Uninterruptible Power Systems - UPS

Green… Green… Green, today that seems to be a constant mantra that we are hearing from various sectors such as Government, Construction, and Consumers. Being Green is not an exotic disease that leaves your complexion looking like a Martian. Rather being Green is about conserving our valuable resources. Our resources are being depleted at a rate that some say will cause us to run out of resources very soon. I don’t know that I would be like Chicken Little running around screaming that the sky is falling, but we do need to take heed to the problems that do exist, and do what we can to conserve the resources we still have.

This brings me to my subject, Efficiency in UPS Systems. As I look through the trade magazines I have noticed that more and more is being talked about having Data Centers and other areas of Critical Power Back Up systems to become more efficient. UPS systems are found in most business’ today whether they be large or small. They are needed to protect the critical power required for Computers, Emergency Lighting Systems, Laboratory Equipment and more. All are using electrical energy to provide an uninterruptible source of power to these critical systems.

In case you haven’t heard, our electrical power generation facilities are being stretched to capacity. Then on top of that we have a Congress that would like to institute a program called Cap and Trade into law. The effect of this will be less energy production and higher prices for what energy we can get. All these possible new regulations and current production capabilities mandates that we need to become more Energy Efficient, this is a must for all of us. Most UPS manufacturers are promoting that their units are energy efficient, but when we begin to compare them side by side you will notice that some do not meet the mark. In the past some have purchased their UPS systems based on Name Brand Recognition alone, this may not be the best approach if you are really interested in getting the best efficiency and performance from a UPS system. Just because a company is large and well known does not mean they have the best equipment. Also saving a buck in the purchase price may end up taking a big bit out of your wallet when paying for wasted electricity for years down the road. Remember the efficiency of the system is what will ultimately save you on your energy bill for back up power, and again in the cost of cooling and cooling capacity, because efficiency means less heat being generated. Also check the output power factor of a UPS unit. This will be the key factor in knowing how much real power (kW) you will have available for your equipment, because you don’t want to be doing this again in a year or so when up grading your servers or add other equipment. The Input Power Factor is extremely important if you are being billed from your utility a power factor penalty charge. Check out the Harmonic feed back level because this can cause problems with other equipment up stream from the UPS. All of these factors will also play a part in Generator selection.

When selecting a UPS you must first know what power requirements you need for today and tomorrow. What amount of floor space will you be willing to allocate for this equipment. How much Back UP Time will be required because this will dictate the battery requirements and additional space for their placement. Think about peripheral equipment such as Maintenance Bypass Switches, Transformers, Surge Suppression Devices, Power Distribution Units, UPS Management Software, Tie-Cabinets (Parallel Systems), and Air Conditioning.


UPS units come in many different sizes and typology. The most popular systems are True On Line Systems or Duel Conversion systems. These will provide you with the best protection and power conditioning for your equipment.

We have many different brands for you to choose from depending on your application requirements. If you want the best system for your application give us a call and we can help you identify your systems requirements and select the best UPS for the job. We deal in UPS systems daily as well as power related problems, and we are familiar with the changes that are occurring in the industry. Call Syd Orr at Sords Electric today for more information.

Sords Electric

LASER Switches

Laser switches are photo Electric Switches with a punch.

Our Laser PhotoElectric switches take it a step up from the standard visible or infrared light photo electric switches.

Using a laser, usually red, the laser switch offers a few advantages over the standard photo switches including longer range and smaller target size.

The Maximum range of our laser switches is 160 feet. If using a thru beam system you the entire 160 feet can be utilized, whereas if retro reflective, then the effective range is 80 feet, to the reflector and back.

The spot size for laser switches if very small and consistant. A standard photo electric switch sends out a beam that is cone shaped, the spot size gets bigger (and weaker) the father it travels. This can lead to inaccuracies and poor beam intensity. The laser switch keeps its’ intensity as well as a consistent beam size. With a laser switch the edge of a product can be sensed on an assembly line for packaging or sorting applications.

Laser Switches, starting around 100.00, can be a great solution to a sensing application. Let Sords Electric help you pick out a Laser switch.

www.sordselectric.com

216-765-4230

PhotoElectric Switches and Sensors

Sords Electric Sells Photo Electric Switches and Sensors

Photoelectric switches use a light source to detect an object. The switch then changes it's logic or switch to make an action, like an alarm or movement of a device.

