Industrial UPS Systems

Power Solutions for Silica Mining Operations

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 17:44:38 GMT

FGC Equipment and Vertiv Power Systems provide large-scale 2MW power solutions for Silica Mining Operations.

FGC Equipment and Vertiv Power Systems recently were awarded the oversight of 11 Large UPS Systems to be installed into critical Silica Mining plant operations in the northern Plains States. The complicated installation will happen over a year’s time. Complicated power distribution challenges, along with minimal disturbance to operations are the primary focus for the FGC team to install all 11 systems into a running 7×24 production operation.

FGC Construction, as well as FGC Equipment Services, provided site design and turn-key installation services for the ultra-complicated installation of systems. “The key is minimizing disruption in the plant while doing some major rework to the electrical distribution system,” says Mike Rice Project Manager at FGC Construction. “Lead times on equipment and balancing the total installation over months are complicating factors for our team. These operations are critical, and things need to go seamless.”

FGC Construction along with FGC Equipment partners with Vertiv Power systems to provide large-scale power solutions to the general manufacturing, plant, and facilities marketplace.

Our teams can provide the solution design of power solutions whether it be UPS Systems, Power Distribution, Power Correction, and Power Generation. We can design systems, match correct equipment with customer load, and oversee installation processes.

Call your FGC Equipment Representative today to consult on Power Systems for your operations. You can contact an FGC Equipment representative directly at (844) 501-1887.

Power Solutions for Southern-based Crypto Mining Operation

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 17:40:38 GMT

FGC Equipment and Vertiv Power Systems provide large-scale 3MW power solutions for southern-based Crypto Mining operations.

FGC Equipment and Vertiv Power Systems recently installed a 3MW Trinergy Cube UPS System to a large-scale crypto mining operation in Florida. Power situations in the local Florida market due to weather and general conditions required the use of battery storage and UPS conditioned power to accommodate the power anomalies, sags, surges, as well as extended power outages.

Mining for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other various Cryptocurrencies has become large-scale production in many parts of the U.S. Texas and Florida and central locations for many of these concentrated production operations. For crypto mining server farms, variations in power are counterproductive to the efficient sustaining output of Crypto Assets. Not only do power variations affect the production output, but the power anomalies damage Crypto server components such as boards, chips, and capacitors. Delays to repair and replace components are costly and ultimately become unavoidable.

FGC Equipment and Vertiv Power Systems provide integrated services to measure power issues and provide systematic solutions for all Cryptocurrency markets. Our teams can provide the solution design of power solutions whether it be UPS Systems, Power Distribution, Power Correction, and Power Generation. We can design systems, match correct equipment with customer load, and oversee installation processes.

Call your FGC Equipment Representative today to consult on Power Systems for your operations. You can contact an FGC Equipment representative directly at (844) 501-1887.

Prevent Downtime at Your Facility

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 16:21:00 GMT

The cost of downtime at your facility may be more than you think. In addition to the losses in productivity, downtime can also mean lost data, increased stress for your team, and wasted resources during the recovery process, among other detriments. When an outage occurs, it is important to understand how to react quickly and appropriately with the right equipment. Below, we outline the true cost of downtime at your facility and steps you can take to prevent significant losses.

What is Downtime and Why Does it Cost Money?

1. The True Downtime Cost

a. Lost revenue – Any business that loses connection to it’s data is affected in some way financially. Downtime due to a power-outages or lost data connection are the most common causes of revenue loss in the industry. Revenue losses can be calculated in many ways for a customer. Loss of a customer process can turn clients away. Or loss of an internal process can halt an organization from the sales department to accounting.

b. Loss of Productivity – Productivity is an immediate loss during a downtime situation. If processes and employees are not connected to an Uninterruptible Power System (UPS), a power outage will immediately halt production. It may double the loss of productivity with the amount of time to recover and restart processes. A temporary loss of a data connection may be less severe and more quickly recovered from.

c. Data Losses – Computer programs that are shut down due to an immediate loss of power may lose the current data that is being worked on. This is one of the most important reasons for having a UPS System on your critical servers. And is one of the biggest sources of financial loss in a power outage situation.Cloud computing systems rely heavily on data transfer. If the data connection is lost and data isn’t shared and saved properly it can be considered downtime and recovery may be an issue.

d. Wasted resources involved in the aftermath & recovery process – A power outage may last a moment, or hours. The amount of time it takes to recover processes, reboot systems, and regain the level of productivity prior to the power outage is a large factor in calculating the cost of an outage. A momentary power outage could affect systems for hours or days when regaining productivity. Not to mention if damage occurs this compounds the problems. In regard to data connection. Remote workers who cannot log back into the systems due to poor connection will hinder or prevent the recovery process.

2. Why Downtime Can Happen

a. Power Outage – Downtime can obviously occur with a loss of power to servers and computers in a business. A remote worker who loses power and cannot connect to server drives will experience downtime. If those servers that provide the cloud access and data are not running smoothly on a UPS System backup system they will be down and unavailable to all workers.

b. Lost Data Connection – In today’s world a data connection can be severed as easily as a power connection. Most data connections travel the same routes as our power grid. Therefore both are equally important to uptime. Data, however, if severed cannot be assisted with a UPS or other device. We need the data connections to remain in tact.

c. Poor Maintenance of Systems – A UPS System, Generator System, fiber connection, and corresponding network and server equipment must be properly maintained to standards to avoid these downtime scenarios.

