[RE-wrenches] SolarEdge optimizers require amp deration?

2024-08-13 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Hi, Wrench List colleagues~ I have a minor dispute with a technician at one
of the solar superstores. He says the amp rating on SolarEdge optimizers
needs a 25% "safety factor".

SolarEdge's spec sheet says "Maximum Output Current" for model S500 is 15
amps. I'm not sure if the technician would take 25% off the 15a or if he
boosts the Isc amps (on the PV datasheet) by 25%. In one case, his
allowable short circuit amps (from the datasheet) would be 11.25a and in
the other case it's 12a.

If he's right, this "500 watt optimizer" could only process 500 watts in an
unusual combination of Vmp and Imp. I know the PV's open circuit voltage
should be calculated higher based on the lowest possible cell temperature,
but I can't find any SolarEdge reference materials that address the
amperage. I checked the SolarEdge videos, installation documents, and I
even spent time in voicemail perdition.  Their design tool at
designer.solaredge.com did suggest the S500 optimizer after I entered all
the parameters for my preferred module.

Nothing else from SolarEdge so far...so it's Wrenchie time. It would be
especially helpful if someone has a white paper or other document to clear
this up. I'm pretty sure the technician wrong on this point, but I'd like
to offer more than just my opinion. BTW, the PV's that I'd like to use are
450 watt monocrystalline, two strings of 54 cells and 14.55 amps short
circuit current. The relatively low cell count does translate into higher
amps per rated watt compared to a module with more cells in series.

Thanks as always; the Wrench List is the Bomb!

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
www.abrahamsolar.com

Landline: 970-731-4675
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[RE-wrenches] eGauge login info for Blue Planet owners

2024-03-28 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Hi, Mechanics~ Blue Planet gave us a whole three days notice before
shutting down their customer facing web monitor.

The handy BPE_eGauge Guide   .pdf file to help with our transition failed
to include the username & password that end users need in order to get
their data direct from eGauge.

If any of the Wrenchies need this for their installed customer base,
contact me off list. The Wrench List is the Bomb!

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
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[RE-wrenches] Redundant gensets: Must I switch the neutral in the manual transfer switch?

2024-03-13 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Hi, Mechanix~

My off grid project gig has redundant 120y208 generators that need a 200a
"break before make" manual transfer switch so the clients can choose
machine A or machine B. The switch has a lockable center-off but I think
the generators aren't set up for "lock out tag out". The machines & the
xfer switch will all be indoors and about 10 feet apart. The AC power wires
from each generator will be hard-wired to the transfer switch & piped in
EMT. I had planned for the transfer switch to have a "solid neutral" bus
bar (& I had planned to bond Neutral to Ground in that box), but a
consulting EE tells me the neutral must be switched along with the three
hots. The project is too remote to have an AHJ, but the clients have
requested a wet stamp from the EE.

I think his rationale is related to the N-G bond point location. When I
asked about his suggested location, the EE wrote: "The N-G bond will be at
each generator, so the neutral will be generated at the generator providing
power to the facilities."

Mick resumes: The genset installation document says "The generator set is
shipped from the factory with the neutral and equipment ground not bonded
together." So...these gensets are not like those portables where it's
difficult to isolate the neutral. I've attached an image that shows what
the EE is advocating. The manual xfer switch that I wish to use isn't made
in "four poles" without going to the 400 amp version and the 400a switch
won't physically fit the available space.

Can I make a credible case for the transfer switch being the "point of
first disconnect" instead of each generator taking turns at being the POFD?
If the transfer switch is also the bond point, can't the Neutral from each
generator happily meet at the neutral bus bar? OR: might the EE have a
concern about a loop (from the Neutral of one genset through the bus
bar then showing up on the terminal strip for the other genset? Code
citations would be appreciated along with your advice, Wrenchies.

During service intervals, both engines will be running for a
brief interval. Example: Gen A may be carrying the loads while the mechanic
manually runs Gen B as he completes an oil change. If I wire it as the EE
wishes, will both running machines play well safety-wise if each genset has
a N-G bond (with the equipment ground as their only common connection)? How
would the safety aspects change if both machines are running but I've wired
things per my original concept?

Thanks as always, Mechanix. "The Wrench List is the Bomb!"

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
www.abrahamsolar.com

Landline: 970-731-4675
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Re: [RE-wrenches] State of Charge Meter for Sol-Ark

2024-02-06 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Me again, Mechanics, with some corrections to my recent post. Solar
Assistant may not be a US based provider. They publish pricing in US
dollars but I was unable to log in or create an account.

