Automatic transfer switches (ATS) for poultry farms and hatcheries.
The Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) is the single component that decides whether tunnel fans keep running when the grid fails. This guide covers ATS ratings, transfer types, transfer time and integration with generator, UPS and hybrid controllers.
Open-transition vs closed-transition
Open-transition ATS is the default on poultry farms: it disconnects from grid, then connects to genset — with a short break (typically < 100 ms once the genset is online). Closed-transition (make-before-break) needs the genset synchronised to the grid — used only on very-large hatcheries or complexes that cannot tolerate any interruption on scheduled tests.
Sizing and ampacity
ATS ampacity is sized to the full farm running load with a 25% margin for motor inrush, rounded up to the next standard frame (100, 160, 250, 400, 630, 800, 1000, 1250, 1600, 2000, 2500, 3200 A). Undersizing an ATS is a common site failure; over-sizing is cheap insurance.
Transfer time and load pickup
Modern ATS transfers within seconds of grid loss (typically < 10 s from event to load pickup on the genset). Faster transfer is achieved by combining ATS with UPS on the critical portion of the load. HatchMatch specifies the sequence so the two never fight each other.
Interlocks, controls and remote
The ATS panel must include mechanical + electrical interlocks (source-to-source), programmable transfer delays (return-to-grid delay of 3–15 minutes to avoid grid flicker chatter), and remote alarms so a farm manager sees a transfer event before the birds do.
Typical specification
Order-of-magnitude reference values — every RFQ is scoped to the site's single-line diagram.
| Parameter | Typical | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 100 A – 3,200 A | 3-phase; standard frames |
| Transfer type | Open-transition (default) | Closed-transition on request |
| Transfer time | < 10 s to genset load | Faster with UPS on critical |
| Return-to-grid delay | 3–15 min | Prevents chatter |
| Voltage class | 400 / 415 / 480 V | MV variants for large complexes |
| IP rating | IP54 outdoor | IP41 indoor panels |
FAQ
What happens if my farm has no ATS?＋
The generator does not start automatically. Someone has to walk to the panel, throw a manual changeover, and start the genset by hand. In tropical climates that window — often 5–15 minutes — drives the summer mortality curve. ATS is not optional on a commercial poultry farm.
Open-transition or closed-transition?＋
Open-transition is the correct default. Closed-transition is only justified on very-large hatcheries or complexes that need to run scheduled genset tests without any interruption to setters or hatchers.
How is ATS ampacity chosen?＋
By full running load + 25% motor-inrush margin, rounded up to the next standard frame. HatchMatch sizes the ATS from the same single-line diagram used for the genset.
Does HatchMatch install this system?＋
No. HatchMatch is a vendor-neutral sourcing hub. We route your RFQ to vetted suppliers, help you compare bids on capacity, warranties, service coverage and integration with poultry loads, and hand installation to the supplier or a local EPC.
Is financing available?＋
Financing, when relevant, is arranged through independent third-party partners, subject to their own approval. HatchMatch is a sourcing hub; we do not lend.
How fast will I receive quotes?＋
Formal supplier quotes typically arrive within 2 business days of a complete RFQ for standard scopes, and 5–10 business days for integrated hybrid packages.
Related energy resources
All seven scopes for poultry sites.
Pre-filled RFQ for generators, UPS, ATS, hybrid.
Vetted gensets, UPS, ATS, battery, monitoring.
kVA + battery kWh + ATS ampacity + UPS.
PV + battery + genset hybrids.
Lower kWh/kg live weight — design guide.
Financing, when relevant, is provided by independent third-party partners, subject to approval.