How a UPS Prevents Future Downtime From Happening

We rely on the Utility Electrical grid to supply our power to homes and businesses. The grid certainly is not perfect, and daily it is tasked with challenging environments to overcome such as storms, heating Seasons, rolling blackouts, cyber-attacks and the like. We should expect interruptions in the electrical service and be pro-active about them. We most certainly can prevent the electrical interruptions from power events by using Uninterruptible Power Systems on all our computer systems. From large data centers that use UPS Systems with generators as backup source, to our small computer at home. Since we now all connect to remote data in some form, if we are looking to avoid these downtime scenarios we must install a back source of power such as a UPS System. Industrial UPS Systems.com provides an entire line of UPS Systems for the home end user, to large data center requirements. Call on one of our technical professionals at 844-501-1887.

What is the Difference Between Watts and Volt-Amperes for UPS Systems?

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 16:34:00 GMT

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems are often integrated into electrical networks to minimize the risk of power supply failure. Found in a multitude of locations, unique UPS systems have been designed to fit specific industries best. For example, Military Specification (MIL-SPEC) UPS systems are utilized in military circumstances, while Industrial UPS systems are best for industrial or manufacturing industries.

Perhaps contrary to your first impression, identifying which UPS system category best fits your industry is not entirely confusing, because most systems are aptly named for the industries they are designed to support.

On the other hand, selecting the best UPS system for your needs must begin with understanding the technical terms found on UPS systems – specifically, volt-amperes and watts. Once watts and volt-amperes have been explored, choosing a system to power your specific needs is straightforward.

In the content below, we explore the difference between these two electrical measurement methods, especially as they relate to UPS systems. Let’s dive in.

What Are Volt-Amperes?

Volt-amperes (VA) is a measurement of “apparent” electrical power, calculated by multiplying voltage (volts) by amperage (amps). To understand VAs, we must define volts and amps individually.

Volts represent the speed at which electrons pass by a specific point within a closed circuit.

Amps compliment volts. An amp measures the volume (not speed) of electrons present within an electrical circuit.

Thus, VAs are calculated by the volume of electrons present in an electrical circuit by the speed at which the electrons move within the circuit. VAs measure “apparent” electrical power: the power that will be used once the current is in use.

What Are Watts?

Though the term is quite different, watts are identified in the same wayas volt-amperes (V x A = W). When referring to UPS systems, are VAs and watts interchangeable then? Though it may make matters simpler, the answer is no. Watts and VAs are calculated using the same formula, but they measure different factors.

VAs measure “apparent” power, while watts measure the “realpower” generated within the electrical circuit.

Ultimately, a device requiring 5 amps and 100 volts would be classified at 500 watts or 500 volt-amperes.

What About Ohms?

An ohm is another commonly confused technical term. However, it is beyond the scope of this piece to define and explore. If you’re interested in a deeper dive, we often reference an excellent resource comparing amps, volts, watts, and ohms written by one of our OEM UPS partners. The referenced blog is a concise overview of these misunderstood electrical terms, and we would recommend the resource.

Volt-Ampere UPS Rating

UPS systems rarely, if ever, mention watts! The term “volt-amperes” is much more common, so we’ll begin there.

VAs are especially utilized when considering AC circuits, because these circuits have inductive resistance. Inductive resistance is complex and calculating how many volt-amperes are required to run all devices in a specific circuit may require assistance from a specialist.

Additionally, a UPS system’s output capacity is determined by its output current. Volt-amperes are more accurate in describing output current than watts.

Watts UPS Rating

When a UPS manufacturer utilizes a watt rating for a UPS system, they often are (erroneously) using watts as another term for volt-amperes! Some manufacturers rate their systems in volt-amperes and watts to avoid confusion.

Watts are most often utilized when DC circuits are considered because DC circuits are pure resistance, and watts measure “real power.” To calculate how much power a circuit requires to function properly, simply add all the watts needed to run individual devices on that circuit. For example, if your circuit contained 3 devices, each working at 400 watts, you would need 1,200 watts of power to run the entire system.

The Benefit of Knowing Your UPS System’s VA Rating

The most obvious benefit of knowing your chosen UPS system’s VA rating is ensuring the system will be able to handle your electricity needs should your power shut down.

In addition, knowing your UPS system’s VA rating will prevent a system overload . Even if the power in your facility has not failed, it is possible to overload your UPS – leading to internal component damage and risk of fire.

How do you know if you’re overloading your UPS?

Firstly, select a unit that will be able to handle your needs easily. Your baseline load should not exceed 50% of UPS capacity – if the load has reached 60%, it is time to upgrade your UPS unit to meet your needs better. For example, if your system requires 700 VAs to function, we recommend purchasing a UPS unit with at least a 1,400 VA rating.

FGC Services: National UPS Technicians

At Facility Gateway Corporation , we are more than an IT team – we are national UPS technicians with decades of industry knowledge. Most of our seasoned veterans have been factory trained by OEMs and can work on nearly all UPS models.

Do you need quick, reliable assistance with your UPS system? Give us a call at 866-432-1711 to start a conversation. For crisis situations, call 866-255-6030 to reach our 24/7/365 emergency line.