The photoelectric switch uses either visible light or infrared light as it's source. The object being sensed should be reflective for a diffuse switch or the use of a reflector is required and the object breaks "the beam" as in an elevator or garage door switch.

A thru beam system utilizes a transmitter and receiver. the Transmitter sends out the light beam and is directed at a receiver unit. Both units need to be powered and interconnected together for the system to work. Advantages are the longest field of view is achieved and the most secure sensing is realized via polarization. The main disadvantage is that each unit must be wired and interconnected together. A "thru beam" system can also be utilized using a reflector. this is called retro-reflective. The retro-reflective system has the advantage over a thru beam of all the logic and power supply being located in one box and one area. It is also more secure like the thru beam system by using polarizing filters that turn the light and only allow the correct "polarization" to be sensed by the receiver. The retro-reflective unit as the receiver and transmitter housed in a single unit. Thru Beam and Retro-reflective systems are used for counting, sorting and sensing the presence of an object or person for safety or security reasons.

The Diffuse system relies on the object being reflective, these are usually used in an industrial setting sensing a product or color code or marking on a product or box. Like the retro-reflective unit the transmitter and receiver are in the same unit. The distance is usually quite short so that the reflected light is able to be sensed. The target does not usually have the reflective qualities of a reflector. A diffuse system is used when a thru beam or retro-reflective cannot be used or when sensing color or a bar code.

All Photo Electric systems need an output to communicate with the PLC or system logic. Most use NPN or PNP logic but some have built in relays (1 amp usually) to give the output signal. The signal can go to a computer, PLC or directly to the system like a motor or contactor or alarm.

Call Sords Electric for more information or for application help.

SCR Power Controllers by WATLOW

Watlow POWER SERIES Controllers

Microprocessor-Based SCR Power Controller Designed for Application Flexibility
For over thirty years Watlow® has been manufacturing solid state power controllers. Watlow's new POWER SERIES represents the latest in SCR power controller technology. This microprocessor-based product offers features and application flexibility unmatched by any other SCR power controller on the market today.

Capabilities include single-phase and three-phase models from 65 to 250 amps. Field configurable phase angle or zero-cross firing improves application flexibility on site where you need it. 50/60Hz independent operation means you can operate almost everywhere in the world without special calibration considerations. Serial communications utilizing Modbus® protocol allow for remote control setup, and monitoring of load status from a nearby computer station or control room.
On-board semiconductor fusing improves reliability by protecting the SCRs from heater short circuits. Plus, on-board heater bakeout and control diagnostics can help eliminate initial start up problems. All this in a touch-safe package that can be quickly and easily mounted in your control cabinet.
Agency approvals ensure a product that meets world safety and operational standards.


Features Benefits
Microprocessor-based technology Extremely versatile, field configurable
Snap-fit on a pre-mounted plate Easy installation
Models 65 through 250 amp ratings Handles a wide range of loads
Adjustable soft start Application flexibility
Heater and control diagnostics capabilities Monitor actual heater and control performance
Electrically touch-safe package Increased safety for installer and users
Serial comm with Modbus® RTU protocol Computer control and/or monitoring
Multi-zone capability Application flexibility, reduced panel space

Applications
Semiconductor processing
Plastics processing
Heat treating
Drying ovens
Food processing
Petroleum/chemical
Lighting equipment
Furnace/oven

Sords Electric

Fire Shield Cords

Sords Electric Sell Fire Shield Cords and strips.

Fire Shield is the safest cord on the market.

Fire Shield products are ideal for home, office, and campus environments such as residence halls, labs, classrooms, libraries and other facilities. Fire Shield cords, with specially designed shielded conductors, are able to detect series faults and line-to-neutral faults, significantly reducing fire hazards. Available as power strips, surge protectors, appliance cords and extension cords.

Fire Shield is a next generation extension cord with built-in intelligence to sense cord damage and shut off the power before a fire can start. No other extension cord has this capability.

Industry statistics indicate there is a cord fire approximately every 6 minutes. The most frequent causes of such fires are short circuits, overloading, damage, and/or misuse of extension cords.

