[RE-wrenches] Code reviewer issue with array disconenct location

Jeff Yago jryago at dtisolar.com
Thu Nov 17 11:56:51 PST 2011


Here's another one of those reviewers that do not know what they are
reviewing and just cause added hours of lost time.  Large 112 kW array
mounted on top of structural steel beams above multi-story parking deck.
Beams straddle center up and down ramps so no parking spaces are lost.
Multiple rows of modules and require ladders to access.  Budget reviewer
deleted my design of grated walkways behind each row, so you must use tie
offs to work on any part of system.

Each row includes a fused combiner box at center line, with individual
conduit from each grouped down centerline on high mounting then down to
inverter located outside on top deck.  Inverter includes both AC and DC
disconnects which are readable accessible. Other AC disconnects included in
electric room and outside at meter.

Due to long runs from each array row back down to inverter, I specified the
fused combiner boxes to include a DC disconnect option located in the cover
(memory of Target Store conduit fire!) which not only allows disconnecting
any single row without shutting down entire system, but also useful for
testing and service.

Reviewer demands this "disconnect" meet code requirement that a "disconnect"
must be readable accessible.  I have told them we cannot separate this
disconnect from the combiner box and will not relocate these high voltage
combiner boxes down at eye level on a raised parking deck where any student
could gain access, so if they make an issue of this we will use a different
combiner box that does not have this option (and also loose added protection
of conduit runs between combiners and inverter).  However, I would like to
refer to code and I see no mention of a combiner box as required by code so
there is no reference to it having a disconnect. 

Suggestions?

Jeff Yago
DTI Solar Inc.





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