UPS for Industrial Applications: How to Choose the Best High-Quality Systems For Your Facility

Wed, 05 May 2021 13:39:00 GMT

Industrial facilities today can withstand less power disturbance than industry of the past. The new industrial facility has Variable Frequency Drives (VFD), Computer Robotics, and more intricate computer driven processes such as 3D printing. Accordingly, the need for high quality power systems has become more important than ever. Below, we’ll cover how to choose the best power systems for your industrial facility, including specific products, factors to consider, and more.

What Power Backup System do I choose for my Industrial Facility?

The answer to this question lies in what kind of processes you have. And in many cases, it is a 2- or 3-part answer. Many industrial facilities require a computer processing component, the physical manufacturing component, and then a supplemental cooling or fan component. The ultimate choice of proper power backup will depend on which of those components you wish to back up.

Determining Which Type of UPS is Best for Your Facility

A traditional UPS system that was originally designed for data centers will perform well as support for computer processes integral to the manufacturing process. However, it will not do a good job supporting the mechanical and physical process type loads, or high inrush loads such as cooling systems. There will be a combination of systems needed to properly support all the loads deemed critical in the facility.

There are three categories of UPS Systems to choose from:

Industrial UPS System Sizing, Planning, and Installation

How do I size an Industrial UPS System?

The sizing of an industrial UPS system will depend on a several of components:

You will want to avoid “under-sizing” or sizing a system too close to the size of the supported loads for several reasons. All UPS systems need to be oversized to an extent. For example, choosing a UPS which is too close to the size of the supported loads will mean your system runs near full capacity, which can cause unnecessary strain on the equipment and lower the lifespan of the system. A proper analysis of the load, the full load draw, and the dynamic nature of the loads all contribute to a sizing decision.

How do I plan for an Industrial UPS System?

The planning process will include an analysis of space, location to electrical, and how the system will distribute support to protected loads.

In terms of location, there are a couple different places to install your UPS. You can install a local UPS system directly at the equipment you are backing up. You also can provide a larger sized system at the point of electrical distribution. You can size an industrial UPS system to support your entire facility at the utility service entrance. This will provide the most bang for your buck and pick up all your loads in the facility.

Installation of an Industrial UPS System

The installation planning process will require a licensed electrical contractor to install the properly sized distribution breakers ahead of the system. It is recommended that a maintenance bypass system be installed to be able to bypass the UPS system in cases of maintenance, repair, or replacement without disrupting the supported loads. The environment should be considered as the UPS and batteries will require an appropriate temperature range in the facility. At times, a separate enclosure or room will be constructed to provide cooling and clean air. Outdoor enclosures work and are available to separate the UPS System and batteries from the industrial environment.

Industrial UPS Systems at Eaton UPS Systems

Eaton UPS Systems provides a wide range of UPS battery backup solutions including Industrial UPS Systems, Sizing, Installation Planning and Turn-Key Installation Services.

To inquire about Industrial UPS Systems for your facility visit industrialupssystems.com , or Call your representative at (844) 255-6030.

Effective UPS Maintenance Strategies for Ideal Data Center Performance

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 00:41:00 GMT

According to industry surveys conducted by Gartner, data center downtime can cost you as much as $5,600 per minute, or nearly $350K per hour. Are these losses something you can afford? Are they something you want to deal with?

As an important resource we depend upon, protecting the optimal functionality of your data center is of critical importance. Accordingly, data center maintenance, mainly UPS system maintenance is one of the most valuable service your data center can utilize. A skilled maintenance team that truly understands the lifecycle strategies of a UPS can help ensure ongoing performance and service delivery for years to come.

Unfortunately, many often neglect proper maintenance strategies and implementations. Below, we will explore why UPS system maintenance is so important, as well as effective maintenance strategies you can begin to implement immediately.

Why Is UPS Maintenance So Important?

Beyond the dollars it will cost you, UPS system downtime can also do irreparable damage to your company’s reputation, productivity, and data. In fact, poor UPS system maintenance is the second only to human error as the most likely cause of unplanned downtime.

However, when effective UPS System maintenan ce strategies are properly integrated, you can not only reduce your potential risk of unplanned data center downtime, but you will also be able to minimize the amount of data center downtime that occurs. When UPS system emergencies happen, you will also have a UPS System emergency response repair plan in place, that will help you navigate the process.

Additionally, properly implemented UPS system maintenance can also help notify you of when it is time for equipment upgrades and replacements to ensure optimal operational efficiency at all times. When taken together, predictive, preventive, and corrective UPS S ystem m aintenance are the best way to ensure your data center is operating at its best and continues to do so.

The following types of contracts are important to keeping your system uptime intact.

Predictive, Preventive, and Corrective Maintenance

Want to learn how to service a UPS? There are actually several types of UPS System maintenance you can leverage to your greatest benefit. They are predictive maintenance, preventive maintenance, and corrective maintenance.

Predictive maintenance uses careful measurements and data analysis to recognize changes or irregularities that could lead to a potential UPS system failure in the future. This type of maintenance can handle issues before they even arise, giving you the ultimate peace of mind.

Preventive maintenance, similarly, is the practice of keeping your equipment running at optimal levels. One way to think of preventive maintenance is to compare it to oil changes and filter replacements in your car; they are absolutely critical to extending the life of your machine for as long as possible and fix any defects before they become a more serious issue.