Watts247.com claims to be the only authorized US distributor.

https://watts247.com/product/solar-assistant-remote-monitoring-mpp-solar-growatt-deye-sol-ark-sunsynk-and-many-bmss/

but their pricing pushes the system cost well above the cost for a
TriMetric. I apologize for uploading wrong/incomplete  information before,
thanks.

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
www.abrahamsolar.com

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Re: [RE-wrenches] State of Charge Meter for Sol-Ark

2024-02-06 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
~ This is yet another worthwhile topic with the Mechanics ~

Chris Mason wrote:  "If you know someone who can set up a little raspberry
pi with a display, you try this script. It's called solark-modbus."

I did a google for Solark "raspberry pi" & the first link took me to this:
https://solar-assistant.io/explore/solark

For an amateur like me, getting the hardware and software from Solar
Assistant has a lot of appeal, even if it costs more than a home brew
setup. How 'bout that "single source accountability"?

Original poster Jason Szumlanski may appreciate the video that I've linked
below. The video creator connected a touch screen display directly to his
Solar Assistant box:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXOVVMOGfNM

I may try the S-A bundle with an EG4 battery for some off gridders in
crisis. Their old Outback system doesn't even have a TriMetric monitor, but
for about the same price as a TM-2020, we could get the SOC data, etc.
directly from the BMS. I'd use the client's computer instead of a touch
screen to keep the cost down. Acknowledged (to William Miller's point) the
data would be no better than what the BMS can deliver. "Any port in a
storm," however, and my new friends off the grid are in a terrible storm.

As always, "The Wrench List is the Bomb!"

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
www.abrahamsolar.com

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Dab Esybox Mini 3 pump

2023-10-01 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Hi, Dave Angelini & All~

Dave posted his usual thoughtful remarks, reminding us that "Murphy" of the
infamous law is...everywhere... My reply is below his remarks, thanks.

"No experience but I am interested. I see your pump but it has not been out
there long. I can't find it a Home Depot which I depend on for really
remote clients. Can you get one fixed in the US or parts? Will it be
affected by well water?

The Scala2 has had failures and seems to last 3 years if the input water
has sediment. Grundfos is a pain but they are there and will help for 2
years. Home Depot will give your money back if you use their CC for a year.

All ears on this one!"

Mick replies: I think the "home office" is in Italy & the earliest
youtube video on the Esybox Mini was in 2015...so it does have some
track time. They call it Mini3 now because they've changed to three
vanes in the pump.

Here's the contacts page for DAB USA for the intrepid seekers among us:

https://dabpumps.us/en/CONTACTS

A home sized pressurizing pump with updateable firmware--is that a
good thing? But I digress. I gotta hold back on this until/unless
there's more feedback from success stories in the field. I'm too old
to continue my "earlier adopter" ways. "Do you know how to tell who
the pioneers are? They're the ones with arrows in their back."
Thanks, Dave, for your always helpful participation.

The Wrench List is the Bomb!

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
www.abrahamsolar.com

Landline: 970-731-4675
Cell phone or for text messaging: 970-946-6584

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[RE-wrenches] Dab Esybox Mini 3 pump

2023-09-30 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Hi, Mechanics~ Any experiences with the pump in my subject line? It's
variable speed (constant pressure) in a similar category as Grundfos
Scala2. I see the Scala2 has garnered some bad reviews for leakage
problems, etc.

The Esybox Mini seems to mostly have 5 stars. I'd be using it with an
unpressurized holding tank, & prolly I can arrange for flooded suction.

Thanks in advance. The Wrench List is the Bomb!

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
www.abrahamsolar.com

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Fronius USA available 2023 & 2024 ?

2023-08-26 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Hi, Team and >>gosh<< I must apologize to connell.christop...@fronius.com and
to Fronius.
I'm sorry that I inadvertently fueled an untrue rumor about Fronius USA.
Chris, I should have tracked you down for the correct answer before putting
my question on the List. I will also correct this with my Greentech branch
manager on Monday, Heaven permitting.

I freaked out when my Greentech rep told me Fronius had left the building
but I'm glad I don't have to re-shop the string inverter component after
all. I did an AC coupled off grid project using Fronius Symo in 2019: No
Drama, No Trauma.

For those Wrenches who've wondered, "Why, Mick, why..." about off grid AC
coupling: most of the rooftops that need PV for my 2023 opportunity will be
inconvenient for running DC wires to the battery location. These same
rooftops, however, will have AC sub-panels close by, so I had an "A-ha,
negative loads!" moment. At least some of the PV will run through a charge
controller in any case. I think the wattage from any AC coupled string
inverters won't show up on Schneider Insight, so that's another reason for
me to heed those Wrenches who suggest DC coupling for all of the PV.

