Re: [RE-wrenches] 1500V Meter

[Roy Rakobitsch]

I've been using the Hioki dc clamp meter just fine on 1500vdc circuits. I
only use it for DC, and it works fine.


Roy Rakobitsch


Wind/PV Design Engineer

Windsine LLC

631-514-4166

www.windsine.org



On Mon, Oct 26, 2020, 14:22 Evan M  wrote:

> hey all,
> anyone have any good recommendations on clamp meters rated up to or over
> 1500Vdc? I had my eye on the Hioki unit but their fine print says you can
> only go over 1000V if the circuit is isolated from the grid and isolated
> from ground. Isolated from grid means I can't take operating voltage
> readings under load (at least not with a transformerless inverter) and
> isolated from ground means I can't use it with a larger transformer-based
> inverter. anyone found a better unit out there without the fine print?
>
> thanks!
> evan
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Operating Voltages Outback RE High Capacity Battery

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Using Optics, can you equate the voltage sag/ gen start command with a
particular load?  Or is the voltage dropping quite evenly over the course
of the night?  They could actually be degraded if there is no indication of
a sudden load/ voltage drop. A simple load test when on site can also help
you replicate and/or get a better picture of whats going on.


Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org





On Fri, Apr 19, 2019 at 12:27 PM Mac Lewis  wrote:

> Hello Wrenches,
>
> We recently inherited an Outback system that I've been keeping an eye on
> via Optics.  Its a dual stack 3648 VFXR, with about 4kW of PV with a single
> string of EnergyCell 1100RE battery bank (reported to be ~6 months old)
> ~.46 kWh at C20.
>
> I have been observing how the system functions and how the voltage
> behaves.  We keep getting 2 minute voltage starts on the generator in the
> middle of the night that don't seem necessary judging from how much energy
> has been used from the battery bank.  I am hesitant to tweak anything
> because these battery set-points are a bit different than I'm used to.
>
> As per Outback:
> Absorb Voltage is 55.6V for 2 hours
> Float Voltage is 54.0V
>
> I've slowly been dropping the 2 minute start voltage to see if there is a
> bottom, but I'm hesitant to take it much lower (maybe I should).
> 2 minute start voltage: 44.8 V.
>
>
> The system easily charges the battery bank to 100% (and easily reached the
> 2 hr absorb time) every day.  The flexnet DC is correctly set up and
> calibrated.
>
> The load on the system is pretty consistent.  They use between 400 and
> 600W throughout the night.
>
> An average night, they may use about 6 kWh before the voltage sags below
> the 2 minute start voltage and it starts the generator.
>
> Just curious if our 2 minute voltage needs to be dropped or if these
> batteries are degraded.  What corrective changes can I make to get better
> performance?
>
> I have and will call Outback about this, but I'd like other perspectives
> as well.
>
> Thanks as always for your expertise
>
> --
>
>
>
> Mac Lewis
>
> *"Yo solo sé que no sé nada." -Sócrates*
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback OpticsRE and FlexNet DC shunts monitoring question

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Dan, you certainly can graph individual shunts in OpticsRE. They are
located under the "Battery" tab, lower left from the main dashboard. By
default, the shunts (i believe) are labeled A, B and C respectively, but
you can name them anything you like. I suggest "Inverter" for A, "PV" for B
and "Wind" for C. If you have the shunts wired correctly as per the FNDC
manual, power through the shunts will add and subtract and net the correct
values (as long as you are using the appropriate resistance shunts (and the
sense wires are oriented in the correct polarity as per the manual).  If
you are using a backup AC generator and it is being utilized through the
inverters charger, then shunt A will reflect the values in either direction
(both charge and discharge, to and from the battery bank). Aside from
calling Outback, you can catch me off list and I can explain. I also second
Johns comment about the quality of internet connection, its quite important
for Optics to get good data into the database, especially if you are
writing any parameters to the equipment.

