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Three-Phase UPS Systems Explained

Blog 07/07/2025
LegrandData Center Grey SpaceUPS

Three-Phase UPS

Three-Phase UPS Systems Explained
Three-phase UPS systems deliver robust power protection for industrial applications and data centres requiring reliable electric power continuity. As essential equipment for mission-critical infrastructure, these conventional UPS solutions provide voltage regulation and runtime protection for demanding environments where uninterrupted operation is paramount.


Understanding Conventional Three-Phase UPS Technology


The term conventional describes a system composed of single subsystems (rectifier/battery charger, inverter, static bypass, etc.) with no inherent redundancy, also referred to as conventional stand-alone UPS. These three-phase UPS systems provide basic power protection for critical loads or serve as a "building block" in parallel or dual bus systems.


As conventional systems have a relatively simple topology (compared to a modular or scalable system), they offer an excellent budget solution with competitive regular price points for small and medium data centre applications. However, as they have a fixed rating - the availability of the protected load is strictly related to the UPS itself - they offer limited flexibility to adapt to changing power requirements.


Conventional three-phase UPS systems can be configured to operate in parallel (N+1) and/or dual-bus (N+N) applications to provide the ultimate system availability. In case one of the UPS fails, the other UPS system continues to run and protect the load. Please note that in parallel systems, each UPS should have the same power rating to ensure optimal performance.


Understanding Modular Scalable Three-Phase UPS Technology


A modular scalable UPS is designed around a flexible architecture composed of multiple independent power modules integrated into a single frame. Each module includes all core subsystems—rectifier, inverter, battery charger, and static bypass—allowing it to function autonomously or as part of a larger system. This modular design supports inherent redundancy and makes it possible to increase power capacity without interrupting the load.


One of the main advantages of this approach is scalability. Operators can start with only the power they need and scale up as requirements evolve, simply by adding new modules. This right-sizing approach helps optimize both capital expenditure and operational efficiency. Furthermore, the system's high availability is achieved through internal redundancy (N+1 or N+X), eliminating the need for external parallel configurations in many scenarios.


Modular UPS systems are also known for their ease of maintenance. Thanks to their hot-swappable design, modules can be replaced or added without shutting down the system, reducing the risk of downtime during service operations. The architecture also improves serviceability and diagnostics, contributing to lower total cost of ownership over the system’s lifecycle.


In terms of performance, modular UPS units are engineered for high power density and efficient load sharing, resulting in a reduced footprint and improved energy efficiency. This makes them an excellent choice for high-density IT environments, colocation facilities, and enterprise data centers where agility, uptime, and operational efficiency are non-negotiable.


Key Advantages of Three-Phase UPS Solutions

Three-phase UPS systems excel in industrial and commercial environments where robust power protection is essential. These systems offer several distinct advantages:

  • Higher Power Capacity: Three-phase UPS units typically handle larger kVA ratings, making them ideal for data centres, manufacturing facilities, and other high-power applications requiring substantial electric power protection.
  • Reduced Footprint: Despite their higher capacity, three-phase UPS systems often provide better power density, requiring less floor space per kVA compared to multiple single-phase units.
  • Enhanced Reliability: Three-phase configurations provide better load balancing and reduced neutral current, contributing to more stable operation and extended equipment runtime.
  • Cost Efficiency: For larger installations, three-phase UPS systems typically offer better value at regular price points compared to multiple smaller units.


Available Product Range


Keor HPE Conventional Three-Phase UPS

Keor HPE
Keor HPE UPS - the pinnacle of innovation and reliability. This three-phase uninterruptible power supply features On-line Double Conversion with 3-Level IGBT technology and PWM high frequency. Enjoy N+X redundancy with parallel connections of up to six units, delivering continuous, high-quality energy for critical loads in various applications.


The KEOR HPE provides expert-level power protection with advanced voltage regulation and comprehensive battery management for extended runtime capabilities. Its compact footprint design maximises space efficiency whilst delivering exceptional performance for industrial and data centre applications.


