An emergency generator set has a single purpose: to kick in when the grid fails. But for that to happen automatically—without anyone having to press a button—a component is needed to monitor the grid, detect the failure, and manage the load transfer. That component is the ATS panel — Automatic Transfer Switch.
What Is an ATS and How Does It Work?
The ATS panel continuously monitors the voltage of the electrical grid. When it detects a fault—such as a voltage drop, an outage, or a phase imbalance—it responds immediately and automatically:
- It sends the start signal to the generator set.
- Wait until the generator reaches its rated voltage and frequency.
- Transfer the load from the grid to the group.
- When the network recovers, it resends the payload and stops the group.
The entire process takes place without manual intervention. In critical facilities—hospitals, data centers, and industrial plants—the speed and reliability of this switching are what make the difference between a controlled shutdown and a chain reaction of failures.
The four types of components available
1. Complete ATS Panels — Socomec
The fastest option when you need a ready-to-install solution. The complete ATS panel already includes the motorized switch, power contacts, and wiring in an enclosure ready to be connected directly to the power grid and the generator set.
Available in a four-pole configuration (4 poles, three-phase with neutral) in the following amperages 40A, 63A, 100A and 160A. They are the natural choice for new installations or for replacing an existing panel without having to build one from scratch.
2. ATyS Motorized Switches — Socomec
The motorized switch is the heart of the ATS panel: the electromechanical mechanism that physically switches between the utility grid and the generator set. This option is chosen when a separate cabinet is already available or when the switching function is to be integrated into a larger electrical panel.
Socomec's ATyS line covers everything from small installations to large industrial loads: the series ATyS dM for intensities of 40A to 160A, and the series ATyS D for 250A, 400A, and 630A.
3. ATyS Power Bridges — Socomec
A component that complements the motorized switch. Power bridges are the contact blocks that complete the switch's power circuit, allowing current to flow between the power sources and the load.
These are replacement parts for ATyS switches that are already installed, or additional parts when building a panel from scratch. Available for the following current ratings: 40–125 A, 160 A, 250 A, 400A and 630A.
4. ABB Circuit Breakers
Circuit breakers are line protection devices: their function is not to automatically switch between power sources, but to protect the system against overloads and short circuits.
The range available at Sorilux is part of ABB's Tmax XT series and comes in three four-pole sizes: XT2N 160A, XT3N 250A y XT5N 630A.
A complete set or individual components?
The choice depends on the initial situation:
If you're starting from scratch And if you need an immediate solution for an installation of up to 160A, the complete Socomec ATS panel is the fastest option. It arrives fully assembled and just needs to be plugged in.
If you already have a closet If you need currents greater than 160 A (up to 630 A), the ATyS D circuit breakers with their corresponding power bridges are the solution. They require more installation work, but offer greater flexibility and a wider power range.
If your system already has an ATS panel And if you need to replace only the switch or the power contacts, ATyS jumpers and switches are available as direct replacements.
Do I also need an AMF control module?
The ATS panel manages the physical switching, but the signal that tells it when to start the generator set and when to switch back comes from the AMF control module (Automatic Mains Failure). If your group already has a DSE, ComAp, or SVE control unit with AMF functionality installed, the ATS panel works directly with that signal without the need for additional equipment.
If the unit does not have an AMF module or you need to replace it, Sorilux offers the complete line of Deep Sea Electronics control modules and other brands to complete the system.
How to Determine the Right ATS Size: What Intensity Do I Need?
| The current rating of the ATS panel must be equal to or greater than the maximum current that will flow through the protected installation. |
- Single-phase generator set, 15–20 kVA → 40 A may be sufficient
- Three-phase generator set, 30–50 kVA → 63 A to 100 A
- Three-phase generator set, 80–160 kVA → 160 A to 250 A
- Industrial facilities with higher power ratings → 400A or 630A
If you're unsure about the correct amperage for your installation, please email us with the generator's power rating and the specifications of the main distribution panel. We'll calculate it for you before you place your order.
Conclusion
The ATS panel is the component that turns a generator set into a true emergency power system. Without it, load transfer requires manual intervention—which, during a power outage, is exactly what you want to avoid.
Whether you need a panel that’s already assembled and ready to install or you’d prefer to build or repair your own panel, the range available at Sorilux covers ratings from 40A to 630A with genuine Socomec and ABB components.