Re: [RE-wrenches] Conext inverter
HI Allan, I think you have me here. I was under the impression that this is just a new name for what is the old XW series? jay peltz power On Aug 28, 2013, at 5:24 PM, Allan Sindelar wrote: > Wrenches, > When a new product comes out I usually wait for a few reviews on this list > before using it. That would have been the case with the new Schneider Conext > series, the low-cost 120/240 SW off grid unit. But I was talking with Tom > Carpenter of Midnite about other issues and he happened to speak quite highly > of the unit he was bench testing. So I'm asking: has anyone worked with this > unit yet? What's the feedback, please? > Allan > -- > Allan Sindelar > al...@positiveenergysolar.com > NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional > NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional > New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician > Founder and Chief Technology Officer > Positive Energy, Inc., a Certified B CorporationTM > 3209 Richards Lane > Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507 > 505 424-1112 office 780-2738 cell > www.positiveenergysolar.com > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] cool fan
Hi Todd, As the fan won't even stay on, when ON, then the board being bad is a good choice As to the AC fan, I wasn't suggesting an external thermostat, but just a larger cfm fan Jay On Aug 27, 2013, at 9:11 AM, toddc...@finestplanet.com wrote: > thanks for the ideas jay! > > the fan comes on and off with the aux output led on the board where the > in/out ac wires connect, so i do not believe this is an issue with the fan. > > as i mentioned below: > > when i set the aux control from 'auto' to 'on' the fan comes on and stays > on... well, mostly. it still cycles on and off, but less frequently. > > > i guess i could mount an external thermostat on the fx case and have this > control a relay to operate the 'cool fan', but id really like to figure out > why the unit is not performing as it is supposed to... and why outback's tech > support seems so deficient these days. shouldnt someone have access to the > code and be able to give me the temp counts for cool fan on/off and when the > unit throttles back on selling from over-temp conditions? > > todd > > > > > > On Tuesday, August 27, 2013 8:47am, "jay peltz" said: > > Hi Todd > Is the relay cycling or could it be the fan is having issues? > Did you try manual on? > On a side note. For the turbo units in warm areas, I replace the fan with a > high output AC fan controlled with relay, really helps. > Jay > Peltz power. > > > > > On Aug 26, 2013, at 10:21 PM, toddc...@finestplanet.com wrote: > > wrenches... > > im having a vexing problem with an outback system and cannot seem to get any > help from outback... so, im posting this here in hopes some wrench knows more > about the 'cool fan' option than i do. > > this is a sealed gtfx2524 system... so it has the 'turbo fan' connected to > the aux output which is set to "coolfan". i called tech support and the guy i > spoke with was unable to find much about this so is sending out a control > board as kind of a blind, "i hope this fixes it" solution... but, before i > unwire and dismount the inverter for the second time (the internal fan died > after 6 months of use), i thought id write and ask someone else. > > here are the symptoms and parameters: > the grid tied unit is in a greenhouse so it gets hot in there (a couple of > days ago it was 95 f). > at max, the unit processes around 1100 watts/minus local loads so sells > around 900 to 1000 watts. the lowest (hottest) temp counts i have seen are: > air (xmfr) 88 > fets 132 > caps 136 > > during this "heat event" i saw the unit throttling back on selling, as the dc > voltage went from 26 (sell voltage default set point) to 28, where the charge > controller started throttling back... so i know it was running hot. during > this the "coolfan" would cycle... on for a second or 2 and then off again for > an equal time. when i set the aux control from 'auto' to 'on' the fan comes > on and stays on... well, mostly. it still cycles on and off, but less > frequently. > > does anyone have access to the temp counts for: > when the "coolfan" is supposed to turn on and off & > when the unit starts throttling back on selling due to overheating & > when the unit will totally shut down from overheating > > another strange thing is when i set the aux control from coolfan to vent or > diversion, and program the parameters so the fan would be on (ie: vent fan / > diversion "on" above 24 volts with the battery voltage at 26+) the fan does > not come on. > > guesses? will replacing the "control board" change anything? any help is > appreciated. > > thanks, todd > > > > Sent from Finest Planet WebMail. > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > > > Sent from Finest Planet WebMail. > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive:
Re: [RE-wrenches] cool fan
Hi Todd Is the relay cycling or could it be the fan is having issues? Did you try manual on? On a side note. For the turbo units in warm areas, I replace the fan with a high output AC fan controlled with relay, really helps. Jay Peltz power. On Aug 26, 2013, at 10:21 PM, toddc...@finestplanet.com wrote: > wrenches... > > im having a vexing problem with an outback system and cannot seem to get any > help from outback... so, im posting this here in hopes some wrench knows more > about the 'cool fan' option than i do. > > this is a sealed gtfx2524 system... so it has the 'turbo fan' connected to > the aux output which is set to "coolfan". i called tech support and the guy i > spoke with was unable to find much about this so is sending out a control > board as kind of a blind, "i hope this fixes it" solution... but, before i > unwire and dismount the inverter for the second time (the internal fan died > after 6 months of use), i thought id write and ask someone else. > > here are the symptoms and parameters: > the grid tied unit is in a greenhouse so it gets hot in there (a couple of > days ago it was 95 f). > at max, the unit processes around 1100 watts/minus local loads so sells > around 900 to 1000 watts. the lowest (hottest) temp counts i have seen are: > air (xmfr) 88 > fets 132 > caps 136 > > during this "heat event" i saw the unit throttling back on selling, as the dc > voltage went from 26 (sell voltage default set point) to 28, where the charge > controller started throttling back... so i know it was running hot. during > this the "coolfan" would cycle... on for a second or 2 and then off again for > an equal time. when i set the aux control from 'auto' to 'on' the fan comes > on and stays on... well, mostly. it still cycles on and off, but less > frequently. > > does anyone have access to the temp counts for: > when the "coolfan" is supposed to turn on and off & > when the unit starts throttling back on selling due to overheating & > when the unit will totally shut down from overheating > > another strange thing is when i set the aux control from coolfan to vent or > diversion, and program the parameters so the fan would be on (ie: vent fan / > diversion "on" above 24 volts with the battery voltage at 26+) the fan does > not come on. > > guesses? will replacing the "control board" change anything? any help is > appreciated. > > thanks, todd > > > > Sent from Finest Planet WebMail. > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] battery impedance
HI All, I'm wondering if anyone is using battery impedance test equipment? Pros, cons etc. thanks, jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Xantrex XW system stability
Hi Kevin Given how that system works, could you install the CC's on their own? Ie use a seperate scp to keep track of data? Jay Peltz power. Sent from my iPhone On Aug 22, 2013, at 10:18 AM, "Kevin Pegg" wrote: > Hello Wrenches, > > Curious how others are finding the stability of larger Xantrex XW > deployments? We have an installation with 12 Xanbus devices (4 x XW6048, 6 x > XW-MPPT60, 1 x AGS, 1 x SCP) and it keeps crashing. Power cycle the whole > system and it's fine for a few weeks and then it crashes again. > > I find with smaller deployments under 5 Xanbus devices the stability is much > better, but still get the occasional customer call with a system gone haywire > and a power cycle fixes. > > This particular installation is in the high arctic darn near the north pole > and sending a tech up there next week to resolve. Needless to say, it's an > expensive ordeal to get up there. > > Kevin > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] MC4 center conductors
PV-cables.com Jay On Aug 19, 2013, at 4:10 PM, penobscotso...@midmaine.com wrote: > Hi all, > Does anyone have a source of just the center conductor (small metal > inserts) for MC4 connectorsI seem to have accumulated a lot of > female - plastic without the associated crimpable center conductor > > Daryl > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback efficiency?
Hi Ray, #1, I don't see any improvement. But then I find it rarely used anymore with many small loads ( cell phone chargers etc), coupled with cyclic loads and 4 watt LED's etc. Its got to be a really small system to have this be active. I find that if people really want to use this that I'll wire up the remote on/off and they can use that from their bed at night. #2. It depends on how they measure the efficiency. Since the no load is around 20 watts, if you have a 20 watt load, that makes a efficiency of like 50%, not including the inverter loss's of 6-10% which isn't really helpful in any sort of calculations. I usually use 90% ish ( I think they publish 94% as peak eff.) as my INV design efficiency ( sometimes it'll be lower, sometimes higher), and then add in the idle watts x 24 hrs day. Hope this helps, jay peltz power On Aug 18, 2013, at 3:01 PM, Ray Walters wrote: > I have a couple of Outback questions. On my load analysis sheet, I include > 20 w x 24hr/ day for the inverter's no load draw. > In the past I had very poor luck with the search mode on most inverters, and > found that when I adjusted it so that it came on with efficient lighting, > that the no load draw was still 15 watts. I've just taken to disabling > search mode, and add more modules. > So question 1: has the search mode been improved in the past 5 years? > question 2: Is the no load draw most of the efficiency losses, so could I > set inverter total efficiency to say 98%, while keeping the 480 wh/ day > inverter draw? I don't want to overstate or understate the inverter losses. > > Thanks, > > -- > R.Ray Walters > CTO, Solarray, Inc > Nabcep Certified PV Installer, > Licensed Master Electrician > Solar Design Engineer > 303 505-8760 > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] PV Assist
Hi William Thx helps a lot. I can only say how I do it. I'll give the client some options, including the change of appliances and usually the price difference makes the sale one way or the other. Funny reminds me of the old days, only with much smaller loads/$. Good luck Jay Sent from my iPhone On Aug 16, 2013, at 12:49 PM, "William Miller" wrote: > Jay: > > There are four systems in question. In three the loads are year round and > one is summer only AC loads. The year round loaded systems have loads day > and night. > > One is a highway maintenence station with at least 4 residences. > One is a family compound with two homes with electric ranges, water heaters, > AC units (I know its stupid, lord knows I've tried to convince them to change > appliances.) > One is an animal rescue operation with heater loads. > One is a large home with 5 very small, very new, very sophisticated and > frugal AC units > > I know it is silly to move these loads off-grid, but people do it and they > will hire someone to work on the systems. It may as well be me, doing the > best I can to use the resources as wisely as possible. > > William > > PS: It always happens like this: I get a call from a client with problems. > Well, of course their expensive battery bank died and it died because of > wasteful appliances. The prescription is a new, expensive battery bank and, > at the same time, new, expensive, efficient appliances. They complain can't > afford both and they have to have the batteries, so that is what they get. > Repeat every two years. Sad > > Wm > > > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Jay Peltz > Sent: Friday, August 16, 2013 12:22 PM > To: RE-wrenches > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] PV Assist > > Hi William > > I feel it's impossible to discuss without more specifics. > > For example if the extreme loads are only every ( just run the genny) so > often vs seasonal ( maybe AC coupling makes more sense vs cycling a extremely > expensive battery 4 x day), vs year round vs what is do able etc > > I would be curious to know what some of the parameters are, as I'm sure > others as well > > Jay > > Peltz power. > > > > > > Sent from my iPhone > > On Aug 16, 2013, at 10:53 AM, "William Miller" > wrote: > >> Friends: >> >> We have been receiving a flurry of requests for design of off-grid systems >> where the loads are enormous, relative to normal off-grid requirements. It >> is obvious that the size of PV and battery arrays to power these loads is >> beyond what is practical. We have dubbed these systems Generator/battery >> with PV assist, or PV assist for short. >> >> These systems will cycle batteries multiple times per day. It is my >> understanding that the extra battery cycels will shorten battery life. >> Since generator run is expected, we are willing to increase generator run >> time in order to prolong battery life. >> >> The parameters I suggest are an aggressive load start and a very high >> battery start parameter. This will prevent deep discharge of the battery >> bank. I know shallow discharge is not the norm, but I don't believe shallow >> cycling isa problem as long is it as at the top of the voltage window, >> i.e. the batteries achieve absorption at least once per day. >> >> We know a load start ciuld result in an abbreviated run time, curtailing >> absorption period, but we are assuming there will be a battery votage start >> at least once per day allowing full absorption. >> >> Has anyone else considered these issues, and what conclusions did you make >> >> I am looking forward to a spirited discussion as usual. I throuroughlyenjoy >> and beneift from them, even thought the advice is usually conflilcting. >> Thanks in advance. >> >> William Miller >> ___ >> List sponsored by Home Power magazine >> >> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org >> >> Change email address & settings: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >> >> List-Archive: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >> >> List rules & etiquette: >> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm >> >> Check out participant bios: >> www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ > List sponsored by Hom
Re: [RE-wrenches] PV Assist
Hi William I feel it's impossible to discuss without more specifics. For example if the extreme loads are only every ( just run the genny) so often vs seasonal ( maybe AC coupling makes more sense vs cycling a extremely expensive battery 4 x day), vs year round vs what is do able etc I would be curious to know what some of the parameters are, as I'm sure others as well Jay Peltz power. Sent from my iPhone On Aug 16, 2013, at 10:53 AM, "William Miller" wrote: > Friends: > > We have been receiving a flurry of requests for design of off-grid systems > where the loads are enormous, relative to normal off-grid requirements. It > is obvious that the size of PV and battery arrays to power these loads is > beyond what is practical. We have dubbed these systems Generator/battery > with PV assist, or PV assist for short. > > These systems will cycle batteries multiple times per day. It is my > understanding that the extra battery cycels will shorten battery life. Since > generator run is expected, we are willing to increase generator run time in > order to prolong battery life. > > The parameters I suggest are an aggressive load start and a very high battery > start parameter. This will prevent deep discharge of the battery bank. I > know shallow discharge is not the norm, but I don't believe shallow cycling > is a problem as long is it as at the top of the voltage window, i.e. the > batteries achieve absorption at least once per day. > > We know a load start ciuld result in an abbreviated run time, curtailing > absorption period, but we are assuming there will be a battery votage start > at least once per day allowing full absorption. > > Has anyone else considered these issues, and what conclusions did you make > > I am looking forward to a spirited discussion as usual. I throuroughlyenjoy > and beneift from them, even thought the advice is usually conflilcting. > Thanks in advance. > > William Miller > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Mouse pee in the SW
Hi Dan Amazing about what can be done! For those of us not so adventurous, how well would electrical spray Cleaner work? I have used it before to clean a SW that was in a room with a leaky diesel generator. The inside of the inverter was coated in soot, which coupled with sea air, well not such a good combo. It did work after the cleaning though. Thanks Jay Peltz power On Aug 16, 2013, at 5:11 AM, Exeltech wrote: > Bill, > > My short answer is .. if things work after all this .. I wouldn't recommend > doing anything to the circuit board after cleaning it. Instead, I'd take > steps to keep the mice from ever getting into the inverter again. > > : ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Hawker versusu MK
