor (apparent power over real power) in a circuit increases the current in the circuit and thus increases the losses in the circuit.
In a fully resistive circuit, the current and voltage waveforms are synchronous (ie, they become zero and maximum at the same time). Now, if there is a reactive charge in the circuit, such as a capacitor or inductor, the energy stored in this type of charge will cause a difference between the voltage and current waveforms. This stored energy will return to the source while not having a positive effect on load performance. Thus a low power factor circuit requires more current to generate a constant amount of real power than a high power factor circuit.
Power factor correction is a technique used to neutralize the negative effects of reactive loads on an AC network. In this technique, by using reactive loads with a power factor opposite to the load entering the network (for example, using a capacitor to neutralize the effects of inductors in the network), they try to modify the power factor or bring the power factor closer to one.
The importance of the power factor in a circuit goes back to its associated costs. In many countries, consumers whose power factor is less than the standard (this standard is between 0.9 and 0.95 for most consumers) are fined. Also, in high-consumption circuits, low power factor increases the current in the conductors and increases the costs associated with selecting the conductor. This additional current also reduces the life of the equipment supplying and distributing electricity.
What does THD mean in UPS?
Abbreviated as Total Harmonic Distortion, it represents the total amount of harmonic fluctuations involved in creating a set of voltage or frequency distortions, as a percentage. Total harmonic distortion is a qualitative parameter that indicates how close a waveform or signal is to a sine waveform. The lower the THD, the better the sine waveform.
With the expansion of nonlinear loads, voltage distortion is formed in power systems, which increases with the transfer from the source to the load due to the impedance of the system. The three main categories of harmonic agents are:
Electronic power converters include electronic power converters such as rectifiers and inverters. Input current is highly harmonic in non-linear computer load networks. Due to the high harmonic rate of the input current, it is often necessary to use UPS with low THD to remove and reduce these harmonics.
- Ferromagnetic devices: This category includes transformers and electric machines.
Discharge equipment including fluorescent lamps, sodium vapor lamps and induction furnaces.
Other factors in the production of harmonics include battery chargers, frequency converters, adjustable speed drivers (PWMs), capacitive banks, computers, arc furnaces, and more.
Loads that use switching power supplies, due to the creation of harmonics in the network, cause the neutral wire to heat up and naturally cause heat in the electrical system. Therefore, in places where the number of switching power supplies is high, it is better to use UPS with low THD input current; Of course, it should not be forgotten that where there is a diesel generator, it is necessary to use UPS with low THD.
In a general conclusion, the effects of harmonics can be divided into four main categories:
1- Effects on equipment insulation
2- Heat effects on equipment
3- Improper operation of equipment
4- Impact power network on communication circuits
Harmonic currents injected by one consumer into the system can have a negative effect on other consumers as well. For this reason, standards have been developed to limit the amount of current harmonics injected by each consumer. These standards are to limit the amount of harmonic injection of consumers in the system and indicate that consumers should not produce unacceptable voltage distortion in the system. They also impose restrictions on all harmonic voltage distortions generated by the system.
Small and scattered UPSs or a large UPS? Which is more suitable for me?
The issue of providing emergency power supply or providing a quality power supply for devices sensitive to the electrical problems of the distribution network has always been considered as one of the concerns of the designers of electrical installations. One of the questions in this regard is that to provide uninterruptible power supply for sensitive and important loads, it is better to use scattered UPSs next to these loads, or to combine all sensitive and important electrical loads on an uninterruptible power grid and use a Focused UPS? Of course, this centralized UPS itself can also consist of several modules with less power and in parallel. It should be noted that the choice of UPS is largely a function of the consumers to be powered by it.
Power supply for important and sensitive but scattered sets of electrical loads is possible in two ways: using small and scattered UPSs in proportion to the scattering of loads or using large and concentrated UPSs and emergency power supply. Due to reduced reliability, increased mobility problems and changes in the layout of sensitive consumers, the cost of centralized uninterruptible power supply, increased maintenance costs, the need for a battery room and a dedicated UPS room, the use of small and scattered UPS Has become the preferred option over a large, focused UPS.
What are the advantages of UPS with isolated transformer?
Isolated transformers are used to prevent the passage of DC currents in the event of lightning or high currents in the circuit of sensitive consumers.
