ABB recently unveiled what it says is the only medium-voltage (MV) uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for data centers and other mission-critical facilities that interacts easily with the grid and renewable technologies.
The new “HiPerGuard” technology also delivers a market-leading 98% efficiency at voltages up to 24 kilovolts (kV), ABB stated. The company pointed out that 98% efficiency equates to a potential 1,245-ton carbon emission reduction over a typical 15-year lifespan. The efficiency rate – rounded up from a 97.5% average – assumes running 25% of the time at 25% load, 50% of the time at 50% load, 25% of the time at 75% load, and no time at 100%, the firm explained.
“With data center downtime estimated to cost between $100,000 and 1 million USD dollars per year, there is an increasing call for clean, continuous, energy efficient, and reliable power that minimizes major losses,” remarked Dave Sterlace, head of technology for ABB Global Data Center Solutions. “In response, we are proud to innovate UPS technology to provide the right quality of power which eliminates interruptions to prevent significant performance and financial losses. At the same time, as part of ABB’s 2030 Sustainability Strategy commitments, HiPerGuard helps to reduce harmful CO2 emissions by increasing efficiency compared to traditional rotary systems.”
The MV technology offers the benefits of a classic dynamic rotary UPS – low total cost of ownership, high performance, and resilience against major grid events – as well as the flexibility and capabilities of a modern static converter system, according to ABB. The company noted the result is an MV UPS system with increased grid support capabilities, including UPS demand response, that minimizes downtime and power outages.
ABB also pointed out that HiPerGuard can integrate with a wide range of backup power systems including diesel generators, slow-paced gas generators, and turbines. Furthermore, it stated the MV UPS only requires intrusive maintenance in 10-year intervals.
