What is the difference between ATS and AMF panels?

What is the difference between ATS and AMF panels?

Generally speaking, both ATS and AMF panels switch the available electric power sources to supply a load. It could be an entire building, a factory, a house, or special appliances. The AMF panels feature AMF controllers capable of controlling contactor-based changeovers. ATS panels feature ATS controllers and are preferably specialized in driving motorized-based changeovers. In this case it can switch high currents sometimes over 1000A. In other words, we can summarize that AMF panels offer granular control of the standby systems. ATS panels are focused on high-power applications. Let's dive into the details.

 

HOW DOES AN AMF PANEL WORK?

The main difference between ATS and AMF is the switching from Mains to Generator and vice versa. The AMF panel controls coil-driven circuit breakers (so-called "CONTACTORS"). This will achieve a granular protection of the LOAD. An AMF panel has two very well-defined inputs: MAINS and GENERATOR.

THE PROS AND CONS OF USING  CONTACTORS


As a basic concept, the ATS panel is a cabinet with two uncommitted electric-energy input sources "1" AND "2". Normally, in the standby generator business, we name the input "1" as "MAINS INPUT" and input "2" as "GENERATOR INPUT". In the case of an AMF panel, it comes in a form very well pre-defined:  "MAINS INPUT",  and "GENERATOR INPUT". The design of the controller is then totally different. In an AMF controller are visible symbols that reflect the application with a generator.

A TYPICAL AMF PANEL WIRING DIAGRAM

AMF PROS

When the mains change, the panel can react fast. The AMF controller has limitless ON/OFF switching capabilities. When the controller fails and the mains are cut off, the contactor opens the circuit. It can be considered a type of security. The generator is no different. To put it another way, you can provide excellent LOAD supervision and protection. Second, when dealing with old or used generators that lack an auto-start module, the use of an AMF controller may be beneficial.

AMF CONS

In normal conditions, the contactor of the MAINS is continuously kept closed. It is about 10W to 20W of continuous power consumption required to supply the coil. At the end of one year, you will observe the total cost of this energy. Secondly, there is the possibility of the failure of the contactor. Sometimes, after years of service, the coil deteriorates. You must wait for an electrician to replace the part. It could be problematic. Thirdly, the contactors are expensive over 60kVA. Last but not least, the use of contactor may cbe ontroversial in the case of standard NFPA99 and NFPA110 regulations.

THE PROS AND CONS IN USING MOTORIZED SWITCHES

THE PROS AND CONS IN USING MOTORIZED SWITCHES

 

ATS PROS

The ATS panel is the perfect choice when you have to switch big currents. Once the switch is in position, you have no current consumption because the motor is in stand-by. But this comes with high cost in flexibility. You can overcome this issue by adding smaller panels in between the primary ATS panel and various loads.

ATS CONS

The motorized transfer switch being activated by an electric motor has particular requirements. In the end, you will not have the flexibility of application. For example, in case of total failure of the mains, the switch could remain in a closed position until the generator starts. This could create problems. This could happen when the switch is in the "GENERATOR" position. Secondly, an ATS panel, fitted with an ATS controller, features a single output relay. This is a problem when you have to automatically start a generator that does not feature an AUTO START module. You must install an AMF panel.

A TYPICAL ATS PANEL WITH ATS CONTROLLER

A TYPICAL ATS PANEL

This means that in the majority of the applications, the ATS panel must work in conjunction with a generator controller. The generator control is normally included in the generator dashboard panel. When using an ATS controller, connected to a generator, make sure that your generator can remotely start and stop via a switch. The main area covered by AMF panels includes applications up to 100kVA. Over this power is no longer needed a granular control of the load, the ATS panel is the best option.


BERNINI DESIGN SRL

Zona Industriale

46035 Ostiglia

Italy

 VAT IT01453040204

bernini@bernini-design.com

+39 335 70 77 148

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