Keor FLEX High-Power Modular Three-Phase UPS

Keor FLEX
Keor FLEX is Legrand’s state-of-the-art modular three-phase UPS system, purpose-built for data centers requiring both high availability and scalable performance. 


Designed around true hot-swap architecture, it delivers up to 1.2 MW within a compact 2.8 m² footprint, and can scale up to 4.8 MW through parallel configurations. Each 100 kW power module is fully independent, enabling seamless expansion or replacement without interruption to operations. 


Leveraging Silicon Carbide (SiC) components, Keor FLEX achieves outstanding double-conversion efficiency of up to 98.4% and integrates predictive diagnostics to ensure maximum uptime and optimized maintenance planning. Its robust internal busbar design, total front access, and flexible electrical configurations—ranging from top/bottom cabling to busbar connections—make it adaptable to a wide range of installation environments. 


With compatibility for Li-Ion batteries, Smart Grid readiness, and a 10” intuitive touchscreen interface, Keor FLEX redefines reliability, efficiency, and space optimization for next-generation data center infrastructures.


Applications Across Industry Centres

Three-phase UPS systems serve diverse applications across multiple industry segments:

  • Data Centres: From small server rooms to large enterprise facilities, three-phase UPS equipment provides the reliable power protection essential for maintaining uptime and preventing data loss.
  • Industrial Manufacturing: Manufacturing centres rely on three-phase UPS protection to maintain production continuity and protect sensitive equipment from power disturbances.
  • Healthcare Facilities: Medical centres and hospitals depend on three-phase UPS systems to ensure critical equipment remains operational during power outages.
  • Telecommunications: Network operations centres use three-phase UPS systems to maintain communication services and prevent service disruptions.
  • Commercial Buildings: Office complexes implement three-phase UPS solutions to protect essential systems and maintain business operations.


Technical Specifications and Expert Guidance


Selecting the appropriate three-phase UPS system requires careful consideration of multiple factors including load requirements, runtime specifications, and future expansion plans. Expert technical consultation ensures optimal system sizing and configuration.


Key selection criteria include:
●    Total kVA capacity requirements and load characteristics
●    Required runtime during power outages
●    Environmental conditions and installation constraints
●    Redundancy requirements and availability targets
●    Integration with existing electric infrastructure


Modern three-phase UPS systems incorporate advanced technologies including digital signal processing, intelligent battery management, and comprehensive monitoring capabilities. These features enable predictive maintenance and optimise system performance.


System Integration and Professional Services


Legrand's comprehensive UPS solutions provide complete power protection ecosystems designed for seamless integration with existing infrastructure. Our technical support services ensure optimal system performance throughout the equipment lifecycle.


Professional services include:
●   System design and engineering consultation
●    Installation supervision and commissioning
●    Preventive maintenance programmes
●    Expert training and technical documentation

 

Advanced Features for Modern Applications


Contemporary three-phase UPS systems offer sophisticated features that enhance reliability and operational efficiency:

  • Intelligent Battery Management: Advanced charging algorithms and monitoring systems optimise battery performance and extend service life, reducing replacement costs and improving runtime reliability.
  • Voltage Regulation: Precise voltage control maintains stable power quality for sensitive electronic equipment, preventing damage from power fluctuations.
  • Network Connectivity: Built-in network interfaces enable remote monitoring, automated notifications, and integration with building management systems.
  • Energy Efficiency: High-efficiency designs reduce operating costs and environmental impact whilst maintaining superior power protection performance.
  • Modular Expansion: Modular UPS technologies for future capacity expansion without complete system replacement.


Sales and Support Excellence


Our dedicated sales team provides expert guidance throughout the selection and implementation process. From initial consultation to ongoing support, we ensure customers receive the optimal three-phase UPS solution for their specific requirements.


