SECTION 263600: TRANSFER SWITCHES

PART 1 - GENERAL

1.1 RELATED DOCUMENTS

A. Drawings and general provisions of the Contract, including General and Supplementary
Conditions and Division 01 Specification Sections, apply to this Section.

1.2 SUMMARY

A. This Section includes transfer switches rated 600 V and less, including the following:

1. Automatic transfer switches.

2. Bypass/isolation switches.
3. Nonautomatic transfer switches.
4. Remote annunciation systems.

B. Related Sections include the following: (In case the fire pumps controllers are not supplied with
integrated automatic transfer switch).

1. Division 21 Section "Electric-Drive, Centrifugal Fire Pumps" for automatic transfer

switches for fire pumps.
2. Division 21 Section "Electric-Drive, Vertical-Turbine Fire Pumps" for automatic transfer
switches for fire pumps.

1.3 SUBMITTALS

A. Product Data: For each type of product indicated. Include rated capacities, weights, operating
characteristics, furnished specialties, and accessories.

B. Shop Drawings: Dimensioned plans, elevations, sections, and details showing minimum
clearances, conductor entry provisions, gutter space, installed features and devices, and material
lists for each switch specified.

1. Single-Line Diagram: Show connections between transfer switch, bypass/isolation

switch, power sources, and load; and show interlocking provisions for each combined
transfer switch and bypass/isolation switch.

C. Manufacturer Seismic Qualification Certification: Submit certification that transfer switches

accessories, and components will withstand seismic forces defined in Division 26 Section
"Vibration and Seismic Controls for Electrical Systems." Include the following:

1. Basis for Certification: Indicate whether withstand certification is based on actual test of
assembled components or on calculation.
 a. The term "withstand" means "the unit will remain in place without separation of
any parts from the device when subjected to the seismic forces specified and the
unit will be fully operational after the seismic event."

2. Dimensioned Outline Drawings of Equipment Unit: Identify center of gravity and locate
and describe mounting and anchorage provisions.
3. Detailed description of equipment anchorage devices on which the certification is based
and their installation requirements.

D. Qualification Data: For qualified transfer switches installer engaged with similar installation for
minimum 5 years documented experience.

E. Field quality-control test reports.

F. Operation and Maintenance Data: For each type of product to include in emergency, operation,
and maintenance manuals. In addition to items specified in Division 01 Section "Operation and
Maintenance Data," include the following:

1. Features and operating sequences, both automatic and manual.

2. List of all factory settings of relays; provide relay-setting and calibration instructions,
including software, where applicable.

1.4 QUALITY ASSURANCE

A. Source Limitations: Obtain automatic transfer switches and control panels through one source
from a single manufacturer.

B. Comply with European Norms.

C. Comply with EN 60947-4-1classification C 63-110

D. Comply with IEC 60947-6-1 and bear the CE mark.

1.5 COORDINATION

A. Coordinate size and location of the ATSs in the Main Distribution Boards.

PART 2 - PRODUCTS

2.1 MANUFACTURERS

A. Available Manufacturers: Subject to compliance with requirements, manufacturers offering

products that may be incorporated into the Work include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Shneider Electric (France)
 2. Emerson; ASCO Power Technologies, LP.
3. Moeller
Or approved equal in quality and origin.

2.2 GENERAL TRANSFER-SWITCH PRODUCT REQUIREMENTS

A. Indicated Current Ratings: Apply as for continuous loading and total system transfer, including
tungsten filament lamp loads not exceeding 30 percent of switch ampere rating, unless
otherwise indicated.

B. Tested Fault-Current Closing and Withstand Ratings: Adequate for duty imposed by protective
devices at installation locations in Project under the fault conditions indicated.

1. Where transfer switch includes internal fault-current protection, rating of switch and trip
unit combination shall exceed indicated fault-current value at installation location.

C. Solid-State Controls: Repetitive accuracy of all settings shall be plus or minus 2 percent or
better over an operating temperature range of minus 20 to plus 70 deg C.

D. Resistance to Damage by Voltage Transients: Components shall meet or exceed voltage-surge

withstand capability requirements when tested according to EN. Components shall meet or
exceed voltage-impulse withstand test.

E. Electrical Operation: Accomplish by a nonfused, momentarily energized solenoid or electric-

motor-operated mechanism, mechanically and electrically interlocked in both directions.

F. Switch Characteristics: Designed for continuous-duty repetitive transfer of full-rated current

between active power sources.

1. Limitation: Switches using molded-case switches or circuit breakers or insulated-case

circuit-breaker components are not acceptable.
2. Switch Action: Double throw; mechanically held in both directions.
3. Contacts: Silver composition or silver alloy for load-current switching. Conventional
automatic transfer-switch units, rated 225 A and higher, shall have separate arcing
contacts.