Isolated transformers in the circuit play the role of protecting people against electric shock because these transformers separate and disconnect the network from the ground, so contact with the power cord does not cause electric shock. In this type of protection, a transformer with two separate one-to-one windings or a reducer is used, whose output voltage is more than 42 volts. In a one-to-one transformer, the secondary voltage is equal to the mains voltage. The transformer electrically disconnects the supply voltage of the consumer from the mains.
The current that Transformer-base UPSs can withstand at the first moment of a consumer start is greater than that of Transformer-less UPSs; UPSs with isolated transformers have a longer lifespan than UPSs without transformers, but the heat loss of transformers is longer. In general, the choice of UPSs according to the type of consumer is the best possible case, most of the transformer UPS is more suitable for hospital use and motorized and heater equipment, and non-transformer UPS is more suitable for computer and office equipment.
What is the difference between Modular and Standalone UPS?
Increasing the overall power of the system in modular UPS is possible only by providing more modules and ease of installation and leads to occupying the least possible space; If in Standalone UPS, it is accompanied by taking up more space by parallelizing separate UPSs.
Service and repair of a modular UPS is done easily and only by replacing the defective module with a healthy module without the need for special technical knowledge; If servicing and repairing a Standalone UPS requires a skilled technician and technician.
It is possible to perform service and maintenance services of Modular UPS without the slightest interruption in the overall operation of the system; If in Standalone UPS, it is possible to turn off the device for repair and service and power the consumer through the Bypass path.
Modular UPSs do not have special spare parts and only with an additional module, it is possible to replace the defective module without interruption; If the Standalone UPS has different spare parts.
Repair of a modular UPS is more expensive due to the use of SMD components and in some cases is unrepairable, while in Standalone UPS the problem may be solved by replacing a small part.
What is the difference between linear and nonlinear loads?
If you are dealing with UPS, inverter or AC power supplies, you must have come across the term linear load or non-linear load once. The IEC62040 standard generally classifies loads into two groups: Linear and Non Linear. For this reason, we often see these words in the technical specifications of UPSs. For example, THD often specifies the output voltage once for linear loads and once for nonlinear loads.
The nonlinear nature of the current, its instantaneous and consequent impact, its higher peak than similar sinusoidal current, its higher crest factor, and its considerably higher harmonic current than a sinusoidal current, make nonlinear loads unsuitable for any power supply. For this reason, the IEC62040-3 standard pays a lot of attention to nonlinear loads, and testing UPS with nonlinear loads has become a requirement for any manufacturer. It is interesting to know that most of the loads that are connected to the UPS are non-linear. Suppose you consider a computer site; Servers, printers, scanners, plotters, and all computers on the site are all nonlinear due to the use of switching power supplies.
The question that may arise for you is that given the inadequate nature of nonlinear load flow, how can it be determined that a UPS can supply nonlinear loads well? The answer to this question should be sought in the technical specifications table of that UPS. According to the standard, manufacturers are required to provide a parameter such as THD or percentage of UPS output voltage distortion to the buyer. If we want to have a simple definition of this parameter, it means that by applying a full linear or nonlinear load, how much the quality of the UPS output voltage waveform decreases. The lower the THD number, the better the quality of the UPS. According to the standard, this number should be less than 8.
As expected, the shock nature of nonlinear loads reduces the quality of the UPS output voltage at nonlinear loads compared to linear loads, or in other words, its THD voltage is higher at nonlinear loads.
The nonlinear nature of the current, its instantaneous and consequent impact, its higher peak than similar sinusoidal current, its higher crest factor, and its considerably higher harmonic current than a sinusoidal current, make nonlinear loads unsuitable for any power supply. For this reason, the IEC62040-3 standard pays a lot of attention to nonlinear loads, and testing UPS with nonlinear loads has become a requirement for any manufacturer. It is interesting to know that most of the loads that are connected to the UPS are non-linear. Suppose you consider a computer site; Servers, printers, scanners, plotters, and all computers on the site are all nonlinear due to the use of switching power supplies.
The question that may arise for you is that given the inadequate nature of nonlinear load flow, how can it be determined that a UPS can supply nonlinear loads well? The answer to this question should be sought in the technical specifications table of that UPS. According to the standard, manufacturers are required to provide a parameter such as THD or percentage of UPS output voltage distortion to the buyer. If we want to have a simple definition of this parameter, it means that by applying a full linear or nonlinear load, how much the quality of the UPS output voltage waveform decreases. The lower the THD number, the better the quality of the UPS. According to the standard, this number should be less than 8.
