A static inverter is a device designed predominantly for use in emergency lighting systems. If the power goes down or there is a mains outage, a static inverter will power up to provide lighting along an emergency exit route and can last either one or three hours.
Static inverters are required to meet the criteria of current legislation. The EN50171:2001 specifies the requirements for central power systems such as static inverters and what they should do and how they should function.
Due to their safety adherence, static inverters can be used in any setting. They are often found in industrial or commercial environments, to keep an element of safety for customers and workers. However, they can also be used in residential properties.
A static inverter will often have a cable to the mains system to keep it charged and ready to go. It will usually require around 24 of charging for every three to four hours of usage. This makes it relatively easy to maintain; as once the emergency lighting has been activated and the batteries run out, the system will be ready for use once again within 24 hours.
Why Use a Static Inverter?
Once the mains power goes down, a static inverter powers up. It will continue to provide emergency lighting and other facilities which may often be essential in an emergency.
A static inverter is a useful safety feature for all kinds of scenarios, including commercial, industrial and residential properties. If there is a fire or any sort of unforeseen disaster, emergency lighting will illuminate to the exit allowing people to leave the building or premises safely.
Where Are They Used?
Static inverters are ideal devices for use in business or operational premises. Working in these buildings, which are often large, may run the risk of a power outage. Power outages may happen for a number of reasons and can involve anything from extreme weather such as storm and high winds to animals such as squirrels and birds causing a short circuit.
How Do They Compare to UPS Systems?
There are certain differences when it comes to using a static inverter instead of an uninterrupted power supply. As we have mentioned before, one of the main differences is the time they are active. While a UPS system will often run for 30 to 60 minutes, a static inverter can keep emergency lighting when needed for an average of three hours.
The power that a UPS has is significantly lower than a static inverter. However, his does not mean that UPS systems are not useful. In fact, for computers or other devices where power is essential to avoid corruption or data loss, a UPS system can be perfect.
System Operation
During typical operation, the incoming mains supply flows through the system to the automatic transfer-switching device or ATSD. The usually open contacts close during day-to-day operation, which feeds the mains supply directly to the load. Simultaneously that mains supply feeds into the charger to keep the batteries fully charged, and therefore prepared for an emergency occurrence.
When the mains supply fails the ATSD reverts to its closed contacts. In this case, the inverter powers up to instead supply the load from the battery. The static inverter will continue to provide power to the load until the mains supply powers up again or the batteries run down.
How We Work
At Powerguard, we are the largest designer and OEM manufacturer of static inverter lighting systems in the UK. We are both ISO9001 and ISO14001 registered, and an accredited supplier on the Utilities Vendor Database.
We are committed to providing the very best and most economical solutions to all of our customer’s power requirements. We maintain the highest possible business standards, from our manufacturing process to customer service interactions.
Our commitment to high-quality service, alongside our comprehensive attention to detail has put us at the forefront of our industry.
If you have questions about what we have covered or are in the interest of any of our solutions, please get in contact.
