UPS Solution for Data Center Industry

I. Power Supply Challenges in Data Centers

1.High Continuity Requirements of the Production Process

• Data centers are the core of information storage and processing in the digital age, requiring a stable and reliable power supply. Even a short power outage can lead to data loss, system crashes, and extended downtime, resulting in significant economic losses and reputational damage.
• Many data processing tasks have long cycles. Power fluctuations can destabilize operations, reduce data quality, and impact market supply and economic benefits.

2.Sensitivity of Key Equipment to Power Quality

• Data centers house automation control systems, precision analysis instruments, and frequency conversion speed regulation equipment, all of which are highly sensitive to power quality. These devices require stable voltage, frequency, and clean energy to function properly.
• Power quality issues like voltage sags, surges, and harmonics can cause control system malfunctions, instrument inaccuracies, and equipment shutdowns, affecting overall operational stability and data integrity.

3.Harsh Working Environment Conditions

• Data centers often have harsh environmental conditions, such as high temperatures, humidity, dust, and corrosive gases. These factors pose significant challenges to the performance and reliability of UPS equipment.
• Harsh environments accelerate equipment aging, increase maintenance costs, and reduce operational efficiency.

4.Complexity and Uncertainty of Power Supply

• Data centers have a large number of electrical devices with varying power requirements, from kilowatts to megawatts. This complexity increases the burden on the power supply system and makes management more difficult.
• Production plans may change based on market demands and raw material availability, adding uncertainty to power loads. The power supply system must adapt to these changes to ensure stable operation.

II. UPS Data Center Solution Goals

1.Ensure Uninterruptible Power Supply for Critical Equipment

Provide high-quality, reliable power for key equipment in data centers to maintain operational continuity and stability.

2.Improve Power Supply Management and Emergency Response

Enhance the management of power supply and the ability to respond to emergencies to minimize the risk of production accidents and equipment damage caused by power issues.

III. UPS System Architecture Design

1.System Design Based on Data Center Scale and Needs

• Large Data Centers: Use a centralized UPS system to power critical control systems and important utility systems. Additionally, install distributed small UPS systems in each equipment area to support on-site devices.
• Medium Data Centers: Use a relatively centralized UPS system with multiple sub-centers to power key equipment in different areas.
• Small Data Centers or Remote Sites: Use integrated, compact UPS devices to meet specific power needs and ensure stable equipment operation.

2.Redundancy Design for High Availability

Implement parallel redundancy to enhance system reliability. In case of a UPS failure, other units can quickly take over the load to ensure continuous power supply.

IV. UPS System Selection and Configuration

1.Precise Selection Based on Equipment Power and Electrical Requirements

Conduct a comprehensive survey of power requirements for critical equipment, including control systems, servers, storage devices, network equipment, and air conditioning systems. Consider usage patterns, power factors, and future expansion needs to calculate the required UPS capacity. It is recommended to select a UPS with a capacity that is 1.2 to 1.5 times the calculated load to meet future development needs for 3 to 5 years.

2.Battery Configuration and Backup Time Determination

Determine UPS battery backup time based on operational requirements and emergency response times. For key equipment, the backup time can be set to 30 to 60 minutes to provide enough time for emergency power generation systems to start up and ensure safe equipment shutdown. For critical devices like environmental monitoring equipment and safety instrument systems, the backup time can be extended to 2 to 4 hours. Lithium-ion batteries are recommended for their high energy density, long cycle life, and low self-discharge rate, ensuring good performance in harsh environments.

V. Protection Strategies for Key Equipment

1.Automation Control Systems

Ensure stable operation and accurate data collection during normal power supply. Maintain continuous operation during power outages to facilitate a smooth transition and safe shutdown of production processes.

2.Precision Analysis Instruments

Provide stable power to ensure normal operation and data accuracy during power fluctuations or outages.

3.Frequency Conversion Speed Regulation Equipment

Ensure stable operation of frequency converters during power voltage fluctuations or instantaneous outages to maintain equipment operation and process continuity. Reduce damage caused by frequent equipment start-stop cycles.

VI. Environmental Adaptability and Reliability Assurance

1.Design Considerations for Harsh Environments

UPS equipment should have high protection ratings to prevent dust and water ingress, with corrosion-resistant circuit boards and specially treated metal parts. In explosive environments, UPS equipment should meet explosion-proof standards.

2.Measures to Improve UPS System Reliability

Use redundant designs such as dual power inputs and parallel redundancy. Strengthen heat dissipation design and component reliability selection. Establish regular maintenance and inspection systems to ensure long-term stable operation of the UPS system.

VII. Intelligent Monitoring and Management

1.UPS System Monitoring Function

• The UPS system should have an intelligent monitoring module to monitor key parameters in real-time and display them intuitively to maintenance personnel. This allows for timely awareness of system operation and preventive measures.

2.Remote Monitoring and Management

• Using network technology, the UPS system should support remote monitoring and management. Maintenance personnel can monitor and operate UPS devices via mobile apps or computer clients from within the data center or remotely, improving equipment availability and management efficiency.

VIII. Installation and Implementation

1.Pre-installation Preparations

Conduct a comprehensive inspection and assessment of the data center’s electrical wiring, grounding system, and installation environment to ensure compliance with UPS installation requirements. Reasonably plan the UPS installation location to ensure good ventilation, cleanliness, and ease of maintenance.

2.Installation Steps and Precautions for the UPS System

Install according to the manufacturer’s manual, ensuring the equipment is securely mounted and wired correctly and reliably. Maintain a safe distance between the equipment and the surrounding environment, and take effective dustproof and moisture-proof measures.

3.System Commissioning and Testing

After installation, carry out comprehensive commissioning and testing of the UPS system, including equipment startup, parameter adjustment, battery charge-discharge testing, and mode switching tests, to ensure normal operation and compliance with data center power supply requirements.

IX. Operation and Maintenance

1.Daily Maintenance Tips

Develop a detailed daily maintenance plan with dedicated personnel responsible for UPS system maintenance. Regularly clean the UPS equipment, inspect batteries, and maintain the cooling system to ensure good operating conditions.

2.Regular Maintenance and Overhaul

Based on the equipment’s operating time and the manufacturer’s recommended schedule, conduct comprehensive maintenance and inspections of the UPS system periodically. This includes inspecting internal components, checking the electrical distribution system, and testing battery charge-discharge performance to ensure long-term reliability.

3.Emergency Response Plan Development and Drills

Data centers should develop a detailed UPS system emergency response plan with clear procedures and responsibilities. Regularly organize emergency drills for maintenance and operational staff to enhance their ability to handle UPS system failures. This ensures rapid action to maintain equipment operation and data security during emergencies.