As expected, the shock nature of nonlinear loads reduces the quality of the UPS output voltage at nonlinear loads compared to linear loads, or in other words, its THD voltage is higher at nonlinear loads.
What does protection class or IP in UPS indicate?
Degree of protection or IP code is a term in the IEC 60529 standard, according to which the electrical equipment housing with standard codes with two IP letters next to two digits is divided in terms of penetration against external factors; The first digit (from the left), which is between 0 and 6, indicates the level of protection against foreign objects as well as the protection of individuals. The second digit is between 0 and 8 and indicates the degree of protection against the penetration of water (not other liquids). The higher these numbers, the greater the level of protection.
Do I need a 12-pulse UPS?
12-pulse rectifiers and more are the solution used in thyristor rectifiers to compensate for reactive power and reduce distortion of the input current of the device. New UPSs have solved these problems in other ways. The use of active filters and reactive power compensators, as well as today's IGBT-base rectifiers, are able to provide rectifiers with a power factor close to one (PF 99 0.99). And the harmonic distortion of their input current is less than 3%. With this account, the need for 12-pulse rectifiers in the UPS inputs has been completely eliminated.
With the emphasis on reducing the harmonic distortion of the input current of devices (THDi), one of the methods of reducing THDi in the input of high power devices is necessary. UPSs with 12-pulse rectifiers solve the problem to a great extent compared to 6-pulse models, and are also able to maintain this performance throughout the device's current range, while passive filters added to 6-pulse rectifiers, although reasonably priced. They are more economical and also modify the input power factor, but mainly affect the current level of more than 50% of the device power (almost useless in low power device). At higher powers it is better to consider a combination of 12-pulse rectifiers and passive input filters for the device. To be taken. Capability that by reducing THDi and increasing the power factor can provide a favorable condition for the input power supply network of the device or generators used for device input. Recent developments in the design of PFC rectifier (modified input power factor) or IGBT base rectifier; It has the ability to reduce THDi to less than 3% and a power factor close to one, and virtually eliminates the need for 12-pulse rectifiers or passive filters.
What should I do if I want to synchronize the UPS with the diesel generator?
To choose a diesel generator, we must first have complete information about the amount of load consumed or check all the power of consumers according to their technical specifications, but it should be noted that for inductive loads, including motor systems such as air conditioners, air conditioners, refrigerators, engine rooms, elevators, etc. Calculated approximately 3 times the rated power for the starting torque current.
Generator power should be twice the rated power of the UPS; Because suppose that the power of the UPS and the diesel generator are equal and a load is connected to it at the maximum output power of the UPS. In this case, by cutting off the city power, the UPS is fed by the batteries, consumers and by turning on The generator (if it has a medium or good generator) UPS detects that a suitable power is connected to it with a frequency in the UPS operating efficiency, so the decision is made to transfer the output power from the batteries to the generator power. As soon as the power is transferred from the batteries to the generator, the drawn current causes a double pressure on the alternator motor and consequently a decrease in the generator motor speed and a decrease in the amount of voltage generated along with a strong tolerance in the frequency of electricity generated. Of course, the generator senses this issue and tries to eliminate this defect by changing the fuel consumption and increasing the power, but the time required to stabilize the generator is much longer than the virtual range for which the UPS is designed. Therefore, the UPS immediately transmits the consumed power to the batteries again, and this situation continues until the batteries are empty or the UPS device and the generator are damaged and go out of circuit.
In offices and organizations or companies that have large and powerful generators, there is no need to worry about the power of generators, and usually UPS up to 20kVA (this range consumes a lot) can be easily synchronized with generators above 100kVA.
Due to the mechanical operation of the diesel generator, mainly the voltage and frequency of the generator output is not constant and is constantly changing and in some cases, there are rapid changes in frequency (although in some generators, which are mainly large generators, frequency and voltage fluctuations are less). Therefore, it is necessary to use UPSs that have an open voltage range and input frequency, which Online double conversion UPS can be the best option for this case because it has an open input frequency range from 46 to 54 Hz and a voltage of 130 to They are 300 volts and due to having different types of filters, it is the best choice to create the highest level of safety for sensitive systems, servers, laboratory medical equipment, data centers and military centers, etc.