G. Neutral Switching. Where four-pole switches are indicated, provide neutral pole switched
simultaneously with phase poles.

H. Neutral Terminal: Solid and fully rated, unless otherwise indicated.

I. Oversize Neutral: Ampacity and switch rating of neutral path through units indicated for
oversize neutral shall be double the nominal rating of circuit in which switch is installed.

J. Annunciation, Control, and Programming Interface Components: Devices at transfer switches

for communicating with remote programming devices, annunciators, or annunciator and control
panels shall have communication capability matched with remote device.

K. Factory Wiring: Train and bundle factory wiring and label, consistent with Shop Drawings,
either by color-code or by numbered or lettered wire and cable tape markers at terminations.
 Color-coding and wire and cable tape markers are specified in Division 26 Section
"Identification for Electrical Systems."

1. Designated Terminals: Pressure type, suitable for types and sizes of field wiring
indicated.
2. Power-Terminal Arrangement and Field-Wiring Space: Suitable for top, side, or bottom
entrance of feeder conductors as indicated.
3. Control Wiring: Equipped with lugs suitable for connection to terminal strips.

L. Transfer switches shall include all necessary contacts for BMS connection (if required).

2.3 AUTOMATIC TRANSFER SWITCHES

A. The automatic load transfer equipment shall be an integral part of the main voltage switchboard,
designed to comply with the following criteria:

1. Monitor voltage of normal power supply.

2. Initiate cranking of the generator on failure of normal power.

3. Transfer load from normal supply to generator when it reaches its rated speed, voltage
and frequency.

4. Re-transfer load from generator to normal power supply when normal power is restored.

5. Shut down generator unit.

6. Co-ordinate with generator supplier to ensure compatibility for control operation.

B. Switching Arrangement: Double-throw type, incapable of pauses or intermediate position stops

during normal functioning, unless otherwise indicated.

C. Manual Switch Operation: Unloaded. Control circuit automatically disconnects from electrical
operator during manual operation.

D. Signal-Before-Transfer Contacts: A set of normally open/normally closed dry contacts operates

in advance of retransfer to normal source. Interval is adjustable from 1 to 30 seconds.

E. Automatic Closed-Transition Transfer Switches: Include the following functions and

characteristics:

1. Fully automatic make-before-break operation.

2. Load transfer without interruption, through momentary interconnection of both power
sources not exceeding 100 ms.
3. Initiation of No-Interruption Transfer: Controlled by in-phase monitor and sensors
confirming both sources are present and acceptable.

a. Initiation occurs without active control of generator.

b. Controls ensure that closed-transition load transfer closure occurs only when the 2
sources are within plus or minus 5 electrical degrees maximum, and plus or minus
5 percent maximum voltage difference.
 4. Failure of power source serving load initiates automatic break-before-make transfer.

F. Automatic Transfer-Switch Features:

1. Undervoltage Sensing for Each Phase of Normal Source: Sense low phase-to-ground
voltage on each phase. Pickup voltage shall be adjustable from 85 to 100 percent of
nominal, and dropout voltage is adjustable from 75 to 98 percent of pickup value.
Factory set for pickup at 90 percent and dropout at 85 percent.
2. Adjustable Time Delay: For override of normal-source voltage sensing to delay transfer
and engine start signals. Adjustable from zero to six seconds, and factory set for one
second.
3. Voltage/Frequency Lockout Relay: Prevent premature transfer to generator. Pickup
voltage shall be adjustable from 85 to 100 percent of nominal. Factory set for pickup at
90 percent. Pickup frequency shall be adjustable from 90 to 100 percent of nominal.
Factory set for pickup at 95 percent.
4. Time Delay for Retransfer to Normal Source: Adjustable from 0 to 30 minutes, and
factory set for 10 minutes to automatically defeat delay on loss of voltage or sustained
undervoltage of emergency source, provided normal supply has been restored.
5. Test Switch: Simulate normal-source failure.
6. Switch-Position Pilot Lights: Indicate source to which load is connected.
7. Source-Available Indicating Lights: Supervise sources via transfer-switch normal- and
emergency-source sensing circuits.

a. Normal Power Supervision: Green light with nameplate engraved "Normal Source
Available."
b. Emergency Power Supervision: Red light with nameplate engraved "Emergency
Source Available."