Corrective maintenance can be thought of as the last step in the maintenance process. When it comes time to replace a component, or perhaps an entire system, you will be using corrective maintenance to restore the part before it leads to the failure of other machines or your entire network.

Effective Maintenance Strategies

Now that we understand what UPS System maintenance is and why it is of the utmost importance for your facility, we can take a closer look at a few of the most effective maintenance strategies and how you can begin implementing them at your own facility.

Regular & Thorough Visual Inspections

The most basic part of effective data center maintenance is regularly scheduled visual inspections. Often, an experienced professional will be able to review operating parameters, generator performance, humidity, and temperature with a simple inspection. If any irregularities or discrepancies are noticeable, further action can be taken.

UPS System Cleaning

Clean equipment is usually the equipment that is working best. Dust and other debris, when allowed to accumulate, are capable of increasing costs dramatically. In addition, that buildup of dust can also lead to complete failure of your machinery. Save yourself the time, hassle, and headache of uncleaned equipment by keeping your data center well maintained and cleanly.

Ongoing Testing & Measuring of Performance

One example of an effective testing procedure is to assess your UPS batteries and systems. Doing so regularly can ensure they are ready to operate efficiently at all times.

Reporting & Monitoring – standardized checklists

These strategies fall under the category of UPS System predictive maintenance and can be used to pinpoint issues before they arise. Use specialized measurements, reporting, and effective analysis to identify any trends or concerning changes. Be sure to keep these reporting and monitoring practices standardized across your facility and throughout time for the most effective results.

UPS System Repairs

Any repairs you make will be an example of UPS System corrective maintenance . This includes dramatic repairs such as the replacement of UPS System Capacitors , Fans, Components, and Batteries.

Facility Gateway Corporation: Your Data Center & UPS System Maintenance Expert

As professional data center and ups maintenance provider, FGC Service has a unique understanding of what it takes to keep your UPS system in tip top shape. Our professional team of National UPS Technicians are focused on your project requirements, budget, and desired outcomes.

Whether you want to learn more about UPS System maintenance services we are here for you. Contact us today and let us know what part of your UPS system maintenance program we can assist you with. Call 866-432-1711 for UPS System Emergency Services.

The 6 Best Small Industrial UPS Systems

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 15:53:00 GMT

Popular with industrial facilities due to their unique ability to protect against both power inconsistencies and full-scale outages, a UPS system may be exactly what you need. However, whether you’re looking for your office or smaller industrial facility, choosing the best small industrial UPS system for your needs can be a challenging prospect. To help facilitate the process for you, we’ve compiled a brief overview of the types of UPS which exist, how to start the decision-making process, as well as a list of the top six small UPS systems for your office or other facility. Read on to get started.

The 3 Types of UPS Technologies

In general, three basic types of uninterruptible power supply technologies exist. Each having their own role and set of advantages when it comes to protecting your infrastructure, selecting a UPS for your particular application first requires having a better understanding of what’s available.

Offline/Standby

Also known as standby or battery backup UPS, perhaps the most cost-effective choice is the offline UPS system. The best offline UPS systems switch to their battery supplies quickly, preventing power anomalies and giving your equipment time to outlast shorter outages. Offline UPS are also set to protect against most spikes. However, one major drawback of these systems is their inability to maintain perfect power during minor sags and surges.

The most critical factor in the quality of an offline UPS system is the power range the unit in question will accept before switching to a battery backup. As a general rule of thumb, the wider the range, the less drain on your battery and the more backup time will be available when the power shuts off.

Line-Interactive

Providing both power conditioning and battery backup, line-interactive UPS systems are effective in environments where outages are rare, but power fluctuations are more common. Line-interactive UPSs also deliver much better control over power fluctuations than offline alternatives. This gives them the advantage of voltage boosting circuitry and an acceptable range of input voltage, affording you more total protection.

Online Double Conversion

Double conversion UPS convert incoming power to direct current, and then back to AC. This design ensures an increased degree of isolation of the load from irregularities in the main supply. AC power is stable and clean upon generation, meaning that only an online or double conversion UPS fully protects you against power problems such as voltage sags, spikes, and even complete failure.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best UPS for You

How many devices do you want to connect?

Determining the number of devices you want to connect to your system should be the first step in choosing the kind of UPS system you require. Calculating the total load of those devices gives you a great starting point in determining the necessary capacity and size of your UPS.

How much are you looking to spend?

While we never recommend making a purchasing decision based solely on price, it can be helpful to have a price range in mind while shopping. You should know that the average cost of a data center outage is nearly $750,000, so spending a little extra on your UPS is a great way to protect yourself from much greater losses in the long term.

The 6 Best Small Industrial UPS Systems

Three Phase Solutions:

Eaton 93E UPS

In terms of space, power, and cost, the Eaton 93E UPS delivers the most efficient power quality solution possible for customers. Engineered for maximum efficiency, the 93E is appreciated for its 98% efficiency while maintaining a small physical footprint. An all-in-one solution which reduces the complexity of installation and startup, the internal 60kVA batteries of the 93E provide maximum runtime.

Eaton 93PM UPS

The Eaton 93PM UPS combines unprecedented efficiency, reliability, and vertical or horizontal scalability into a single design. Space-saving and highly flexible, this device is as easy to deploy as it is to manage, making it the perfect, three-phase, white or grey space solution for today’s industrial applications.