It should be noted that in centers where the correct, timely and permanent operation of devices is very important and in no case should the power of systems be cut off, such as hospitals, operating room equipment, main servers of banks, ministries and military centers or online information networks and some others. Centers must use the central generator system with Emergency and UPS system equipped with automatic bypass with battery compartment for at least one hour of power supply; Because if for any reason the city electricity is cut off and the generator is not in the circuit, the UPS can support sensitive systems for one hour, and if the UPS has a problem, the automatic Bypass switch transmits the generator power to the consumer. And if we want to increase the reliability again, we can use the Redundant backup system, that is, another UPS with the same model and power as Redundant backup was connected to the main UPS, which in case of any problems for the number one UPS, UPS number two enters the circuit without interruption and interruption. This system is designed in such a way that the amount of power outage for the consumer is minimized.
What is the difference between nickel cadmium and lead acid batteries?
Nickel-cadmium batteries are about 2 to 4 times more expensive than their lead counterparts. Of course, depending on the quality and type of alloy and the technique of making the battery, it is possible that this difference will be more than 5 times. For this reason, the initial capital required to power a nickel-cadmium battery will be much higher. There is a general rule regarding the lifespan of most types of batteries, and that is that as the number of times the battery discharges increases, its lifespan will decrease. But both nickel and lead batteries are sensitive to depth of discharge. This means that if the battery is supposed to be discharged by an average of 30%, its lifespan is much longer than if it is discharged by an average of 80%. Although nickel-cadmium batteries are much more expensive than lead-acid batteries, the number of cycles that can be discharged is much higher than lead-acid batteries. Lead-acid batteries are more recommended for operation at ambient temperatures of 10 to 35 degrees Celsius, as they are very sensitive to temperature changes. The apparent capacity of lead-acid batteries decreases rapidly with decreasing temperature, and on the other hand, with increasing temperature, their average life decreases sharply (with increasing every 7 degrees, the useful life of lead-acid batteries is halved!). But nickel-cadmium batteries are less sensitive to temperature changes. Especially in cases where the battery should be used at low temperatures, the best option is to use nickel batteries. The ideal temperature range for nickel-cadmium battery operation is between -20 and +60 degrees Celsius. Of course, its average lifespan also decreases with increasing temperature. Although the internal discharge in nickel batteries is several times that of lead batteries, nickel batteries can be stored even in full discharge, but lead-acid batteries should not be stored with a low charge level. Because in this case, the battery is sulfated and its useful life is greatly reduced. The voltage of nickel-cadmium batteries does not drop much until almost the last moment and can be assumed to be constant. But the final voltage of lead-acid batteries gradually decreases during discharge. Lead-acid batteries have a simpler manufacturing process than nickel-cadmium batteries. But at the same time, the ratio of energy stored in the battery to its weight is one of the lowest values between types of batteries (30 to 50Wh / kg). If the energy density by weight in nickel-cadmium batteries is something between 45 to 80Wh / kg. This means that nickel-cadmium batteries store 30% more energy than lead-acid batteries at the same weight. Nickel-cadmium batteries can be charged in as little as 1 hour, while fast charging of lead-acid batteries in less than 4 hours is not recommended, and generally about 8 to 10 hours is considered suitable for charging. Discharging lead-acid batteries with a current greater than 5 times its rated current is not recommended (assuming a 9 amp-hour battery should not be discharged with a current greater than 45 amps), but nickel-cadmium batteries can be discharged even at currents 10 to 15 times their rated current. Also discharged. One of the major drawbacks of nickel batteries compared to lead is the "memory phenomenon" in the battery. If we discharge the battery several times, presumably up to 60% of its capacity, and recharge it. It saves about 60% of the battery to "memory" and if we want to discharge the battery more than 60% again, this time the output voltage of the battery suddenly drops sharply. This phenomenon makes it impossible to use the battery capacity properly. Especially in UPS applications where the batteries are in standby mode and are not charged and discharged regularly, this phenomenon makes it impossible to use the entire installed capacity of the batteries optimally. Due to the different chemical structure of the two batteries, the nominal voltage of their cells is also different. The voltage per cell is 1.2 volts in nickel-cadmium batteries and 2 volts in lead-acid batteries. That's why to make a 12-volt nickel-cadmium battery, you have to stack 10 cells together; While serializing 6 lead acid battery cells will produce the same voltage.
