This image shows a diagram of an Emergency Power System and the characteristics of each component.
Overall System Structure
At the top, the power grid is connected to servers/data centers, and three backup power options are presented in case of power supply interruption.
Three Backup Power Options
1. Generator
- Long-term operation: Unlimited operation as long as fuel is available
- Operation method: Engine rotation → Power generation
- Type: Diesel engine generator
- Disadvantages:
- Start-up delay during instantaneous power outages
- Start-up delay, noise, exhaust emissions
- Periodic testing required
- Requires integration with ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch)
2. Dynamic UPS
- Features:
- Uninterrupted/Long-term operation (until diesel engine starts)
- Flywheel kinetic energy storage
- Combined generator and diesel engine
- Advantages: Seamless power supply without STS (Static Transfer Switch)
- Disadvantages: High initial cost, large footprint, noise
DR (Diesel Rotary) UPS: A special form of Dynamic UPS that provides uninterrupted power through flywheel energy storage technology.
3. Static UPS
- Operation time: Instantaneous/Short-term (typically 5-15 minutes)
- Power quality: Clean power supply
- Configuration: Battery(DC) → Inverter(AC) → Rectifier
- Features:
- Millisecond-level instant transfer
- Battery life 3-5 years, replacement costs, heat generation issues
Key Characteristics Summary
Generators can operate long-term with fuel supply but have start-up delays, while Static UPS provides immediate power but only for short durations. Dynamic UPS (including DR UPS) is a hybrid solution that provides uninterrupted power through flywheel technology while enabling long-term operation when combined with diesel engines. In actual operations, it’s common to use these systems in combination, considering the advantages and disadvantages of each system.
With Claude
Lechuck Park 