Hi Dick, Best trick I ever learned for these metal cased is to build a wheeled base with steel wheels. Yea, still have to get them onto the base, but then its easy. Also when I use metal cased batteries I like to have them with removable series interconnects not the welded type. Interesting to hear the comments on the Rolls shipping. I've seen that problem myself, but didn't realize that it was so common. jay peltz power On Aug 13, 2013, at 9:31 AM, Richard L Ratico wrote: > I've got two Hawker installs out here, a 48 Volt and a 24 Volt system. Both > are > going on 6 years or so. Clients are happy, I'm happy. It does resemble work to > move and place them. We typically use "Egyptian" techniques when heavy > equipment > isn't available or appropriate. Inclined plane, big pry bars, rollers, come > along, block & tackle. It's kind of fun to try to outsmart the mass. It's > interesting to experience gravity's effect on lead, atomic weight 207.2. Glad > it's not Uranium at 238. Thankfully, we've not had to replace a cell. That > always sucks, regardless. > > If I remember correctly, the steel cans had welded seams. The cans make the > use > of insulated tools even more important. Should you ground the cans??? > > Speaking of replacing cells. I looked at a 5 year old bank of 8 Rolls L16s > this > weekend. Two of the batteries had a dead cell. This in a bank that had a > single > battery replaced at 6 months or less because of a bad cell. > > I've also got a 7 year old bank of 12 Surrette / Rolls 2 Volt units installed. > The only problem so far was on day one when they arrived. They were shipped > on a > single, narrow, beat up pallet. Some had obviously tipped over in transit and > had lost a considerable amount of electrolyte. Northern Arizona Wind & Sun > user's forum has posts reporting similar experiences. > > I dread receiving expensive pallets of batteries and modules from shippers. > High > percentage of damage. Steel cans instead of plastic wrap is worth thinking > about. > Hope this doesn't just muddy the water. > > Dick Ratico > Solarwind Electric > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Hawker versusu MK
I agree with Daryl and Tump And would add Trojan IND as an option to the Rolls and made in SoCal Also most of the industrial battery folks make 2v cells. Jay Peltz power. On Aug 13, 2013, at 4:55 AM, penobscotso...@midmaine.com wrote: > I second Tump's experience! > > Daryl DeJoy > NABCEP Certified PV installer > Penobscot Solar Design > > >> I install large battery banks ALL the time. We DO NOT use any battery that >> is incased in a metal enclosure. >> REAL pain to move, cells DO go bad & when they do its a real pain to bring >> the engine hoist to remove them. Hard to keep the cases from leaking & >> rusting. >> We DO use the Surrette 2 volt cells in the dual container exclusively. >> These are rated as a "containment vessel", & much easier to move. In the >> event when a cell does go bad, use a jumper to bypass the bad cell, >> operate w/ a lower LBCO setting leave the CC settings the same, while >> waiting for replacement. >> 1700 AH -2400 AH. >> By the time you have the tractor/back hoe on site, my 2 volt cells are up >> n running! E mail me off list and I can give you a few tricks to move >> them. >> On Aug 13, 2013, at 3:28 AM, William Miller wrote: >> >>> Friends: >>> >>> We are shopping for industrial, flooded, lead acid batteries. We are >>> considering 12 volt packages in the 1800 AH range. Under consideration >>> are: >>> >>> Hawker 12-25W-23S at 1705 AH or MK 106M1033STB at 1896 AH. >>> >>> Have any of you had experience with either, or recommend another option? >>> >>> As always, I am extremely grateful to all of you for the limitless >>> wisdom offered. >>> >>> Sinceerly, >>> >>> William Miller >>> >>> ___ >>> List sponsored by Home Power magazine >>> >>> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org >>> >>> Change email address & settings: >>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >>> >>> List-Archive: >>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >>> >>> List rules & etiquette: >>> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm >>> >>> Check out participant bios: >>> www.members.re-wrenches.org >> >>> t...@swnl.net www.SWNL.net >>>Solarwinds Northernlights >>> Serving Mid Coast Maine & Northern California >>> 207-832-7574 Cl. 610-517-8401 >>> Blair "TUMP" May >>> MAINE'S CHARTER >>> NABCEP"Certified PV Installer" >>> >>> MAINE'S CHARTER >>> Trace Xantrex "Certified" Dealer / Installer" >> >> >> ___ >> List sponsored by Home Power magazine >> >> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org >> >> Change email address & settings: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >> >> List-Archive: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >> >> List rules & etiquette: >> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm >> >> Check out participant bios: >> www.members.re-wrenches.org > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] UPS -1500w
hi Jeremy, Sorry to pull teeth here, but which inverter is it? jay peltz power On Aug 11, 2013, at 11:08 AM, All Solar wrote: > It's a sine wave unit and the manufacturer has been very involved in this > case. The owner is going to try a UPS that he already owns and will bring it > out the next time he travels back. > > Sent by Jeremy's iPhone. Sorry for typos and shorthand! > > On Aug 9, 2013, at 6:16 PM, RE Ellison wrote: > >> I assume the easy choice of changing the coffee pot isn't going to happen? >> >> What inverter does it happen to be, Although sometimes weird stuff like this >> happens with inverters of all makes. >> >> Back from my days of being an APC dealer most UPS's are modified square wave >> >> Bob ellison >> >> >> Bob Ellison >> >> On Aug 9, 2013, at 4:00 PM, All Solar wrote: >> >>> Looking for recommendations for a reliable UPS for a problem load that will >>> not run off the homes inverter >>> The load is 1200 w max 120v >>> Thanks in advance >>> >>> Jeremy Rodriguez >>> All Solar > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] UPS -1500w
What's the load, the inverter? Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On Aug 9, 2013, at 1:00 PM, All Solar wrote: > Looking for recommendations for a reliable UPS for a problem load that will > not run off the homes inverter > The load is 1200 w max 120v > Thanks in advance > > Jeremy Rodriguez > All Solar > > Sent by Jeremy's iPhone. Sorry for typos and shorthand! > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Relay for 48v Vent Fan
HI Rich, Grainger will have 12v coil relays that will switch 48v. jay peltz power On Aug 8, 2013, at 4:49 PM, Rich Nicol wrote: > Hello Wrenches, > > Does anyone have any advice about what to use for a relay to power a 48 volt > Zephyr battery vent fan using the 12 volt auxiliary output from the Midnite > Classic Charge controllers. The fan only draws 6 watts but my problem is the > 48 volt side of the equation. A supplier has recommend a double pole/double > throw relay rated for up to 30 amps at 24 volts wired in series. I’m curious > if anyone knows of a relay rated for 48volts (actually higher voltage since > the fan is signaled to come on when the battery reaches gassing voltage) that > would work in this application or if there is widespread agreement that the > 24volt rated relay would work fine since we are requiring only minimal > current and spreading between two contacts. > As always, your input is greatly valued! > Thanks, > Rich > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] SW AGS
HI Chris, Nope the SW had a pretty simple menu AGS wise. jay On Aug 7, 2013, at 3:16 PM, Chris Worcester wrote: > Now there is a useful setting, just being a little sarcastic, this would be > hard to diagnose. Was that available on the SW’s AGS menu too? > > Chris Worcester > Solar Wind Works > NABCEP Certified PV Installer > Office 530-582-4503 > Cell 530-448-9692 > Fax 530-582-4603 > www.solarwindworks.com > ch...@solarwindworks.com > > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of jay peltz > Sent: Wednesday, August 07, 2013 2:30 PM > To: RE-wrenches > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] SW AGS > > HI Eric, > > Sounds like the "stop absorb" might have been enabled. > This will stop the AGS when the battery volts reach absorb setpoint. > > But has no impact if starting the generator manually. > > jay > > peltz power > > > > > Sounds like you talked to the right guy, that's his info...except that he > has, according to what he told me, an SW not an XW. I'm assuming he's maybe > at 50% capacity on his original 1260Ah bank based on everything he told me > this morning. He did say that his bank will last him through the night and > that he has some pretty hefty air conditioning loads. He also said he had > equalized in the past but not in the last 18 months. I'm just not convinced > that his batteries are shot. But all this battery talk may be beside the > point if he's not experiencing the same on/off cycling problem when he > manually starts the genny, right? That is, assuming the disco settings remain > in effect regardless of start mechanism. Thanks for indulging me tocayo. > > Eric > SunHarvest > 001.530.798.3738 (Cell) > - Original Message - > From: eric.bent...@schneider-electric.com > To: RE-wrenches > Sent: Wednesday, August 07, 2013 12:54 PM > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] SW AGS > > > Hi Eric, > Sounded like bad batteries to me also (I think he called in this AM). He has > (2) XW6048 units that are > capable of 200ADC between them, and he also has 1260Ah of flooded capacity. > DC Start V is set for 46.5V, so if we assume he was close to 50% > discharge (depending on load), it should take almost 2 hours to reach the > bulk voltage (80% replaced). His batteries were ramping up to bulk > in just a couple of minutes, meaning the batteries were not absorbing the > charge. I have heard varying opinions on the symptoms of sulfation, > but it does sound like a battery issue (5 yrs old). He was advised to > equalize to try and recover them (he has never done this), or replace them. > Rgds, > > _ > > > Eric Bentsen | Schneider Electric | Solar Business | UNITED STATES > | Technical Support Representative > Phone: +(650) 351-8237 ext. 001# | > Email: eric.bent...@schneider-electric.com | Site: > www.schneider-electric.com/solar | Address: 250 South Vasco Rd., > Livermore, CA 94551 > > > *** Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail > > > > From: > "SunHarvest" > To: > "RE-wrenches" > Date: > 08/07/2013 12:39 PM > Subject: > [RE-wrenches] SW AGS > Sent by: > re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > > > > > I read through the archives on the XW AGS thread but have a query on behalf > of a customer with an SW AGS issue. I'm heading out to the remote site > tomorrow and would like, if possible, to show up knowing what I might be up > against. > > The customer recently replaced his AGS for his two SW 6048s and then upgraded > his firmware a week later. He reported that his problem with the AGS began > after firmware upgrade. Here's the particular issue: > > AGS will try to start the 15.8kW Multi-Quip genny due to low battery voltage > (event 306 DCV start). After about 5 minutes the AGS will stop the genny due > to battery absorption level reached (event 313 ABS stop). The AGS will go > through this event 306/313 cycle on and off until the homeowner shuts down > the AGS. To me this sounds like bad batteries. But, the homeowner says this > cycling does not occur when he manually starts the generator. This doesn't > sound like a complicated problem but so far I'm unfamiliar with the SW AGS. > So, I would greatly appreciate any insight you guys can offer me. > > Thanks!! > > Eric > SunHarvest > 001.530.798.3738 (Cell) > > __
Re: [RE-wrenches] SW AGS
HI Eric, Sounds like the "stop absorb" might have been enabled. This will stop the AGS when the battery volts reach absorb setpoint. But has no impact if starting the generator manually. jay peltz power > Sounds like you talked to the right guy, that's his info...except that he > has, according to what he told me, an SW not an XW. I'm assuming he's maybe > at 50% capacity on his original 1260Ah bank based on everything he told me > this morning. He did say that his bank will last him through the night and > that he has some pretty hefty air conditioning loads. He also said he had > equalized in the past but not in the last 18 months. I'm just not convinced > that his batteries are shot. But all this battery talk may be beside the > point if he's not experiencing the same on/off cycling problem when he > manually starts the genny, right? That is, assuming the disco settings remain > in effect regardless of start mechanism. Thanks for indulging me tocayo. > > Eric > SunHarvest > 001.530.798.3738 (Cell) > - Original Message - > From: eric.bent...@schneider-electric.com > To: RE-wrenches > Sent: Wednesday, August 07, 2013 12:54 PM > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] SW AGS > > > Hi Eric, > Sounded like bad batteries to me also (I think he called in this AM). He has > (2) XW6048 units that are > capable of 200ADC between them, and he also has 1260Ah of flooded capacity. > DC Start V is set for 46.5V, so if we assume he was close to 50% > discharge (depending on load), it should take almost 2 hours to reach the > bulk voltage (80% replaced). His batteries were ramping up to bulk > in just a couple of minutes, meaning the batteries were not absorbing the > charge. I have heard varying opinions on the symptoms of sulfation, > but it does sound like a battery issue (5 yrs old). He was advised to > equalize to try and recover them (he has never done this), or replace them. > Rgds, > > _ > > > Eric Bentsen | Schneider Electric | Solar Business | UNITED STATES > | Technical Support Representative > Phone: +(650) 351-8237 ext. 001# | > Email: eric.bent...@schneider-electric.com | Site: > www.schneider-electric.com/solar | Address: 250 South Vasco Rd., > Livermore, CA 94551 > > > *** Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail > > > > From: "SunHarvest" > To: "RE-wrenches" > Date: 08/07/2013 12:39 PM > Subject: [RE-wrenches] SW AGS > Sent by: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > > > > > I read through the archives on the XW AGS thread but have a query on behalf > of a customer with an SW AGS issue. I'm heading out to the remote site > tomorrow and would like, if possible, to show up knowing what I might be up > against. > > The customer recently replaced his AGS for his two SW 6048s and then upgraded > his firmware a week later. He reported that his problem with the AGS began > after firmware upgrade. Here's the particular issue: > > AGS will try to start the 15.8kW Multi-Quip genny due to low battery voltage > (event 306 DCV start). After about 5 minutes the AGS will stop the genny due > to battery absorption level reached (event 313 ABS stop). The AGS will go > through this event 306/313 cycle on and off until the homeowner shuts down > the AGS. To me this sounds like bad batteries. But, the homeowner says this > cycling does not occur when he manually starts the generator. This doesn't > sound like a complicated problem but so far I'm unfamiliar with the SW AGS. > So, I would greatly appreciate any insight you guys can offer me. > > Thanks!! > > Eric > SunHarvest > 001.530.798.3738 (Cell) > > __ > This email has been scanned by the Symantec Email Security.cloud service. > _ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > > > > > ___ > List sponsor
Re: [RE-wrenches] retail price lists
Hi Tom and all Thanks for the price list. I'm sorry, I guess my question should have been more clear. Why is it that some of our manufacturing companies don't publish retail price lists, but actually have them? There must be a reason? ( however dopey) Thanks Jay On Aug 6, 2013, at 7:30 AM, Tom Duffy wrote: > Jay > > I have sent you an OutBack retail price list in a separate e-mail let me know > if you don't get it. > > Tom Duffy > Senior Solar Design Engineer > > Toll Free 888-895-8179 > t...@thesolar.biz > Customer Service and Accounting 888-895-6810 > Grid tie sales 888-895-7847 > Off Grid sales 888-895-4058 > Other Product Sales 888-895-9612 > Central America Sales (Panama) 507-6-126-1253 > Shipping and Receiving 888-895-6497 > Tech Support 888-895-8179 > SKYPE: thesolarbiz > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] retail price lists
Anybody know the logic on why some manufacturers don't publish a retail price list? For example, Outback? thx, jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] RS 232/tristar
Hi All, Any special issues with using a RS232 to USB for programing the Tristar? IE will any USB/RS232 adapter do? thanks in advance, jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback AC coupling Sunpower?
Hi Corey, Did you mount the SS relays to a good heat sink with heat compound? They are quite sensitive to heat damage and also like a lot things optimistically rated. I use a 2X oversize ratio for SS relays if they are used very much at all or for longer periods of time. And I think you are correct to install a back up to the frequency shift that may or may not work. jay peltz power On Jul 31, 2013, at 11:24 AM, Corey Shalanski wrote: > Mac, > > We have installed about ten AC coupled Magnum systems over the past year. > > Overcharge protection is accomplished by frequency shift, but Magnum > recommends an auxiliary form of battery management. The cheapest way to do > this is to program the relay driver on the Magnum advanced remote control > (ARC) to open/close a solid state relay at specified battery voltage > setpoints - similar to what Kelly mentioned. Unfortunately the "cheapest way" > sometimes comes back to haunt us in the form of unanticipated extra costs. We > had two customer callbacks indicating their inverter had mysteriously shut > down - site visit revealed a fried relay in each case.. so I would recommend > at least investing in a good quality relay if you choose this route. > > One other thing we have learned is that not all grid interactive inverters > are compatible with the Magnum inverters. Specifically Power One Aurora > string inverters cannot seem to synchronize in off-grid mode - we have had to > switch out Auroras on two projects because of this. We have had no such > synchronization issues with SMA inverters so far. > > -- > Corey Shalanski > Joule Energy > New Orleans, LA > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback AC coupling Sunpower?