How many years is the useful life of a battery?
Batteries come in different types with different lifespans; In general, nickel-cadmium batteries have a long life, but because they are expensive, they are usually less used; Lead-acid (wet) lead-acid batteries are less expensive, have a longer lifespan, and require service and maintenance.
The best battery at a reasonable price is the acid seal type (lead acid with closed cap); First, they do not require service and maintenance; Second, they have a lifespan of 4 years or more. Of course, today these batteries are also produced with a lifespan of 10 years.
What are the factors affecting the increase in UPS battery life?
Here are some things to look for when selecting an acid seal for batteries:
- Check the location of the battery in terms of ventilation and proper air circulation
- Suitable temperature of the installation site (usually between 10 and 25 degrees Celsius). Placing the battery in environments with higher temperatures reduces battery life (especially in sealed batteries) and low temperatures also provide less battery capacity to the consumer.
- No vibrations and mechanical stresses away from rotating motors and generators at the installation site
Lack of strong magnetic and electrostatic fields at the location of the battery
- Avoid environmental pollutants such as sulfur, dust and smoke near the installation site
- Check the humidity of the place; High humidity with the formation of dew on the battery can facilitate the unwanted paths of the battery and the risk of full charge of the battery.
- Check the height of the installation site; In the case of sealed batteries, especially VRLAs, increasing the height can cause the battery discharge valve to operate at a lower internal pressure and accelerate battery failure.
- Check the charging voltage (maximum up to 2.3 volts per cell at 20 ° C) and discharge the battery
- Check the charging current (maximum 10% of the nominal capacity of the battery) and discharge the battery; Higher voltages can increase the internal pressure of the battery by producing gas, leading to battery damage. It is better for the charger to be able to adjust the voltage according to the temperature changes. As the temperature decreases, the voltage increases and decreases with increasing temperature. Discharge of high current batteries is not allowed, especially for sealed batteries; The maximum amount of discharge current is usually determined by the battery manufacturer, the deviation from which can lead to gradual battery failure. This value is at most twice the nominal capacity of the battery for sealed acid batteries.
- Charge voltage ripple control (maximum 1%)
- Ensure that batteries are healthy and free of any electrolyte leaks
- Control of the battery terminal and ensure its strength and health
- The fit of the cables or electrical connections intended for the battery in proportion to its discharge current
- Connecting the housing and other components of the battery holder to the ground wire (earth) with a suitable ohm; The ohm value of the earth resistor should be less than 2 ohms and its voltage difference with respect to the neutral wire should be less than 10 volts.
- All battery terminals for connection to each other and to the charger connection cable must be secured with suitable bolts and washers in the manner specified in the instructions of the battery and UPS manufacturers.
- If the battery has been in storage for a long time, it is better to charge the battery with 5 to 10% of the nominal current between 2.3 to 2.4 volts.
- A good charger is one of the necessities for proper maintenance of batteries (especially ordinary acid and sealed batteries); Any prolonged failure of the charger or ripple voltage and high charge current will reduce battery life.
- In battery banks (series and parallel) failure of one battery can lead to failure of other batteries in the set. Therefore, replacement of damaged batteries identified during the battery care process is necessary to ensure the longevity of other batteries.
- The minimum voltage at which the battery is discharged (End Volt) is also an effective parameter in terms of battery life. If the battery is discharged to voltages below 1.7 volts per cell, battery life is rapidly reduced. Therefore, to achieve the nominal values of battery life, the minimum battery voltage settings can also be effective.
- Observing the instructions of the battery and UPS manufacturers in all stages, from installation to operation can guarantee the performance and useful life of the battery and UPS.
What is an SNMP card and what are its features?
SNMP card or module is a device that allows the user to manage and monitor UPS via Ethernet protocol in the LAN and supports all major network protocols (HTTP, SNMP, TCP / IP, etc.) and with Ethernet networks 10 / 100 Mbps IPv4 / v6 is fully compatible and can be easily used in UPSs that protect medium and large networks. Using SNMP card, UPS can be managed remotely through the network. The SNMP protocol is a communication protocol that allows a client access to a server or a network administrator to an agent. In fact, the SNMP card is an Agent for the SNMP.
