Diamond Light Source

These intense beams, predominantly in the X-ray region, are then directed into laboratories known as ‘beamlines’, of which there are currently 31 operational onsite. Scientists use them to study a vast range of subject matter down to the level of atoms and molecules.

The applications are broad, reaching from smarter materials, to better data storage, to clever clean-up solutions for plastic pollution, as well as the preservation of significant historical artefacts such as The Mary Rose.

Synchrotron light has also played a pivotal role in the study of diseases such as Foot-and-Mouth and Polio, vital antibiotic research, and other areas of medical science.

Because of the importance of the research being undertaken and the sensitivity of the equipment, the facility requires robust and reliable critical power protection at all times. 

Diamond Light Source uses an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) to ensure continuity of supply. This UPS system needs to be reliable, with dependable ongoing maintenance support to quickly alleviate any future faults or failures. Riello UPS had the solution.  

Andy Reed, Head of Electrical Facilities at Diamond Light Source, explained: 

“Due to the nature of the facility, we have limited downtime to play with. With eight weeks of solid running time followed by three weeklong shut downs, we knew it would be a real challenge to replace the existing systems to the standard required in the time provided. 

The existing UPS was a ‘closed protocol’ system, meaning the units were ‘locked out’ to anyone other than the manufacturer. This had caused several issues since the initial installation many years ago, so it was important that we weren’t limited to one maintenance option going forward and the new system from Riello offered a more open approach.” 

“After visiting Diamond Light Source and discussing their requirements, Riello UPS’s Multi Sentry solution was the obvious solution. It provides exceptional performance and efficiency levels, within a very compact footprint and has the flexibility and reliability required.” 

The state-of-the-art UPS has the highest possible level of online double-conversion performance. It is specifically designed to protect critical information and telecommunications systems, networks, services and processes where operations could be disrupted by poor power quality or breaks in the mains power supply.

In addition to reliability and value for money, the Riello UPS Multi Sentry offers an advanced communication ‘open protocol’, making it easier for those working onsite to monitor loading and battery autonomy.

The large front panel graphic display provides vital information, such as real-time measurements, operating status, and alarm conditions.

The UPS installation was completed three months earlier than the expected six months, which meant significant cost savings and reduced downtime for the facility. Another added benefit was the fact that no power load was lost during the implementation. 

Since the initial implementation, the facility now operates 41 Riello UPS units, 13x 120 KVA units and 28x 30 KVA units.

Diamond Light Source uses a parallel UPS design for complete protection against power failure. For example, if two UPS units are needed to support the critical load, they will run three in the unlikely scenario that one fails.

Andy Reed of Diamond Light Source concluded:

“In recent years, UPS failure has been a real issue for us and has had a knock-on effect with the laboratories and scientists we work with. However, with the new Riello UPS installation, we have had total confidence from start to finish and also feel we have an added level of protection with the ongoing maintenance support.

We use Riello UPS’s PowerNetGuard monitoring software to enable us to view the status of the units at all times, and Specialist Power Systems also provide continued onsite maintenance which is undisruptive to our work.” 

If you wish to find out more about any of our previous installations or would like to speak to us about working with us to make sure your critical power is protected then give us a call on 01234 851155 or email [email protected] to speak to an expert today.