What is the difference between single-phase and 3-phase UPSs?

With three times the power of a single-phase Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), 3-phase UPS is the most efficient way to deliver power to data centers or industrial applications for load levels typically higher than 10-20 kW. With its additional load-balancing capabilities, 3-phase UPS also helps to optimize the utilization of available building power by distributing the load equally on all three AC phases.

3-phase electric power is the most common type of electricity generation and distribution for higher power capacity. Compared with single-phase distribution, 3-phase power distribution uses smaller cables, with less electrical losses, to supply the same amount of power.

A 3-phase UPS is used in a 3-phase power distribution system. It can be connected by either 3 wires (3 phases) or 4 wires (3 phases + neutral) and the configuration is determined by the type of electrical equipment, earthing system, and local electrical code.

A single-phase UPS only connects with one of the three phases, and only supports single-phase voltages like 120V and 230V. It is typically used for load requirements below 10-20 kW.

Discover more on our 3-phase UPS product page and eConversion solution page .

Released for:Schneider Electric South Africa