Like any other network device, the SNMP module has an IP that can be automatically assigned from the DHCP service on the network or set manually (Static). The web service (http), which is usually enabled by default on this module, allows the user to simply check the status of the UPS, battery and related parameters by entering a set IP, and if necessary, Change module settings. All configurable parameters of the module such as date and time, email service, SNMP service, network settings, activating or deactivating services, etc. are all easily configurable via the web. It is possible to send Trap to other monitoring systems that support this protocol.
Some other common features on most SNMP cards are as follows:
- Display the values of UPS parameters in the network environment such as input and output voltage, frequency, battery status, load and temperature, etc.
- Save and send event logs (Event log) related to UPS such as input power outage, battery voltage drop, overload, bypass or blackout UPS and ...
- Save and send data log (Data log) related to UPS
- Graphic display of the values of the main parameters of the UPS
- Send Email and SMS to the addresses and telephone numbers defined at the time of the special event
- Sending special commands to UPS in the network environment such as battery testing and ...
- Ability to send shutdown command to computers on the network before the end of the backup time (Backup time) with the ability to automatically save open files
- Ability to run a special script before sending the shutdown command to clients
What is meant by a 10 year old battery?
A 10-year battery is a generic term that refers to batteries that are fully compliant with IEC 60896-2 in design, performance, and service life. They are usually slightly more expensive than standard acid-sealed batteries. They are usually designed for a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. They have coated copper terminals and a flame-retardant body according to the UL94-VO standard. Like hospitals, they are a unique option.
What are the advantages of using Parallel UPS system?
The use of parallel or Parralel UPSs is generally done to increase the receivable power or to create a Redundant system.
Using a UPS to eliminate system input power problems in many cases is helpful and solves the major needs of users. But as we know, UPS and power distribution equipment, like other electrical appliances, need service and maintenance. Therefore, according to the quality of the parts used, the type of design and the conditions of the work environment, it is necessary to take these equipments out of the circuit every once in a while in order to service and maintain them or cause damage. In applications where interruption in the normal service of the system requires loss of life such as public transport control systems (aircraft, trains, hospital equipment, etc.) or financial (telecommunications services, Internet service providers, etc.) the use of dual system Or Rendundant is required.
In Redundant systems, also called N + X, N specifies the number of UPSs and X is the number of additional UPSs in this set. The value of X in Redundant systems is at least one and with increasing it, the reliability in the system increases.
In the event of a failure in any of the UPSs, only that UPS will be taken out of the circuit, and generally these systems are designed in such a way that the broken module or device can be taken out of the circuit without having to turn off the entire system.
Questions about buying and ordering
What are the steps to purchase from Zener Engineering Company?
1- Expertise and estimation of customer needs and presentation of solutions and product suggestions
2- Receiving customer purchase request and price offer
3- Sending a pre-invoice to the customer
4- Receiving pre-invoice confirmation and agreement on payment method
5- The company's action to prepare approved pre-invoice items and issue customer invoices
6- Performing the final steps, issuing product warranty and delivering the goods to the customer
I need advice to choose a product; How can Zener Engineering help me?
For information about the stock of goods that are not available or their status has been announced on the company's website "soon", you should contact our colleagues in the sales department by calling +9821 66 72 3972.
Are all the products I see on the website available for sale?
No; For various reasons such as cessation of production, offered for use in a particular country, placing the product in the testing phase and technical tests before mass production, depletion of inventory, etc., the goods that you see on the site may not be available for sale. For information about the inventory, you can contact the sales associates of Zener Engineering Company by calling +9821 66 72 3972.
When will the goods that are not available be offered?
For information about the stock of goods that are not available or their status has been announced on the company's website "soon", you should contact our colleagues in the sales department by calling +9821 66 72 3972.
How can I find out what country my product is made of before buying?
Necessary information in this regard is done by our sales experts; Zener Engineering Company also guarantees the authenticity and quality of the products offered. See more details in this regard on the page of guaranteeing the authenticity and quality of the product.
Are the products Original and do their specifications match the site information?
Zener Engineering Company guarantees the quality and authenticity of the offered products; See more details here.
