In today’s data-driven world, uninterrupted power is critical for businesses, data centers, and mission-critical applications. Power outages, surges, and voltage fluctuations can lead to costly downtime, equipment damage, or data loss. The APC Smart-UPS RT 20kVA RM 230V (SURT20KRMXLI) is a high-performance, rack-mounted uninterruptible power supply (UPS) designed to deliver reliable power protection for servers, networking equipment, and other sensitive electronics. In this blog, we’ll explore the features, specifications, benefits, and ideal use cases of the APC SURT20KRMXLI, highlighting why it’s a top choice for enterprise-grade power protection.
Overview of the APC Smart-UPS RT 20kVA RM 230V
The APC Smart-UPS RT 20kVA RM 230V (SURT20KRMXLI) is part of APC’s renowned Smart-UPS On-Line family, known for its high-density, double-conversion online topology. This 12U rack-mounted UPS provides 16kW / 20kVA of power capacity, making it ideal for protecting power-hungry blade servers, data center equipment, and industrial applications. Its ability to deliver pure sine wave output, zero transfer time, and scalable runtime ensures maximum reliability for critical systems.
Key Features of the APC SURT20KRMXLI
The SURT20KRMXLI is engineered with advanced features to meet the demands of high-availability environments:
- Double-Conversion Online Topology: Unlike line-interactive UPS systems, the double-conversion topology provides continuous power conditioning, delivering a pure sine wave output with zero transfer time to battery during power events. This ensures seamless operation for sensitive equipment.
- High Power Capacity: With a maximum configurable power of 16kW / 20kVA, the UPS supports high-density loads, such as blade servers, networking gear, and medical or industrial equipment.
- Scalable Runtime: The UPS includes four internal battery modules (APCRBC140) and supports additional external battery packs (e.g., SURT192RMXLBP2) for extended runtime, making it suitable for applications requiring hours of backup power.
- Versatile Output Connections: The SURT20KRMXLI offers multiple output options, including 8 x IEC 320 C19 outlets, 2 x IEC jumpers, 1 x hardwire 3-wire (H N + G), and 1 x hardwire 5-wire (3PH + N + G), providing flexibility for single-phase or three-phase configurations.
- Dual Mains Input: The UPS supports two separate power sources, increasing availability and redundancy for critical systems.
- Advanced Management and Monitoring: The included Web/SNMP Management Card (AP9631) enables remote management via Ethernet, serial, or SmartSlot interfaces. The multifunction LCD touchscreen provides real-time data on load, battery status, and system diagnostics. PowerChute software further enhances centralized management and graceful shutdown capabilities.
- Intelligent Battery Management: APC’s precision temperature-compensated charging and automatic self-tests maximize battery life (3–5 years) and reliability. Hot-swappable battery modules allow replacement without powering down connected equipment.
- Robust Surge Protection: The UPS features full-time multi-pole noise filtering with 0.3% IEEE surge let-through and zero clamping response time, meeting UL 1449 standards for superior surge protection.
- Rack/Tower Convertible: The 12U rack-mount design includes support rails for easy integration into 19″ racks, with a removable wiring tray for quick installation and maintenance. It can also be configured as a tower unit.
- Emergency Power Off (EPO): The UPS includes an EPO feature for immediate shutdown in critical situations, enhancing safety.