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org




On Fri, Mar 16, 2018 at 9:43 PM, Dan Fink <danbo...@gmail.com> wrote:

> Esteemed Wrenches;
>
> We recently installed OpticsRE monitoring for an existing off-grid site in
> Southern Colorado. It is 24v battery bank, 2.2kW PV, 2 Outback Flexmax 60
> controllers, nice old Trace SW inverter, and new wind turbine + controller
> to replace a failed Whisper 200 with worn out furl and yaw bushings.
>
> We installed a FlexMaxDC shunt monitor into the Outback Hub, with the old
> TriMetric shunt set as "inverter" and a new wind turbine shunt set as "wind"
>
> We removed the existing Bogart TriMetric and replaced it with the Mate 3s
> and ,  everything is working fine for remote monitoring. But because the
> Mate can't talk to the Trace inverter, it appears the PV input is
> subtracting from the inverter output on that shunt. Thinking that moving
> the PV input to the other side of the shunt will fix that, as the charge
> controllers are talking to OpticsRE just fine.
>
> Questions:
>
> When the gasoline generator starts from low SOC (from the Trace SW relay)
> will the FlexMaxDC Shunt A show a positive charging gain from the generator
> or does FlexmaxDC only show one way (load or charge)? I don't see any way
> of separating inverter load vs. generator gain. We will test this next
> month down there, but it's 5 hours away, we just want to be prepared.
>
> Is there any way to graph the FlexMaxDC shunts on the main online
> dashboard? They seem like a neglected child, only accessible by clicking
> multiple menus, and just downloading data to a spreadsheet. The idea was to
> show the client on a real-time graph how much the wind turbine is
> contributing versus PV.
>
> For that main dashboard, we realize that without an Outback
> inverter/charger, the graph will never show gasoline "generator" but if it
> showed inverter loads as a gain, that would be enough.
>
> Still getting our heads wrapped around OpticsRE, but the setup and
> commissioning was very easy, and it does work, after running a bunch of
> CAT5 hardwired; Concrete/Adobe  structure filled with remesh blocked all
> efforts for wifi, The wifi router is located in the solar thermal room
> downstairs (the ReSol monitoring works great on the thermal) and barely a
> whiff of it upstairs at the electrical control roomOpticsRE seems to
> need a pretty robust internet connection.
>
> Any thoughts appreciated, this is our first OpticsRE install.
>
>
>
>
> Dan Fink
> Professor of Solar Energy Technology, Ecotech Institute
> IREC Certified Instructor™ for:
> ~ PV Installation Professional
> ~ Small Wind Installer
> Executive Director, Buckville Energy
> NABCEP Registered Continuing Education Providers™
> 970.672.4342
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Is there a charge controller do this?

[Roy Rakobitsch]

I also do not believe the DC genset will be overloaded. It can be used
(crudely) in a Bulk-only situation and be fine, as long as it shuts off
when its supposed to, probably when charge current drops below a certain
threshold (signalling that the batteries are becoming charged) or even on a
timer based on bank capacity and load calculation. Its then important for
the PV to finish the charging cycle for continued battery health. I know
its not optimal, but can work well if set up properly.

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org




On Sun, Jan 28, 2018 at 9:23 PM, Mac Lewis <maclew...@gmail.com> wrote:

> Hello wrenches,
>
> I'm working on 3 off-grid telecom sites.  They are designed to operate
> solar only under most conditions but the project manager ordered a
> custom-built 48 VDC generators, intended to be used as the battery
> charger/backup power for the site.  These are ~20 kW generators, and can
> probably do about ~350Adc at 48 Vdc at the elevation that these are sited.
> The battery banks are 4 x 1000 Ahr GS Nanocarbon 48 battery strings and can
> gobble up the 350Adc easily when they are discharged.
>
> While discussing the generator operation with the generator supplier, we
> have found this generator isn't capable of charge control, or limiting its
> own output.  The charge control functionality isn't necessary at this site
> because we really just need it to keep things online until the sun returns,
> a simple 54 VDC float voltage would work.  However, without the generator
> being able to self-limit its output, we expect this generator to stall when
> started because it can't regulate its output current and will immediately
> become overloaded by the discharged batteries.
>
> I am trying to come up with some options to rectify this serious design
> issue.  One idea that immediately came to mind was putting in some parallel
> solar charge controllers between the DC generator output and the battery
> bank.  If the generator output could be dialed up to around 60-70 VDC,
> could parallel solar charge controllers be used for charge regulation?  It
> would be kind of like charging a 48 V battery bank from a 70 V battery
> bank.  MPPT isn't applicable, could the max current limit in the charge
> controller(s) be used to regulate charge rate?  Will the charge controllers
> blow up?  If not, what brand might work.  Each site has 8 x Midnite Classic
> 150s but I'm open to other manufacturers if it would work.  I am open to
> blowing up a charge controller in the shop but I thought it best to ask
> first.
>
> What are other ways to put this generator to use, and limit its load?
>
>
>
> Thanks for your input/comments
>
>
>
>
>
>
> --
>
>
>
> Mac Lewis
>
> *"Yo solo sé que no sé nada." -Sócrates*
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] 10 kW wind turbine

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Hey Mac, Bergey Excel (10kw) and the Jacobs 3120 (20kw) are the only two
decent machines I can recommend. They are both not without their minor
issues, but all around, they work great as long as preventative maintenance
is done.

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org




On Mon, Mar 27, 2017 at 1:18 PM, Mac Lewis <maclew...@gmail.com> wrote:

> Hi Wrenches,
>
> I am looking into largish (for me) wind turbines in the 10-20 kW size.  As
> of now Bergey seems to standout.  Any other manufacturers that I should
> take a close look at in this size turbine?
>
> Thanks
>
> --
>
>
>
> Mac Lewis
>
> *"Yo solo sé que no sé nada." -Sócrates*
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Using same PV array for water pump, battery charging

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Arcing would only happen when disconnecting pump during sunny periods, why
not disconnect at dusk? Connecting pump will not arc due to soft start. Not
sure about that particular charge controller,  but some controllers can use
Aux relay logic to do this upon full SOC. The Midnite Classic comes to
mind. Swithcing can be done with contactor.
Just a thought.


Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org

On Feb 16, 2017 4:24 PM, "Starlight Solar Power Systems" <
la...@starlightsolar.com> wrote:

> Hello Wrenches,
>
> A customer has 3250 Watt PV array @ 139Voc. The PV controller is Magnum
> PT100. He wants to install a Grundfos SQFlex pump and be able to switch the
> DC from the PV controller to run the pump directly. He would like to switch
> midday after the battery (48V) is at a high SoC.
>
> I’m looking for a switching arrangement to do this without arcing since it
> will be used a few times each week. Any have a recommendation?
>
> Thank you,
>
> Larry Crutcher
> Starlight Solar Power Systems
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback Mate3 programming issues

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Hello William, Its very frustrating to deal with this sort of thing. I have
been running a Mate3 with Optics and I have to say, Its gotten a lot better
than it was in the beginning! (however, there are still a few bugs,
specifically with 3.015.003.

I have been running 3.015.001 and its been mostly solid (with the exception
of small one or two hour windows of data that go missing. This doesnt
always happen, but every once in a while it does.

When I ran 3.015.000 (If I recall)  That is when I had exactly what you
described: Upon plugging in (to reboot) Mate3, it would remove stacking
parameters and make multiple inverters Master. Ive seen it happen on my
home system. Upgrading to 3.015.001 seems to have fixed that issue for me.

If you have your doubts about what firmware you should be running, I would
check out the Outback user forum, members seem pretty fast to make a stink
about new bugs and issues found.