Regarding the matching of product information and technical specifications with what you see on our website, although the webmaster uses his reasonable efforts to ensure that the product information on the site is accurate and up-to-date, he does not guarantee or claim their accuracy in any way. And this information may not match for various reasons, including typos and so on. In addition, in rare cases, some technical specifications for a particular product provided on our website may not match the technical specifications listed on the manufacturer's website, which may be due to human error in writing the technical specifications table. It can also be specific to Zener Engineering Company due to the custom production of that product.
Do I have to take any action before using the products from Zener Eng. Co.?
Regarding the installation site, a series of considerations must be considered; These include the level of the floor where the device and batteries are installed, providing a suitable cooling system, considering the lateral or upper distance (depending on the device model), having a suitable ground connection, and preparing a distribution board and input and output interface cable appropriate to the device type. And consumers.
Our technical staff will provide the necessary advice and recommendations in this regard.
Can I install the purchased goods myself?
Most UPS up to 3 kVA are Plug & Play and can be easily set up by the end user; However, for higher power UPS as well as UPS with external batteries, the installation and commissioning operation needs to be performed by a trained technician.
Do I have to pay a separate fee for the installation of the purchased equipment?
Installation and commissioning of goods purchased from Zi-Ner Engineering Company in all parts of the country for the first time is done completely free of charge with the presence of an expert technician on site.
The cost of transporting the device and batteries, providing supplies and wiring the input and output interface cables (between the UPS and the switchboard) is the responsibility of the customer. If you need to move and relocate the installation of UPS and batteries, be sure to seek the help of a qualified technician; Relocation and reinstallation will be charged.
What should I do if the item I received is inconsistent on the website?
Contact our colleagues by calling +9821 66 72 3972 and inform about the matter. Will be processed as soon as possible. You can also send your complaint by completing and sending the contact form.
What should I do if the received product has a technical defect or damage?
Contact our colleagues by calling +9821 66 72 3972 and inform about the matter. Will be processed as soon as possible. You can also send your complaint by completing and sending the contact form.
Questions about after-sales service
What do I need to do to install and set up my equipment?
After the delivery of the order, you can call the after-sales service unit by calling +9821 66 72 3972 (ext. 2) to send a technician to start the equipment; This coordination can also be done by the relevant sales expert.
What does product warranty include?
All equipment provided, including UPS, sealed acid battery, automatic switch, charger, etc. will be covered by the repair and replacement warranty for at least one year from the date of purchase by Zener Engineering Company. The warranty of X-Men Engineering Company includes the items that occurred during the warranty period, due to the breakdown of parts, defects caused by production and normal use.
For more information on this, see this section.
What causes the warranty of the device to be revoked?
- Installation, commissioning or repairs by various people except representatives and technical experts of Zi-Male Engineering Company
- Injuries due to impact, fall, contact or penetration of water and chemicals, fire and heat, severe dust, lightning, natural disasters and intentional destruction
- Damage due to the connection of consumers and incompatible or defective equipment to the device (incompatible equipment is listed in the user manual.)
- Blocking the ventilation path of the device due to placing any foreign object
- Temperature and humidity of the installation site if they are outside the permissible range mentioned in the user manual.
- Improper use and outside the standards mentioned in the user manual
- Install the device in public and easily accessible spaces
- The serial number of the device is distorted or the serial number of the device does not match the serial number listed in the warranty card
- Warranty only includes the device and does not include accessories and consumables.
- If, after technical inspection and testing, the company's experts determine that the device is out of warranty, the warranty card will be void and the device will be repaired only at a cost.
- Injuries due to impact, fall, contact or penetration of water and chemicals, fire and heat, severe dust, lightning, natural disasters and intentional destruction
- Damage due to the connection of consumers and incompatible or defective equipment to the device (incompatible equipment is listed in the user manual.)
- Blocking the ventilation path of the device due to placing any foreign object
- Temperature and humidity of the installation site if they are outside the permissible range mentioned in the user manual.
- Improper use and outside the standards mentioned in the user manual
- Install the device in public and easily accessible spaces
- The serial number of the device is distorted or the serial number of the device does not match the serial number listed in the warranty card
- Warranty only includes the device and does not include accessories and consumables.
- If, after technical inspection and testing, the company's experts determine that the device is out of warranty, the warranty card will be void and the device will be repaired only at a cost.
What causes the battery warranty to be void?
- Installing heterogeneous batteries in terms of brand and capacity
- Injuries due to impact, fall, contact or penetration of water and chemicals, fire and heat, severe dust, lightning, natural disasters and intentional destruction
- Temperature and humidity of the installation site if they are outside the permissible range mentioned in the technical information of the battery.
