How to avoid the risk of power disruption when we need to maintain/replace rack mount inverter modules?

A maintenance bypass switch in an inverter system or Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) serves as a crucial component for ensuring continuous power supply to connected loads. The primary function of the maintenance bypass switch is to provide an alternative path for electrical power to bypass the inverter or UPS during certain situations.

Here are the key functions and scenarios in which the maintenance bypass switch becomes important:

1. Maintenance and Service: When maintenance or servicing is required for the inverter or UPS unit, the maintenance bypass switch allows users to temporarily transfer the load directly to the utility power source, bypassing the inverter. This ensures that critical loads remain powered while maintenance tasks are performed.
2. Fault or Failure: In the event of a fault or failure in the inverter system or UPS, the maintenance bypass switch allows for a quick transition of the load to the utility power source. This helps to minimize downtime and ensures that the connected devices continue to receive power even if the inverter is experiencing issues.

Below are critical considerations before adopting a maintenance Bypass Switch:

1.Capacity Matching:

The maintenance bypass switch should be capable of handling the maximum current that the connected telecom equipment might draw during normal operation. This ensures that the switch can effectively support the load without being a bottleneck in the power supply chain. Make sue you consider the maximum possible current that might be taken by those AC loads.

2.Safety and Code Compliance:

The current-carrying components of the maintenance bypass switch should comply with safety standards and electrical codes applicable to telecom installations. This ensures that the switch is designed and built to meet safety requirements, reducing the risk of electrical hazards. Cotek’s MBS only selects those bypass switches that are complies international standards such as TUV,UL.

3.Make-before-break or Break-before-make operation for bypass switch:

"Make-before-break" operation in the context of a bypass switch refers to the sequence in which the switch transitions between power sources. Specifically, in a make-before-break configuration, the switch establishes a connection with the new power source before disconnecting from the old one. This ensures a temporary overlap during the transition, maintaining continuous power to the load without interruption.

This type of operation contrasts with "break-before-make" operation, where the switch disconnects from the old source before establishing a connection with the new one. Break-before-make configurations may introduce a momentary interruption in power during the transition, which could be undesirable in applications where continuous power is essential.

Cotek suggest Make-before-break operation since the continuous operation of critical loads is top consideration during maintenance.