The selection process includes:
●    Detailed load analysis and capacity planning
●    Environmental assessment and installation requirements
●    Budget evaluation and financing options
●    Integration planning with existing systems
●    Training and support programme development


Compliance and Safety Standards


All three-phase UPS systems meet stringent industrial safety standards and regulatory requirements. With proper consent and installation procedures, these systems provide reliable power protection whilst maintaining full compliance with local electrical codes and safety regulations.


Safety features include:
●    Comprehensive protection against electrical faults
●    Emergency shutdown capabilities
●    Isolation switches for maintenance safety
●    Environmental monitoring and alerting
●    Compliance with international safety standards


Making the Right Investment Decision


Selecting the optimal three-phase UPS solution requires balancing performance requirements with budget considerations and long-term operational goals. Our expert team works closely with customers to identify the most suitable equipment configuration for their specific applications.


Contact us to discuss which UPS solution is right for your data centre.

 

Our Guide to Data Center Power Supply | What You Must Know

Blog 07/07/2025
LegrandData Center Grey SpaceUPS

Guide to Data Center Power Supply

Our Guide to Data Center Power Supply | What You Must Know

Power is everything in a data center. Without reliable electricity, your servers become expensive paperweights, your cooling systems fail, and your business stops.

Yet power infrastructure remains one of the most misunderstood aspects of data center design. This backwards approach costs the industry millions in downtime and inefficiency.

 

Why Data Center Power Demands Precision

Modern data centers consume enormous amounts of energy – hyperscale facilities require 20 to 100 megawatts or more. Today's IT equipment demands clean, stable power delivered at precise voltages. Server power supplies, whether bronze, platinum, or higher efficiency ratings, all depend on consistent electrical input.

The stakes are high. Downtime costs range from 137 pounds or euros per minute to over 1 million per hour for large enterprises. UPS failures remain the leading cause of these outages, making power infrastructure design critical for business continuity.
 


Essential Power Metrics Every Manager Should Track

Essential Power Metrics Every Manager Should Track
Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE)

PUE measures total facility power consumption against IT equipment power consumption. Industry leaders target 1.2 or lower – meaning for every watt your servers use, only 0.2 additional watts go to cooling, lighting, and other support systems. Achieving this requires careful attention to power supply efficiency and infrastructure design.

 
UPS and Efficiency Ratings

UPS carry efficiency ratings from standard bronze (80% efficiency) through platinum levels (over 90% efficiency). Higher efficiency reduces heat generation, cutting cooling costs. When designing systems, waste heat directly impacts cooling requirements and operating expenses.

 
Capacity Planning Requirements

Effective capacity planning means understanding both current draw and future growth. Calculate total power requirements across different server form factors, from traditional 1U systems to high-density blade configurations. Smart designers build in 20-30% additional capacity to avoid costly upgrades.
 


How Power Flows Through Your Data Center

How Power Flows Through Your Data center
AC Power Distribution

Most facilities use alternating current (ac) systems, receiving power from the utility grid at medium voltage. This ac power follows a specific path:

 

Utility Connection → MV Main Switchgear → Transformers → LV Switchgear → UPS Systems → Power Distribution Units →  PDUs → Server Racks

 

Power enters the data center through the utility connection and passes first through medium voltage switchgear for safe control. Transformers then step the voltage down to low voltage, which is distributed via the Low Voltage Main Switchboard. From there, distribution panels route power to UPS systems, which provide backup and clean electricity. Finally, Power Distribution Units (PDUs) deliver power to the server racks.

 
The Role of DC Power

Whilst ac dominates data center distribution, direct current (dc) plays crucial roles. UPS batteries store dc power for emergency backup. Modern server power supplies convert incoming ac to dc for processors and storage devices. Some facilities experiment with end-to-end dc distribution to eliminate conversion losses.