Thanks to all who've contributed to this thread. I think the thread should
now extinguish & moderator Michael may wish to delete it from the archives.
I appreciate accessing the "hive mind" on various 2023 PV inverters and
again, Chris, I'm sorry to have caused a temporary smudge on Fronius USA.
The Wrench List is the Bomb!

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
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[RE-wrenches] Fronius USA available 2023 & 2024 ?

2023-08-24 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Hi, Mechanix~ I asked a Greentech location about quantity four Fronius
string inverter PRIMO 6.0-1. (6kW AC output, single phase 240 volt 60 hz)
This p/n is in the Greentech portal but my particular branch hasn't done
much with Fronius. Today the branch manager told me "Fronius no longer
exists."

Can any of you confirm or correct this report? I have an off-grid
opportunity for which I wish to AC couple some of the PV. If Fronius USA
has indeed "left the building", are there other string inverters that can
be selected for country code "off grid 60 hz"? I'd like for the PV
inverters to only curtail their output wattage if there's a frequency shift
from the grid forming inverter (frequency/watt). Schneider XW Pro units
would be forming the grid. Schneider has a white paper # 990-6421 on AC
coupling but this document is almost three years old & no help at all in
finding compatible PV inverters. Rapid shutdown is not mandated for this
gig & each array would be evenly illuminated. IIRC, the List hasn't been
highly enamored with SolarEdge in recent years; is that still the consensus?

Thanks as always; the Wrench List is the Bomb!

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
www.abrahamsolar.com

Landline: 970-731-4675
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[RE-wrenches] 200a manual xfer switch w/ small aux contact : who makes it?

2023-07-26 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Hi, Mechanix~ My off grid project needs dual 40kW diesel generators with
easy manual selection between "A" or "B". The output from the manual switch
would feed AC into a set of XW Pro inverter/chargers.

I seek a 200a manual xfer switch that can also changeover the 12v+
generator automation wire with the same handle. Schneider DTU324N is 3
phase (solid neutral) so that does get me a third blade but since the
trigger wire is only a few amps this p/n seems like overkill on size/weight
and on cost.

The manual switch unit doesn't need to make or break live power because
folks always tend to shut down any nearby noisy engine before they do any
switching. We also don't need 100k short circuit current rating because the
machines can't fault as big as grid power can. Non-fusible seems best b/c
each genset will have a 200a main breaker. I'd prefer to buy the switch
inside a NEMA1 enclosure rather than getting a bare switch that would
require me to mount it into a housing. The project won't be code
inspected, so thanks in advance for any suggestions.

The Wrench List is the Bomb!

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
www.abrahamsolar.com

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[RE-wrenches] Outback Mate3SL = no web monitor due to a chip shortage

2023-07-12 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Hi, Mechanix~ Is the Mate3S in short supply for mid to late 2023? I see
there's a "Lite" version with no internet capability--but are enough
projects buying the Lite so those who want the full version can still
get it from inventory?

Thanks in advance; the Wrench List is the Bomb!

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
www.abrahamsolar.com

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[RE-wrenches] Web based system monitoring via 4GLTE uplink?

2023-06-05 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Hi, Mechanix~ Web portals such as Optics-RE make for easy well-baby visits
for off gridders. The prospective customers that I met yesterday aren't
here full time so they may not want to commit $1200/year on satellite
internet service, but the Verizon 4G signal is strong at the homesite.

Which web-enabled battery based inverter platforms have a dongle for 4G
LTE? I know we'd need a data type SIM card & I'd need to live with a slow
refresh rate so the SIM wouldn't need data replenishment too often. This
wouldn't be as good as if the site had real broadband, but maybe still
better than nothing.

So far, I've only found this type of accy with the Victron platform: their
model GX LTE. Among the other platforms & hybrid inverters I've found next
to nothing, but "the Wrench List is the Bomb" at knowing things that I
don't. Any suggestions would be welcomed. Thanks in advance,

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
www.abrahamsolar.com

Landline: 970-731-4675
Cell phone or for text messaging: 970-946-6584
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[RE-wrenches] Lithium upgrade when Magnasine goes to float too soon

2023-04-18 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Hi, Mechanix~ I have several local clients with various different versions
of Magnum pure sine inverters & all of the inverters seem to transition to
the float stage soon after the charge cycle begins. I've observed this even
when the inverters & batteries were brand new. I'm aware of the menus about
adjusting the bulk time duration but even adjusting that to the longest
setting never helped.