Eaton 9355 UPS

The Eaton 9355 UPS provides premium double-conversion backup power and scalable battery runtimes for IT and electrical engineering infrastructure in corporate, health care, banking, and industrial applications. Packing a maximum battery runtime into a very small footprint, the 9355 UPS is a complete three-phase power protection solution. As an added advantage, the 9355 can be equipped with an integrated, customizable power distribution module that includes a maintenance bypass switch.

Single Phase Solutions:

Eaton 3S UPS

The Eaton 3S delivers premium battery backup and surge protection for up to 10 home and office devices. EcoControl functionality provides up to 30 percent greater energy savings than typical battery backups, and plug-and-play compatibility enables automatic integration. The slim 3S fits neatly under a desk, in an entertainment center, or on the wall. The device also provides automatic, smooth shutdown of equipment, ensuring system uptime.

Eaton 5SC UPS

The Eaton 5SC UPS delivers affordable and reliable proception with pure sin wave output for small business servers, storage, and network equipment. What we particularly enjoy about this device is the LCD interface, which provides clear status of key parameters and allows configuration for output voltage, the audible alarm and power input sensitivity.

By using Eaton’s Intelligent Power Manager software with the 5SC, you can also get up-to-the-minute information on the status of power in your network. With flexible installation, and available lithium-ion batteries, this system provides automatic and smooth shutdown of equipment powered by UPS, ensuring system uptime.

Eaton 5S UPS

The smaller, compact design of the Eaton 5S UPS delivers backup power for desktop PCs and workstations. The Eco-Control capability of this small UPS enables you to save up to 30 percent in energy consumption. You can also enhance your power protection and safeguard your data when you pair it with the Eaton UPS Companion software.

Similar to the 5SC UPS, the 5S displays critical UPS information on battery time and outage tracking through a user-friendly LCD interface. It also shares the same flexible installation and available lithium-ion batteries to provide automatic shutdown of equipment.

Finding Your Perfect Industrial UPS System with Eaton UPS Systems

If you have any questions about what you read in this blog, or about any of the products mentioned, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team. You can do so either via our online contact form , or start a conversation with us in the chat box at the bottom right corner of your screen. Our team will contact you shortly with more information on your request. Call (844) 501-1887, www.eatonupsystems.com

Watts vs VA for Sizing an Industrial UPS System

Sat, 27 Feb 2021 16:00:00 GMT

The importance of our network of IT and other equipment cannot be overstated. Yet with an increasingly delicate power grid, combined with escalating power consumption of IT equipment, the stability and reliability of that network is constantly in jeopardy. Consequently, the value of UPS (uninterruptible power supplies) is on the rise for industrial applications, businesses, and even our homes.

However, if you are new to the world of UPS’s and have spent any time research them in order to determine which products are the best fit for your needs, you may be left with some questions to say the least. One of those questions that may have you scratching your head is the difference between watts, VA (volt-ampere) and how they should be influencing your purchasing decisions. That confusion ends here.

Here, we will explain how watts and VA interact with each other and the system you choose to deliver the reliable, uninterruptible power supply you need. Read on to learn more.

The Technical Details

Fair warning, there will be a lot of technical jargon in this section, but don’t worry. We’ll do our best to clearly explain everything as we go to help you gain a better understanding, no matter what level of experience you have in electrical engineering and physics.

The first thing you need to know is that every electronic device has both maximum watt ratings and a maximum VA rating. A UPS is no different.

Watts is known as the “Real Power” drawn by the equipment in the circuit, whereas volt-amps are what is known as the “Apparent Power.” VA is calculated by multiplying the voltage applied to the equipment by the current drawn by that same equipment. If that doesn’t quite make sense, it may help to think of the watt rating as the amount of power you need to purchase from a utility company in order to run your devices and the VA as what your wiring will need to be able to handle.

When looking for a UPS system, you will want to ensure that when added together, the wattage and VA ratings of all the attached equipment and devices (called the “load”) never exceeds the wattage and VA ratings of your chosen UPS system.

A Closer Look at Watts vs Volt Amperes

When it comes to UPS’s, watt and VA ratings can differ significantly, but what is most important is that the VA rating is always equal to or larger than the watt rating. The ratio of the watts to VA is known as the “Power Factor” and is expressed as a percentage or number (ex. 0.9 would be 90%). That “Power Factor” is critical to properly sizing your UPS system. Why?

How Watts, VA, and Power Factor Should Be Used

Because UPS systems are most commonly sized through a kW (kilowatts) and or a kVA (kilo-volt-amperes) rating, the power factor is extremely important for finding the correct kilowatt sizing. Taken together, the equation for determining the correct kilowatt requirements of your system looks like:

Total Watts = Volts * Amps * Power Factor

In a perfect world, a 1kVA UPS is rated to handle 1,000 volt-amperes, and therefore 1,000 watts. However, no UPS system is 100% efficient, hence the importance of the power factor. Some power capacity will always be lost in the transformers or circuitry of the system and that reality should always be considered.

Sizing Your UPS

Just like your UPS, each device in your facility or home has a maximum wattage rating which can typically be found on the label or in the owner’s manual. To begin sizing your UPS, you will need to determine which devices you want to connect and add up their total watt usage. That number can then be used to determine the maximum load capacity your UPS needs to be able to supply power for.