 
Modular Power Architectures

Modular power architectures offer significant advantages for growing facilities. Instead of installing oversized systems from day one, modular designs let you add capacity incrementally. This reduces initial costs while maintaining flexibility. A prime example of this approach is Legrand’s modular UPS systems, which scale seamlessly to match evolving power demands.
 


Critical Power Infrastructure Components

 

Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)

UPS systems form the backbone of data center power protection. These systems provide instant backup during utility outages whilst conditioning power to protect against voltage fluctuations and electrical noise. Modern UPS designs achieve 96% efficiency whilst delivering enterprise-grade reliability.

Three main UPS types serve different applications:

  • Standby UPS: Basic protection for smaller loads
  • Line-Interactive UPS: Mid-range protection with voltage regulation
  • Online Double-Conversion UPS: Highest protection level for critical systems
 
Power Distribution Units (PDUs)

PDUs distribute electricity from UPS systems to individual server racks. Basic PDUs provide simple power distribution, whilst intelligent models offer monitoring, remote switching, and environmental sensing. Advanced PDUs help prevent circuit overloads and enable precise power management at the rack level.

 

Backup Generators

When utility power fails for extended periods, backup generators maintain operations. Modern generator systems integrate seamlessly with UPS equipment, automatically starting when needed and synchronising with existing power infrastructure. Proper generator sizing ensures adequate capacity for both IT loads and essential facility systems.

 

Cables and Connectivity

Power cables and connectors are critical for reliable operation. High-quality cables reduce resistance losses and heat generation. Proper cable management prevents accidental disconnections and simplifies maintenance. In high-density environments, cable selection directly impacts airflow and cooling.

 

High Power Busbars and Busway

As an alternative to traditional cabling, busway and high-power busbars offer flexible, efficient power distribution in grey space and white space. They simplify layout changes, improve cooling dynamics, and support higher power densities with reduced maintenance.

These systems provide tap-off points at regular intervals, allowing power connections to be added or relocated without major infrastructure changes. This flexibility makes them particularly valuable for growing data centers and facilities requiring frequent reconfigurations.

 


Common Power Supply Challenges

Common Power Supply Challenges
Scalability Constraints

Many data centers hit power walls as they grow. Initial designs become bottlenecks when computing density increases. The solution lies in flexible infrastructure that can expand without major renovations. Overhead busway systems allow power taps anywhere along the route without rewiring.

 

Efficiency Optimization

Poor power efficiency wastes money and generates excess heat. Common culprits include oversized UPS systems running at low loads, inefficient power supplies, and inadequate power factor correction. Regular audits help identify improvement opportunities and quantify potential savings.

 

Maintenance Windows

Traditional power infrastructure often requires scheduled outages for maintenance. Hot-swappable components eliminate many maintenance windows. Modular UPS’s allow component replacement without affecting running equipment, maximizing uptime.

 

Regulatory Compliance

Energy efficiency regulations continue tightening across Europe and globally. Data centers must balance performance requirements with environmental obligations. Modern power systems help meet these standards whilst reducing operational costs and carbon footprints.



Designing for Reliability and Growth

Designing for Reliability and Growth
Redundancy Strategies

Single points of failure have no place in critical power infrastructure. N+1 redundancy provides backup for any single component failure. 2N redundancy offers complete duplicate systems. The right approach depends on your uptime requirements, budget constraints, and risk tolerance.

 
Monitoring and Management

You can't manage what you don't measure. Comprehensive power monitoring tracks everything from utility input to individual rack consumption. Modern systems provide real-time alerts, trend analysis, and predictive maintenance capabilities.

 

Future-Proofing Considerations

Technology evolution drives changing power requirements. Edge computing, artificial intelligence, and quantum systems all have unique electrical needs. Flexible infrastructure accommodates these changes without major disruption. Standard interfaces, modular components, and excess capacity provide adaptation pathways.
 