Since these clients are all off grid with no generator automation, I
just tweaked the float voltage to match the bulk voltage then instructed
the clients to turn off their generator when the target voltage appears on
their display. The batteries were always lead acid floodies.

Now that some of these clients need better batteries (& I hope they can
afford transitioning to lithium), are there any mfr's for drop in
replacement lithium which don't care if the gen-powered charger can't shift
downward for the float voltage? The customers' PV chargers all have a float
function that does work right. I know that Blue Planet suggests 55.2v DC
for all charge stages, but my Magnum systems are all either 12v nominal or
24v nominal, so I'll need to find a different brand that builds the lower
voltage batteries.

The clients can still shut down the generator when the target voltage is
reached, but what if they fail to shut down soon after the setpoint is
reached? I wouldn't want to put anybody's battery warranty at risk due to
this strange charging quirk. Also, I'd like to know if any other Wrenchies
have noticed this peculiarity with the Magnum inverters.

Thanks in advance; the Wrench List is The Bomb!

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
www.abrahamsolar.com

Landline: 970-731-4675
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Underground fault finder

2023-04-18 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Hi, Wrenchies~

Drake Chamberlain asked about renting a gadget to locate the point where an
underground wire is broken.

In my local region, the fellow who does "call before you dig" wire location
services for the local power company is allowed to freelance in his off
hours,
using the instruments in his work vehicle.

I think his particular setup is able to pinpoint the location of a wire
break. Drake, it might be worth calling to see if this is an option for
your project.

The Wrench List is The Bomb!

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
www.abrahamsolar.com

Landline: 970-731-4675
Cell phone or for text messaging: 970-946-6584
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Re: [RE-wrenches] cable trays and battery cable

2023-02-05 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Hi, Mechanix~

Kirk Herander asked about cable trays & basing the wire calculations as if
the wires are in "free air". The 2023 Article 100 definition of Free Air is
unchanged from the 2020 NEC:

2023: "Open or ventilated environment that allows for heat dissipation and
air flow around an installed conductor." However at the 2020 sessions for
CMP6 Code Making Panel 6, the original draft language was:

2020 first draft: "Open or ventilated environment that allows for air flow
around an installed conductor with no other conductors closer than one
cable diameter and no insulation or building materials in contact with the
conductor insulation for more than 75 mm (3 in.) for every 3 m (10 ft) of
conductor." This is not the letter of the law since it was changed in the
second draft but it does show the thinking process.

I specified some cable tray recently which was "solid" on the sides &
bottom (unlike some other types that are perforated or ladder style). This
tray was for AC wires & the electricians did support the wires so there's ~
one cable diameter of air space around each insulated conductor. There's no
forced air ventilation on this project; only natural convection via the
open top of the trays. The wires were sized for "free air" conditions &
there was no pushback from the AHJ. As with so many cases, this goes to the
individual AHJ's interpretation, but the air-gaps seem more appropriate
(compared to laying the wires in a heap) if one wants the installation to
be interpreted as "free air", especially when the tray sides & bottom
surface are solid as in this example.

I hope this will be helpful; the Wrench List is the Bomb!

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
www.abrahamsolar.com

Landline: 970-731-4675
Cell phone or for text messaging: 970-946-6584
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Ideas and racking systems for "stowing" ground mount PV array during snowy winter?

2022-04-01 Thread Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
Hello, Blake Gleason & All the Mechanix~

Travis Jordan astutely suggested "David Katz's single row system on 4"
posts, it would tilt to vertical and only be one mod high in portrait."

Mick here: If the site would accommodate something as wide & low as what
Travis described, you might ask Array Technologies if they can still
furnish their DuraRack AT "adjustable tilt" mounts. These resemble their
single axis Duratrack trackers, but without the automation electronics.
Each one can mount 12 to 16 modules laid out like playing cards side by
side. Seasonal tilt adjustment is handled by a geared down linear actuator
which in turn is driven by a cordless drill. Maximum tilt is 60 degrees
from horizontal; maybe that's steep enough or maybe not in Blake's extreme
jobsite.

I never had a suitable customer to match up with this solution, so I have
no direct experience with it. It might be worth a phone call to
Albuquerque 505.881.7567.

As always, "The Wrench List is the Bomb!"

Mick Abraham, Proprietor
www.abrahamsolar.com

Landline: 970-731-4675
Cell phone or for text messaging: 970-946-6584
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