3 Phase UPS

One of the most important decisions you’ll make as you choose a UPS power supply is the choice between a 1 phase or 3 phase UPS. While older uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems are typically single-phase, the industry state of the art today is the 3 phase UPS. Let’s take a closer look at why it makes a difference to you.

The Main Difference Between a 1 Phase and 3 Phase UPS

From hearing the name, you might think that a 3 phase UPS is more complex than a 1 phase UPS and it may be more difficult to maintain. But, in fact, a 3 phase UPS offers more functionality without needing your wiring to be any more complex. It delivers more power with greater efficiency, all without using more wires.

In electrical engineering, a phase is the current or voltage between a given wire and a neutral wire. Because the 3 phase UPS makes full use of three phases rather than just one, it is far more efficient in performance and delivery. You end up passing a greater amount of power through smaller wires that are fewer in number.

By and large, that means you’ll have lower cost of ownership and a higher level of performance.

In general, a 1 phase UPS system is more common in residential applications, while a 3 phase UPS system is far more common in commercial and industrial installations. Some commercial facilities, such as today’s modern data centers, can only use a 3 phase UPS because their demands for electricity are so high.

How a 3 Phase UPS System Outperforms the Alternatives

In a head to head comparison, a 3 phase UPS system offers these advantages:

Higher Efficiency and Lower Cost Over Longer Distances

If you have a large industrial facility or a commercial campus that’s more spread out than the average office, you might find a 3 phase UPS system is more efficient and effective. 3 phase power also performs well in terms of cost, often saving anywhere from 5% to 15% over the alternative.

Safer Even for Older Wiring Systems

3 phase power is safer than the alternative, to the point where it can be used to balance utility loads on a building and ensure that given wires and junctions don’t become overloaded even in an emergency. If an electrical system is aging, on-site power analysis can help you identify hot spots before a UPS is deployed.

Better for More Demanding Applications

3 phase power is the only option if you need 1,000 watts or more for your application. It is also delivered in a steady, continuous stream without spikes or sags. This can be crucial if you are using equipment that’s especially sensitive to voltages and “dirty” power.

Is a 3 Phase UPS System Right for You?

Although a 3 phase UPS system offers some impressive advantages, it’s impossible to make assumptions about the best UPS system for your business until you talk through your needs with a UPS power supply provider. An informed vendor can walk through your facility, check the status of your wiring, and highlight your options.

An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) intended to keep your lights on will be very different from one that just runs the cash register, for example. Hospitals and other medical facilities frequently use some of the largest 3 phase UPS power supplies on the market in conjunction with a backup generator for “always on” power.

To learn more about which UPS equipment is best for you, an on-site consultation is best.

Contact Nite & Day Power to find out more or get started.