 


The Bottom Line

Data centers uninterruptible power supply isn't just about keeping equipment running – it's about enabling business success through reliable, efficient infrastructure. Whether you're planning a new facility or upgrading existing systems, the principles remain constant: design for reliability, plan for growth, and never compromise on quality.

The investment in proper power infrastructure pays dividends through reduced downtime, lower operating costs, and the confidence that comes from knowing your systems can handle whatever challenges arise. In a world where digital services never sleep, your uninterruptable power systems shouldn't either.

For comprehensive UPS solutions designed specifically for data center environments, explore our complete range of UPS and power management systems. Our experienced team can help design infrastructure that meets your current needs while providing flexibility for future growth.

 

Key Electrical Equipment Used in Data centers

Blog 07/07/2025
LegrandData Center Grey SpaceUPS

What are the most common electrical equipment used in data centers?

Key Electrical Equipment Used in Data centers
Modern data centers require sophisticated electrical equipment to deliver reliable power, maintain safety standards, and ensure continuous operation. From transformers and switchgear to battery systems and monitoring devices, each piece of equipment plays a critical role in the facility's power infrastructure. Understanding these essential components helps facility managers make informed decisions about installation, maintenance, and upgrades.


Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) Systems

UPS
UPS systems represent the most critical electrical equipment in any data center. These devices provide instant backup power during utility outages whilst conditioning incoming electricity to protect sensitive IT equipment.


Key functions include:

  • Instant power backup - Seamlessly switch to battery power during outages
  • Power conditioning - Filter voltage fluctuations and electrical noise
  • Load management - Distribute power efficiently across connected systems
  • System monitoring - Continuously check electrical safety and performance status


Modern UPS systems must conform to strict electrical safety standards and undergo rigorous testing. Large data centers typically deploy modular configurations with DC components that require special attention during installation. Legrand's comprehensive UPS solutions offer industry-leading reliability for mission-critical applications.


Power Distribution Units (PDUs)

PDUs
PDUs serve as the final link in the power chain, distributing electricity from UPS systems to individual server racks. These electrical devices range from basic power strips to intelligent units with advanced monitoring capabilities.


Essential features include:

  • Power distribution - Route electricity to multiple connected devices
  • Load monitoring - Track current consumption and prevent overloads
  • Remote switching - Control individual outlets from central locations
  • Environmental sensing - Monitor temperature and humidity conditions


Intelligent PDUs include built-in sensors and digital displays as standard device content. Each item undergoes extensive testing to verify electrical safety compliance and operational reliability under extreme conditions.
Each panel contains circuit breakers, protective devices, and monitoring equipment that must conform to electrical safety standards during installation. 

Learn More.


Electrical Switchgear and Distribution Panels

Electrical Switchgear and Distribution Panels
Main electrical switchgear forms the backbone of data center power distribution. It receives utility or transformer-fed power and routes it throughout the facility via protected circuit paths.


Core capabilities include:

  • Circuit protection – Detect and isolate faults to prevent equipment damage
  • Load distribution – Distribute and balance power across multiple circuits
  • Safety isolation – Enable safe disconnection for maintenance or emergencies


Each panel contains circuit breakers, protective devices, and monitoring equipment that must conform to electrical safety standards during installation.

Learn More.


Battery Systems and Energy Storage

Battery Systems and Energy Storage
Battery systems provide essential backup power during utility outages and UPS maintenance periods. These DC systems require specialised handling procedures and safety equipment.


Primary functions include:

  • Energy storage - Store electrical energy for emergency backup power
  • Voltage regulation - Maintain consistent DC voltage levels
  • Runtime extension - Support facility loads during extended outages
  • System redundancy - Provide backup power for critical electrical equipment


Modern battery installations use advanced lithium-ion technologies with monitoring systems that check individual cell performance. Battery cabinets must provide adequate ventilation whilst maintaining electrical safety standards.

Learn More.


