[RE-wrenches] AFCI trip on metal roof

[August Goers]

Hi Drake,



What model SMA inverter(s) and modules do you have? We had one case where a
MC4 connector under the array was not making good contact. It was not
seated properly when the installer made up the connector and the arc fault
sensor in the inverter did its job. We had another site where some
electrical noise on the AC side, presumably a sump pump, caused the issue
and we could not solve it so had to switch to another inverter
manufacturer. There were other cases where the impedance or other
electrical characteristics of the solar modules where the likely culprit.



Is your roof and array totally equipment grounded?



Best,



August



*From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] *On
Behalf Of *Drake
*Sent:* Wednesday, March 23, 2016 2:08 PM
*To:* RE-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org
*Subject:* [RE-wrenches] AFCI trip on metal roof



Hello Wrenches,

We have a project with an array on a large metal roof. The AFCI has been
tripping. Investigating the system, there is no evidence of any arcing: the
wiring and connections are all very tight.

SMA tech support says it is likely that the nuisance tripping comes from
electrical noise getting picked up by the large metal roof.

What has been your overall experience with nuisance tripping of arc fault
protection? What were the suspected causes? What was the solution?

Thanks,

Drake

Drake Chamberlin





*Athens Electric LLCOH License 44810CO License 3773NABCEP Certified Solar
PV 740-448-7328*http://athens-electric.com/

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