The Difference Between a UPS and an MCC

Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) and motor control centres (MCC) both appear on industrial electrical drawings, but they serve different functions. Confusing the two can lead to incorrect specifications and maintenance plans.

What a UPS does

A UPS provides short-term backup power when the main supply fails or fluctuates. It protects sensitive control, instrumentation and computing equipment from interruptions that could cause process upsets or data loss.

Mistlik supplies and installs UPS systems where operational continuity for control equipment is required.

What an MCC does

A motor control centre groups motor starters, protection devices and control wiring for multiple motors and loads. It is part of the plant power distribution and control architecture rather than a short-duration backup device.

Project experience includes MCC wiring for industrial electrical distribution and control.

When each is specified

UPS equipment is specified where ride-through power is needed for controls and instrumentation. MCC equipment is specified where motors and loads require centralised starting, protection and control.

Both may exist on the same site but are designed, installed and maintained against different requirements.