Transformers and Voltage Regulation Equipment

Transformers and Voltage Regulation Equipment
Transformers adapt utility voltage levels to match data center requirements, converting medium-voltage utility feeds to low-voltages suitable for IT equipment.


Key operations include:

  • Voltage conversion - Transform utility power to facility-appropriate levels
  • Electrical isolation - Provide galvanic separation between systems
  • Power quality improvement - Reduce harmonics and electrical disturbances
  • Load balancing - Distribute power evenly across facility circuits


Installation requires careful coordination with utility providers and electrical safety authorities. Each device must undergo comprehensive testing to verify electrical safety compliance and operational performance.

Learn More.


Cable Management and Routing Systems

Cable Management and Routing Systems
Proper cable installation forms the foundation of reliable data center operation. Power cables must be sized correctly whilst maintaining adequate safety margins throughout the facility.


Essential elements include:

  • Cable routing - Organise and protect power conductors
  • Load capacity - Handle expected electrical loads safely
  • Fire protection - Include appropriate fire-stopping measures
  • Accessibility - Provide maintenance access whilst ensuring electrical safety


Overhead cable tray systems provide flexible routing options that accommodate future expansion. Each cable installation must conform to applicable electrical codes, with proper separation between power and data cables to prevent interference.

Learn More.


High Power Busbars and Busway Systems

High Power Busbars and Busway Systems
Busway and high-power busbars offer an efficient alternative to traditional cabling for distributing electricity in data centers, especially in high-density environments.


Essential elements include:

  • Power distribution – Deliver stable, high-capacity power through a compact track system
  • Scalability – Support flexible load additions and reconfigurations without major rewiring
  • Thermal efficiency – Reduce heat buildup compared to large cable bundles


These systems streamline power delivery across both grey space and white space, improving layout flexibility and airflow. All installations must comply with local electrical standards, especially regarding grounding, clearances, and tap-off safety.

Learn More.


Monitoring and Control Systems

Monitoring and Control Systems
Modern data centers rely on sophisticated monitoring systems to track electrical equipment performance and identify potential issues before they cause outages.

Monitoring capabilities include:

  • Real-time tracking - Continuously check voltage, current, and temperature
  • Automated alerts - Notify operators of developing problems
  • Historical analysis - Store performance data for trend analysis
  • Remote access - Allow off-site personnel to check system status


Building management systems integrate multiple monitoring devices into centralised control platforms. Each monitoring device requires proper installation and configuration to ensure accurate data collection and electrical safety compliance.


Protective Devices and Safety Systems

Protective Devices and Safety Systems
Circuit breakers and protective relays prevent electrical equipment damage during fault conditions, automatically disconnecting affected circuits whilst maintaining power to unaffected areas.


Protection features include:

  • Overcurrent protection - Prevent damage from excessive electrical loads
  • Ground fault detection - Monitor for insulation failures and safety hazards
  • Arc flash protection - Detect dangerous electrical arcs and initiate rapid disconnection
  • Selective coordination - Minimise outage impacts through precise fault isolation


These safety devices provide early warning of developing problems whilst protecting personnel from electrical hazards. Installation includes comprehensive testing to verify proper operation under all conditions.

Learn More.


Cooling and Environmental Systems

Cooling and Environmental Systems
Data center electrical equipment generates significant heat requiring active cooling systems to maintain optimal temperatures and humidity levels for reliable operation.


Environmental control includes:

  • Temperature regulation - Maintain safe operating conditions for electrical equipment
  • Humidity control - Prevent condensation and static electricity problems
  • Air circulation - Ensure adequate cooling airflow throughout the facility
  • Emergency backup - Provide battery-powered cooling during primary system failures


Temperature and humidity monitoring devices provide continuous environmental data, alerting operators to conditions that could affect electrical equipment reliability or safety.

Learn More.


Brands and Product Selection


When selecting electrical equipment for data center applications, facility managers must evaluate multiple factors including reliability, efficiency, and long-term support. Leading brands offer comprehensive product ranges with detailed technical specifications and declaration of conformity documentation.


