Electrical bypass systems are essential in keeping industrial and commercial facilities across the UK running smoothly. They provide a way to maintain power continuity when critical components require servicing or when unexpected faults occur.

But not all bypasses are the same. Different types are designed for different applications, from heavy-duty manufacturing plants to sensitive data centres.

At RB1, we supply and design electrical bypass solutions tailored to UK businesses, ensuring compliance with safety standards like BS EN 61439 while maximising efficiency and uptime.

In this blog, we’ll explain the main types of electrical bypasses and where each one is typically used.

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Why Electrical Bypasses Are Important

Even a short loss of power can cause major disruption, including:

• Production downtime in factories
• Equipment damage from sudden outages
• Data loss or corruption in IT systems
• Safety risks for staff and facilities

Electrical bypasses provide a controlled, safe way to reroute electricity around a circuit or device, ensuring critical systems remain online during maintenance or unexpected failures.

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The Main Types of Electrical Bypasses

1. Manual Bypass

A manual bypass requires an operator to physically switch power from the main system to the bypass route.

• ✅ Applications: Small facilities, commercial sites, or non-critical systems where short planned interruptions are acceptable.
• ✅ Advantages: Cost-effective, straightforward to operate.
• ⚠️ Limitations: Relies on human intervention and is unsuitable for critical environments where downtime is unacceptable.

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2. Automatic Bypass

An automatic bypass system switches power instantly if a fault is detected or maintenance is required.

• ✅ Applications: Data centres, hospitals, large manufacturing plants, and critical infrastructure.
• ✅ Advantages: Seamless operation with no interruption, increased reliability, safer for sensitive equipment.
• ⚠️ Limitations: Higher upfront cost compared to manual systems.

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3. Partial Bypass

A partial bypass allows power to be diverted only around specific circuits or equipment, while the rest of the system continues running.

• ✅ Applications: Facilities where certain equipment needs regular servicing without shutting down the entire system.
• ✅ Advantages: Flexibility, targeted maintenance without full system interruption.
• ⚠️ Limitations: Doesn’t protect the entire system—only selected circuits.

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4. Full Bypass

A full bypass reroutes all power around the primary system, allowing complete maintenance or upgrades.

• ✅ Applications: Large-scale maintenance projects, system upgrades, or when replacing key equipment.
• ✅ Advantages: Enables major servicing while keeping power supply uninterrupted.
• ⚠️ Limitations: More complex and requires careful planning.

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5. Static Transfer Switch (STS) Bypass

A more advanced bypass option, often used with UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) systems. An STS bypass instantly transfers load to an alternate power source without any break.

• ✅ Applications: Data centres, telecoms, and mission-critical operations.
• ✅ Advantages: Millisecond-level switching, no interruption to sensitive IT equipment.
• ⚠️ Limitations: Requires investment in high-quality systems and monitoring.

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Matching the Right Bypass to the Application

Choosing the right bypass depends on:

• The size and complexity of your electrical system
• Whether your facility can tolerate planned downtime
• The criticality of equipment being protected
• Compliance requirements under UK safety regulations

For example:

• A manufacturing plant may use a full bypass for system upgrades.
• A data centre requires an automatic or STS bypass for uninterrupted operations.
• A small commercial facility may be best served with a manual bypass.

At RB1, we help businesses across the UK choose the right bypass system based on operational needs, compliance, and long-term efficiency.

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FAQs: Electrical Bypass Types and Applications

Q1: Which type of electrical bypass is best for UK data centres?
A1: Automatic or STS bypasses are best, as they provide seamless switching without downtime.

Q2: Can a manual bypass be upgraded to automatic later?
A2: Yes, in many cases RB1 can retrofit or upgrade systems to provide automatic switching capabilities.

Q3: Do all bypasses comply with UK standards?
A3: Not always. It’s essential to choose a manufacturer like RB1, whose systems comply with BS EN 61439 and UK safety requirements.

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Conclusion

From manual bypasses for smaller facilities to automatic and STS systems for mission-critical environments, there’s a solution for every industrial application. Choosing the right bypass ensures your operations remain safe, compliant, and efficient.

At RB1, we provide expert guidance and supply high-performance bypass systems across the UK.

👉 Contact us today to find the right electrical bypass for your facility.

When it comes to ensuring continuous power in industrial environments, an electrical bypass is a critical component. From manufacturing plants to data centres, understanding how these systems work can prevent costly downtime and enhance operational efficiency.

At RB1, we specialise in supplying high-quality electrical bypass solutions across the UK, helping businesses maintain operational continuity while complying with UK safety standards.

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What Is an Electrical Bypass?

An electrical bypass is a system that allows electricity to flow around a component or circuit when maintenance, repairs, or upgrades are required. It essentially “bypasses” the main power route, ensuring that the rest of the system continues to operate safely and efficiently.

In industrial applications, even a brief power interruption can lead to significant losses. A robust bypass system ensures uninterrupted operations.

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How Does an Electrical Bypass Work?

Electrical bypass systems function in a straightforward yet vital way:

1. Normal Operation – Electricity flows through the primary system or switchgear.
2. Maintenance or Fault Scenario – The bypass system is activated when maintenance is needed or a fault occurs.
3. Redirecting Power – Electricity is rerouted around the affected component, maintaining supply to critical systems.
4. Seamless Switching – Modern bypass systems often include automatic switching, requiring no manual intervention.

This mechanism reduces downtime, enhances safety, and ensures operational efficiency in industrial settings.

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Types of Electrical Bypasses

Electrical bypasses vary based on application and system complexity:

• Manual Bypass – Requires an operator to switch the system; typically used in smaller facilities.
• Automatic Bypass – Switches power automatically in the event of a fault; ideal for larger plants and data centres.
• Partial Bypass – Redirects only specific circuits while others continue running.
• Full Bypass – Reroutes all power around the component, suitable for major maintenance or upgrades.

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Why Electrical Bypasses Are Essential in the UK

For UK businesses, compliance with BS EN 61439 and other electrical safety regulations is critical. Installing a high-quality electrical bypass ensures:

• Continuity of Operations – Prevent costly production stoppages or outages.
• Safety Compliance – Protect staff and equipment during maintenance or emergencies.
• Operational Efficiency – Minimise downtime and enable smooth maintenance.
• System Flexibility – Support upgrades or expansions without interrupting supply.

Our UK-designed electrical bypasses are built to meet local standards while delivering reliable, high-performance operation.

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Choosing the Right Electrical Bypass

Selecting the correct electrical bypass depends on:

• System size and capacity
• Type of equipment being protected
• Manual vs. automatic operation needs
• Compliance with UK safety and quality standards

At RB1, we provide expert advice to ensure your bypass solution optimises safety, efficiency, and compliance. Learn more about our industrial bypass solutions for UK facilities.

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FAQs About Electrical Bypasses

Q1: Can an electrical bypass prevent all downtime?
A1: While it significantly reduces downtime during maintenance or faults, some interruptions may still occur during major system failures.

Q2: Is an automatic bypass better than a manual one?
A2: Automatic bypasses are ideal for large or critical systems, as they switch power seamlessly without human intervention.

Q3: Are RB1 electrical bypasses compliant with UK safety standards?
A3: Yes, all our bypass systems comply with BS EN 61439 and relevant UK electrical safety regulations.

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Conclusion

An electrical bypass is essential for any industrial system requiring continuous power, safety, and operational efficiency. From reducing downtime to supporting maintenance, these systems provide peace of mind for UK businesses.

Contact RB1 today to discuss the right electrical bypass solution for your facility. Ensure your systems stay safe, compliant, and fully operational.

On 26 July 2024, RB1 (along with other associated companies) was acquired by Creative Power Protection Group (CPPG).

By becoming a member of the CPPG, we position ourselves above competitors offering perks and benefits to our current customers and future customers.

The Group will combine services from all companies, continuing to provide bespoke solutions to our clients, additional services and new products are now readily available.

RB1’s Mission to Grow

We achieve customer satisfaction by providing high performing mission critical solutions, our mission is to continue to grow working along side industry leaders within the CPPG Group. Our track record and experience in problem solving & management by the design of the correct power and environmental solutions, results in greater operational reliability and significant cost savings to our clients. The CPPG Group boasts both experience and expertise, we look forward to working on upcoming projects.

3P DC Isolation / Transition Now Available!

Following on with the success of our 2P Combined DC / Transition Panel, we’re happy to announce the release of the 3P variant of this panel. ✅ Solutions rated up to 160A (Plans to expand this shortly!) ✅ Support for 3 strings in both 2P and 3P systems Every panel proudly features: 🔹 Internal acrylic covers for bus bars 🔹Comprehensive acrylic interior coverage (IP2X Rated) 🔹Secure, lockable enclosure 🔹Clearly marked internal labeling 🔹 Essential warning labels, inside and out Need something a bit different? Whether it’s additional strings or a higher rating, please reach out. We’re eager to explore bespoke-made solutions just for you. Contact us today! 📩

We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

We are looking forward to working with you in the New Year of 2024!

Our Christmas Closure Closing times over the festive period are from 12.30 pm on the 22nd of December 2023until 8 am on the 2nd of January 2024

Our last shipment dates are as follows:

The last dates for shipping will be the 20th of December 2023 and for Ireland and countries outside of the U.K, the last delivery date is the 15th of December 2023. If you have any questions or queries, please Contact Us Now.

Have a lovely festive period