What is Modular UPS?
At keheng, we define a modular UPS as a system that provides N+1 or N+X redundancy and can be expanded as power demand grows. This flexibility is achieved by adding individual modules to the chassis. In critical environments where reliability is essential, a single UPS can be a single point of failure, potentially disrupting multiple systems. To improve reliability, multiple smaller UPS modules and battery packs can be combined to provide redundant power protection comparable to that of a larger UPS, and modules can be added to ensure redundancy in the event of a module failure. This setup ensures that the failure of one module will not affect the entire system or field operations.
Modular three-phase UPS systems are becoming more common in data centers and critical power applications. This trend is attributed to system designs that feature small, lightweight, compact, hot-swappable, and affordable modules that can be added or used for additional redundancy as needed. In this discussion, we will explore the advantages and typical disadvantages. Most three-phase UPS systems available today have a parallel or expansion feature that allows parallel UPS units to be added when more power or redundancy is needed. For example, if the maximum load is 100KVA, then at least 2 x 100KVA systems are required, not including load efficiency or growth. Modular UPSs offer a uniquely scalable solution.
A modular UPS typically consists of a rack-mounted enclosure with a battery cabinet at the bottom of the enclosure or in a separate rack, with hot-swappable modules stacked vertically. These modules can be added to meet increased power demands or to enhance redundancy.
Benefits of Modular UPS
Redundancy
All UPS systems are designed to operate continuously throughout their lifecycle. Modular UPS designs are flexible, and redundancy can be added as needed to minimize the risk of failure. The principle is simple: the greater the redundancy, the greater the spare capacity of the module. For example, if the load is 80KVA and the modular UPS is rated at 120KVA with 20KVA modules, the redundancy is N+2. Adding modules further increases redundancy and reduces the likelihood of a complete UPS failure.
Reduced Installation Costs
Modular UPS systems are often more cost-effective than parallel or expandable UPS systems. For example, if the requirement is 100KVA with N+1 redundancy, the modular solution would be 120KVA consisting of six 20KVA modules instead of two separate 100KVA UPS systems. Installation costs are also lower.
Delivery, offloading and positioning
Standalone or parallel UPS units can be cumbersome to transport due to their size and weight. Modular UPS can be disassembled into parts and reassembled at the site, thus reducing transportation costs and improving site accessibility.
Minimal footprint compared to other scalable/parallel solutions
Traditional UPS systems are often horizontally scalable and therefore take up more space. In contrast, modular UPS systems can be expanded vertically within a rack, saving floor space. In addition, fewer UPS batteries are required if a traditional UPS system utilizes individual battery cabinets.
Expandable Loads for Greater Efficiency
UPSs are most efficient when they are not at full load. Modular UPSs are able to maintain a high load-to-capacity ratio to ensure optimal efficiency. For example, if the load is 60-70 KVA, the modular UPS should be 80 KVA plus a 20 KVA module to provide a total of 100 KVA.
If you want to learn more about optimizing your energy system, you can fully explore lithium battery types to gain insight into various battery technologies and their applications.
Advantages of modular UPS systems
Reduced downtime during maintenance and rapid replacement (MTTR)
In a typical standalone UPS system, failures due to overloads or other problems may cause it to switch to bypass mode. Repairing or evaluating the UPS often requires isolating the unit, which can prolong downtime while the technician evaluates the problem. Once the problem is identified, the time required to replace parts may be further extended if the necessary components are not immediately available.
However, with a modular UPS system, faulty modules can be quickly removed and replaced without interrupting power. The entire process can be completed in just a few seconds, as the module is designed to be replaced while powered, ensuring no loss of power or UPS backup. It’s worth noting that many manufacturers still use individual static switches, which can cause failures, and Power Sonic offers a modular UPS system that incorporates static switches in each module for increased reliability.
Maximize power utilization of existing infrastructure
For sites with 2 x 100KVA parallel standalone UPS systems, the expected load should not exceed 100KVA to maintain redundancy and avoid overloading. In contrast, modular systems offer a straightforward solution for achieving redundancy; add an additional module to meet your requirements. For example, if you have a 20KVA expandable modular system, add another 20KVA module to get a 120KVA modular system.
In addition, if your site can accommodate two 100KVA parallel UPS systems, then switching to a modular UPS system can make the most of your infrastructure, allowing power to grow to 200KVA instead of the limited 100KVA.
Reduced Battery Costs
Typically, modular UPS systems use centralized batteries that are shared by each module. In contrast, freestanding or parallel UPS systems require separate batteries for each unit, significantly increasing battery costs. power Sonic offers centralized or parallel battery configurations for modular UPS systems and shared batteries for freestanding UPS systems.
Cost-Effective Maintenance
In the event of a catastrophic failure, replacing an entire standalone or parallel UPS system can be costly, often 10-20 times more than replacing a single failed module in a modular system. If both parallel standalone systems need to be replaced, the financial impact is multiplied.
Lower Life Cycle Costs
A single modular UPS system typically costs less than running 2 parallel UPS systems. For example, if your site is loaded with 80KVA and you choose a 100KVA modular system, the operating costs will be lower than if you choose two 80KVA standalone parallel systems. Stand-alone solutions can cost more than twice as much over the system’s life. Depending on your electricity bill, your UPS supplier can help you save money by analyzing your energy consumption under various scenarios.
keheng’s modular UPS systems provide a balanced solution based on many factors, including cost and functionality. If you are looking for a UPS system, our experts can help you choose the ideal solution for your needs.