What Does Conventional Power Infrastructure Design Look Like?

As part of the Made in Yorkshire network, we’re proud to champion British manufacturing in powering hospitals, data centres, defence systems, and more.

An Integrated Approach to Critical Power

In conventional backup power infrastructure, continuity depends on the seamless interaction between components. The diagram below illustrates how these systems typically work together to protect vital operations from outages:

• Mains Supply: The primary source of electrical power, typically provided by the national grid.

• Generator and Fuel: A reliable back-up power source designed to activate during mains power failures, typically powered by diesel, gas, or hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO).

• Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): An intermediary power solution that provides instantaneous power to critical equipment, preventing any loss or disruption while the generator comes online.

• Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): provides immediate power to the critical load more quickly than a generator.

• UPS Battery: Stores electrical energy to support the UPS system during the critical transition period.

How the System Responds to an Outage

When a disturbance or outage occurs, the system activates in milliseconds:

1. The UPS instantly powers the critical load, preventing any disruption.

2. The ATS signals the generator to start up and take over.

3. Once stable, power is transferred to the generator, and the UPS returns to standby with its batteries recharged and ready.

This layered protection ensures no break in service, even during unexpected power events.

UPS Panel Wire Supervisor, Andrew Smith, giving a talk on our UPS Systems at our Factory Tour with the Made in Yorkshire network

Why UPS Systems Are Essential

Without a UPS, even a fraction of a second in power loss could lead to:

• Downtime

• Data loss

• Equipment failure

• Safety risks

UPS systems are a vital safeguard, especially in environments where uptime is non-negotiable.

Looking Ahead

While this conventional model remains the backbone of reliable infrastructure, the future lies in hybrid systems, renewables integration, and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). Dale Power Solutions continues to innovate in these areas, but the core principles of backup power continuity remain unchanged.

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