- Improper use and outside the standards considered by the manufacturer
- Damage to the battery due to excessive decrease or increase in voltage and current (if the device connected to the battery does not belong to Zi-Ner Engineering Company.)
Vibration, severe magnetic and electrical mechanical stresses due to the presence of batteries near rotating motors and generators
- Discharge the battery with high current and outside the range specified by the manufacturer
- The number of times more charge and discharge than allowed and outside the range set by the manufacturer
- Do not install the battery within a maximum of three months from the date of delivery to the customer
- Install the battery in public spaces and easily accessible
- Injuries due to impact, fall, contact or penetration of water and chemicals, fire and heat, severe dust, lightning, natural disasters and intentional destruction
- Temperature and humidity of the installation site if they are outside the permissible range mentioned in the technical information of the battery.
- Improper use and outside the standards considered by the manufacturer
- Damage to the battery due to excessive decrease or increase in voltage and current (if the device connected to the battery does not belong to Zi-Ner Engineering Company.)
Vibration, severe magnetic and electrical mechanical stresses due to the presence of batteries near rotating motors and generators
- Discharge the battery with high current and outside the range specified by the manufacturer
- The number of times more charge and discharge than allowed and outside the range set by the manufacturer
- Do not install the battery within a maximum of three months from the date of delivery to the customer
- Install the battery in public spaces and easily accessible
What does after-sales service include?
After-sales service is fully explained on the service and support page.
Will it cost me to move and reinstall the equipment?
If you need to move and relocate the installation of UPS and batteries, be sure to seek the help of a qualified technician; Relocation and reinstallation will be charged.
What does service and maintenance of UPS and battery include?
The after-sales service center of Zi-Ner Engineering Company, using trained and experienced technicians with full equipment, is ready to provide inspection and service services as soon as possible and is responsible for preventive maintenance to increase the life and efficiency of the equipment. The service and maintenance checklist is as follows:
1- Dusting and complete cleaning of UPS, air conditioning ducts, cooling fans, etc.
2- Checking and recording the report of environmental conditions (temperature and humidity of the installation location of UPS and batteries)
3- Control of UPS working characteristics in normal mode (voltage and frequency at input, output, etc.)
4- Control of UPS operating characteristics in battery mode (output voltage and frequency, single battery voltage)
5- Precise control of the correct operation of the UPS and related parameters
6- Controlling the condition of the batteries, battery parameters and wrenching of the battery heads
7- Careful inspection of input, output and battery connections
8- Checking the events log (Events log)
What are the benefits of a service contract and maintenance of UPS and battery?
In a maintenance contract, the responsibility for service and maintenance of the equipment is entrusted to an expert team and the correct operation of the system in all respects is guaranteed. A periodic service and maintenance contract ensures the continuous operation of the power supply equipment. Due to the importance of continuous operation of consumer equipment, the after-sales service unit, by concluding service and periodic service contracts, periodically inspects and services the installed equipment of its customers at the location. Periodic service enables minor faults to be detected before the entire system is malfunctioning, making it possible to make the necessary hardware and software corrections to optimize equipment performance. Priority in repair, special reservation of all spare parts related to the subject of the contract at the parts warehouse and replacement of the same safety device in case of prolongation of the repair process are other benefits of concluding a service contract and periodic maintenance.
What do I need to do to file a repair request?
In order to take the right action in the event of a problem, first carefully read the items in the user manual and if no result is achieved, follow up the issue through the after-sales service center. If it is not possible to repair the defective device at the customer's place, it should be sent to the service center. For information on the address and how to send, contact the after-sales service center by calling +9821 66 72 3972 (ext. 2).
I did not procure my equipment from you; Can I leave the maintenance to you?
Yes sir; The after-sales service center of X-Male Engineering Company, with its experienced and specialized personnel, announces its readiness to repair all types of UPSs produced in Iran and abroad.
I need more training on my equipment; How can you help?
The training unit of X-Men Engineering Company offers UPS and battery training courses in three levels: basic (basic principles and operation of UPS), advanced (specialized topics; installation, commissioning, service and maintenance) and professional (advanced settings; repairs and Troubleshooting).
You can refer to this link to apply for the training course.