Product evaluation criteria include:

  • Electrical safety certification - Verify compliance with applicable standards
  • Performance specifications - Confirm equipment meets facility requirements
  • Brand reputation - Consider manufacturer track record and support quality
  • Total cost of ownership - Evaluate purchase price, installation costs, and maintenance requirements


Legrand's comprehensive data center solutions provide the reliability and performance that modern facilities demand, with extensive technical support and proven electrical safety compliance.
 

Legrand’s Keor FLEX UPS Wins Prestigious Red Dot Award!

Blog 23/05/2025
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Legrand is proud to announce that its next-generation modular Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), the Keor FLEX, has been awarded the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2025. This international accolade recognizes the Keor FLEX for its innovation, combining high efficiency and power performance with a scalable, modular, and user-friendly design—ideal for the evolving power demands of AI-driven, cloud, and edge data centers. 

 The Red Dot Award: Product Design is one of the most prestigious design competitions in the world. Since 1955, it has honored products that demonstrate exceptionally high design quality. 

 In 2025, 43 independent experts from 21 countries, including designers, professors, journalists and consultants from various disciplines, judged entries from over 60 countries based on four key principles of good design: functional quality, aesthetic appeal, usability, and responsible design. 

 

Keor FLEX: Innovative Design Meets High Performance 

 

A UPS is essential for ensuring operational continuity during power outages, which is critical for data centers and other mission-critical environments. The Keor FLEX sets a new standard in UPS design with 98.4% energy efficiency and a compact footprint, delivering unmatched reliability and functionality. 

 The product features a user-centric design that improves both aesthetics and functionality. A 10-inch colour LCD touchscreen enables intuitive operation, while a transparent LED strip subtly frames the display, highlighting its advanced technology. Key interaction zones are clearly defined, with technical components in black and user-facing elements in white, ensuring ease of use and minimizing the risk of error.  

 A distinctive illuminated hexagon displays real-time system status through colour coding, serving as both a visual identifier and a diagnostic aid.  

 

Smart Grid Ready, User-Friendly, Sustainable, and Built for the Future 

 

The Keor FLEX is designed for modern energy ecosystems, incorporating smart grid readiness for two-way power management and future-proofing your infrastructure. It features remote monitoring and predictive maintenance capabilities that provide continuous visibility and control from anywhere at any time. Maintenance is made easy and safe with hot-swappable modules connected through a unique busbar system, and full front access to simplify servicing and reduce downtime. Its innovative design not only enhances aesthetics but also significantly improves the user experience. 

Aligned with Ecodesign regulations and backed by PEP certification, Keor FLEX is engineered with sustainability at its core. Its exceptional energy efficiency reduces both power consumption and cooling demands, helping customers lower their carbon footprint and advance their sustainability goals. 

 

Explore the Award-Winning Keor FLEX 

The Red Dot Award affirms Keor FLEX as a benchmark in UPS innovation. With its blend of reliability, efficiency, flexibility, and forward-thinking design, it is the ideal solution for powering the data centers of tomorrow. 

To discover more about how Keor FLEX can support your infrastructure, visit here

 

Silicon Carbide (SiC) – Redefining High-Efficiency UPS for Modern Demands

Blog 27/05/2025
LegrandData Center Grey SpaceUPS

SiC UPS

As power demands soar in data centers and industrial environments, traditional silicon-based Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems are reaching their performance limits. Enter Silicon Carbide (SiC)—a next-generation semiconductor technology that is transforming the UPS landscape with unparalleled efficiency, power density, and thermal performance.

Why Silicon Carbide is Reshaping the Future of UPS Systems

For decades, Silicon has been the core material used in UPS systems. However, it has several drawbacks, such as lower thermal conductivity, reduced tolerance to high temperatures, and higher switching losses. These limitations make it increasingly less suitable for today’s high-demand environments. In contrast, Silicon Carbide (SiC), a wide-bandgap semiconductor, overcomes these challenges, offering significantly improved electrical performance, thermal management, and long-term reliability.