Hi ray Magnum does have a way to do it Theirs is a bit different, but all the data is on their web site Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On Jul 30, 2013, at 4:23 PM, Ray Walters wrote: > The Outback rep got me some good info, and I'm liking the Radian with the > Remote controlled breaker to control the GT inverter when the grid is out. > I've heard of quite a few problems related to the Sunny Island frequency > controlled system. > My question is can off grid inverters like the Magnum be AC coupled? I'm > trying to get the price down, and still handle the 240 vac input from the GT > inverter. > I penciled out the Radian and I was topping $10k before installation. This > customer is hoping for a solution under $10k, and closer to $5k if possible. > I think an elegant lower cost solution for Grid tie with battery back up is > in order. A Radian Lite? > For backup, it could even be mod sine, as it wouldn't be much worse than > generator power or the average UPS setup. > > > R.Ray Walters > CTO, Solarray, Inc > Nabcep Certified PV Installer, > Licensed Master Electrician > Solar Design Engineer > 303 505-8760 > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Tri-Star MPPT
Hi Eric, While agree with most all your assessments, Can you please elaborate on the "sulfation causes the voltage not to climb?" This is quite counter to what I have seen and what the battery people say? Thanks Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On Jul 23, 2013, at 2:48 PM, eric.bent...@schneider-electric.com wrote: > > Hi William, > > If the SG was 1.26, of course the battery voltage would increase > quickly to >30V (which is high for warm weather, BTW). > It has been my experience that sulfation causes the voltage NOT to climb. > Especially when you have a very large bank, and a > relatively small amount of solar. > Sometimes it is necessary to reduce the bank size into smaller sets to > equalize them and recover their performance. > This method of reducing bank size is also effective to compare performance > and weed out a potentially bad battery. > Systems that have a lot of capacity, with a relatively small amount of > charge current usually creates problems, because > the load demand exceeds solar production. > This results in batteries that operate with partial SOC, which is when > sulfation is most prevalent. With (8) L16s, you have approx > 800Ahrs of capacity (24V bank). It would take significantly more than 8A of > charge current to properly care for a bank that size. > > Rgds, > _ > > > Eric Bentsen | Schneider Electric | Solar Business | UNITED STATES > | Technical Support Representative > Phone: +(650) 351-8237 ext. 001# | > Email: eric.bent...@schneider-electric.com | Site: > www.schneider-electric.com/solar | Address: 250 South Vasco Rd., > Livermore, CA 94551 > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Trojan L-16s
Hi Tom Where did you get the .42 from? Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On Jul 22, 2013, at 11:04 AM, Tom Duffy wrote: > Drake > > Keep the absorb rate recommended for the CC. The trimetric strays over time > and will become accurate again when you overcharge (equalize) > > The math: > Amp hours of battery @ 20 hour rate divided by max charge available in amps, > from whatever you using to charge (solar or inverter/charger) > Times .42 = absorb time in hours > > i.e. your system 980 watts, 980 divided by 28.8 (average volts) = 34 amps > max charge > 370 AH divided by 34 = 10.88 X .42 = 4.57 round up to 4.6 hours absorb time > for the CC > Your inverter VFX3524 max charge 85 amps... 370 divided by 85 = 4.35 X .42 = > 1.82 absorb time for the inverter/charger when running generator > > Tom Duffy > Senior Solar Design Engineer > > Toll Free 888-895-8179 > t...@thesolar.biz > Customer Service and Accounting 888-895-6810 > Grid tie sales 888-895-7847 > Off Grid sales 888-895-4058 > Other Product Sales 888-895-9612 > Central America Sales (Panama) 507-6-126-1253 > Shipping and Receiving 888-895-6497 > Tech Support 888-895-8179 > SKYPE: thesolarbiz > > -Original Message- > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Drake > Sent: Monday, July 22, 2013 10:04 AM > To: RE-wrenches > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Trojan L-16s > > Hi Larry, > > I will bump up the absorb voltage to 29.6 V. How long do you think the bank > should stay in absorb at that rate? The bank now seems healthy, with the bad > battery replaced. It does accept charge, without going high prematurely. > The max charge rate from the array is around C/10. The system can also be > fast charged from a Honda 6500 inverter generator through the Outback 3524 > VFX. > > We have a Trimetric meter on the system. The discrepancy between the percent > charge and the voltage is what demonstrated that we had a problem. > > Thanks, > > Drake > > > > At 09:30 PM 7/19/2013, you wrote: >> Hi Drake, >> >> It always concerns me when I hear that a battery bank reaches absorb >> setting very quickly. It typically means one of two things: very few AH >> were removed from the bank; the battery bank has sulfated cells due to >> chronic undercharging. Far too often I find the latter to be true. >> >> Healthy batteries will accept current and hold the charge voltage down >> with a fairly linear, slow climb to absorption voltage. Sulfated >> batteries do not accept current well which allows voltage to climb >> rapidly as the battery presents little load on the charging system. I'm >> not sure how this plays into your original post about a bad cell but it >> seemed worth mentioning. >> >> My opinion is to aggressively charge, by using higher voltage, large >> flooded batteries. This is especially true when the PV system is >> moderate or undersized. 29.6 volts is what Trojan recommends. You can >> go as high as 32 volts on the L-16's but make sure the temperature >> compensation is installed properly and working. You will use more water. >> >> One last comment, I highly recommend that ALL off grid systems have a >> battery capacity monitor installed. It's kind of like flying an >> airplane without a fuel gauge...it might not end in disaster. >> >> Larry Crutcher >> Starlight Solar Power Systems >> >> >> >> On Jul 18, 2013, at 1:11 PM, Drake >> wrote: >> >> Tom, >> >> The batteries usually reach absorb voltage shortly after the sun hits >> the array. The reason the bank wasn't working correctly is that one >> cell was dead in one of the batteries. >> >> I could increase the absorb time to 4.6 hours and the voltage to 29.6, >> especially since the bank has a new battery. That is longer and higher >> than I'd previously heard recommended. >> What would be the effect on water >> consumption? How did you calculate the absorb time? >> >> Thanks, >> >> >> Drake >> >> ___ >> List sponsored by Home Power magazine >> >> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org >> >> Change email address & settings: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >> >> List-Archive: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >> >> List rules & etiquette: >
Re: [RE-wrenches] Trojan L-16s
Hi Todd Where can we find info and pricing? Thanks Jay Peltz power > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Tape on modules for wire management
Hi all, You code wonks can help out here I had a friend ask about an install he saw that used electrical tape to attach the PV wires to the modules, yep actually taping them to the back of the module. I'm having trouble figuring out if this actually breaks any codes and if so which ones Then there is the whole ul,listing of the modules and is that approved? Thanks, Jay Peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Square D QO breaker DC question
Hi Dan I'm guessing the wire can handle the 100 amp if they are already running 60a. I've had QO breakers go bad, even ones not tortured like that one. The derate is interesting as it has to do with less atoms of air per volume. Less air, equals less cooling Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On Jul 8, 2013, at 10:07 PM, Dan Fink wrote: > Esteemed Wrenches; > > A weird troubleshooting call today for my business partner DanB. I wish I had > been along if only for shock and awe and lessons learned. > > A nicely installed vintage 12VDC PV system that someone else designed and > installed over 10 years ago, we replaced a dead/frozen battery bank a month > ago. DanB went back today because customer reported low battery bank voltage. > > He found the PV input breaker tripped, a Square D QO 2-pole 60 amp. About 600 > watts of PV 12vdc nominal on the roof. Reset the breaker, and a few minutes > later it was too hot to touch. > > So our working theory -- the 60a QO on *DC* has a 1.2x ampacity derate, which > puts 600w PV right at 60 amps instead of 50. There's also a bit of a high > altitude derate, which I don't understand at all. And during the battery > disaster last year bank voltage was certainly 11vdc or less, and was a bit > over 11vdc on DanB's arrival since the PV had not been charging. That puts us > at possibly 65.5 amps. The breaker was maybe just doing its job correctly, > though the heat was disturbing I am told.Or maybe it got damaged during the > battery disaster..both + and - were connected thru the 2 poles. > > In any case, our question --- due to my fuzzy memory and poor shopping > skills, we have a 100 amp QO 2 pole breaker in stock that needs a home, and > it'll plug right in. I have a nice tech bulletin from Schneider Electric > about DC ratings of their breakers that doesn't show that a 100a QO 2 pole > even exists, and a Schneider FAQ that says it'll work fine: > http://www.schneider-electric.us/sites/us/en/support/faq/faq_main.page?page=content&country=US&lang=en&id=FA125383&redirect=true > > Any advice on this? We'd sure love to just drop by and pop in the new 100a > amp QO breaker instead of installing a whole new DC rated Midnite box. But we > don't want to leave a fire hazard either. With 15 years service on our local > volunteer fire department, It would be rather embarrassing if a "fix" we > made to this old off-grid system caused a fire. ;-) We are aware of the 5k > AIR issue with these breakers, but the battery bank is small enough I don't > think it's quite up there, and information on AIR interruption from battery > manufacturers is hard to find..and of course it's a weird curve. > > Thanks in advance; > > Dan Fink, > Executive Director; > Otherpower > Buckville Energy Consulting > Buckville Publications LLC > NABCEP / IREC accredited Continuing Education Providers > 970.672.4342 > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Generac Ecogen (was RE: generator suggestions)
Hi Kirk One trick I learned from my generator guy is to hook up the remote start to the manual on position This bypass's the auto position and the extra load on the battery Best I can tell only difference on the Koehler anyway is how fast it starts. On auto right now On manual a few seconds delay. Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On Jul 6, 2013, at 10:46 AM, "Kirk Herander" wrote: > Alan and others, > > I have an off-grid customer looking at the Ecogen. Now that 6 months have > passed since your comments, can you tell us more of the pros and cons of this > unit? > I read somewhere the phantom load of the controller (and charger?) is 20 to > 50 watts total. Is it just the controller which needs to stay awake? Is there > a separate charger for the battery, meaning no alternator / rectifier direct > from the engine? Regardless, it seems dumb to me that a generator designed > for off-grid would mandate a phantom load to operate. For that reason, it > seems no more appealing than the Kohler R series. Is there an on-board > hour-meter? Thanks. The brochure does not address these questions. > > Kirk Herander > VT Solar, LLC > dba Vermont Solar Engineering > NABCEPTM Certified Inaugural Certificant > NYSERDA-eligible Installer > VT RE Incentive Program Partner > 802.863.1202 > > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Allan Sindelar > Sent: Wednesday, January 30, 2013 3:21 PM > To: RE-wrenches > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] generator suggestions > > Ray, > Everything has changed. The Kohler 6.5RMY and the Onan 6.5 Commercial were > wonderful units, but also both flathead twins, eventually discontinued for > efficiency and emissions reasons, as I came to understand. Also, the American > residential market was (and remains) almost exclusively about home standby, > not off grid, and the major manufacturers went in that direction. Home > standby is a competitive market, and generators aren't expected to run for > many hours over their useful life, so internals can be cheapened and features > to make them more like a home appliance are added. Many of us have customer > horror stories about home standby units used off grid. > > I have written favorably about the Generac EcoGen here and in Home Power, as > it's pretty much currently the only under-10K unit designed for off grid use. > I have now had two at my home - we had a fire in May that took out an > outbuilding and the gennie, and I replaced it with the same model, because it > had performed well and there was nothing else to compete with it. Always > starts, minimal maintenance, exceeds its rated output on occasion, doesn't > require a separate enclosure, and is sealed against mice. Oh, and very quiet. > So far the only disadvantage is the need for either an AC feed for the 8W > phantom load to keep the controller awake, but a PV module and small > controller on the starting battery will handle that one of these days. It's > not just one of their standard units with different bells and whistles, but > has hardened valves, lower (2,500) rpm, longer maintenance intervals, and > other reliability features. > > I know all about Generac's otherwise-poor reputation, and am willing to stick > my neck out about this model, as I think it's the best we currently have in > this size range. My understanding is that the Propane Reliability Council (or > some similar organizational name) was involved with sponsoring development of > an LP gennie tough enough to handle off grid demands. They first approached > Kohler, who turned them down, and then worked with Generac (all this is > hearsay; don't quote me on it). > Allan > > Allan Sindelar > al...@positiveenergysolar.com > NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic Installer > NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional > New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician > Founder and Chief Technology Officer > Positive Energy, Inc. > 3209 Richards Lane (note new address) > Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507 > 505 424-1112 > www.positiveenergysolar.com > > > On 1/30/2013 10:41 AM, Ray Walters wrote: > Hi Randy and all; > > I definitely like the water cooled 1800 rpm machines too, but for regular off > grid homes, they just are way out of the budget. We jumped on the inverter > generator band wagon for a while, but had the same load issues Allan > described. (Microwave kicks the breaker, and you're running the genny for > hours for nothing) Many customers have turned to the contractor portables > with equally disappointing results, but often they already have the genny, > and we just provide an inlet box and c
Re: [RE-wrenches] Xantrex Power Station Manual and Gen relay
Hi howie Those PS had optional relay control and AGS units. They mounted outside and connected via phone cable FYI, they are same unit with different labels. Gsm. Generator start module Alm. Aux load module. Page 128 of the manual Good luck finding one Jay Peltz power > > On 7/5/2013 11:09 PM, Howie Michaelson wrote: >> Hi All, >> >> I am looking for a manual for the PS2524. Mostly I'm trying to use the >> gen start relay, and am thinking that without an optional relay add-on, >> the PS doesn't have that capability. Unfortunately this client's inverter >> does not appear to have the necessary relay. Does anyone have access to a >> manual and/or the necessary relay to allow the PS inverter to control the >> generator? I've searched the web, the archive, and Xantrex's discontinued >> products page looking for info and I've come up short. >> >> Thanks, >> Howie > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] double insulated wire
HI Ray, I agree and think that at least high voltage DC should have its own color code. Labels go away, but wire colors are forever. thanks, jay peltz power On Jul 2, 2013, at 11:15 AM, Ray Walters wrote: > Hi Dick; > > What you're suggesting is actually something I thought would work too: having > totally odd colors that immediately said DC. > IT really would be the best, because if you go in with a meter set to read > AC, and show no voltage, then get your voltage sniffer out, and it doesn't > beep, you think you're double safe, when actually you could get hit with 500 > v dc. > > I try and mark every J-box that has DC conductors in it with the DC voltage. > The life I save probably will be my own, as I'm getting more forgetful with > age.. > > I think one of the problems is that this is actually not a NEW issue; we are > reviving the 100+ year old AC vs DC battle that Edison Westinghouse, and > Tesla, et al. fought before. Factories have AC and DC on site, and it just > amazes me that marking polarity isn't required by code. We have to mark the > bonded conductor, or the high leg in certain 3 phase systems, so identifying > DC polarity seems just as important. > I actually really like your purple with a white stripe idea. At one time I > tried to color code for DC voltage too, (Red for 12 v, purple for 24, Orange > for 48 v) and even used yellow tape for my PV inputs as they had a higher V > than the battery. Now I just try to label everything copiously, and have > polarity align with my meter. > My biggest problem is still old 12 v house wiring on Romex (white and black) > or which side of those Monkey face outlets should be + or - .. These > days, I just try to switch the circuit over to AC (go Tesla!) > > R.Ray Walters > CTO, Solarray, Inc > Nabcep Certified PV Installer, > Licensed Master Electrician > Solar Design Engineer > 303 505-8760 ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Wet NiCad batteries
HI Dan and Bob-O, I totally agree with you both. But as you guys both know, some folks really wont take no for an answer. This person has the money and talent to do this, and he really wants to, just trying to get him the correct info rather than some garbage off the WWW. thanks, jay On Jun 25, 2013, at 10:19 AM, Exeltech wrote: > Jay, > > I second Bob-O's comment - completely. > > I inherited a number of pocket-plate ni-cad cells in the early 90s > and went through the same exercise as Richard Perez -- including > the same bad words he used (maybe more). > > If the cells are truly diminished in capacity, recycle them. The > reconditioning effort required in an attempt to bring them back > to life wasn't worth it. > > You may as well consider a DIY re-cap of your old tires while you're > at it. > > Words of experience from the old guard > > > Dan > > > --- On Tue, 6/25/13, Bob-O Schultze wrote: > >> From: Bob-O Schultze >> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Wet NiCad batteries >> To: "RE-wrenches" >> Date: Tuesday, June 25, 2013, 11:55 AM >> >> You might want to check your early Home Powers. We went thorough >> that dance in 1989 or so. It's ugly and the spent electrolyte is >> serious toxic waste. > > >> >> On Jun 25, 2013, at 9:32 AM, jay peltz wrote: >> >> HI All, >> >> I'm looking for information on how you recondition wet cell >> NiCad batteries, >> >> Thanks in advance, >> >> jay >> peltz power > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Wet NiCad batteries
HI All, I'm looking for information on how you recondition wet cell NiCad batteries, Thanks in advance, jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] NEC 690.55 - "maximum operating voltage"
HI All, I mean as its worded, it would also be 240vac? jay peltz power On Jun 11, 2013, at 7:30 AM, eric.bent...@schneider-electric.com wrote: > > Hi Bob, > I would rather it be worded "maximum normal operating voltage". > Maximum operating voltage would be the recommended BULK voltage for the > battery type being utilized. > Equalization is a maintenance procedure, which is why it calls for separate > listing. > It must also include polarity of grounded conductor. > > Eric > _ > > > Eric Bentsen | Schneider Electric | Solar Business | UNITED STATES > | Technical Support Representative > Phone: +(650) 351-8237 ext. 001# | > Email: eric.bent...@schneider-electric.com | Site: > www.schneider-electric.com/solar | Address: 250 South Vasco Rd., > Livermore, CA 94551 > > > *** Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail > > > > From: "Bob Clark" > To: "'RE-Wrenches'" > Date: 06/10/2013 08:08 PM > Subject: [RE-wrenches] NEC 690.55 - "maximum operating voltage" > Sent by: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > > > > > RE_Wrenches: > > Can someone tell me what is being referred to in NEC 690.55 when it says > “Photovoltaic power systems employing energy storage shall also be marked > with the “maximum operating voltage, . . .” ? > > We have an off-grid system which employs energy storage [i.e.; batteries]; so > I need to know what exactly is referred to when this section mentions > “maximum operating voltage” so I can put it on a sign. > > Bob Clark > SolarWind Energy Systems, LLC ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] battery watering systems
HI Tom, Thanks, I need 3 of the VB-TB5-S For Trojan L-16's. we'll work out the details. thx, jay On Jun 8, 2013, at 1:43 PM, Tom Duffy wrote: > Jay > > We have them > > Tom Duffy > Senior Solar Design Engineer > > Toll Free 888-895-8179 > t...@thesolar.biz > Customer Service and Accounting 888-895-6810 > Grid tie sales 888-895-7847 > Off Grid sales 888-895-4058 > Other Product Sales 888-895-9612 > Central America Sales (Panama) 507-6-126-1253 > Shipping and Receiving 888-895-6497 > Tech Support 888-895-8179 > SKYPE: thesolarbiz > > -Original Message- > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of jay peltz > Sent: Friday, June 07, 2013 3:53 PM > To: RE-wrenches > Subject: [RE-wrenches] battery watering systems > > HI All, > > Any good places to order watering caps from Battery watering technologies? > > thanks, > > jay > > peltz power > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] battery watering systems
HI All, Any good places to order watering caps from Battery watering technologies? thanks, jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] would this work?
