Mac, Most Multi-Mode inverters I know of should work for your intentions. You feed the hydro source into the generator input terminals on the multimode inverter, and you program the inverter in "generator support mode," and then you program the inverter with the maximum stable output of the hydro plant (or maximum generator load), and when your load draws surges above that maximum kW, then the multi-mode inverter will inject power to support the hydro-generator. With this configuration, it is important that all of the power being used on-site is going through that multi-mode inverter so that it can monitor exactly what is being used, so it can support the hydro-generator as needed. Then, when the site is using less energy, the multi-mode inverter will replenish its batteries from the hydro-generator. You might have to play around with the programming to figure out what kW will be the best value for the "generator maximum load" setpoint.
Just make sure that whatever you use has a suitable generator support mode. I know Outback does, and I believe that Schneider and all the other big brands do too. Now the SMA Sunny Island does have one small advantage here, it is the only one in the pack that I know of that does the following... While doing everything we just talked about, it is capable of injecting vars rather than only pure power, so then the Hydro Generator only has to put out pure power. Of course, the SMA SI has to be programmed right for that to work out. By keeping a unity power factor on the output from the hydro plant, it can put out the power more efficiently, and all the Vars for the site can be supplied by the SI. Now, this isn't a sure-fire for not ever having a small flicker. In generator support mode, there is always a slight lag between when the surge load comes on, and when the generator starts injecting power so there may be a slight flicker right at the moment a surge load comes on, but it won't be like a real brown out, just a momentary flicker. The old incandescent lights don't reveal this flicker as much because they dim more slowly, but with the LEDs, it might be noticeable. Thanks, Kienan Maxfield Solar maxfieldso...@hotmail.com<mailto:maxfieldso...@hotmail.com> (801) 631-5584 (Cell) ________________________________ From: RE-wrenches <re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org> on behalf of Mac Lewis <maclew...@gmail.com> Sent: Sunday, November 3, 2019 6:46 AM To: RE-wrenches <re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> Subject: [RE-wrenches] Stiffening an AC buss Hi wrenches, I have a site visit coming up on a hydro system, I believe its ~ 20 kW range, and an older unit, 30+ years old. This info may or may not be reliable until I see the site. However, I'd like some options to consider while I'm looking at their system. My hydro knowledge is weak but I enjoy it. They experience browning out when certain loads kick on. I assume they have checked the diversion load controller(s) to see if its dropping and adding loads as it should. I also assume that they have checked the rotor assembly, brushes etc and they are in good working order. The first thing I'll do is call the manufacturer and see if they have any ideas, but I'm sure they will recommend a new turbine/generator assembly with better voltage regulation. I am wondering if there is any type of inverter can operate in parallel with the hydro output that can inject current (maybe VARS as well) onto the AC buss to help stabilize AC voltage and frequency during these events. It seems like the new smart inverters can do this but I have no experience with this. Maybe the Sunny Island? Im just starting to research this but I always appreciate your input. Thanks -- Mac Lewis "Yo solo sé que no sé nada." -Sócrates
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