Good luck

RoyR




Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org




On Tue, Dec 13, 2016 at 8:00 PM, William Miller <will...@millersolar.com>
wrote:

> Friends:
>
>
>
> I apologize for not reporting in sooner.  As most of you remember, we have
> seen a few Outback systems with Mate3 controllers experience apparent
> self-reprogramming.  I experienced it and several others reported on it.
> Many have requested updates, on-line and off.
>
>
>
> I have discussed this at length with a couple Outback employees.  We have
> reached no definite conclusions but we do have a theory:  About 2 weeks
> prior to this failure, I had a Mate3 fail.  There are two in this system
> and of course the more important of the two failed.
>
>
>
> I swapped the less critical Mate3 for the failed unit.  We stored the
> configuration of the failed unit onto the SD card and applied that
> programming to the replacement unit.  We spot checked a few settings and
> assumed the programming was good. It is possible that corruption occurred
> during this process.  The system ran fine for about 2 weeks and then
> failed. The failure mode was that 4 of the 8 inverters became Masters.
>
>
>
> The site is, of course, a long ways from my shop.  On my last visit I
> copied the data from the card I thought was pertinent, but I find that to
> be conclusive, I need the data from the other SD card.  Once I retrieve
> that data, I can hopefully prove or disprove this theory.  I will keep you
> posted.
>
>
>
> There are a couple of Outback employees that are taking this seriously,
> and I am most grateful to them.  In reading between the lines, it appears
> to me that they don’t have a lot of support from management to pursue
> problems like this.  It was never said directly, so I apologize if I
> misunderstood.  However, if this problem is causing more than one or two of
> us consternation and inconvenience, we need to be vocal with Outback wo
> they can dedicate resources.  I don’t fault Outback, we all have to set
> priorities.  As consumers, we need to request higher priorities to issues
> if they are causing serious problems.
>
>
>
> There is also other issues: “partially disconnected” systems, gaps in the
> data and connection reliability issues..  The partial issue cropped up
> recently.  There is a new firmware that supposedly deals with these
> issues.   Check It out.
>
>
>
> I was told that since Optics was a free service, there was limited
> responsibility from Outback for reliability.  I can’t agree with this
> point.  We spent a lot of money on communications infrastructure and pay
> monthly for internet to use this service.  I think Outback released the
> Optics system a wee bit prematurely.  The pace of firmware upgrades
> confirms this.  I respect Outback people and the product line, but I think
> expectations might have been more realistic if Optics had been deemed a
> “beta” release when it first came out.  The value and promise of the system
> is obvious and I will hang in there with Outback and help any way I can to
> make the product better.  One way I can help is remain optimistic that
> these problems will be solved.
>
>
>
> More soon.
>
>
>
> William
>
>
>
>
>
> [image: Gradient Cap_mini]
> Lic 773985
> millersolar.com <http://www.millersolar.com/>
> 805-438-5600 <(805)%20438-5600>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Troubleshooting Stumper - Homerun Interference in Conduit/Inverter Turning Off/On Rapidly

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Have you measured the current of each string simultaneously while the issue
was happening? Have you verified correct polarity on each string?

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org

On Sep 7, 2016 4:45 PM, "Matt Partymiller" <m...@solar-energy-solutions.com>
wrote:

> Wrenches,
>
> One of our systems is having an issue I have not encountered before where
> the inverter switches between nighttime mode and interconnection every few
> seconds.  I am hoping for some technical wisdom from the community.
>
> We have an array of 20 TrinaSmart modules in two strings of 10.  The array
> is connected to a Solectria 3.8 kW inverter.  The conduit run is simple,
> all four homerun wires (#10 PVwire) in 1" EMT down to the proximity of the
> Solectria inverter where the conduit switches to 1" LFMC before entering
> the inverter.  The run is about 20', straight down the side of the wall
> before hitting the inverter.  A 600V jacketed communications wire was also
> in the conduit but has since been removed and run separately.
>
> Our inverter is starting up, running for a few seconds, giving a low
> voltage error, briefly showing nighttime mode, then going into startup
> mode again.  Solectria was gracious enough to send us a new inverter but
> we have the exact same issue.  They tell us their error codes (266, 274)
> indicate 0 volts.  The transition between low voltage error and startup is
> almost instant.  Basically we have 20 seconds of start up, 5 seconds of
> run, 5 seconds of error then repeat.  This is not a grid problem, the
> identical system next door works fine.
>
> In the process of troubleshooting, our technician pulled all four homerun
> wires out of our conduit and meggered them.  They all tested fine so he
> connected to the inverter.  The inverter worked fine.  The technician
> verified grounding of the array and conduit, pulled new homeruns back
> through the conduit, and reconnected to the inverter.  He had the same
> error as before.
>
> He connected each string separately to the inverter by removing the string
> fuses.  Either string will operate fine independently.  With string one in
> conduit and either homerun of string two in conduit (but not both) the
> inverter operates fine.  With string two in conduit but string one outside
> of conduit, the inverter does not operate.
>
> I was certain the error had something to do with homerun roof wiring so I
> went out with the technician and removed and checked pretty much every
> module.  Everything appears fine, all connections solid, all homeruns have
> been remade at least once at this point.  Now I am stumped and lack the
> technical knowledge to diagnose the problem.  I would be extremely
> grateful if an esteemed wrench can provide technical support/advice.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Matt
>
>
>
>
> Matthew Partymiller
> Solar Energy Solutions LLC
> (877) 312-7456
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Off-grid generator update?