Hi Todd As bob-0 and Larry have said And the sqflex is a mppt unit, nothing else needed Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On Jun 5, 2013, at 7:30 PM, toddc...@finestplanet.com wrote: > ok wrenches... here is a hair brained idea i came up with. > > i have this customer with the grundfos pump being powered, array direct by 10 > astropower 75's in series... so around 170 vdc. > > what would happen if a hv mppt charge controller were paralleled with the > panel output feeding the pump? > would the cu200 & charge controller mppt algorithms fight each other? > > thanks, > > todd > > > > Sent from Finest Planet WebMail. > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Defective modules
HI Carl, I can't seem to be able to get that data off the site. Maybe someone else can. It is a main reason I bought the subscription, just to support their great testing work. jay On Jun 2, 2013, at 8:30 PM, Carl Emerson wrote: > Hi Jay, > > Thanks for that, yes, I have seen the setup you refer to and it is very > comprehensive, but I thought that your reference to the 151 modules was a lab > test at STC and not an outdoor test for energy yield. > > Can you send the link to the outdoor test results please… > > Many Thanks, > > Carl Emerson > > Hi Carl, > > Here is the link to how Photon measures each module. > > http://www.photon.info/photon_lab_modul_ertragsm_en.photon?ActiveID=1289 > > and > > http://www.photon.info/photon_lab_modul_ertragsmAD_en.photon?ActiveID=4382 > > Can you please tell me how they are doing it wrong, and what the test would > look like in doing it right? > > Many thanks, > > jay > > peltz power > > > On Jun 2, 2013, at 3:27 PM, Carl Emerson wrote: > > > Jay, > > The short answer is no… > > These are not real world tests of energy yield under ‘normal’ outdoor > conditions. > > Photon are setting up field tests for 2013 in Germany and the middle East. > > Then they will have some useful data. > > Carl E. > > Hi Carl > > Would like to see real data. > > Photon publishes their module data, and thin film are no where near the top > of the list. > > Nexpower. #14 > First solar. #131 > Total of 151 modules in the test. > > Jay > > Peltz power > > Sent from my iPad > > On Jun 1, 2013, at 6:20 PM, "Carl Emerson" wrote: > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Defective modules
Hi Carl, Here is the link to how Photon measures each module. http://www.photon.info/photon_lab_modul_ertragsm_en.photon?ActiveID=1289 and http://www.photon.info/photon_lab_modul_ertragsmAD_en.photon?ActiveID=4382 Can you please tell me how they are doing it wrong, and what the test would look like in doing it right? Many thanks, jay peltz power On Jun 2, 2013, at 3:27 PM, Carl Emerson wrote: > Jay, > > The short answer is no… > > These are not real world tests of energy yield under ‘normal’ outdoor > conditions. > > Photon are setting up field tests for 2013 in Germany and the middle East. > > Then they will have some useful data. > > Carl E. > > Hi Carl > > Would like to see real data. > > Photon publishes their module data, and thin film are no where near the top > of the list. > > Nexpower. #14 > First solar. #131 > Total of 151 modules in the test. > > Jay > > Peltz power > > Sent from my iPad > > On Jun 1, 2013, at 6:20 PM, "Carl Emerson" wrote: > >> Hi there, >> >> Thin film is still getting bad press after early production suffered >> degradation issues way back in the 90’s. >> >> There is plenty of evidence that thin film produces at least 10% more energy >> because it performs better at temperature and responds better to global >> irradiance. >> >> Some brands may be problematic today but this is equally true of crystalline >> modules. >> >> Sure the efficiency is down and more area is needed for the same rated power >> but some brands are delivering 20% more energy in some climates. >> >> As for degradation, I have seen crystalline BP’s with every panel turning >> brown and clapping out after just 12 years in the pacific Islands. >> >> So let’s be Brand specific and not lump all thin film together and tar it >> with the same brush, based on early failures 30 years ago. >> >> Current issues backed up with hard data would be very useful… >> >> Regards >> Carl Emerson >> >> >> > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Defective modules
Hi Carl Would like to see real data. Photon publishes their module data, and thin film are no where near the top of the list. Nexpower. #14 First solar. #131 Total of 151 modules in the test. Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On Jun 1, 2013, at 6:20 PM, "Carl Emerson" wrote: > Hi there, > > Thin film is still getting bad press after early production suffered > degradation issues way back in the 90’s. > > There is plenty of evidence that thin film produces at least 10% more energy > because it performs better at temperature and responds better to global > irradiance. > > Some brands may be problematic today but this is equally true of crystalline > modules. > > Sure the efficiency is down and more area is needed for the same rated power > but some brands are delivering 20% more energy in some climates. > > As for degradation, I have seen crystalline BP’s with every panel turning > brown and clapping out after just 12 years in the pacific Islands. > > So let’s be Brand specific and not lump all thin film together and tar it > with the same brush, based on early failures 30 years ago. > > Current issues backed up with hard data would be very useful… > > Regards > Carl Emerson > > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] pump questions
HI all All those 75 watt panels were really close to the same parameters. According to one catalog, it was: 4.4 imp, 4.8isc, 17 vmp, 21 voc From memory, they did poorly in hot weather, heavy voltage drop. jay peltz power On May 31, 2013, at 10:30 AM, Allan Sindelar wrote: > Bob-O and Todd, > In theory you're right, Bob-O. I find the program awkward to use, given that > it thinks in some weird (Danish?) way, that I don't use often enough to > remember how to navigate. But in this case my bigger concern would be how to > input data for a bunch of old used Astropower 75s. Astropower's been gone for > over ten years, I think, and data isn't likely to show up on the backsheets. > WINCaps doesn't account for module degradation, either. > > Todd, I might have a copy of a module spec sheet for the AP75 in our files at > the office. Not sure, as we never used any, but I collected a lot of that old > crap. Contact me off list on Monday if you need me to look. > Allan > > Allan Sindelar > al...@positiveenergysolar.com > NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic Installer > NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional > New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician > Founder and Chief Technology Officer > Positive Energy, Inc. > 3209 Richards Lane (note new address) > Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507 > 505 424-1112 > www.positiveenergysolar.com > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] modules
A question about US made modules. Who actually makes the cells here in the us? Only 2 that i know of, I"m sure there are more. Solar world. First solar who else? thanks, jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] used panel mount questions
Hi Dan, Schletter solar has some. under their Laminate modules and accessories section. jay peltz power On May 30, 2013, at 4:25 PM, Exeltech wrote: > I've seen rack "edge clamps" for frameless PV advertised, but didn't make a > mental note of made by whom, or where I saw the ad. I *do* recall the clamps > were intended to be located along the long edges, not the ends. Otherwise, > expansion/contraction would stress/break the glass. > > There's a wealth of knowledge and know-how here. Someone with the answer > will chime in. > > > Dan > > --- On Thu, 5/30/13, toddc...@finestplanet.com > wrote: > > From: toddc...@finestplanet.com > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] used panel mount questions > To: "RE-wrenches" > Date: Thursday, May 30, 2013, 6:06 PM > > good point dan... i wonder how frameless modules are intended to be mounted? > > todd > > > > > On Thursday, May 30, 2013 4:00pm, "Exeltech" said: > > I agree with Allen, and would like to add a related comment. Foam boards are > thermally insulative in nature. If affixed to the PV with adhesive, they > would > cause the PV module to run hotter than if the backsheet was fully exposed > to the air. > > This results in reduced energy output under all conditions, and increased > thermal stresses on the PV cells, internal buss, bonds, and other aspects > of the PV. > > > Dan > > > --- On Thu, 5/30/13, Allan Sindelar wrote: > > From: Allan Sindelar > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] used panel mount questions > To: "RE-wrenches" > Date: Thursday, May 30, 2013, 5:46 PM > > > Todd, > I don't have your answers, only the caution that "blue foam" to many of us > with a construction background means extruded polystyrene or "blueboard", > commonly used around foundations. It deteriorates with exposure to sunlight, > so could only be used in an application such as this if protected from UV. > Allan > > Allan Sindelar > al...@positiveenergysolar.com > NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic Installer > NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional > New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician > Founder and Chief Technology Officer > Positive Energy, Inc. > 3209 Richards Lane (note new address) > Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507 > 505 424-1112 > www.positiveenergysolar.com > > > On 5/30/2013 4:14 PM, Todd Cory wrote: > wrenches, > > i have a customer who purchased 20 used astropower ap75 modules. they are > frameless and appear to have been previously mounted using four, 2" wide X > 10" long strips of blue rigid foam, glued to the back of each module with > some kind of adhesive. > > two questions: > > this seems to be a reasonable mounting system id like to repeat. would anyone > familiar with this kind of mounting technique be willing to comment/speculate > on an adhesive that would not degrade the tedlar backsheet? whatever was > previously used worked great. > > what kind of flat/smooth mounting surface would folks suggest the other side > of the blue foam be attached to? the only thing i can think of is plywood, > but that would rot over time. > > thanks, > > todd > > > > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power > magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address > & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules > & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > -Inline Attachment Follows- > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > > > > Sent from Finest Planet WebMail. > > -Inline Attachment Follows- > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenc
Re: [RE-wrenches] used panel mount questions
Hi Allan and Todd. these modules sound like the ones that Powerlight used back many years ago. These modules were mounted flat with the blue foam as insulation/mounting. the concept while pretty cool at first look didn't work out. Not sure what to tell you about what/how to mount them too however. jay peltz power On May 30, 2013, at 3:46 PM, Allan Sindelar wrote: > Todd, > I don't have your answers, only the caution that "blue foam" to many of us > with a construction background means extruded polystyrene or "blueboard", > commonly used around foundations. It deteriorates with exposure to sunlight, > so could only be used in an application such as this if protected from UV. > Allan > > Allan Sindelar > al...@positiveenergysolar.com > NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic Installer > NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional > New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician > Founder and Chief Technology Officer > Positive Energy, Inc. > 3209 Richards Lane (note new address) > Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507 > 505 424-1112 > www.positiveenergysolar.com > > > > On 5/30/2013 4:14 PM, Todd Cory wrote: >> wrenches, >> >> i have a customer who purchased 20 used astropower ap75 modules. they are >> frameless and appear to have been previously mounted using four, 2" wide X >> 10" long strips of blue rigid foam, glued to the back of each module with >> some kind of adhesive. >> >> two questions: >> >> this seems to be a reasonable mounting system id like to repeat. would >> anyone familiar with this kind of mounting technique be willing to >> comment/speculate on an adhesive that would not degrade the tedlar >> backsheet? whatever was previously used worked great. >> >> what kind of flat/smooth mounting surface would folks suggest the other side >> of the blue foam be attached to? the only thing i can think of is plywood, >> but that would rot over time. >> >> thanks, >> >> todd >> >> >> >> >> ___ >> List sponsored by Home Power magazine >> >> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org >> >> Change email address & settings: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >> >> List-Archive: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >> >> List rules & etiquette: >> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm >> >> Check out participant bios: >> www.members.re-wrenches.org >> > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupling different brands
Hi Lars I'm curious what you found those efficiency differences to be? And how are you measuring inverter charging efficiency in the bi directional mode Thanks Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On May 28, 2013, at 10:53 AM, "lars Ortegren" wrote: > We have done a number of off grid AC coupling projects over the last eight > years. We have found they are successful with anything that comes close to a > true sign wave, including some of the old Trace inverters. I would be > careful to not come too close to the wattage of the source inverter, and > keep in mind that your battery charging is only one stage (bulk), and might > not be the best choice without another charging source (i.e. the grid, or a > semi regular generator). I can't say it makes a lot of sense, but when we > have tested grid tied inverters and charge controllers side by side, the GT > inverters produce significantly more than any CC's on the market.. Any more, > I think that it is a better design to have the larger array tied to a GT > inverter, and a small array tied to a charge controller for absorb and float > charging...Just sayin. > > Lars Ortegren > Director of Operations > California Solar Electric Company > 10141 Evening Star Drive, Suite 6 > Grass Valley, CA 95945 > http://www.californiasolarco.com/ > > Phone : (530)274-3671 > Fax: (530)274-7518 > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] PV-direct electric water heating
Hi Hilton What controller did he use? Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On May 14, 2013, at 5:22 PM, Hilton Dier III wrote: > A friend of mine lives off grid with PV and wind. He added a shunt-type > controller to his battery bank and connected it to a DC heating element in > his hot water tank. Below a set voltage the element is dormant. When the > battery bank hits a high voltage (at the end of a particularly sunny day or > during a windy spell) the element comes on. That way, instead of just a PWM > shutoff and wasted energy, he gets some benefit. > > I wouldn't deliberately install PV just for hot water, but in an off grid > situation where the excess would go to waste, it makes sense. > > Hilton > -- > Hilton Dier III > Renewable Energy Design > Partner, Solar Gain LLC > 453 East Hill Rd. > Middlesex, VT 05602 > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Battery Boxes
Hi Jesse What is your concern with a wood based battery box? Thanks Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On May 11, 2013, at 10:16 PM, Jesse Dahl wrote: > Hello, > > I visited a site on Friday to do some trouble-shooting on a system and > noticed the battery box was homemade by the installer of the system. Made > from lumber. Seems to me like there may be some safety and liability issues > with a homemade/lumber battery box. Maybe I'm getting gun shy after hearing > sue stories. Is this a common practice? I did some looking and there really > isn't a single box that would work for this system so it would've taken two > boxes to do it, so that could be why they did it. > > Thanks as always, > > Jesse > > Sent from my iPhone > ___ > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] large ground mounts
HI All, Wondering if anyone has recommendations of the following ground mounts. Unirac ULA vs Iron Ridge ground mount. Thanks in advance, jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Battery Back-up and Grid Tie
Hi bill Just how often is your grid down? Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On Apr 26, 2013, at 10:01 AM, Bill Turberville wrote: > I live in a TVA area where there is a Feed In Tariff. Everything that is > generated by the PV array feeds into the grid through a Generation Meter that > ties-in ahead of the house meter. I have started getting calls from > customers who hate having a solar array that does not generate when the grid > is down but the sun is shining, but who also want to get the $.12 premium > when the grid is connected. We have lots of systems with SMA Sunnyboy > inverters, but more with Enphase micro-inverters. Rather than trying to > reinvent the wheel, what you found to be the best solution for this type of > installation? > > W.C. (Bill) Turberville P.E. > President > > ECE Solar > Electrical Contracting Enterprises LLC > 3080 Stage Post Road Suite 107 > Bartlett, TN 38133 > > 901-348-9230 ext 101 phone > 901-348-2192 fax > 901-289-6346 cell > billt...@ece-llc.com > > NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional 032611-320 > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Micro-inverters for 3-phase 220/127 in Mexico
Hi all You might look at HiQ http://www.hiqsolar.com/ Dave Katz has been using them and likes them a lot They are a true 3 wire 3 phase. And have bidirectional communication. Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On Apr 18, 2013, at 7:20 AM, Chris Mason wrote: > Do you think Enphase be willing to increase the VMax? That's what we do here > when we have 220V 3ph issues. As we are not US based, there is no UL issue. > I have a project right now that Enphase is the best solution, but the voltage > would be 129v typically, so I would be unwilling to put in stock units. > > > On Mon, Apr 15, 2013 at 8:03 PM, Kent Osterberg wrote: >> Enphase lists the standard operating range for the 208-volt 3-phase >> configuration as 183 to 229 volts. Seems like 220-volt 3-phase might work >> with a little caution about wiring losses. >> Kent Osterberg >> Blue Mountain Solar, Inc. >> www.bluemountainsolar.com >> >> >> On 4/15/2013 4:28 PM, Larry Crutcher, Starlight Solar Power Systems wrote: >>> Interesting….Here is a reply from Enphase received on 4-11-13, "Hi Larry, >>> No we do not have a inverter that will work with this. Our inverter is for >>> 240AC 2 Phase, 208AC 3 Phase…" >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> Larry Crutcher >>> Starlight Solar Power Systems >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> On Apr 15, 2013, at 1:54 PM, Nick Soleil wrote: >>> >>> Hi Larry, >>> >>> Enphase is supplying microinverters into Mexico and supporting the 127/220 >>> applications. We have hundreds of installations installed at this voltage >>> now. Feel free to contact me off-line, and I would be happy to discuss the >>> details. >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> On Mon, Apr 15, 2013 at 1:25 PM, Larry Crutcher, Starlight Solar Power >>> Systems wrote: >>>> Wrenches, >>>> >>>> A customer in Mexico wants to start with about 10kW PV. They have a 225 >>>> kva transformer supplying 220/127 volt 3-phase to the property. They are >>>> adding buildings/roof space in several stages over the next 4 years and >>>> want to grow the installation to 120kW of PV solar power. >>>> >>>> Manufacturer data sheets are not real clear. Who makes micro-inverters >>>> suitable for this? I know Enphase does not. >>>> >>>> Thank you, >>>> >>>> Larry Crutcher >>>> Starlight Solar Power Systems >>> >>> >>> -- >>> Cordially, >>> Nick Soleil >>> Field Applications Engineer >>> Enphase Energy >>> Mobile: (707) 321-2937 >>> >>> Enphase Commercial Solar. Limitless. >>> >>> 1420 North McDowell >>> Petaluma, CA 94954 >>> www.enphase.com >>> P: (707) 763-4784 x7267 >>> F: (707) 763-0784 >>> E: nsol...@enphaseenergy.com >>> Certified Solar PV Installer #03262011-300 >>> >>> “Don’t get me wrong: I love nuclear energy! It’s just that I prefer fusion >>> to fission. And it just so happens that there’s an enormous fusion reactor >>> safely banked a few million miles from us. It delivers more than we could >>> ever use in just about 8 minutes. And it’s wireless! .” >>> - William McDonough >>> >>> This email message is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may >>> contain confidential and/or privileged information. If you are not an >>> intended recipient, you may not review, use, copy, disclose or distribute >>> this message. If you received this message in error, please contact the >>> sender by reply email and destroy all copies of the original message. >>> >>> ___ >>> List sponsored by Home Power magazine >>> >>> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org >>> >>> Change email address & settings: >>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >>> >>> List-Archive: >>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >>> >>> List rules & etiquette: >>> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm >>> >>> Check out participant bios: >>> www.members.re-wrenches.org >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> ___ >>> List sponsored by
Re: [RE-wrenches] ground mount options?
How large an array are you needing? Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On Apr 17, 2013, at 9:23 PM, Jesse Dahl wrote: > Hello, > > I've been asked to put together a proposal for a local community and the only > option is a ground mount (pole mount would work too). I've looked at a few > options today and was wondering if anyone has any opinions on the DPW "Power > Peak" mounting system? > > Also, I would be interested in any other ground mount options that people > like/recommend. I've used the two-tier mount on a few projects and the DPW > MPM and liked them good enough, but I'm always interested in trying new > mounts. > > Thanks! > > > Jesse > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] outback fx series inverters
Hi guys, While I agree that its probably crazy talk. There is one story I have to share. Just like this one, the customer was complaining of the emf's. then she called the install company to say that they were gone!. She didn't know that just that morning the install guys had put a faraday cage around the inverter, put in extra grounds etc. No way she could have known, but she did notice the difference. So don't discount everyone, just almost everyone. jay peltz power On Apr 13, 2013, at 1:09 PM, Chris Daum wrote: > I don't knowI have perhaps three customers, over the past ~20 years, who > claim to be 'allergic to electricity', for lack of a better term. As you can > imagine, existing in our current society is actually painful for them. > They've all bought (for example) propane 'fridges since they use no > electricity and don't cause them to have that 'pins & needles' feeling they > get when they are near electrical fields. I try not to laugh at them, yet I > believe they are sincere when they tell me, "I can't stand to be near > anything electrical". So perhaps there needs to be some sort of independent > test to confirm what these folks claim to feel. > > Chris Daum > Oasis Montana Inc. > > > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Randy Brooks > Sent: Saturday, April 13, 2013 1:53 PM > To: RE-wrenches > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] outback fx series inverters > > Have you used a gaus meter > (http://www.amazon.com/Gen-El-Gauss-Master/dp/B0004IR6J6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1365882645&sr=8-2&keywords=gaus+meter) > to measure the EMF near the inverters and other places? Might put it in > perspective. > > Randy > > On Apr 13, 2013, at 12:17 PM, Todd Cory wrote: > >> wrenches... >> >> put on our tin foil hats... i have a customer who claims the emf from their >> grid tied gvfx3648 is making them sick. does anyone know the switching >> frequency of the inverter and has anyone else reported this? also any ideas >> on how to mitigate it? >> >> thanks, >> >> todd > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Advanced PV Training Recommendations
HI Eric, I'm going to advise you to look at SEI Solar energy international. http://www.solarenergy.org/ Full disclosure, I teach part time from them. Cheers, jay peltz power On Apr 12, 2013, at 12:46 PM, SunHarvest wrote: > Wrenchers - > > I am in need of hands-on advanced training for my own continuing education. I > have a California C46 solar contractor's license and plenty of experience > designing and installing systems. But, as you all know, there are always more > details to master, code issues to be clarified, and new technologies coming > down the pike. I'd like to focus on off-grid and on-grid w/BB systems over > straight grid-tie. > > I'm looking at Solar Living Institute as that's here in NorCal, where I live. > > Are there any training schools/programs that you guys would recommend? > > My main requirements are that the instructor has 20+ years of hands-on > experience and that the training is hands-on and fully comprehensive. I am > interested in getting NABCEP certified but I'm more concerned with getting > professional, in-depth training than with qualifying for NABCEP exam > requirements. > > Thanks! > > Eric > SunHarvest > > > - Original Message - > From: John Berdner > To: RE-wrenches > Sent: Thursday, April 04, 2013 11:44 AM > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Combining conductors > > Larry: > > Yes, you can parallel conductors (there is an NEC limit on minimum size > allowed to parallel). > You just add the ampacity of the two conductors. > To convince yourself you can also check Table 8 Conductor Properties and sum > the cross sectional areas of all the parallel conductors to see the > equivalency to a single larger conductor. > > Best Regards, > > John Berdner > General Manager, North America > > SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. > 3347 Gateway Boulevard, Fremont CA 94538 USA (*Please note of our new > address.) > T: 510.498.3200, X 747 > M: 530.277.4894 > > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Larry > Crutcher, Starlight Solar Power Systems > Sent: Thursday, April 04, 2013 9:51 AM > To: RE-wrenches > Subject: [RE-wrenches] Combining conductors > > Wrenches, > > Here's a tough one for me to understand. I am installing 2 volt AGM > batteries. There are two terminals for each battery polarity. I have some > height limits so I need to use the minimum wire size. Here's my question: If > I combine two identical conductors, what is the equivalent single conductor > size? > > I found one "rule of thumb" that says doubling like conductors creates a AWG > decrease of 3. Example: two #2 will be equivalent to 2/0. Is this true? > > Thank you, > > Larry Crutcher > Starlight Solar Power Systems > > > > > > > CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This e-mail and its attachments are intended only for > the use of the individual or entity who is the intended recipient and may > contain information that is privileged, confidential and exempt from > disclosure or any type of use under applicable law. If the reader of this > e-mail is not the intended recipient, or the employee, agent, or > representative responsible for delivering the e-mail to the intended > recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, > copying, or other use of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have > received this e-mail in error, please reply immediately to the sender. > P Please think of the environment before printing this email > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Cable tray
> Hi Bill I'm with you all the way. I love to do things Telecomm style. Very clean, safe and better IMHO. 1000v PV wire can be bought at PV cables.com Cheers Jay Peltz Power. ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Auto Gen on Outback
Hi drake It's the mate which has had issues. Make sure the mate is current rev. Outback will put in latest version for no charge. Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On Mar 27, 2013, at 12:51 PM, Drake wrote: > Hello Wrenches, > > We are adding a Generac EcoGen to an existing Outback VFX 3648 system. It > was the recommendations from those of you on this list who have installed > them that led to this choice. Your testimonials are very much appreciated. > > I've read, on this list, that people have had issues with FX family inverters > starting and stopping generators reliably. The plan was to go with the > Atkinson GSCM and a separate voltage controlled relay. It appears that if > the system is 48 volts, it is necessary to center tap the battery bank for a > 24 volt feed to the GSCM. This I don't want to do. > > Is it still agreed that the FX inverters are not reliable for starting and > stopping generators? > > Has anyone used a GSCM on a 48 volt system without problems? > > Thank you, > > Drake > > > > > > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] XW generator control for thermostat
Hi jeff You should check with xantrex. I'm thinking its one of the units not being the right version of firmware. At least I've seen this type problem before. Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On Mar 22, 2013, at 1:23 PM, "Jeff Yago" wrote: > We have an Xantrex XW 6048 inverter we installed for a client about 2 years > ago that includes the separate generator control module, which currently > programmed to start the generator on low battery. The client has gone > through several outages when he was not home. The solar/battery/inverter > system worked too good so the battery charge never dropped low enough to > start the generator, so the heat never came on. His heat will never run > during a winter outage unless the generator is started. > > I know the XW generator control module has a specific control input dedicated > (yellow & gray spares) for a remote thermostat that will trigger the > generator to run if the thermostat calls for heat. I also changed the > program switch enable the thermostat input function (default is off). > However, this feature does not work. We even shorted the control wires right > at the generator control module but the generator will not remote start > except using the remote display manual off/auto/run program toggle, which at > least shows this generator control module does work. > > The installation manual states it will start the generator on a “signal” from > a wall thermostat. Does this mean we need a voltage and not a dry contact? > > Any suggestions?? > > Thanks, > > Jeff Yago > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupling Situation
Hi Jeremy Seems like a perfect place for the 600v controller from xantrex Jay Peltz power. Sent from my iPhone On Mar 18, 2013, at 7:23 PM, "Jeremy Rodriguez- All Solar Inc." wrote: > Wrenches, > Here is my situation: GT string inverter - 3 strings of mods, 10KW DC. We > need to reduce the PV when the grid is down as to not overload the AC coupled > inverters. > Is there a good way to limit PV input like shunt off some power or short part > of the array? (part) > I was first thinking of dropping off 2 of the three strings, but that would > not leave enough input for the critical loads. > Has anyone done such a thing? > > Jeremy > All Solar > CO- USA > Sent via BlackBerry. Sorry for typos and shorthand! > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] bad battery = system overvoltage = dead inverter
Hi Dan Can you tell us which CC? Thx Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Temperature sensor compatibility for inverters, charge controllers
HI Larry, Been wanting to know that myself. I know that outback and midnight are compatible. jay peltz power On Mar 11, 2013, at 3:48 PM, Larry Crutcher, Starlight Solar Power Systems wrote: > Battery Wrenches, > > There are a myriad of battery temperature sensors for inverter/chargers and > charge controllers. Does anyone know of compatibility between sensors? For > example, I need some of the old Heart (then Xantrex, then Schneider) > 20-0022-00 temperature sensors but they are now special order, weeks of > waiting with drop ship fees. > > 1. Will anything else work? > 2. Does anyone have a part #/specification for the sensor device? > > Thank you, > > Larry Crutcher > Starlight Solar Power Systems > > > > > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] DC generators
I just wanted to follow up on one thing about the kohler DC gensets. I talked to my genny buddy about the Kohler and he said: The voltages are adjustable. On the 24v unit, from 24 to 33v. It also tapers the current down to around 40 amps, from a peak of 222. thanks, jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] DC generators
HI All, I know many of you like this concept. I was just made aware of a new product from Kohler. Kohler 6vsg. Natural gas or propane, 24, 36,48v dc only looks pretty good, I understand it was made for the telecom industry. And while I"m not normally on board with the DC genset idea, that i can get 222 amps from 6kw at 24v is very appealing. http://www.kohlerpower.com/industrial/filterresults.htm?categoryNumber=12061§ionNumber=13261&filter_1=Variable%20Speed,%20Direct%20Current Cheers, jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Wireless AC relay
> Hi all I seem to remember some folks using a wireless remote to control a AC relay Any info on this would be appreciated Thanks in advance Jay Peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] MC3-MC4 Connectors
Hi Jason Contact. PV cables br...@pv-cables.com 707-923-3000 Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On Feb 13, 2013, at 3:55 PM, Jason Szumlanski wrote: > I'm getting an odd number of calls recently from local people who want MC4 > connectors. When I tell them a crimping tool is needed, they tell me they > could also use MC3 to MC4 adapters. I'm guessing that somebody dumped a bunch > of old modules with MC3 connectors in the local market to DIY'ers. I keep > trying to probe to see if they need MC3 locking clamshells for > interconnections to meet code, but they have no idea what I'm talking about, > of course. > > Anyway, can someone give me a source for adapter cables. My usual sources > have stopped carrying them. Eventually I'll get one of these guys to let the > pros take over. :) > > Jason Szumlanski > Fafco Solar > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Generator Controlled Mini Grid
Hi guys, You might look into AC direct hydro controls. Thompson and Howe make them they are designed to keep both frequency and voltage within tolerance with dump loads. jay peltz power On Feb 12, 2013, at 5:13 PM, Glenn Burt wrote: > Sounds like a job for a directional relay - utilities use them. > > -Original Message- > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Drake > Sent: Tuesday, February 12, 2013 7:29 PM > To: RE-wrenches > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Generator Controlled Mini Grid > > Hi Kevin, > > Right now we are in the stages of investigating what is possible. The > design is for 10kW of PV - inverter capacity. The inverters will be Sunny > Boys, so if may be possible to regulate them. > > We haven't decided on a generator yet. A dump load sounds like a good way > to absorb excess power. > > Have you heard of electronic controls to facilitate this process? > > Thanks, > > Drake > > > At 03:43 PM 2/12/2013, you wrote: >> Hi Drake, >> >> Further, can you give us an idea what scale you are talking here - ie >> PV and Generator capacity? With your mention of inverter/generator if >> your talking ie the small Honda EU6500 or such? >> >> I did think of another project that I am involved with - it's a remote >> community with conventional diesel power plant (100 kW day, >> 30 kW night). There is 27 kW of distributed PV over 5-6 different >> homes, using the older Xantrex GT inverters. It's not the most >> elegantly designed solution - as it's possible for PV output to be >> greater than the load which causes shutdowns. In that case, a dump load >> is kicked in briefly and that bumps the frequency enough to kick the GT >> inverters offline, and then the cycle repeats. >> >> Not my design, but it does work and has been this way for several years > now. >> >> Kevin >> >> -Original Message- >> From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org >> [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org]On Behalf Of Drake >> Sent: February 10, 2013 10:46 AM >> To: RE-wrenches >> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Generator Controlled Mini Grid >> >> >> Hi Kevin, >> >> Thanks for the Eigg video. What a great place. >> >> I didn't see evidence of any AC coupling of inverter produced AC to a >> generator produced mini grid. I understand this is being done in a >> homebrew manner by some. >> >> The current wisdom on the issue is that the less the PV contribution to >> the generator supplied grid is, the easier. It would seem that if a >> grid tie inverter output could be regulated, using Sunny Island type >> controls, it should be possible to have a small inverter generator >> create a mini grid that could be fed by PV. >> >> A system featuring this type of technology was linked in a posting on >> this list some years ago, The link seems dead now. In that case a >> large generator was feeding a number of houses, and PV was fed into the >> system. >> >> The reason for this interest is that battery backup systems are much >> more expensive than generators. We need to find a way to utilize PV >> arrays during outages without the expense of battery backup systems. >> >> Drake >> > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Accessibility of Equipment on Roof was Are PV Systems Mechanical Equipment?