Technical Specifications
Here’s a detailed look at the APC SURT20KRMXLI’s specifications:
- Output Power Capacity: 16kW / 20kVA
- Nominal Output Voltage: 230V (configurable for 220V or 240V)
- Output Connections:
- 8 x IEC 320 C19 (Battery Backup)
- 1 x Hardwire 3-wire (H N + G)
- 1 x Hardwire 5-wire (3PH + N + G)
- 2 x IEC Jumpers
- Waveform Type: Pure sine wave
- Output Voltage Distortion: Less than 5%
- Output Frequency: 50/60 Hz ± 3 Hz (user-adjustable ± 0.1 Hz, sync to mains)
- Efficiency at Full Load: 94%
- Bypass: Built-in static, automatic, and manual bypass; optional external bypass
- Nominal Input Voltage: 230V, 400V 3-phase
- Input Voltage Range: 160–280V (main operations)
- Input Frequency: 40–70 Hz (auto-sensing)
- Input Connections: Hardwire 3-wire (1PH + N + G) or 5-wire (3PH + N + G)
- Maximum Input Current: 115A
- Battery Type: Maintenance-free sealed lead-acid (APCRBC140)
- Typical Recharge Time: 2.5 hours
- Nominal Battery Voltage: ±192V (split battery referenced to neutral)
- Runtime:
- 4.9 minutes at 16kW (full load)
- 8 minutes at 12kW
- 15 minutes at 8kW
- Extendable with additional battery packs
- Physical Dimensions: 533 mm (H) x 432 mm (W) x 773 mm (D), 12U
- Weight: 247.73 kg
- Operating Temperature: 0–40°C
- Noise Level: 59 dBA at 1 meter
- Approvals: BSMI, EN/IEC 62040-1-1, EN/IEC 62040-2, VDE
- Warranty: 2 years (repair or replace)
Benefits of the APC SURT20KRMXLI
- Uninterrupted Power for Critical Systems: The double-conversion topology and zero transfer time ensure seamless power delivery, protecting servers, storage devices, and networking equipment from outages.
- Scalable and Flexible: With support for extended runtime and single- or three-phase input wiring, the UPS adapts to diverse power requirements and growth needs.
- Enhanced Manageability: The LCD touchscreen, Web/SNMP card, and PowerChute software provide comprehensive monitoring and control, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
- High Efficiency: With up to 94% efficiency at full load and 93% in battery operation, the UPS minimizes energy costs while maintaining performance.
- Robust Protection: The combination of surge suppression, noise filtering, and dual mains input safeguards equipment against power disturbances.
- Ease of Maintenance: Hot-swappable batteries and a removable wiring tray simplify maintenance, minimizing disruption to operations.
Ideal Use Cases
The APC SURT20KRMXLI is designed for high-density, mission-critical environments, including:
- Data Centers: Protects blade servers, storage arrays, and networking equipment from power disruptions.
- Telecommunications: Ensures uptime for voice and data networks, supporting critical communication infrastructure.
- Medical and Industrial Applications: Powers sensitive medical equipment and industrial systems requiring stable, clean power.
- Server Rooms: Provides reliable backup power for network servers and edge computing setups.
- Harsh Environments: The SURT20KRMXLI-CC variant is designed for extreme conditions, making it suitable for challenging settings.
Installation and Setup Tips
- Professional Installation: The UPS requires connection by a professional electrician due to its high-capacity hardwired inputs (3-wire or 5-wire). Ensure proper grounding for safety and performance.
- Ventilation: Place the 12U unit in a well-ventilated rack to manage heat dissipation (3770 BTU/hr).
- Battery Maintenance: Regularly check battery health via the LCD or PowerChute software. Replace batteries (APCRBC140)
- Network Configuration: Utilize the included Web/SNMP card for remote monitoring and configure alerts for proactive maintenance.
- Load Planning: Keep loads below 80% (12.8kW) for optimal runtime and efficiency, especially for extended outages.
Customer Feedback and Market Sentiment
The APC SURT20KRMXLI is praised for its reliability and performance in high-demand environments. Posts on X highlight its ability to provide “uninterrupted power” and “smart protection for sensitive devices,” making it a go-to solution for businesses facing frequent outages. However, some users note the high upfront cost (starting at ~£11,590–£15,447 ex. VAT) and the expense of replacement batteries as considerations. The lack of customer reviews on some retail sites suggests it’s a niche product for specialized applications.
Conclusion
The APC Smart-UPS RT 20kVA RM 230V (SURT20KRMXLI) is a premium UPS solution for businesses and organizations requiring robust, scalable power protection. Its double-conversion topology, high power capacity, and advanced management features make it ideal for data centers, telecommunications, and industrial applications. While the initial investment and maintenance costs are significant, the UPS’s reliability, efficiency, and flexibility justify its value for mission-critical systems.
For organizations seeking to protect high-density equipment from power disruptions, the APC SURT20KRMXLI delivers peace of mind and uncompromising performance. CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES.