Introduction
In an era where uninterrupted power is critical for businesses, the APC Smart-UPS VT 30kVA 400V (SUVTP30KH4B4S) stands out as a robust, high-capacity, three-phase uninterruptible power supply (UPS) designed to protect critical infrastructure. Manufactured by Schneider Electric, this UPS is tailored for small to medium data centers, large retail stores, regional offices, and industrial facilities with dense power requirements. In this blog, we’ll explore its specifications, features, performance, and applications to help you determine if it’s the right power protection solution for your organization.
Key Specifications
Here’s an overview of the APC Smart-UPS VT 30kVA 400V’s core specifications:
- Power Capacity: 30kVA / 24kW
- Input Voltage: 400V, three-phase (configurable for 380V or 415V)
- Output Voltage: 400V, three-phase (configurable for 380V or 415V)
- Efficiency: Up to 96% in online mode
- Battery Type: Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA)
- Battery Configuration: Includes 4 battery modules, expandable
- Runtime: Approximately 10 minutes at full load (24kW), 27 minutes at half load (12kW)
- Recharge Time: 5 hours
- Dimensions: 59.02 x 20.59 x 32.01 inches (149.9 x 52.3 x 81.3 cm)
- Weight: 1386.91 lbs (629.09 kg)
- Interfaces: DB-9 RS-232, SmartSlot (pre-installed AP9619 Network Management Card)
- Output Connections: Hard Wire 4-wire (3PH + G), Hard Wire 5-wire (3PH + N + G), Screw Terminals
- Input Connection: Hard Wire 5-wire (3PH + N + G)
- Certifications: CE, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, C-tick, EN 50091-2, EN/IEC 62040-3, IEC 61000-3-2, IEC 61000-3-3, VFI-SS-112
- Warranty: 1-year repair or replace, includes Start-Up Service (5×8)
Design and Build
The APC Smart-UPS VT 30kVA 400V is designed for reliability and space efficiency. With dimensions of 149.9 x 52.3 x 81.3 cm, it offers a compact footprint for environments with limited space, such as small data centers or server rooms. The unit weighs approximately 629 kg, requiring a level floor and professional installation using the included bolt-down brackets for stability. Its black enclosure is robust, designed to withstand industrial environments, and operates effectively in temperatures from 0 to 40°C with 0-95% relative humidity.
The UPS features a multi-function LCD status and control console, LED status indicators, and audible alarms for real-time monitoring. It includes a built-in maintenance bypass and static bypass, allowing seamless power transfer during maintenance or faults. However, its weight and size necessitate careful planning for installation, and Schneider Electric recommends certified technicians for setup to ensure compliance with safety and electrical standards.
Performance
The Smart-UPS VT 30kVA operates in a double-conversion online topology, providing consistent, clean power by correcting voltage and frequency fluctuations without relying on battery power. It achieves up to 96% efficiency in online mode, reducing energy costs and heat output. The UPS delivers a maximum output of 24kW (30kVA) with a power factor of 0.8, and its output waveform is a pure sine wave with less than 5% harmonic distortion at full load, ensuring compatibility with sensitive equipment.
Runtime is a key strength, with approximately 10 minutes of backup at full load (24kW) and 27 minutes at half load (12kW). The scalable runtime feature allows additional battery modules to be added for extended backup, making it adaptable to varying power needs. The VRLA batteries recharge in about 5 hours, and the system supports hot-swappable batteries, enabling replacements without downtime. The UPS also features input power factor correction, minimizing the need for oversized generators or cabling, which reduces installation costs.
In real-world scenarios, the UPS excels at protecting critical loads, such as servers, networking equipment, and medical devices, from power disruptions, surges, and outages. Its dual mains input enhances reliability by allowing connection to two separate power sources, and parallel-redundant capability supports increased system redundancy by connecting multiple UPS units.
Features and Benefits
The APC Smart-UPS VT 30kVA 400V is packed with features that enhance its reliability, manageability, and efficiency:
- Dual Mains Input: Connects to two independent power sources for increased availability.
- Scalable Runtime: Supports additional battery modules for customizable backup duration.
- Hot-Swappable Batteries: Allows battery replacement without interrupting operations.
- Built-in Maintenance Bypass: Enables seamless power transfer during maintenance.
- Network Management: Includes a pre-installed Network Management Card (AP9619) for remote monitoring and control via SNMP, web, or APC’s InfraStruXure Manager.