Hi jason, 3 questions, I can't find the MNPV-AC in midnites price list, is this something custom or just new? And if you don't need breakers why not just do a junction box on the roof. and the inspectors I've had have requested a disconnecting means on the roof or visible from the roof. So I've done the enphase suggested switches on the roof, but no overcurrent. It doesn't appear that is a requirement from your inspector? jay peltz power On Feb 8, 2013, at 7:27 AM, Jason Szumlanski wrote: > Oh, yes - that is a great application for the MNPV-AC. I didn't mean to imply > there isn't a good use for them. In this particular instance the three > MVPV-AC's are really subcombiners that get all get tied together in another > subpanel at ground level. They really were not necessary, but made it more > convenient and cost effective. > > It's just interesting how Midnite advertises that they can be mounted as flat > as a 3:12 pitch. What application would allow this mounting angle where it is > still readily accessible? The spec/advertising seems to imply that these can > be roof mounted in an AC string combining application. > > The Soladeck combiner with fuses would appear to be non-code compliant in any > situation. I would love for someone to refute that in a convincing way given > the access requirements in 240.24(A). > > Jason Szumlanski > Fafco Solar > > > On Thu, Feb 7, 2013 at 7:31 PM, jay peltz wrote: > Hi Jason, > > Is it possible to install them on the side of a building? > And Dan's suggestion for the remote midnite might be perfect. > > jay > > > On Feb 7, 2013, at 3:55 PM, Jason Szumlanski wrote: > >> Jay, >> >> I assume you mean pitched roofs, or not readily accessible flat roofs. This >> particular project happens to be a flat commercial roof, but with no >> permanent ladder or hatch. I really didn't have to use the MNPV6-AC's, but >> it made sense in this case (excluding the access issue). >> >> Looks like my options are to remove the combiners or install a permanent >> access. Neither are fun options. Live and learn... >> >> Jason Szumlanski >> Fafco Solar >> > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Accessibility of Equipment on Roof was Are PV Systems Mechanical Equipment?
Hi Jason, Is it possible to install them on the side of a building? And Dan's suggestion for the remote midnite might be perfect. jay On Feb 7, 2013, at 3:55 PM, Jason Szumlanski wrote: > Jay, > > I assume you mean pitched roofs, or not readily accessible flat roofs. This > particular project happens to be a flat commercial roof, but with no > permanent ladder or hatch. I really didn't have to use the MNPV6-AC's, but it > made sense in this case (excluding the access issue). > > Looks like my options are to remove the combiners or install a permanent > access. Neither are fun options. Live and learn... > > Jason Szumlanski > Fafco Solar > > > > On Thu, Feb 7, 2013 at 6:27 PM, jay peltz wrote: > I'm with your inspector on this. > > I don't install fuses or breakers on roofs > > jay > > peltz power > > > On Feb 7, 2013, at 12:02 PM, Jason Szumlanski wrote: > >> While I haven't completely convinced the latest inspector about PV not being >> mechanical equipment, I'm running into another issue. >> >> I decided to try out the new Midnite MNPV6-AC combiner for Enphase circuits. >> Because there are overcurrent devices inside, the inspector now insists that >> NEC 240.24(A) applies and that the enclosure must be readily accessible, >> meaning you have to reach it without a ladder. That would seem to make the >> MNPV6-AC as a roof mounted solution, or Soladeck combiner boxes, or any >> other combiner box incorporating overcurrent protection, pretty much useless >> on a pitched roof or flat roof without a permanent access ladder or hatch. >> >> I'm debating whether to go to battle on this one or just capitulate. >> >> Jason Szumlanski >> Fafco Solar >> >> P.S. To answer benn's question, there is no definition of 'mechanical,' but >> it does define 'equipment,' and it's clear to me that PV does not fit the >> description. >> mbers.re-wrenches.org >> > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Accessibility of Equipment on Roof was Are PV Systems Mechanical Equipment?
I'm with your inspector on this. I don't install fuses or breakers on roofs jay peltz power On Feb 7, 2013, at 12:02 PM, Jason Szumlanski wrote: > While I haven't completely convinced the latest inspector about PV not being > mechanical equipment, I'm running into another issue. > > I decided to try out the new Midnite MNPV6-AC combiner for Enphase circuits. > Because there are overcurrent devices inside, the inspector now insists that > NEC 240.24(A) applies and that the enclosure must be readily accessible, > meaning you have to reach it without a ladder. That would seem to make the > MNPV6-AC as a roof mounted solution, or Soladeck combiner boxes, or any other > combiner box incorporating overcurrent protection, pretty much useless on a > pitched roof or flat roof without a permanent access ladder or hatch. > > I'm debating whether to go to battle on this one or just capitulate. > > Jason Szumlanski > Fafco Solar > > P.S. To answer benn's question, there is no definition of 'mechanical,' but > it does define 'equipment,' and it's clear to me that PV does not fit the > description. > mbers.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Sunny Island DC wire size
HI Howie, I've seen someone use a single 4/0 fine stranded cable with a regular lug on the end of it. they then cut the top of the hole out to make in a sense a U shape. Each side of the U fit into each side of the 2 hole barrel connector on the SI. Super slick iI thought. I can send you a pic if you want. jay peltz power On Feb 4, 2013, at 11:46 AM, Howie Michaelson wrote: > Hi it has been more than a year since I wired up a Sunny Island 5048 > system and I'm trying to determine lug size for the DC conductors. My > memory is that the maxiumm wire size was (2) #1 conductors each for > positive and negative. Looking in the most recent SI manual states "The > Sunny Island has a MAX DC terminal rated for 2x #2/0 AWG for DC+, DC- and > PE." Not sure if that is a typo - anyone no definitively? The tech > support line has gotten to have as long a hold time as Outback, Xantrex, > etc... > > Thanks, > Howie > -- > Howie Michaelson > NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™ > > Catamount Solar, LLC > Renewable Energy Systems Sales and Service > VT Solar Electric & Hot Water Incentive Partner > http://www.CatamountSolar.com > 802-272-0004 > > > > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] wrenches] Husqvarna 5500 and VFX3524Compatibilityquestion
Hi Carl, thanks and yes, I think its why they only did a 120v version here. Another question for you there. Its my understanding that neither of your legs is bonded to ground correct? jay peltz power On Feb 3, 2013, at 4:22 PM, Carl Emerson wrote: > Hi Jay, > > Yes you have described our grid waveform correctly. > > It is strange to me that they call yours 240V, the rationale used to describe > yours and mine are different I guess. > > Your grid seems to present less volts and more current. > > If this is correct then I am guessing that the transformers used in the units > here will not work for you. > > Regards > Carl Emerson > > > Hi Carl, > > Your 230vac is a single wave form right? > RMS peak to zero crossing of 230v > > vs our > > 240vac which is 2 phase wave form > RMS peak to zero crossing of 120v > > Have I got this right? > > thanks, > jay > > peltz power > > > > > On Feb 2, 2013, at 6:56 PM, boB wrote: > > > > Carl, NZ is 240 VAC right ? 240 VAC 2 wire ? > > I think that the problem may have to do with leg to leg voltage cross > regulation > imbalance in 120/240 3 wire systems. > > boB > > > On 2/2/2013 3:23 PM, Carl Emerson wrote: >> Goodness knows why 240V Sunny Island’s are unavailable in the US… >> >> We have been installing these in NZ for years !!! >> >> Regards >> Carl Emerson >> >> > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] wrenches] Husqvarna 5500 and VFX3524Compatibility question
Hi Carl, Your 230vac is a single wave form right? RMS peak to zero crossing of 230v vs our 240vac which is 2 phase wave form RMS peak to zero crossing of 120v Have I got this right? thanks, jay peltz power On Feb 2, 2013, at 6:56 PM, boB wrote: > > Carl, NZ is 240 VAC right ? 240 VAC 2 wire ? > > I think that the problem may have to do with leg to leg voltage cross > regulation > imbalance in 120/240 3 wire systems. > > boB > > > On 2/2/2013 3:23 PM, Carl Emerson wrote: >> Goodness knows why 240V Sunny Island’s are unavailable in the US… >> >> We have been installing these in NZ for years !!! >> >> Regards >> Carl Emerson >> >> ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] generator suggestions
Hi guys Right on all accounts but I continue to hear that propane/nat gas is further derated than the liquid fuels. Or is this just bad info? Thx Jay Sent from my iPhone On Jan 30, 2013, at 12:44 PM, "Larry Crutcher, Starlight Solar Power Systems" wrote: > Jay, > > In addition to what Dan has said, 1 gallon of propane has about 35% less > BTU's compared to 1 gallon of gasoline. So the propane derating must be added > to the altitude derate to determine generator output. > > > Larry Crutcher > Starlight Solar Power Systems > > > > > On Jan 30, 2013, at 1:32 PM, Dan Fink wrote: > > Jay; > The "standard" seems to be 2-3% derate for every 1000 feet above sea level > for gasoline, diesel or LP gas generators, and supposedly more like 5% for > natural gas. (in general we don't work in areas that have natural gas > service, we only do off-grid). So the propane de-rate for altitude is no > worse than the diesel or gasoline de-rate, it's just added on top of it. In > practice, we are not seeing that big a hit, but it is hard to really judge. > Also, air-cooled generators don't cool as well at high altitudes and tend to > run hot. > > A fairly common troubleshooting call we've seen in the past is clients who > have purchased cheap portable generators from Home Depot, Harbor Freight etc. > and then find that they can't tune them for anything above 6000 feet -- the > carb adjustment screws don't go that far, and the fine print in the warranty > actually says 6000 ft max. Ouch! They run so poorly that very few modern > inverter/chargers will even look at their input. I've been a local > firefighter for 14 years now, even worse problem with chainsaws (2-stroke). > We've learned how to bust out the plastic "EPA stops" on the carb adjust > screws, with the of course unofficial instructions to throw the saw into the > fire if the EPA shows up.. > > Never had the slightest high-altitude issues with the Honda x000i series > running OK, and I have no idea why. The de-rate factor is certainly still > there, but no issues idling or running, no matter what the draw. My Honda > 3000i issues are from a different cause I think; there is an extensive thread > on that in the archives here that I started in July 2011 I think. > > DAN FINK > > On Wed, Jan 30, 2013 at 1:12 PM, Jay Peltz wrote: >> Hi Dan >> >> So true. But never had it explained to me why propane is different than >> gasoline or diesel at altitude. >> >> Thx >> >> Jay >> Peltz power >> >> Sent from my iPhone >> >> On Jan 30, 2013, at 11:42 AM, Dan Fink wrote: >> >>> And because of our Colorado location here, we are always dealing with >>> altitude de-rate factors. We are usually installing at 7000 - 1 feet >>> elevation, which is a big hit. Propane de-rates gennys even further. >>> -- >>> Dan Fink, >>> Executive Director; >>> Otherpower >>> Buckville Energy Consulting >>> Buckville Publications LLC >>> NABCEP / IREC accredited Continuing Education Providers >>> 970.672.4342 (voicemail) >>> >>> >>> On Wed, Jan 30, 2013 at 12:38 PM, Jay Peltz wrote: >>>> > Hi all >>>> >>>> I've found through hard experience that all generators except diesels seem >>>> to be smaller than name plate rating. >>>> >>>> And while the charging maybe reduced if I am conservative in telling the >>>> inverter how large the genny is I rarely get the genny to trip its breaker. >>>> >>>> >>>> Jay >>>> >>>> Peltz power >>> >>> >>> >>> ___ >>> >>> List sponsored by Home Power magazine >>> >>> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org >>> >>> Options & settings: >>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >>> >>> List-Archive: >>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >>> >>> List rules & etiquette: >>> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm >>> >>> Check out participant bios: >>> www.members.re-wrenches.org >> >> ___ >> List sponsored by Home Power magazine >> >> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org >> >> Options & settings: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/opti
Re: [RE-wrenches] generator suggestions
Hi Dan So true. But never had it explained to me why propane is different than gasoline or diesel at altitude. Thx Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On Jan 30, 2013, at 11:42 AM, Dan Fink wrote: > And because of our Colorado location here, we are always dealing with > altitude de-rate factors. We are usually installing at 7000 - 1 feet > elevation, which is a big hit. Propane de-rates gennys even further. > -- > Dan Fink, > Executive Director; > Otherpower > Buckville Energy Consulting > Buckville Publications LLC > NABCEP / IREC accredited Continuing Education Providers > 970.672.4342 (voicemail) > > > On Wed, Jan 30, 2013 at 12:38 PM, Jay Peltz wrote: >> > Hi all >> >> I've found through hard experience that all generators except diesels seem >> to be smaller than name plate rating. >> >> And while the charging maybe reduced if I am conservative in telling the >> inverter how large the genny is I rarely get the genny to trip its breaker. >> >> >> Jay >> >> Peltz power > > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] generator suggestions
> Hi all I've found through hard experience that all generators except diesels seem to be smaller than name plate rating. And while the charging maybe reduced if I am conservative in telling the inverter how large the genny is I rarely get the genny to trip its breaker. Jay Peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] high insolation value and inverter undersizing