Cords with grounded conductors only provide a path to ground. GFCI’s detect ground faults. Neither detects the breakdown in the insulation of a standard extension cord, which can lead to an arcing condition that may start a fire. By utilizing a sensing shield around the insulated Fire Shield conductors combined with intelligent electronics in the plug head, Fire Shield can detect damage in the cord such as series faults (broken and frayed conductors) and parallel faults (insulation damage between the live conductors), and shut off the power before a fire can start.

Causes of cord fires are unintentional misuse of extension cords. Cords may be crimped, pinched, frayed, overloaded, overheated, or just worn out. Any of these conditions can lead to an extension cord fire. Fire Shield can detect any leakage currents from these conditions and shut off power before a fire can occur.

Fire Shield should be used anywhere you use standard extension cords or power strips; in children’s rooms, pet areas, with space heaters, electric blankets, waterbeds, etc. Children and pets have been known to bite or chew electrical cords. Fire Shield, with its built-in intelligence may provide protection in these circumstances. Fire Shield Safety Extension Cords should also be used during the holidays with Christmas trees and other holiday decorations because of the tendency to overload extension cords.

Standard surge protectors only provide protection against power surges, which is important. However, standard surge protectors do not provide cord fire prevention. TRC has recently introduced a next generation line of Fire Shield Surge Protectors that not only protects against power surges, but also provides cord fire prevention. Please check our website to find the Fire Shield Surge Protector best suited for your requirements.

Many colleges and Universities now require that only the fire Shield cord and strips be used in dorm rooms. Cord fires are the leading cause of fire in dorm rooms. Please review the "Can you Prevent Univertiy Dorm Room Fires" brochure.

Fire Shield products are UL and CSA approved and can be purchased at www.sordselectric.com.

Watlow DIN-A-MITE A Power Controller

SORDS ELECTRIC sells the Watlow DIN-A-MITE Power Controllers

The Watlow® DIN-A-MITE® Style A power controller provides 

a low-cost, highly compact and versatile solid state option 

for controlling electric heat. You also get all the quality you 

expect from a Watlow designed and manufactured product. 

DIN-rail and back panel mounting is standard on every 

controller. There is no need to worry about mercury, the 

DIN-A-MITE controller is mercury free. 

Capabilities include single-phase zero cross switching up 

to 25 amperes at 600VÅ(ac) (see rating curve). A unique 

integrated design removes the guesswork associated with 

selecting a proper heat sink and adequate terminations for 

the application. 

Variable time base, 4-20mA process control or Vı(ac/dc) 

input contactor versions are available. All configurations 

are model number dependent and factory selectable. This 

power controller also includes 200KA short circuit current 

rating (SCCR) tested up to 480VÅ(ac) to prevent arch flash 

with required fusing. 

The DIN-A-MITE power controller is made in the 

United States. 

Features and Benefits 

200KA Short Circuit Current Rating (SCCR) 

• Prevents arc flash 

DIN-rail or standard panel mount 

• Provides versatility, quickness and low-cost 

installation 

Compact size 

• Reduces panel space; less cost 

Touch-safe terminals 

• Increases safety for installer/user 

No mercury 

• Assures environmental safety 

Faster switching with solid state 

• Saves energy and extends heater life 

UL® 508 listed, C-UL® and CE with filter 

• Meets applications requiring agency approval 

Specifications 

Operator Interface 

• Command signal input 

• Input indicator light LED 

Amperage 

• Single phase, see the output rating curve 

• Max. I2t for fusing: 4000A2sec 

• Latching current: 200mA 

• Holding current: 100mA 

• Power dissipation is 1.2 watts per amperes switched 

• 200KA SCCR, Type 1 and 2 approved with the recommended 

fusing; see user manual. 

Line Voltage 

• 20 to 660V~(ac) model number dependent; see ordering 

information 

• Off-state leakage: 1mA at 77°F (25°C) max. 

• 50/60Hz independent 

Control Mode-Zero Cross 

• Input control signal Type C: VÎ(dc) input contactor 

• Input control signal Type K: V~(ac) input contactor 

• To increase service life on contactor input models, the cycle time 

should be less than three seconds 

• Input Control Signal Type F: 4 to 20mAÎ(dc) proportional variable 

time base control; 3 cycles on, 3 cycles off at 50% power 

Input Command Signal 

• AC contactor 

24VÅ(ac) ±10%, 120VÅ(ac) +10/-25%, 240VÅ(ac) +10/-25% @ 

25mA max. per controlled leg 

• DC Contactor 

4.5VÎ to 32VÎ(dc): max. current @ 4.5 VÎ(dc) is 8mA 

per leg 

• Loop powered linear current 

4mAÎ to 20mAÎ(dc): loop-powered, input Type F0 option only 

(requires current source with 6.2VÎ(dc) available, no more than 

three DIN-A-MITE inputs can be connected in series) 

Agency Approvals 

• CE with proper filter: 

204/108/EC Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 

EN 61326-1: Industrial Immunity Class A Emissions 

2006/95/EC Low Voltage Directive 

EN 50178 Safety Requirements 

Installation category III, pollution degree 2 

• UL® 508 listed and C-UL® File E73741 

Input Terminals 

• Compression: will accept 0.2 to 2 mm2 (24 to 14 AWG) wire 

Line and Load Terminals 

• Compression: will accept 0.8 to 8.4 mm2 (18 to 8 AWG) wire 

Operating Environment 

• Up to 176°F (80°C); see the output rating curve chart for your 

application 

• 0 to 90% RH (relative humidity), non-condensing 

• Installation only tested to 3,000 meters 

• Units are suitable for “Pollution degree 2” 

Mounting 

Options include DIN-rail or standard back panel mounting 

• The DIN-rail specification is: DIN EN 50022, 35 mm by 7.5 mm 

• Mount the cooling fins vertically 

Dimensions 

• Height: 3.7 in. (95 mm) high x 1.8 in. (45 mm) wide x 

3.9 in. (98 mm) deep 

• Weight: 0.71 lb (0.32kg) 

Ordering Information 

To order, complete the code number on the right with the 

information below. 

DIN-A-MITE Style A = Solid State Power Controller 

DA10 - __ __ __ __ - 0 __ __ __ 

Phase 

1 = 1-phase, 1 controlled leg 

Cooling and Current Rating 

0 = Natural convection current 

rating 18A @ 50˚C (see 

derating curve for current rating 

at other temperatures) 

Line and Load Voltage 

02 = 24 to 48VÅ(ac) 

24 = 100 to 240VÅ(ac) 

60 = 277 to 600VÅ(ac) 

Input Type 

C0 = 4.5 to 32VÎ(dc) contactor 

F0 = 4 to 20mAÎ(dc) proportional 

K1 = 22 to 26VÅ(ac) contactor 

K2 = 100 to 120VÅ(ac) contactor 

K3 = 200 to 240VÅ(ac) contactor 

Manual Language 

0 = English 

1 = German 

2 = Spanish 

3 = French 

Custom Parts Designation 

00 = Standard parts 

Recommended Semiconductor Fuse and Fuse Holder 

Watlow Cooper Bussmann® Ferraz Shawmut 

Fuse 17-8025 FWC25A10F L330014 

Holder 17-5110 B24202 G81219 

Sords Electric sells Watlow Power Controls. A power Control is a large switch, meaning in possible amperage capacity and even in physical size.  An SCR power control can switch voltage up to single cycle of the AC voltage sine wave.

Watlow solid state power controllers complement the rapid switching required by PID temperature controls and help deliver optimum system performance and service life. Available in 1-phase and 3-phase/2-leg and 3-leg configuration, Watlow power controllers meet most industrial heating applications. Random, zero cross or phase angle fire options allow for a variety of applications.

DIN-A-MITE^® SCR

The DIN-A-MITE family is the ideal solid state replacement for mercury displacement relays (MDRs) in an easy-to-install, compact, touch-safe package. The solid state power controllers provides SCR control, heatsink, wiring and touch-safe exterior in one package. By designing the DIN-A-MITE as a total power controller unit, the need to prep wires for terminals, locate the right heatsink and determine adequate terminations is eliminated. It's a complete package you can install easily with CONTROL CONFIDENCE^®.

Four DIN-A-MITE styles meet most power controller needs with ratings from 18 to 100 amps with voltages from 24 to 600V~(ac). The four models match load requirements with 1-phase, 3-phase/2-leg and 3-phase/3-leg switching. The controllers also provide a convenient DIN-rail and sub-panel mount package.

Controllers	Amps	Configurations	Firing Options
DIN-A-MITE A	Up to 25 amps	Single-Phase	Contactor or Burst Fire
DIN-A-MITE B	Up to 40 amps	Single- & Three-Phase	Contactor or Burst Fire
DIN-A-MITE C	Up to 80 amps	Single- & Three-Phase	Contactor, Bust, Phase
DIN-A-MITE D	Up to 100 amps	Single-Phase	Contactor or Burst Fire

Applications

• Semiconductor processing
• Plastics processing
• Heat treating
• Drying ovens
• Foodservice equipment
• Petroleum/chemical
• Lighting equipment
• Glass processing
• Furnace/oven

POWER SERIES Microprocessor-based SCR

• Ratings from 65 to 250 amperes
• Offers extensive system and heater diagnostics features and agency approvals

For over thirty years Watlow^® has been manufacturing solid state power controllers. Watlow's new POWER SERIES represents the latest in SCR power controller technology. This microprocessor-based product offers features and application flexibility unmatched by any other SCR power controller on the market today.

Capabilities include single-phase and three-phase models from 65 to 250 amps. Field configurable phase angle or zero-cross firing improves application flexibility on site where you need it. 50/60Hz independent operation means you can operate almost everywhere in the world without special calibration considerations. Serial communications utilizing Modbus^® protocol allow for remote control setup, and monitoring of load status from a nearby computer station or control room.

On-board semiconductor fusing improves reliability by protecting the SCRs from heater short circuits. Plus, on-board heater bakeout and control diagnostics can help eliminate initial start up problems. All this in a touch-safe package that can be quickly and easily mounted in your control cabinet.

Features	Benefits
Microprocessor-based technology	Extremely versatile, field configurable
Snap-fit on a pre-mounted plate	Easy installation
Models 65 through 250 amp ratings	Handles a wide range of loads
Adjustable soft start	Application flexibility
Heater and control diagnostics capabilities	Monitor actual heater and control performance
Electrically touch-safe package	Increased safety for installer and users
Serial communications with Modbus® RTU protocol	Computer control and/or monitoring
Multi-zone capability	Increased application flexibility, reduced panel space

Applications

• Semiconductor processing
• Plastics processing
• Heat treating
• Drying ovens
• Food processing
• Petroleum/chemical
• Lighting equipment
• Furnace/oven

SERIES CZR

• CSA, VDE and UL® recognized contactor
• Ratings from 18 to 50 amperes single phase
• Single solid state relays from 10 to 75 amperes

The new SERIES CZR solid state contactor from Watlow^®provides a low-cost, highly compact and versatile solid state option for controlling electric heat. With DIN-rail and back panel mounting standard on every controllers, the CZR allows for simple and quick installation.

The extensive capabilities of the SERIES CZR include single-phase, 24 to 50 amp zero-cross and random switching up to 600V~ (see output rating curve). The unique integrated design removes the guesswork associated with selecting a proper heat sink and precise terminations for the application.

This controller holds many agency approvals and is ideal for applications that require UL^®, CSA and CE approvals. SERIES CZR contactors are available inV (ac/dc) input contactor versions. All configurations are model number dependent and factory selectable.

The SERIES CZR is reliably backed by a two-year warranty from Watlow.

Features	Benefits
DIN-rail or standard panel mount	Versatile, quick and low-cost installation
Compact size	Reduces panel space; less cost
Touch-safe terminals	Increases safety for installer and operator
Mercury free	Environmentally safe
Faster switching with solid state	Saves energy and extends heater life
UL® 508 recognized, CSA LR700195 certified and CE 60950, VDE 0805 applied for	Applications requiring agency approval
Back-to-back SCR design	Rugged design

Applications

• Semiconductor processing
• Plastics processing
• Heat treating
• Drying ovens
• Food processing
• Petroleum/chemical
• Lighting equipment
• Furnace/oven

When it comes to power control, Watlow can provide the right controller built with quality in the USA.

Sords Electric

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