Connecting a solar array charging source to PROsine series system [RE-wrench

[wratterman at SunEnergyPower.com]

Bob,

I think you are fine with the 72V nominal array, as long as you don't
have to worry about the cold temps taking the Voc over the 140-150 Max
on the MX60.

On the batteries, three strings is OK, if they are worth re-using.  If
you have to purchase new batteries, try to reduce the number of strings,
by purchasing larger amp-hour batteries.  

On inverters, there are several choices out there, but I would recommend
the Outback inverters.  They have been holding up really well for me.
Matching up inverters with generators is always as much of an art as a
science, but the Outback gives a lot of flexibility on the charging
modes too.

See ya,

Walt
  



-----Original Message-----
From: Bob Clark [mailto:bclark at solar-wind.us] 
Sent: Wednesday, October 11, 2006 6:05 AM
To: RE-wrenches at topica.com
Subject: Connecting a solar array charging source to PROsine series
system [RE-wrenches]



Thanks Alan, Walt, and Bob.  I was leaning toward a redesign and dumping
the inverters and (at least some of the) batteries.

IF THE CUSTOMER WILL ACCEPT A REDESIGN:

SOLAR ARRAY
I was contemplating 2-72V panel strings as the PV Open Circuit Voltage
(Voc) of the MX60 controller = 150 VDC absolute maximum coldest
conditions / 140 VDC start-up and operating maximum.  This arrangement
of SHARP 175W would yield a Voc of 44.4V X 3 = 133.2V.  Absolute coldest
winter temps do not pose a problem.  This way the wire size can be
minimized on its 200 feet distance (one way) from array to power center.

BATTERIES
What about 3-48V strings of batteries (if the batteries are worth
using), so that the customer does not have to jettison so many
batteries?  Or would this be too many large voltage strings?  The
customer is interested in as much power reserve for as long as he can
get (within reason)--to minimize generator run time.

Advice on how best to test the remaining capacity of the existing
batteries would be appreciated.

INVERTERS
"Statpower/Xantrex ProSine inverters have high idle losses - at least
the early ones did. That's part of the gennie runtime issue."  Thanks
for this info.  Also, would the fact that so many batteries are
connected in parallel have something to do with the customer's long
recharge times even if there is just one 12V, 200W battery per string?

OTHER DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
Unfortunately, I do not yet have information on the pump power
requirements.  Distance and lift from the well is not an issue.

The customer is resigned to using his generator for approximately six
weeks during the winter because where he has to put his solar array does
not receive sunlight during this winter gloom time--a compromised
situation, but what he has to work with.

Again, thanks for your responses.

Bob Clark
SolarWind Energy Systems, LLC
(509) 826-1259
bclark at solar-wind.us<mailto:bclark at solar-wind.us>
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]


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