There are many reasons you might want to limit AC output. Say 120%buss bar rule or some other rebate situation where its sized on AC, not DC size. So you can maximize your daily production without going over the peak AC limit. Jay peltz power On Jan 27, 2013, at 8:05 PM, William Miller wrote: > Jesse: > > Do you have any way to compare the total harvest for the day for a given > module in a "clipping" scenario versus an unclipping? The question I want to > answer is: Do we improve production enough on the shoulders of the clip to > justify the loss on the peak? > > Thanks, > > William Miller > > > At 06:25 PM 1/27/2013, you wrote: >> A while back (3 years)I installed a system (bid spec) for a school that used >> 215W RECs and D380s on a dual axis tracker. With the ability to monitor the >> array, I see constant clipping. The modules will usually produce 199Ws >> regularly. A few days ago we had temps of -34F and clear skies. My array >> at home had one of its best days this winter. I have Tigos on so I can >> monitor watts, current, temp and voltage. I was seeing anywhere from 215W to >> 223W from my modules between 11:30am and 1pm. The modules on the tracker >> were still producing 199W. I didn't get an irradiance reading that day but >> my Tigos showed above IMP readings and way above VMP reading that day. >> >> I've only been doing this for 6 years, so I don't have the experience that >> some people on this list have, but it seems foolish to me to waste that >> production. It's kinda site specific, but where I live the cold temps and >> snow reflection seem like something we should be utilizing. > > _ ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Husqvarna 5500 and VFX3524 Compatibility
Many versions of the Iota, Todd before them and now Power Max ( 12v and 24v are available, not sure yet on the 48v) are adjustable or can be ordered with an adjustment feature which will allow for higher than normal setpoints. 16v+ if you want it Jay peltz power On Jan 27, 2013, at 6:31 PM, Carl Hansen wrote: > Dan, >You may be do this as well, but I frequently deal with homeowners with > inexpensive generators, I find that the Outback and Magnum inverters are very > tolerant but I do generally have to load the generator up to where I want it > bulk charging the batteries, then adjust the generator speed to dial in the > freqency to 60Hz using the throttle adj. screw. >Do you find the Iota chargers can reach bulk charge voltages, or even EQ > voltages ? > > Carl Hansen > > On 1/27/2013 5:15 PM, Dan Fink wrote: >> We have run into many problems on very remote sites with various really >> nice, small newer inverter/chargers not accepting waveforms from various >> newer (inverter-based) generators. For example on one particular system >> Honda 1000i works fine, Honda 2000i works fine, Honda 3000i and the charger >> says "no." Plug a different Honda 3000i into the the same inverter/charger, >> works fine. After sling-loading the Honda there by helicopter. Argh! >> Inverter makers have been very helpful but the settings just can't be >> tweaked that far, RE Wrenches list gurus have been awesomely helpful, Honda >> not so helpful but at least honest. >> >> My service calls by helicopter this year will include an O-scope. I really >> want to get to the bottom of the problem. It plagues us. I like Iota >> chargers more and more every summer. >> >> -- >> Dan Fink, >> Executive Director; >> Otherpower >> Buckville Energy Consulting >> Buckville Publications LLC >> NABCEP / IREC accredited Continuing Education Providers >> 970.672.4342 (voicemail) >> > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] lithium batteries
HI All, Is there a rough voltage range ( high/low nominal) for the lithium family of batteries? I'm curious if our current range of inverters can work with these batteries, at least on the load side, probably not on the charging side. thanks, jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] 24V Module Query
Hi guys I've buying the new 6" cell x 72 cell from Trina from a few suppliers. Big yea, but same 44voc so it's an easy add to existing systems. A huge relief. Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On Jan 24, 2013, at 12:11 PM, Ray Walters wrote: > Hi Allan; > > I've been in the same conundrum lately. I found that AEE and others have 12 > v modules (Solartech), but the price per watt is double or triple. My take > is that somewhere around 200 to 400 watts, its more cost effective to go to > the GT modules with an MPPT controller. Blue Sky makes the 1524, and 3024 > that can take up to 57 Voc, so those would work at still fairly low cost. > Unfortunately many of the other low cost MPPT controllers won't work with the > 60 cell modules. At some point, it may actually be cost effective to just > use 60 cell modules with non MPPT controllers, and just forget about the > extra 24 cells. (I know that sounds crazy, but PV less than $1/ watt is > crazy too) > > I'm trying to add modules to an existing array of 8 Siemens 12 v modules, and > it just doesn't work out, except with separate controllers. > Also, its amazing how much PV you can throw at an off grid project these days > for $10k. > It almost makes messing around with the old modules a waste of time. > Perhaps the solution might be to remove old arrays for customers wanting to > really up size, and then reuse the old modules for small systems? > > Ray > > On 1/24/2013 12:35 PM, Allan Sindelar wrote: >> Wrenches, >> We have years of installing 36-cell (12V) and 72-cell (24V) modules for >> battery-based customers. Most of our systems are 24V or 48V nominal. Over >> the last few years, sources of conventionally-sized 72-cell modules have >> dried up - as cells have increased in size, most modules and most newer >> factory production lines have either gone to 60-cell (20V) modules, or 72 >> cells in 300+ watt ranges. It seems that the formerly common 72 cell, 24V >> modules in the 150-190 watt range, which are well-suited to integrating into >> existing systems, are no longer available. >> >> 60-cell modules in the common 220-250 watt range can't be added to an >> existing system unless run through a dedicated MPPT charge controller that >> can convert voltage, such as an FM, XW60, Classic or TriStar; the added cost >> of any of these controllers cancels out the low prices of the modules. >> >> Who continues to manufacture 72-cell modules? Which distributors carry them? >> I am aware of three options - are there more? >> - Sunpower makes one module in the 245 watt range that can be used >> negative ground, but it's very high efficiency (and with high Voc/Vmp as >> well) and very pricey; >> - Sanyo/Panasonic has 225-240 watt modules, but also quite premium and >> pricey; >> - Ameresco bought the rights to manufacture many former BP modules, and >> I think they make some. But we had to replace lots of failed BP modules in >> that size range, and are hesitant to use their technology, fearing that the >> problems may persist in the continued line. >> >> Thank you for any discussion and recommendations. >> Allan >> -- >> Allan Sindelar >> al...@positiveenergysolar.com >> NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic Installer >> NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional >> New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician >> Founder and Chief Technology Officer >> Positive Energy, Inc. >> 3209 Richards Lane (note new address) >> Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507 >> 505 424-1112 >> www.positiveenergysolar.com >> >> >> >> >> >> ___ >> List sponsored by Home Power magazine >> >> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org >> >> Options & settings: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >> >> List-Archive: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >> >> List rules & etiquette: >> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm >> >> Check out participant bios: >> www.members.re-wrenches.org >> > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] GEC for Micro-Inverters and ACPV Modules
Dear John and Brian Thanks for a great discussion. My question is: If you used a WEEB to connect the inverter to the rail, is the rack rail listed as a GEC? Or does it have to be listed as a GEC? Thanks Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On Jan 16, 2013, at 12:09 PM, Brian Wiley wrote: > Hi John, > > I don't feel that you are argumentative. I am glad for this forum and people > to put forth honest opinions. > > I think you just may not be aware of how the WEEB actually works. It is a > type of rivet, not just a pronged thing that makes connection as part of a > bolted connection. > > It does use a bolt to engage the part, but the teeth on the WEEB are > specially shaped. When the bolt is torqued, the teeth deform, similarly to a > rivet. > The metal that it is connecting to mushrooms up around the tooth and the > tooth pinches in around the metal. > This deforming action is what forms an exceptional electrical connection and > also forms an air-tight seal between the part and embedded metal to resist > corrosion. > > If you remove the bolt, the WEEB will still be connected to the metal. You > must forcibly remove the WEEB from the metal. > > Hope that clears things up for you. > > Best Regards, > Brian Wiley > > > > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] GEC for Micro-Inverters and ACPV Modules
Or often science Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On Jan 16, 2013, at 6:50 AM, Drake wrote: > That is an interesting point. The Code issue is one of definition, not of > function or safety. > > At 04:02 PM 1/15/2013, you wrote: >> Hi August, >> >> I maintain that the WEEB is an irreversible splice. >> If you want to disconnect a WEEB from a structure, you must irreversibly >> damage the device. It cannot be reused. >> >> Admittedly the force required to remove a WEEB is less than that required >> for a thermal splice, but it doesn't take much force to just cut a wire >> either. >> >> I would argue that the intent of the code is to prevent inadvertent removal >> of the ground. You must knowingly remove a WEEB from the grounding path and >> if you do so in the maintenance of an array, good workmanship requires that >> you restore the connection. >> >> Best Regards, >> Brian >>> >>> > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] off grid PV connected to generator
Hi Dan Would like to know what they suggested besides changing it to a VFX? Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On Jan 15, 2013, at 1:54 PM, Dan Fink wrote: > Talk to Outback. It's an easy fix, on-site. > -- > Dan Fink, > Executive Director; > Otherpower > Buckville Energy Consulting > Buckville Publications LLC > NABCEP / IREC accredited Continuing Education Providers > 970.672.4342 (voicemail) > > > On Tue, Jan 15, 2013 at 2:50 PM, SunHarvest wrote: > (snip) >> Further, I recently installed a GVFX for a customer. I'm hearing from >> certain sources that the grid-tied line of inverters from Outback are not >> designed to interface with a generator. Really?? > (snip) > > > > > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] mate + flexnet DC
Hi All, Can you use a Mate 1 with only a flexnet dc? IE no hub, or inverter or CC? thanks, jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] XW AGS
> I wanted to update you with the AGS issue I had with an XW. It in the end, it was unknown, settings were all correct, but after a full reboot of the XW and the AGS It all works. Here's to the ghost in the machine Jay Peltz Power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] cleaning battery caps
Hi Dana You are correct about Hydrocaps which are electrolizer style. The water miser caps just use plastic beads to allow for condensing, so there is no issue with charge rates or voltages. Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On Jan 10, 2013, at 5:20 AM, "Dana" wrote: > I have yet to see any of these water saver caps that last more than a few > years. For the cost regular service seems a lot less expensive. > My last experience was calling the manufacturer and he said that 24 volt > caps were only safe and expected to work to 28 volts and needed to be > removed. He also stated that I was in error charging a 24 volt bank over 28 > volts as it was dangerous. I begged to differ but it turned into a verbal > pissing match immediately. I quit using them after eventually removing every > set I have run across as they were damaged. This was a few years back. > > Has anyone had a new or current experience that is positive and really long > lasting? > > > Dana Orzel - Great Solar Works, Inc - d...@solarwork.com - > www.solarwork.com > V - 970.626.5253 F - 970.626.4140 C - > 970.209.4076 > "Responsible Technologies for Responsible People since 1988" NABCEP # > 051112-136 > > -Original Message- > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Dave Palumbo > Sent: Wednesday, January 09, 2013 6:34 PM > To: 'RE-wrenches' > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] cleaning battery caps > > I don't think these caps ever worked real well. And as batteries get older > they use more water, right? > > Dave > > -Original Message- > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of jay peltz > Sent: Wednesday, January 09, 2013 8:31 PM > To: RE-wrenches > Subject: [RE-wrenches] cleaning battery caps > > Yea weird. > > I've got a client who wants to clean his water miser battery caps, they are > filled with battery "scum" > > He thinks and seems right to me that they are not working as well as they > used to, and I dont know what to tell him > > Any ideas? > > thanks, > > jay > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] cleaning battery caps
Hi dave I agree with you on both counts. But still trying to get an answer J Sent from my iPhone On Jan 9, 2013, at 5:34 PM, "Dave Palumbo" wrote: > I don't think these caps ever worked real well. And as batteries get older > they use more water, right? > > Dave > > -Original Message- > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of jay peltz > Sent: Wednesday, January 09, 2013 8:31 PM > To: RE-wrenches > Subject: [RE-wrenches] cleaning battery caps > > Yea weird. > > I've got a client who wants to clean his water miser battery caps, they are > filled with battery "scum" > > He thinks and seems right to me that they are not working as well as they > used to, and I dont know what to tell him > > Any ideas? > > thanks, > > jay > > > > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] cleaning battery caps
Yea weird. I've got a client who wants to clean his water miser battery caps, they are filled with battery "scum" He thinks and seems right to me that they are not working as well as they used to, and I dont know what to tell him Any ideas? thanks, jay ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Fridge recommendations?