While instinct may tell you to get the UPS that matches your requirement, our experts typically recommend giving yourself an extra 20% of load capacity. Doing so not only accounts for what your system will need to handle during peak conditions, but you may also expect the life span and runtime to be positively impacted.

What About UPS Runtimes?

Understanding the impact watts, VA, and power ratings have on your UPS requirements is only one half of the equation. You will also need to determine what kind of runtime your equipment requires. The runtime of your UPS system will depend on the type of battery or power source you are using. To better understand those options and their capabilities, we invite you to browse our Guide to UPS Runtime Solutions on our FGC Construction home site.

Eaton UPS Systems: Helping You Navigate Your UPS Needs

Eaton UPS Systems, our FGC Equipment Division, is a national distributor of Eaton Products focused on quality customer service. Our overall industry experience and equipment expertise provides a unique supplier relationship to all industries. Our mission is to provide critical equipment assets, excellent consulting services, technical and technical expertise for your important project.

Our experienced Product Representatives are on hand to provide guidance on, as well as send you information and quotes for your equipment needs. When you need help with UPS sizing, installation planning, or general questions about products, we are here for you.

Fill out our online contact form , or chat with one of our specialists in our chat feature today and a representative will respond promptly.

UPS System Buying Guide

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 17:00:00 GMT

If you are just starting your UPS system purchase process, it can be overwhelming to sift through all the content, regulations, rules, runtimes, and everything else necessary to ensure you are making the correct purchase. To assist you, we have compiled this UPS buying guide to outline a few of the most important factors to consider that will help you determine, “what UPS system do I need?” Along with a few basic concepts behind UPS systems, and info on how to size a UPS for your facility, this guide should have everything you need to educate yourself on UPS systems.

Step 1: What is a UPS System?

When learning any new concept, it helps to understand what exactly the purpose and function are before moving on. A UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) system acts as a backup battery power supply that will deliver electric power long enough for equipment to be shut down properly when utility power fails. By preventing important data losses and minimizing the damage a hard shutdown can have on electronics, a UPS is an invaluable piece of support equipment for hospitals, data centers, telecommunications, and other locations in which electronics must be protected. You can even integrate one for your at-home needs.

Also acting as a surge protector, UPS systems protect connected devices from power problems outside of a complete blackout as well. Abnormal voltages or surges can also damage electronics in terms of life span and performance. A UPS will help you protect against all these issues and more.

Step 2: What Common Power Problems Do I Have?

Now that we know UPS systems protect against a wide range of power issues, consider which are most frequent at your facility. While blackouts are perhaps the most common issue, there are many other elements that can impact your ability to perform or otherwise damage your business and equipment. Below, we walk through symptoms of a few power problems. Take note of the issues that sound familiar or that your facility has experienced frequently before. Doing so will help you in later steps as you get closer to deciding which UPS system is best.

Surges: Usually caused by lightning, a power su r ge is an intense spike in electric power. If left unchecked, they are capable of damaging circuit boards and other electronic components.

Brownouts: A brownout is a drop in available voltage for an extended period of time. During emergency conditions, power companies may lower voltages to reduce the strain on the supply and avoid a complete blackout.

Voltage Sags: Voltage sags are similar to brownouts in that they are a type of reduced voltage. However, a sag is sudden and usually brief, in contrast to longer lasting, often purposeful brownouts.

Over Voltage: It may be helpful to think of over voltages as the opposite of sags. They occur when the incoming voltage is slightly higher than normal but is not high enough to be considered a full surge. Usually, over voltages also last for longer durations than power surges.

Frequency Noise: Also known as line noise, frequency noise can disrupt or lower circuit performance.

Frequency Variation: If your power supply is usually stable, frequency variation should not be a major issue. However, if you use generators frequently, your power may fluctuate more than is desirable for many electronics.

Harmonic Distortion: While also not as common, a harmonic distortion causes your power source’s electronic signal to be less than ideal, causing damage to sensitive equipment.

Blackout: Finally, frequent blackouts are a major reason why facilities require UPS systems. Commonly caused by weather, shortages, accidents, or increasingly common power grid failures , a blackout is a complete power outage, lasting for an unspecified amount of time.

Which Type of UPS System Caters to My Power Needs?

Now that you have a better understanding of what specific power problems you want to protect against, contemplate which type of UPS system is best suited to do so. Generally, there are three different categories of UPS. Each suited to protect against certain power problems, they are:

Using the chart below, see which UPS type addresses your most important power concerns:

How Big Should My UPS Be?

When determining the size of your UPS system , there are two important considerations: load and capacity.

Load is the combined amount of power all the devices in your facility use. To calculate this number, list every piece of equipment your UPS system will need to support and add the wattages together. One important caveat: if the equipment has a redundant power supply, only count the wattages of one. If you are unsure of how many watts your equipment requires, you can contact the manufacturer, or work with a UPS expert to help.

Once you have found the load, or how much power is needed, you will then find a system that has the capacity to meet your load. A measure of how much power a UPS system can provide ( measured in watts ), the higher the capacity of your UPS, the more electronic equipment it will be able to support. When making a final determination, be sure your chosen UPS system has the capacity to cover your needs in the event of any power outage or issue.

What Length of Runtime Do I Need?

Runtime is the number of minutes a UPS system is capable of supporting attached devices with electricity during a blackout. When it comes to determining how much runtime you need, ask yourself what your priorities are. Do you simply need to shut down all your connected devices safely? Or are you concerned with keeping your electronics running during an outage? Answering those questions will help you determine runtime requirements.

Start with the minimum runtime you need to shut down all devices and equipment properly, then create an acceptable range of runtime around that figure. The broader this range, the more choices you will have.

Now That You Know What You Need

Now that you have the information you need to begin selecting a UPS system, there are several steps you can take next. The first is to browse our products for a UPS that meets your needs. If you would like more assistance in making your final decision, we encourage you to contact our team immediately. We will work with you to better determine your needs and help you choose the exact right UPS system for you.

You can fill out our contact form or call us directly at (844) 501-1887 to talk with a product representative.

Batteries for UPS Systems: VRLA vs Lithium-Ion

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 14:57:00 GMT

Becoming more efficient and powerful, Uninterruptible Power Supplies have made huge strides in recent years. Unfortunately, their batteries have not followed suit. For several decades, UPS batteries have remained much the same in terms of capability. However, there are still ways you can maximize the technology available and receive the best return on investment. In an effort to help you make the most informed choice, we will discuss the differences between valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) and lithium-ion UPS batteries, including the chemistry, energy density, charge rate, cycle life, and more.

Lead Acid & Lithium-Ion Batteries

For most applications, lead acid batteries have been the standard default option for many years. The reason behind this blind preference is that VRLA batteries predate lithium batteries by over 100 years, and many standards of the industry were originally designed to cater to the specifications and shortcomings of this particular style. However, recent advancements in lithium-ion batteries, especially lithium titanate cells make them worth considering more than ever.

Lithium-ion batteries are not only more energy-dense than their lead-acid counterparts, but they are also lighter and have a faster discharge rate. These benefits carry over to Lithium Titanate UPS batteries as well, with the added bonus of increased safety, cycle life, and operational temperature ranges. When looking at the numbers, the gap between these two battery systems becomes increasingly obvious. The following data has been collected by a Toshiba research team.

Below, we expand upon the data found in this table and what it means to your battery decision. Click here to see Lithium Ion UPS Systems .

Cost

The only factor in which VRLA batteries outshine their Lithium-Ion counterparts is in cost. In many cases, Lithium-Ion batteries can be significantly more expensive. However, in a classic case of “you get what you pay for,” this may be a cost you are willing to pay for the increased performance and safety of Lithium batteries.

Energy Density

Lithium Ion batteries are more than twice as dense in energy when compared to VRLA batteries. In real world applications, this translates to smaller, lighter cabinet footprints providing the exact same, if not vastly more capacity and runtime. Extremely powerful in its implications, this improvement can have widespread impacts on the overall layout, pricing, and capabilities of your UPS system, all of which are for the better.

Charge Rate

The Toshiba team found VRLA batteries had a charge rate of 1C, while Lithium Ion was at 7C. As C-rate is an inverse proportion between capacity and time, this data means that Lithium Ion batteries are capable of discharging at a rate 7 times greater than VRLA’s. In UPS applications, the result is vastly reduced battery size requirements to achieve the same effects.

When these size requirements are applied to pricing, our earlier problem with Lithium Ion batteries is resolved. Your team will need to purchase far less Lithium batteries than you would VRLA’s, easily compensating for their larger initial prices. Therefore, Lithium Ion batteries give you far more bang (and charge) for your buck, especially when it comes to smaller runtimes.

Cycle Life

It is standard for VRLA batteries to be replaced every five to seven years. With Lithium Ion, this concern becomes an antiquated need. Referencing the data table above, Lithium Ions have a cycle life 75 times greater than VRLA counterparts. An additional benefit of Lithium Ion UPS batteries is their ability to negate the need for constant attention. These batteries can remain untouched and unused for one and a half years before losing their charge. Conversely, VRLA batteries will often be fully discharged within a matter of months, regardless of whether they have been in use or not.

Temperature Range

When it comes to operational temperature ranges, Lithium Ion batteries again take the win. Temperature can have a significant impact on battery life. Some consumers report deviation from recommended temperature range resulting in a halved battery life. Lithium cells have a far superior range, therefore making them better suited to UPS systems and other facilities where temperature fluctuations often occur.

Safety

If you have done your research, or have experience in the world of UPS systems, you may be wondering about the safety of each style of battery. Some proponents of the industry have raised concerns about the safety of lithium-ion chemistry, citing examples of flaming phones, laptops, and other electronics. However, the reason behind these fires has been frequently shown to be the carbon used as an anode in the battery.

Lacking this carbon anode, Lithium Titanate for UPS systems is the safest option for lithium-ion chemistry battery available on the market today. Concern for fires associated with lithium style batteries should be all but completely negated.

No Matter Which Battery You Choose, Choose Eaton UPS Systems

While Lithium Ion brings more advantages to the table, (including a smaller footprint, increased capacity, and significantly longer cycle and shelf lives) there are still several applications in which VRLA is a viable option. Eaton UPS Systems is here to help you make the best decision for your needs and your budget.

We have solutions for utility power sags, small cycle interruption, extended power interruption, and all your other power supply problems. Working with our team guarantees clean, stable power for your facility.