8. Unassigned Auxiliary Contacts: Two normally open, single-pole, double-throw contacts

for each switch position, rated 10 A at 220-V ac.
9. Transfer Override Switch: Overrides automatic retransfer control so automatic transfer
switch will remain connected to emergency power source regardless of condition of
normal source. Pilot light indicates override status.
10. All control gear shall be calibrated for operating conditions in a 50°C ambient
temperature.
11. Engine Starting Contacts: One isolated and normally closed, and one isolated and
normally open; rated 10 A at 32-V dc minimum.
12. Engine Shutdown Contacts: Time delay adjustable from zero to five minutes, and factory
set for five minutes. Contacts shall initiate shutdown at remote engine-generator controls
after retransfer of load to normal source.
13. Engine-Generator Exerciser: Solid-state, programmable-time switch starts engine
generator and transfers load to it from normal source for a preset time, then retransfers
and shuts down engine after a preset cool-down period. Initiates exercise cycle at preset
intervals adjustable from 7 to 30 days. Running periods are adjustable from 10 to 30
minutes. Factory settings are for 7-day exercise cycle, 20-minute running period, and 5-
minute cool-down period. Exerciser features include the following:

a. Exerciser Transfer Selector Switch: Permits selection of exercise with and without
load transfer.
b. Push-button programming control with digital display of settings.
 c. Integral battery operation of time switch when normal control power is not
available.

2.4 BYPASS/ISOLATION SWITCHES

A. Description: Manual type, arranged to select and connect either source of power directly to
load, isolating transfer switch from load and from both power sources. Include the following
features for each combined automatic transfer switch and bypass/isolation switch:

1. Means to lock bypass/isolation switch in the position that isolates transfer switch with an
arrangement that permits complete electrical testing of transfer switch while isolated.
While isolated, interlocks prevent transfer-switch operation, except for testing or
maintenance.
2. Drawout Arrangement for Transfer Switch: Provide physical separation from live parts
and accessibility for testing and maintenance operations.
3. Bypass/Isolation Switch Current, Voltage, Closing, and Short-Circuit Withstand Ratings:
Equal to or greater than those of associated automatic transfer switch, and with same
phase arrangement and number of poles.
4. Contact temperatures of bypass/isolation switches shall not exceed those of automatic
transfer-switch contacts when they are carrying rated load.
5. Operability: Constructed so load bypass and transfer-switch isolation can be performed
by 1 person in no more than 2 operations in 15 seconds or less.
6. Legend: Manufacturer's standard legend for control labels and instruction signs shall
describe operating instructions.
7. Maintainability: Fabricate to allow convenient removal of major components from front
without removing other parts or main power conductors.

B. Interconnection of Bypass/Isolation Switches with Automatic Transfer Switches: Factory-

installed copper bus bars; plated at connection points and braced for the indicated available
short-circuit current.

2.5 NONAUTOMATIC TRANSFER SWITCHES

A. Operation: Electrically actuated by push buttons designated "Normal Source" and "Alternate
Source." In addition, removable manual handle provides quick-make, quick-break manual-
switching action. Switch shall be capable of electrically or manually transferring load in either
direction with either or both sources energized. Control circuit disconnects from electrical
operator during manual operation.

B. Double-Throw Switching Arrangement: Incapable of pauses or intermediate position stops

during switching sequence.

C. Nonautomatic Transfer-Switch Accessories:

1. Pilot Lights: Indicate source to which load is connected.

2. Source-Available Indicating Lights: Supervise sources via transfer-switch normal- and
alternate-source sensing circuits.

a. Normal Power Supervision: Green light with nameplate engraved "Normal Source
Available."
 b. Emergency Power Supervision: Red light with nameplate engraved "Alternate
Source Available."

3. Unassigned Auxiliary Contacts: One set of normally closed contacts for each switch
position, rated 10 A at 240-V ac.

2.6 REMOTE ANNUNCIATOR AND CONTROL SYSTEM (IF required)

A. Functional Description: Include the following functions for indicated transfer switches.
Annunciation shall include the following:

1. Indication of sources available, as defined by actual pickup and dropout settings of

transfer-switch controls.
2. Indication of switch position.
3. Indication of switch in test mode.
4. Indication of failure of digital communication link.
5. Key-switch or user-code access to control functions of panel.
6. Control of switch-test initiation.
7. Control of switch operation in either direction.
8. Control of time-delay bypass for transfer to normal source.

B. Malfunction of annunciator, annunciation and control panel, or communication link shall not
affect functions of automatic transfer switch. In the event of failure of communication link,
automatic transfer switch automatically reverts to stand-alone, self-contained operation.
Automatic transfer-switch sensing, controlling, or operating function shall not depend on
remote panel for proper operation.