HI All, I believe there was a change in testing of Fridges, and I've been told that many were listed lower than actual kwh/yr Which may account for those really hi efficiency models not being around. jay peltz power On Jan 9, 2013, at 12:51 PM, conrad geyser wrote: > David, > > Is this on or off grid? > > Conrad > Cotuit Solar > > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Rob Shappell > Sent: Wednesday, January 09, 2013 3:44 PM > To: 'RE-wrenches' > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Fridge recommendations? > > If possible, locate the refer in a cold room to reduce winter consumption. We > had a Sunfrost RF 12, and a cold room for winter. Brrr. > > Rob > > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org > [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Dave Palumbo > Sent: Wednesday, January 09, 2013 2:45 PM > To: 'RE-wrenches' > Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Fridge recommendations? > > I’m having difficulty finding a RF in the 16 to 20 cu ft range that uses less > than 350kWh/yr. All of the GE units listed by Energy Star as 300 to 311kWh/yr > are no longer being manufactured according to my local appliance dealers. > > I see a Fridgidaire 18.2 cu ft that uses 335kWh/yr (reviews that I see on > this unit complained of loud clunky noises). > > Sun Frost units are too pricey for this application. > > Any recommendations? > > Thanks, > Dave > > David Palumbo > Independent Power LLC > 462 Solar Way Drive > Hyde Park, VT 05655 > www.independentpowerllc.com > Vermont Solar Partner > 25 Years Experience, (802) 888-7194 > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Temp sensor cross platform
> Hi all I'm wondering if anyone knows if temp sensors are common within the following items Tristars Xantex/ Schneider Outback I have been told that midnite and outback are the same. You know how it goes, I've got a bunch of some and none of others Thanks Jay Peltz power. ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] XW. Ags
Hi William Thanks I've got the V set points done and it will manually turn on/off the genset via the SCP, so that works, but voltstime get below set points, or so it seems Of course it's 2 hrs each way with bad cell service. Just trying to get the most info before I go out there and do the sit there and see if it starts. Thanks. Jay Sent from my iPhone On Dec 26, 2012, at 8:26 PM, William Miller wrote: > Jay: > > You may THINK you have all the settings right but the SCP is not intuitive. > I have a nagging feeling that I have gone through this and found some > disassociated menu with a setting that needed to be changed. I will peruse > the manual and see if I find anything. > > I use to think the output was open collector (wet) but I was told it was a > dry reed relay, so polarity should not be an issue. I would ohm the > disconnected leads to ground in the diode mode, using both lead polarities to > verify. Although if you have manual start you have already bypassed this > possibility. > > Can you try setting the start voltage a volt above whatever your battery > voltage is at the moment for testing. > > Setup if more trouble than it should be. I use Gen. Type 2 for two wire > starting. > > Good luck. > > William > > PS: Have you checked the menus: AGS/CFG Trigger/Start DCV 30 sec through DCV > 24 hour? They come disabled and the auto start will not work unless one or > more are enabled. This is unlike the SW which came with the triggers enabled > by default. This may be what I was thinking of. > > WM > > > At 05:52 PM 12/26/2012, you wrote: >> > Hi all >> >> I've got a client with a XW and AGS. >> >> >> When I go there, manual on/off works. >> >> He says however that it will not auto start, ie system shutdown due to low >> voltage >> >> I thought I've got all the settings right, but ?? >> >> Any ideas? >> >> Thanks >> >> Jay >> >> Peltz power >> ___ >> List sponsored by Home Power magazine >> >> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org >> >> Options & settings: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >> >> List-Archive: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >> >> List rules & etiquette: >> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm >> >> Check out participant bios: >> www.members.re-wrenches.org >> >> No virus found in this incoming message. >> Checked by AVG - www.avg.com >> Version: 8.5.455 / Virus Database: 271.1.1/5487 - Release Date: 12/25/12 >> 19:34:00 > > Miller Solar > Voice :805-438-5600 > email: will...@millersolar.com > http://millersolar.com > License No. C-10-773985 > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] XW. Ags
> Hi all I've got a client with a XW and AGS. When I go there, manual on/off works. He says however that it will not auto start, ie system shutdown due to low voltage I thought I've got all the settings right, but ?? Any ideas? Thanks Jay Peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Magnum MS 4448 AE issues
Hi Howie, You can set the diversion control of the FM-80 to SS relay mode which will PWM the load, AC or DC While I think this will take care of your problem you might have some flicker while its PWM'ing if you are switching an AC load. Another option is to use cascading smaller dump loads, which I use often with micro hydro. I like this better as there is no fast flicker in the lights etc. And a 3rd option is to use a CC like Tristar or C-40 and DC dump load. Jay peltz power On Dec 23, 2012, at 7:45 AM, Howie Michaelson wrote: > Hi All, > > I am trying to help my brother-in-law figure out if he can continue using > his Magnum MS 4448 AE in his now off-grid home in Nova Scotia which we > installed about 3 years ago as at the time a battery backup inverter. I > would preface the following with the information that he is a very > knowledgeable/hands on physicist (chair of the Physics department at > Dalhousie U. in Halifax, as well as an intrepid sailor having sailed all > over the world in 2 different sailboats he built himself). I mention this > to explain that he is very capable and understands the inner workings of > his equipment much better than most wrenches I know (and certainly me). > > About a year ago he installed a SkyStream 3.7 to add to the roughly 3 kW > of solar on an FM80, and then a short time later disconnected himself from > the grid. He immediately started having problems with the Skystream > regularly disconnecting from his system and shutting down, then > reconnecting and cycling off again, were as there hadn't been a problem > while grid-tied. After much investigation and conversation with SW > WindPower tech support and some software patches from them, things > improved somewhat. But the regular disconnections continued. > > Since then he has spent a great deal of time on the phone with Magnum's > tech support but they have not been able to answer his more technical > questions. The best they've offered is to have him send the inverter in, > but of course that is now not practical. > > The basic problem seems to be the voltage regulation during loading and > unloading of the inverter (even with medium sized loads). He tried to get > an internal wiring diagram and/or service manual from Magnum with no luck. > He has not been able to get through to any engineers that would be able > to answer his more technical questions. He is trying to figure out if > there are any internal set points that he can adjust or components that > can use tweaking. He has looked at the wave form with a scope and would > like to see if there are changes that he can make to the electronics to > allow for better regulation. > > Here is what he has written me: > > "Here is my report on the Magnum MS4448AE observing the AC output with a > Fluke 189, measuring the max and min values in slow mode (not it's fast > mode which would look at spikes for short times): > > I have checked several water heater elements running on 240 V (they are > between 2000 and 2500 Watts - immersion heaters). When switching any one > of them on, the voltage drops from around 240V to 197 V on average, > sometimes going as low as 170 V. These are serious drops, the lights dim > drastically and the radio may cut out for .5 s or so! Switching the > thermal heaters off again raise the output voltage to 271 V sometimes > reaching 282 V. > > The battery bank during those test were at 53 V at the DC input side of > the inverter, measured at the inverter. The voltage drop for the DC was > around 1 V DC. The battery bank is a 800 AH (Rolls S530) with 2/0 copper > cables 5 - 6 ft inverter cables. > > We had great wind yesterday and I had to switch to the hock up the > diversion load to 240 V so it would draw 2.5 kW. Needless to say it > stalled the windmill each time my outback kicked on the diversion load. I > had to leave the windmill off during the day. When I run the heating > element on 120 V (and therefore 625 W) it works beautiful if the wind > isn't too strong. Obviously the inverter handles 625 W quite well!" > > He is also thinking about replacing the inverter with a newer split phase > inverter (an XW or a Radian). If anyone has an opinion about which might > work for him, I'd appreciate any feedback. I am not a fan of Xantrex, > although I know some on the list really like the XW. If anyone has any > ideas of either a fix or someone we can get through to at Magnum, that > would be a great help. > > Thanks, > Howie > -- > Howie Michaelson > NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™ > > Catamount Solar, LLC > Renewable Energy Systems Sales and Service > VT Solar Electric & Hot Water Incentive Partner > http
Re: [RE-wrenches] Best elevated ground mount
Hi James, So interesting as the Unistrut isn't listed for this use, but works great of course. However I've heard of AHJ's not accepting it, as its not listed for it. Thats why I was curious to hear from Mark what the AHJ needed to see to understand what he wouldn't accept. Happy Holidays, jay Peltz Power On Dec 22, 2012, at 3:23 PM, James Reismiller wrote: > Hi Folks, >Responding to the best way to protect wires on a Multi-Pole Mount, we used > galvanized 7/8” Unistrut attached to the bottom side of rack horizontally and > top module to bottom module vertically for series connections between > modules. The horizontal strut had the side benefit of keeping each column > aligned with the next as there was now a physical connection between columns. > Our AHJ liked it, although it was above 8’, so was not technically required. > I agree that racking makers could do a better job on this wire protection > issue. > > Regards, > James Reismiller > NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer® > Abundant Solar > 541-231-8772 > CCB#175919 > > www.abundantsolar.com > > ™”I’d put my money on the sun and solar energy. What a source of power! I > hope we don’t have to wait until oil and coal run out before we tackle > that.”™-Thomas Edison > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Best elevated ground mount
Hi mark I'm wondering what the height or other requirements your AHJ is requiring? And I take it that the usual: fence, location,height aren't practical? And MPM do you mean like a ULA or true pole mounts? Thx Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On Dec 20, 2012, at 9:59 AM, William wrote: > Mark: > > I will put something on our web site pronto. > > William > > On Dec 20, 2012, at 8:37 AM, "Mark Dickson" wrote: > >> Hello William, >> We are waiting to hear if we get a project for 85kW worth of MPM mounted >> arrays. I would be very interested and appreciative if you could share your >> 690.31 solution. I have been struggling with that for this project and so >> far the only feasible solution has been the steel lath. >> I too am shocked at how slowly manus are responding to this need. Every >> trade show I got to, this is the #1 thing I am looking for and am always >> amazed at how many blank stares I get when I inquire about it. >> >> Thanks in advanced! >> >> Best regards, >> >> Mark Dickson, >> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer T >> Oasis Montana Inc. >> 877-627-4768 toll- >> >> >> I am really hoping some manufacturer will develop wire >> shielding. According to the inspectors, locals are using chicken wire or >> hardware cloth which I doubt is reliable or bonded. >> >> William > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] sanyo ba3 pro solar clamp source
They are different clips Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On Dec 13, 2012, at 7:33 AM, Nick Vida wrote: > Hi wrenches, > > do any of you have pro solar clamps for Sanyo hip-200ba3? I am in need of 80 > mids and 30 ends. (I cant remember if there is only one clamp you use in both > applications?) This was that Sanyo module with the cuff on the edge by the > way. > > Please contact me off list of you want to free up some warehouse space or > have a source for purchasing. > > Thanks, > > Nick Vida > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Solar Pool Heating
Hi Jason As a non voting member. :-) I support the idea. Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On Nov 28, 2012, at 5:32 PM, Jason Szumlanski wrote: > I was wondering how many people on the list do solar pool heating and if it > would be appropriate to post occasional topics of interest. It's quite > distant from what we normally discuss, so maybe it's not the right place. > > Thoughts? > > Jason Szumlanski > ___ > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Info On 2 V batteries Please
Hi Peter Are these 12 batteries in a large single steel case? And are they flooded or VRLA? Thx Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On Nov 27, 2012, at 1:31 PM, "Parrish, Peter" wrote: > We recently purchased a battery powered forklift, with 24 ea. 2V batteries. > Approximate dimensions: W=5", L=6-3/16", H=~21" (hard to tell). Enersys is > stamped on the top. > > The battery supplier claims the batteries are "24-85-13" but this refers to a > 24V battery as far as I can tell. He also claims that the batteries are rated > at 510-550 A-hr. I am assuming that the lower number is for 6 hours discharge. > > I would like to know more about the batteries. Also, how to discharge / > charge them. Should they be run down to 20% SOC and then fully charged? What > if we don't use the forklift for a week at a time? > > Based on my experience of using AGM batteries, it would seem that the Bulk > charging rate should be some percentage (e.g. 20%) of the 6-hour ampacity, > then there is a constant voltage absorption charge (e.g. Vabs=2.385 V), and a > switch to Float when the charging current drops to some low percentage (e.g. > 0.5% of capacity), and the Float voltage being 2.125 V. Again everything at > 25 deg C. It seems like the forklift guys like to refer everything to a 6 > hour capacity, which may be related to the maximum typical daily usage. > > What is the relationship between Voc and SOC after resting the battery for 6 > hours at 25 deg C? > > Thanks in advance for your help, guys. > > - Peter Parrish > > Alternative Energy Department > College of the Canyons > peter.parr...@canyons.edu > O: (661) 362-3888 C: (323) 839-6108 > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Hydro Diversion Controls
Hi William If the hydro is only 2 amps, I would argue that you don't diversion at all. The float current expect for a really small battery bank is higher than that. So unless you want/need it for some other reason, I would not install one. jay peltz power On Nov 22, 2012, at 11:18 AM, William Miller wrote: > David: > > Interesting idea. The added benefit is if the relay gets stuck, it won't > destroy the battery bank. > > The diversion load must equal or exceed the output of the hydro, correct? > The load we have will draw 38 amps at 24 vdc, the hydro will put out 2 amps. > Sounds like I have enough headroom > > Thanks again to all of you. > > William > > At 08:32 PM 11/21/2012, David Katz wrote: > >> William, >> I always connect the hydro side of the diode to the diversion load with the >> contactor, so I don't pull the battery down while regulating. The diversion >> load must draw enough current to pull the hydro voltage below the absorb >> voltage. Use ohms law to calculate the resistance. >> David Katz > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] AXS port modbus interface
HI All, Does anyone have experience with the Outback AXS interface? Looking for any thoughts about it. thanks, jay peltz power ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Two sealed battery questions, please
HI Allan, As to the old batteries, They are worth what it will cost to move, install and remove when they die in short order. To me only worth it for a DYI. As to the other part of your question. I'd take the GP's any day. Why? no cables to buy/make can replace individual cells if needed. longer warranty smaller installed space, no case needed. and while I can't prove it probably a better battery jay peltz power On Nov 12, 2012, at 1:55 PM, Allan Sindelar wrote: > Wrenches: > First question: for a large grid-tied with battery backup system (9.8 kW > array, two SB5000s, dual Sunny Islands), we have offered the customer the > choice of either one 48V string of 24 2V Concorde SunXtender PVX-121HT, for > 1,200 A/hr, or a set of Absolyte GP 100G23s, for 1,260 A/hr (at the 20 hour > rate), the closest match. The prices, surprisingly, are quite close - the > Absolytes are a bit less expensive, given the additional cost of battery > enclosures and labor for the Concordes. I have avoided recommending one or > the other on the basis of battery service life, as we haven't enough > experience with the Absolytes. The question: which of these battery options > would you recommend to the customer, and why? > > Second question: Four years ago, well before we got involved, the customer > purchased a 24V set of used Absolyte IIP telecom batteries and we agreed to > incorporate them into this system. I contacted Direct Power on their behalf > to inquire about obtaining a second 24V set of batteries to add to their set > of 3-100A33s to make a 48V bank. I learned that they have no more of these > sets in stock and have no firm expectation at present of getting any more. I > had asked here about finding a set and about mixing new with old but received > no responses. > > We will be going with a new set of batteries, either Absolyte or Concorde. > This leaves the old set up for resale. But in the process we learned via the > date codes that the customer's set was eight years old when he got them, and > have been in their possession unused in a barn since then. See below for the > customer's description of them. The question: what is the expected remaining > life of these 12 year old cells, assuming the best - that they were left > fully charged and in float for eight years and seldom if ever cycled? What > might they be worth today, if anything? > > Thank you, > Allan > > > Original Message > > Hi Allan, > Here is that note regarding batteries. I have 4 Absolyte batteries > manufactured in 2000, model # 589 508 kkc 7667,7668,7670,7674. They have > been used for back up in the telecommunication field. I have owned them since > 2008 and they have been float-charged on a monthly basis to keep them > topped-up. I think their condition is good--- although I have not load-tested > them. They were purchased for a project that is no longer in play and so I > would like to pass them along. > Ted > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] AC (only) Diversion
I would talk to Thompson and Howe. (sp) They make diversion controls for AC direct hydros. Usually this is based on voltage but I would talk to them to see if current could be used Instead. Jay Peltz power On Oct 22, 2012, at 4:12 PM, "Carl Emerson" wrote: > Hi There, > > Since no-one has mentioned an ‘off the shelf’ product to achieve AC diversion > for a grid-tied system, I would like to look at developing one. > > I am prepared to put my ideas into the ring. > > This could be a collaborative effort, are there others who would like to > participate in this ? > > If so please contact me off list… > > Regards > Carl Emerson > Freepower Co. > Auckland NZ > > > > > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Ten K Solar
Hi al I'd be fun to go into a very long discussion about the pros ( very few) vs cons ( many). But to cut it short, pure BS Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPad On Oct 22, 2012, at 9:11 AM, Allen Frishman wrote: > Hey Wrencher's, > I am sure many of you saw the Ten K Solar booth at SPI.Does anyone have > any experience with the product line?Any thoughts on the design concept? > I have a customer who came across it on line and is asking for feedback. > Here is a link to their website: > http://tenksolar.com/ > > Thanks! > Al Frishman > AeonSolar > > (917) 699-6641 - cell > (888) 460-2867 > www.aeonsolar.com > > > > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Steel roof attachments
Hi Chris, Check with Dynamic Fasteners. They have lots of self taping large diameter fasteners. jay peltz power On Oct 21, 2012, at 6:21 AM, Chris Mason wrote: > I have a large steel roof project to install that is giving me some problems. > There are many locations so no one is the same. > Most of the roofs are steel sheet over steel purloins with no insulation. The > steel sheeting is lying right on top of the purloins. > Can I use a self drilling self tapping screw to attach? Who makes one large > enough? > In some cases I get get to the underneath but working off 30' ladders to make > each attachment is too labour intensive as the warehouses are full of goods.. > > In the case of the roofs that have foam filled panels or corrugated I will > have to use EJOT fasteners but these seem overkill for steel on steel > fastening, they are very expensive. > > Thanks for the help, > -- > Chris Mason > President, Comet Systems Ltd > www.cometenergysystems.com > Cell: 264.235.5670 > Skype: netconcepts > > ___ > List sponsored by Home Power magazine > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Options & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
