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

[Ryan Mayfield]

Jeff, 

Try pointing them to 690.14(B). This allows for PV source circuit isolating
switches on the PV side of the disconnecting means. As you describe it, the
dc disconnect at the inverter is the required PV disconnecting means and you
can describe the combiner disconnects as source circuit isolating switches.
This paragraph doesn't make mention of accessibility.

Good luck,

Ryan



-----Original Message-----
From: re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Jeff Yago
Sent: Thursday, November 17, 2011 11:57 AM
To: 'RE-wrenches'
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Code reviewer issue with array disconenct
location

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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