Question 1: To meet the requirements of NFPA 110, 8.4.7 do I even need to complete a test proving that each transfer switch will start the EPS (generator) and transfer the load to each Life Safety (LS) and Critical Branch (CB) automatic transfer switch (ATS) within 10 seconds, or is the monthly test sufficient? Answer […]
Exercising the Life Safety and Critical Branch ATS
Recently a question was raised about a mandatory annual exercise of each and all Life Safety and Critical Branch ATSs, to prove a minimum 10 second transfer time from a normal power failure until emergency power was available at the load side of each ATS. According to NFPA 99, this type of exercise is not […]
Diesel Fuel Storage and Testing
Along with starting batteries, fuel is the most common reason an emergency power supply (EPS or “generator”) fails to start. Problems with the fuel system stem mainly from foreign matter such as fine abrasives, water, and “coagulated” aging fuel. These contaminants cause reduced performance and expensive repairs, not to mention preventing the generator from starting in […]