- Intelligent Battery Management: Maximizes battery life and reliability through temperature-compensated charging and periodic self-tests.
- Frequency and Voltage Regulation: Corrects poor frequency and voltage conditions without battery use, ensuring high application availability.
- SmartSlot Technology: Allows customization with additional management cards for enhanced functionality.
- Emergency Power Off (EPO): Enables immediate shutdown in critical situations.
- Cold-Start Capability: Provides temporary battery power when utility power is unavailable.
- EU CoC for UPS: Ensures high efficiency in compliance with EU standards.
These features make the UPS ideal for environments where downtime is costly, such as data centers, healthcare facilities, and industrial operations. Its modular design and tool-free battery replacement reduce maintenance time and costs, while the 96% efficiency contributes to a lower carbon footprint.
Applications
The APC Smart-UPS VT 30kVA 400V is suited for a wide range of critical applications:
- Data Centers: Protects servers, storage devices, and networking equipment from power disruptions.
- Healthcare: Ensures uninterrupted power for medical imaging systems, patient monitoring devices, and IT infrastructure.
- Industrial Facilities: Safeguards automation systems, production lines, and control units.
- Telecommunications: Maintains uptime for communication networks and infrastructure.
- Financial Institutions: Secures transactional systems and sensitive data during outages.
- Retail: Supports point-of-sale systems and inventory management in large stores.
Its global compatibility, with configurable input/output voltages (380V, 400V, or 415V), makes it versatile for international deployments.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation Tips:
- Professional Setup: Engage certified APC technicians to ensure proper electrical wiring and compliance with local regulations. The UPS requires a 5-wire (3PH + N + G) input connection and must be anchored to a level floor using M8 bolts (not included).
- Environment: Place the UPS in a well-ventilated, temperature-controlled area (0-40°C) to maximize lifespan and performance.
- Floor Anchoring: Use the provided transport brackets to secure the unit to the floor, ensuring stability.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular Inspections: Conduct periodic checks and self-tests via the LCD console to monitor battery health and system status.
- Battery Replacement: Replace VRLA batteries every 3-5 years, depending on usage and environmental conditions. The hot-swappable design simplifies this process.
- Remote Monitoring: Leverage the Network Management Card for real-time alerts and proactive maintenance.
- Firmware Updates: Use APC’s EcoStruxure IT or compatible software to keep firmware current.
User Feedback
User reviews of the APC Smart-UPS VT 30kVA 400V are generally positive, with a 6.9/10 rating from limited feedback on platforms like Manua.ls. Users praise its reliability, scalability, and advanced management features for critical applications. However, some challenges include:
- Positive Feedback: The UPS is lauded for its robust performance in data centers and industrial settings, with users appreciating the dual mains input and hot-swappable batteries for minimal downtime.
- Criticisms: Installation complexity requires professional expertise, and the unit’s weight (629 kg) poses logistical challenges. Some users report issues like fault code 838 or difficulties adjusting output voltage (e.g., to 230V), requiring technical support. Noise levels (55 dBA) can be noticeable in quiet environments.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High efficiency (up to 96%) reduces energy costs
- Scalable runtime with expandable battery modules
- Hot-swappable batteries and modular design for easy maintenance
- Dual mains input and parallel-redundant capability enhance reliability
- Comprehensive management via LCD console and network card
- Global compatibility with configurable voltages
- Robust certifications ensure safety and quality
Cons
- Heavy (629 kg) and requires professional installation
- Limited runtime at full load (10 minutes) without additional batteries
- Discontinued as of July 5, 2021; replaced by Galaxy VS range
- Noise level (55 dBA) may be disruptive in quiet settings
Conclusion
The APC Smart-UPS VT 30kVA 400V (SUVTP30KH4B4S) is a high-performance, reliable UPS tailored for businesses that cannot afford power disruptions. Its double-conversion online design, scalable runtime, and advanced features like dual mains input and hot-swappable batteries make it ideal for data centers, healthcare, and industrial applications. While its high cost, weight, and installation complexity may be drawbacks, its efficiency and fault-tolerant design ensure operational continuity for critical systems. Note that this model has been discontinued, with the Galaxy VS UPS 30kW 400V recommended as a replacement.
For pricing and availability, CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES. Ensure professional installation and regular maintenance to maximize the UPS’s lifespan and performance.