C. Remote Annunciation and Control Panel: Solid-state components. Include the following
features:

1. Controls and indicating lights grouped together for each transfer switch.
2. Label each indicating light control group. Indicate transfer switch it controls, location of
switch, and load it serves.
3. Digital Communication Capability: Matched to that of transfer switches supervised.
4. Mounting: Flush, modular, steel cabinet, unless otherwise indicated.

2.7 SOURCE QUALITY CONTROL

A. Factory test and inspect components, assembled switches, and associated equipment. Ensure
proper operation. Check transfer time and voltage, frequency, and time-delay settings for
compliance with specified requirements. Perform dielectric strength test.
PART 3 - EXECUTION

3.1 INSTALLATION

A. Design each fastener and support to carry load indicated by seismic requirements and according
to seismic-restraint details. See Division 26 Section "Vibration and Seismic Controls for
Electrical Systems."

B. Mounting inside panel.

C. Annunciator and Control Panel Mounting: Flush in wall, unless otherwise indicated.

D. Identify components according to Division 26 Section "Identification for Electrical Systems."

E. Set field-adjustable intervals and delays, relays, and engine exerciser clock.

3.2 CONNECTIONS

A. Wiring to Remote Components: Match type and number of cables and conductors to control
and communication requirements of transfer switches as recommended by manufacturer.
Increase raceway sizes at no additional cost to Owner if necessary to accommodate required
wiring.

B. Ground equipment according to Division 26 Section "Grounding and Bonding for Electrical
Systems."

C. Connect wiring according to Division 26 Section "Low-Voltage Electrical Power Conductors

and Cables."

3.3 FIELD QUALITY CONTROL

A. Manufacturer's Field Service: Engage a factory-authorized service representative to inspect,

test, and adjust components, assemblies, and equipment installations, including connections.
Report results in writing.

B. Perform tests and inspections and prepare test reports.

1. Manufacturer's Field Service: Engage a factory-authorized service representative to

inspect components, assemblies, and equipment installation, including connections, and
to assist in testing.
2. After installing equipment and after electrical circuitry has been energized, test for
compliance with requirements.
3. Perform each visual and mechanical inspection and electrical test stated in the
Acceptance Testing Specification. Certify compliance with test parameters.
4. Measure insulation resistance phase-to-phase and phase-to-ground with insulation-
resistance tester. Include external annunciation and control circuits. Use test voltages
and procedure recommended by manufacturer. Comply with manufacturer's specified
minimum resistance.
 a. Check for electrical continuity of circuits and for short circuits.
b. Inspect for physical damage, proper installation and connection, and integrity of
barriers, covers, and safety features.
c. Verify that manual transfer warnings are properly placed.
d. Perform manual transfer operation.

5. After energizing circuits, demonstrate interlocking sequence and operational function for
each switch at least three times.

a. Simulate power failures of normal source to automatic transfer switches and of

emergency source with normal source available.
b. Simulate loss of phase-to-ground voltage for each phase of normal source.
c. Verify time-delay settings.
d. Verify pickup and dropout voltages by data readout or inspection of control
settings.
e. Test bypass/isolation unit functional modes and related automatic transfer-switch
operations.
f. Verify proper sequence and correct timing of automatic engine starting, transfer
time delay, retransfer time delay on restoration of normal power, and engine cool-
down and shutdown.

6. Ground-Fault Tests: Coordinate with testing of ground-fault protective devices for power
delivery from both sources.

a. Verify grounding connections and locations and ratings of sensors.

C. Coordinate tests with tests of generator and run them concurrently.

D. Report results of tests and inspections in writing. Record adjustable relay settings and measured
insulation and contact resistances and time delays. Attach a label or tag to each tested
component indicating satisfactory completion of tests.

E. Remove and replace malfunctioning units and retest as specified above.

F. Infrared Scanning: After Substantial Completion, but not more than 60 days after Final
Acceptance, perform an infrared scan of each switch. Remove all access panels so joints and
connections are accessible to portable scanner.

1. Follow-up Infrared Scanning: Perform an additional follow-up infrared scan of each

switch 11 months after date of Substantial Completion.
2. Instrument: Use an infrared scanning device designed to measure temperature or to
detect significant deviations from normal values. Provide calibration record for device.
3. Record of Infrared Scanning: Prepare a certified report that identifies switches checked
and that describes scanning results. Include notation of deficiencies detected, remedial
action taken and observations after remedial action.
3.4 DEMONSTRATION

A. Engage a factory-authorized service representative to train Owner's maintenance personnel to

adjust, operate, and maintain transfer switches and related equipment as specified below. Refer
to Division 01 Section "Demonstration and Training."

B. Coordinate this training with that for generator equipment.

END OF SECTION 263600