What Is Backup Power and Emergency Lighting Systems For Industrial Premises?
Every industrial building has backup power and an emergency lighting system. From generators to repairs, installations, and maintenance, these types of structures have various emergencies requiring different kinds of specialised equipment. In this blog post, we will be discussing 4 types: generator-powered, standby power systems, uninterruptible power supplies (UPSs), and backup batteries.
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Generators
Generators provide temporary power in case of an outage. They come in different types, including diesel, natural gas, propane or gasoline-powered types. You will need to install them near your building’s electrical service panel with provisions for fuel storage nearby.
Types Of Generators
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- Gasoline fueled generators require more maintenance than others due to their higher risk of fire and explosion during operation.
- Diesel-powered generators run quieter than other types, but they produce emissions, so caution must be taken when positioning them close to windows or doors where they could be vented into occupied spaces.
- Propane-powered generators are a good choice for indoor positioning. They do not produce toxic exhaust or refuelling, which is safer and easier than filling up with gasoline. They have the added benefit of being quieter than other types, so you can position them indoors near windows if necessary but still require a fuel source.
- Natural gas types require less maintenance than other types. Still, you must have a natural gas line installed to use them, which may not be an option depending on the location of your building and where utilities are located.
Generators powered by gasoline or diesel fuel can provide temporary power during blackouts or brownouts for up to 14 hours at a time.
Natural gas types can run for slightly longer, around 20 hours at a stretch, if you have an extensive fuel supply on hand.
Propane types are the longest-running backup power sources available. They can provide temporary power for up to 96 hours before needing refuelling or maintenance work done. To make sure generators continue to deliver power in a severe blackout, a generator technician must maintain and test them regularly.
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Standby power system
A standby power system is the only option available for providing emergency power for equipment like refrigerators, generators, UPS systems and lighting. Standby power is typically more expensive than other types of temporary power systems; however, it does offer benefits not offered by other types of systems.
For example, standby power can be rolled out quickly to provide power when brownouts or blackouts occur. Standby power also provides a level of protection against surges or fluctuations in the supply voltage.
In the event of a power loss, it is good to have a standby power system. Close supervision and maintenance of these systems are required to ensure they are always available.
Generators should be checked regularly for any signs of wear and tear or lack of proper functioning. If there is a need for repairs, that need should be taken care of as soon as possible. Installations and maintenance should also be done regularly to maintain the integrity and functionality of the system.
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Types of Uninterruptible power supplies (UPSs)
There are 3 types of UPSs. A standard UPS will provide power to the load for a limited time until the battery is exhausted. The standby line-interactive UPS provides power to both the load and to the utility when it becomes available.
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- Some types of UPSs are mobile, meaning they can be moved from one location to another to keep them working in areas with no power supply.
- Some UPSs include surge protection, which will protect connected equipment against surges and spikes in current.
Other Types of emergency power and lighting include:
- Types of inverters and batteries for an off the grid system such as a remote island or campsite where power is needed but cannot be sourced from public utilities. They can also function well in areas that experience frequent blackouts due to storms or other reasons beyond human control.
- Types of rechargeable batteries used for flashlights and other small appliances in areas where power may not be readily available. They can also serve as a backup if the main generator fails to function correctly, so it is vital to have some on hand at all times in case of an emergency or blackout. These types of batteries can also be used to power radios and other types of communication devices.
- Types of solar-powered lights are commonly seen in remote areas with no electricity or only a limited source that may not always function correctly due to weather conditions such as strong winds and storms. They come equipped with rechargeable batteries for any time use during emergencies.
- Types of self-powered devices that do not require any outside power source to function correctly. They can be used for small appliances such as fans, radios and light sources, among others. However, they are usually limited in functionality, so it is best to have multiple types on hand if one fails to work due to a lack of proper care and maintenance.
Types of Emergency Lighting in Industrial Buildings
Industrial buildings are not easy to find emergency lights that are ideally suited for them. Different types of emergency lights can be used in industrial buildings. One type is the LED emergency light. These types of emergency lights are the best types because they provide a lot of light and can last for a long time. The types of emergency lights used in industrial buildings are battery-powered or types with solar cells. The other types are high-intensity discharge types, metal halide types, sodium types, HID types, and fluorescent types.
- Exit lights
Exit lights are installed in buildings to indicate exits and allow for evacuation during an emergency.
- Batten Lights
To provide high visibility across large areas, batten lights are often used in places like car parks or fire stairs.
- Oyster Lights
Oyster lights are often used in areas where high levels of illumination are needed aesthetically.
- Spotfire Lights
Spotfire’s are small in size and can be used where aesthetics are essential.
An industrial electrician can help with installing, maintaining and repairing any of these systems to help reduce downtime and maintain a reliable lighting and electrical backup system to cope with electrical disruptions in the workplace.
Our industrial electricians Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, are here 24/7 after hours for emergencies.
Electrical Contractors in SE Queensland
Electrical contractors in Queensland offer a comprehensive range of services across residential, commercial, and industrial properties. From Electrical Safety and Compliance to Electrical Wiring for New Homes, they cater to various needs, ensuring that all properties are safely and efficiently powered.
Residential Electrical Services
- Electrical Installations
- Lighting, power points, ceiling fans, exhaust fans, and appliances.
- Home Automation
- Smart home systems, lighting control, security systems, and Home Theatre Installation & Setup.
- Switchboard Upgrades
- Replacing old fuse boxes with modern switchboards featuring safety switches.
- Rewiring
- Full or partial rewiring of homes, especially older properties.
- Electrical Inspections
- Safety checks, compliance inspections, and pre-purchase inspections.
- Surge Protection
- Installation of surge protectors to safeguard electronic devices.
- Smoke Alarm Installation, Testing & Inspections
- Compliance with Queensland legislation requiring interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms.
- Outdoor Lighting
- Garden lighting, pool lighting, and security lighting.
- Energy Efficiency Solutions
- LED lighting upgrades, solar panel installations, and energy audits.
- Fault Finding and Repairs
- Diagnosing and repairing electrical issues.
- Renovations and Extensions
- Electrical work for home renovations and extensions.
Commercial Electrical Services
- Commercial Lighting
- Installation of interior and exterior lighting, including LED lighting and emergency lighting.
- Data and Communications
- Cabling for internet, phone systems, and data networks.
- Electrical Fit-outs
- Electrical work for new offices, retail spaces, and other commercial properties.
- Power Distribution
- Installation and maintenance of electrical panels, transformers, and power distribution systems.
- Security Systems Wiring Installation
- CCTV, access control, and alarm systems.
- Electrical Maintenance
- Regular maintenance and testing of electrical systems.
- Energy Management Systems
- Installation and monitoring of systems to reduce energy consumption.
- Testing and Tagging
- Compliance testing and tagging of electrical equipment.
- UPS Systems
- Installation and maintenance of uninterruptible power supply systems.
- HVAC Systems
- Electrical wiring for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Industrial Electrical Services
- Industrial Automation
- PLC programming, automation systems, and control panel installations.
- High Voltage Installations
- Installation and maintenance of high voltage systems and equipment.
- Machine Installations
- Electrical wiring and setup of industrial machinery.
- Electrical Maintenance
- Preventive and reactive maintenance for industrial electrical systems.
- Power Factor Correction
- Installation of equipment to improve power factor and reduce energy costs.
- Electrical Upgrades
- Upgrading electrical systems and infrastructure in industrial facilities.
- Instrumentation and Control
- Installation and maintenance of instrumentation and control systems.
- Emergency Power Systems
- Installation and maintenance of backup generators and other solutions.
- Hazardous Area Electrical Work
- Electrical work in hazardous environments, including explosive atmospheres.
- Electrical Design and Engineering
- Custom electrical system design and engineering services.
Additional Services Across Sectors
- Electrical Cost for New Home Construction
- Electrical Contractors For Building Sites
- Electrical Wiring Services
- Electrical Repair & Fault Finding Services
- Electrical Contractors For Real Estate & Property Managers
- Electrical Preventative Maintenance For Commercial & Industrial Machinery
- Three-Phase Power Upgrades & Installation
- Hot Water System Installation & Repairs Services
- Emergency & Exit Light Testing Electrical Services
- Kitchen & Bathroom Renovations Electrical Services
- Exhaust Fans & Bathroom Heating Installation Services
- Air Conditioning Services
- Electrical Appliance Installation
- Electrical Renovations & Extensions
- Electrical Safety Test Inspection
- Test and Tag Services
- Lighting Installation
- Power Point Installation, Upgrades & Replacement
- Switchboard Upgrade & Replacement
- Commercial Electrician
- Industrial Electrician
- Residential Electrician
- Home Automation Installations & Repairs
These services ensure that all properties, from homes to large industrial complexes, receive the highest level of electrical safety, efficiency, and innovation.