SiC offers several critical benefits:

1.    Enhanced Efficiency and Power Performance

SiC has a wide bandgap of 3.26 eV—substantially higher than Silicon’s 1.12 eV—allowing it to operate efficiently at higher voltages, switching frequencies, and temperatures. These advantages drastically reduce energy losses, allowing SiC-based UPS systems to achieve more than 98% efficiency in power conversion, thereby reducing energy waste and operational costs over time.

2.    Compact Power Density

Due to its lower on-state resistance and thinner drift region, SiC enables the creation of compact UPS designs that can be up to three times smaller than their Silicon counterparts. This size reduction is particularly beneficial in dense, high-performance environments like AI and edge data centers.

Power Density SiC vs Si Based UPS

3.    Superior Thermal Management

SiC’s thermal conductivity is more than three times that of Silicon, which decreases the need for large or complex cooling systems. This not only simplifies the overall system design but also reduces energy consumption and extends the lifespan of components.

Thermal Management SiC vs Si Based UPS

 

From Specialized Use to Mainstream Deployment

Originally used in demanding fields like aerospace and electric vehicles, SiC is now becoming the go-to material for UPS systems. Today’s leading SiC-powered UPS units offer:

  • Switching frequencies above 100 kHz
  • Power density levels exceeding 70 kW/m³
  • Junction thermal tolerance up to 300°C
  • Online double-conversion efficiency ranging from 97 to 99%

Thanks to advancements in manufacturing and broader industry adoption, SiC-based UPS systems have become both technically and commercially appealing solutions for modern power systems.

Practical Advantages: Efficiency, Durability, and Sustainability

SiC-powered UPS systems are unmatched in mission-critical environments where reliability is vital. They exhibit exceptional thermal durability, lower failure rates, and longer service lives—all contributing to a reduced total cost of ownership.

From a sustainability standpoint, SiC minimizes overall energy consumption by reducing the conduction and switching losses. Its improved efficiency also cuts cooling demands, which can account for up to 40% of a data center’s energy usage, directly supporting environmental and energy-saving goals.

Setting a New Benchmark

SiC technology has shifted from a niche solution to the new benchmark for performance and reliability. With its high energy efficiency, compact footprint, and superior thermal resilience, SiC-based UPS systems are leading the shift toward smarter, more sustainable data center power infrastructure.

As digital transformation accelerates, UPS systems utilizing SiC technology are proving vital in meeting the increasing demands for scalable, reliable power. For any organizations seeking to future-proof their critical infrastructure, SiC represents a significant advancement.

 

Discover SiC in Action: Keor FLEX by Legrand

Legrand’s Keor FLEX UPS is a state-of-the-art, modular solution that harnesses the power of SiC to deliver up to 98.4% online double-conversion efficiency. Designed to optimize total cost of ownership (TCO), Keor FLEX combines true hot-swap modularity with hot synchronization, enabling safe, uninterrupted power module replacement without downtime.

Keor FLEX features a front-access design, redundant ventilation with controlled fan speed, and “error-proof” swap/plug mechanisms that allow for self and hot firmware adaptation. Smart-grid ready and equipped with predictive diagnostics, it provides real-time monitoring and maintenance based on actual component life cycles, minimizing unnecessary replacements and maximizing uptime.

Scalable from 100 kW to 4.8 MW, Keor FLEX is a future-ready, modular UPS built for flexibility, serviceability, and high-performance protection — with 100 kW power modules enabling configurations from 100 kW up to 1.2 MW in a single system and parallel operation of up to four units reaching 4.8 MW.

 Keor FLEX

Keor FLEX redefines power protection for modern data centers. Contact us to learn how it can optimize your total cost of ownership here.
 

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