Defining Swell/Over-voltage

Swell

A swell is the reverse form of a Sag, having an increase in AC Voltage for a duration of 0.5 cycles to 1 minute's time.  For swells, high-impedance neutral connections, sudden large load reductions, and a single-phase fault on a three phase system are common sources.

Swells can cause data errors, light flickering, electrical contact degradation, and semiconductor damage in electronics causing hard server failures.  Our power conditioners and UPS Solutions are common solutions for swells. 

It is important to note that, much like sags, swells may not be apparent until results are seen.  Having your power quality devices monitoring and logging your incoming power will help measure these events.

Over-voltage

Over-voltages can be the result of long-term problems that create swells.  Think of an overvoltage as an extended swell.  Over-voltages are also common in areas where supply transformer tap settings are set incorrectly and loads have been reduced.  Over-voltage conditions can create high current draw and cause unnecessary tripping of downstream circuit breakers, as well as overheating and putting stress on equipment. 

Since an overvoltage is a constant swell, the same UPS and Power Conditioners will work for these.  Please note however that if the incoming power is constantly in an overvoltage condition, the utility power to your facility may need correction as well.  The same symptoms apply to the over-voltages and swells however since the overvoltage is more constant you should expect some excess heat.  This excess heat, especially in data center environments, must be monitored.

If you are experiencing any of these power quality problems we have solutions ranging from Power Conditioners / Voltage Regulators to traditional UPS Systems and Flywheel UPS Solutions.  Do not hesitate to call on us.

Power Solutions LLC, Barrington RI  800.876.9373