Contact Eaton UPS Systems today to get started discussing your needs. Call 844-501-1887.

The Difference Between Amps vs. Volts vs. Watts

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 18:49:00 GMT

The term “watts” often describes power or electricity. Perhaps your floor lamp at home requires 60 or 90-watt light bulbs. However, do you know how many watts your coffee maker needs to work effectively?

Additionally, similar terms such as “amps” and “volts” can quickly be confused with watts. Are you familiar with how many amps your dishwasher is rated for? Or, for devices like uninterruptible power systems (UPS) that hardly mention watts, do you refer to them instead as “volt-amperes?”

What exactly do amps, volts, and watts mean? What are their differences? Can they be used interchangeably? In the following content, we unpack each electrical term as defined by the International System of Units (SI) and the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM).

A Helpful, Waterlogged Analogy

Picture water flowing within a closed system, such as a pipe. The circuit made by the water represents electrical flow. Electricity, like the water, moves in a continuous circular fashion through a conductor, exemplifying a wire. Each individual electrical term – amps, volts, and watts – plays an important role in the flow of electricity.

What is Amperage?

Amperage is a term commonly abbreviated to “amps” or classified as “A.” In the water analogy described above, amps would define the volume of water moving past any specific point at a certain moment.

Within an electrical circuit, amps measure the electrical current, or the volume (not speed) of electrons present. For example, a home dishwasher may have a rating around 10 amps. To put this in perspective, a single lightning strike measures at approximately 20,000 amps.

What is Voltage?

Voltage can be compared to water pressure. Volts represent the speed at which electrons pass a specific point within the closed circuit. Voltage, also abbreviated as volts or classified as “V”, represents the difference in potential. Potential difference exists between two points of a conductor usually made of wire and consistently carries the current. The constant current equals 1 ampere, and the energy dissipated between the points is 1 watt.

What is the difference between volts and amps?

Amps and volts perform complementary to one another with their own distinct functions within an electrical circuit. An ampere measures electricity. Volts represent the difference in potential that drives amps to flow through the closed circuit. Therefore, while amps represent the volume of water, volts carry the water through the circuit.

What are Volt-Amperes?

Volt-amperes are units of measurement for “apparent” electrical power, calculated by multiplying voltage by amperage. VAs are often used to simplify power ratings, helping to determine how much power the current will draw when in use.

What are Watts?

Derived from the formula V x A = W, a watt is the rate of power flow that results from amps flowing through a volt’s electromotive force. Watts measure the power that is actually generated within the electrical system. For example, if the water system described above was used to operate a mill, watts would represent the energy created to power the mill.

The Difference Between Volt-Amperes and Watts

If both volt-amperes and watts are derived from multiplying voltage by amperage, how are the concepts distinct? While it is true that both watts and volt-amperes measure electrical power, the type of power measured is different.

As mentioned, VAsmeasure “apparent power,” while watts measure “real power.” Realpower defines how much energy (heat) is consumed or generated. Apparent powercalculates how much electrical power the current will draw once active.

What is an Ohm?

An ohm defines electrical resistance. Within an electrical circuit, resistance is derived from any material or object that reduces electrical flow. Ohms measure that precise amount of resistance. Within the hydraulic analogy, ohms represent pipe size. For example, less water will be able to flow through a narrow pipe than a wide pipe, at the same pressure. The wide pipe is less resistant than the narrow pipe.

A Helpful, Waterlogged Recap

Picture again electricity coursing through a conductor as water flowing through a closed pipe system.

If the closed pipe system was turned off, volt-amperes may be used to describe the potential energy that will be created once the circuit is in motion.

EatonUPS Systems

At FGC Equipment , understanding the ins-and-outs of electricity is our job. With expert assistance from Technical Consultants, we assist in the process of selecting the right uninterruptible power system (UPS) for your application – our Consultants will review specifications, proper sizing, voltage selection, and runtime calculation for you.

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions about an Eaton UPS System. 844.501.1887 or via our online contact form today.

Transform Your Power Infrastructure with Lithium-Ion Batteries

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 20:17:00 GMT

While valve regulated lead acid (VRLA) batteries have long been the industry choice for uninterruptible power systems (UPS), new lithium-ion batteries offer additional benefits while still meeting required backup runtime.

Lithium-ion batteries are poised to become the preferred choice for UPSs in IT applications. The batteries last longer and recharge faster, saving time, saving money and reducing risk throughout the lifecycle of the UPS. The benefits of this lightweight solution well justify the upfront investment.

Not all batteries are created equal

There are many different types of lithium-ion battery chemistries available in the market. Eaton utilizes a combination of lithium phosphate that creates a stable and safe battery for UPS applications. This type of chemistry does not create oxygen as an off-put should there be a thermal event, eliminating the harsh igniting potential of some lithium-ion battery chemistries.

The future is bright

Beyond the initial positive impact of adding lithium-ion batteries to your power infrastructure, Eaton is reshaping the way we utilize batteries in power management by thinking outside of general UPS applications. Eaton’s next step with lithium-ion batteries will be to conquer energy storage applications and implement predictive analytics. Call (844) 501-1887, www.eatonupsystems.com

View the full PDF of specifications .

Interact with a 9PXM

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 20:13:00 GMT

Eaton 9PXM UPS is a scalable, modular, flexible solution for a wide range of applications. Interact with the product here .