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Does the generator need to feed an inverter /charger input? In other words,
does it need to provide AC/60hz?

If it can be a DC genset (which is usually easier on the system) check out
Polar Power.  http://www.polarpower.com/


Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org




On Thu, Apr 28, 2016 at 6:00 PM, jerrysgarage01 <jerrysgarag...@gmail.com>
wrote:

> Have you looked at Cummins,  we have have great luck and no programming
> issues but battery charging needs to be added foroff grid
> Jerry
>
>
> Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S™ III, an AT 4G LTE smartphone
>
>
>  Original message 
> From: Ray Walters
> Date:04/28/2016 7:28 AM (GMT-10:00)
> To: RE-wrenches
> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Off-grid generator update?
>
> FYI,  generally we haven't had cold start issues with propane units, as
> long as the pipe is sized properly ( as mentioned in another recent post)
> and the starter battery is kept fully charged.
> This is based on about 20 years experience in the Rockies with temps below
> 0, but not 40 below.  We don't use block heaters, carb heaters, etc.
> We currently have been using Generac Ecogen, but not that happy with them.
> Cheap air cooled motor, way too many computer gizmos, no on board charging
> (must have AC power or PV to charge the starting battery)  We even had to
> call customer service to get an authorization code to set up remote start.
> This is off grid with no internet or cell service; ridiculous.  I hope
> Generac reps are lurking here, because these are really not much better
> than the crop of stand by generators.
>  IMO  no off grid generator should have a phantom load, or require cell
> service to commission.  What happened to the old water cooled Kohlers?
>
> R.Ray Walters
> CTO, Solarray, Inc
> Nabcep Certified PV Installer,
> Licensed Master Electrician
> Solar Design Engineer303 505-8760
>
> On 4/28/2016 11:17 AM, Jeremy Rodriguez wrote:
>
> Check out Gillette generators. Made in Indiana
> 12.5 kW w Subaru
>
> Jeremy Rodriguez
> Solar Installation And Design Expert
> All Solar, Inc.
> 1463 M St
> Penrose Colorado 81240
>
> Sent by Jeremy's iPhone. Sorry for typos and shorthand!
>
> On Apr 28, 2016, at 10:20 AM, Lena Wilensky < <l...@nunatakenergy.com>
> l...@nunatakenergy.com> wrote:
>
> I did some searches on the list for what folks are doing for off-grid
> propane generators these days, but all the threads I found were from 5-6
> yrs ago, so I was hoping to get some more current info.
>
> We're looking for about a 10kw+ propane unit (big derate at altitude), and
> we run into 2 main problem areas:
>
> First is the warranty - either there are no units warranteed for off-grid
> use, or there are only a couple of models and the warranty is short (1
> year).
>
> Second, and perhaps larger, is all the loads that now come with the
> "off-grid" units.  The computer takes some, but mostly the "cold weather
> kit" aka carb heater must be installed in our climate (to actually start,
> but also for warrantee), and it's set up to be on a thermostat (read: "on
> all the time from Nov-April" here in the mountains).  According to the
> Kohler tech support it takes a steady 50W. We have set up older units to do
> battery charge only during the day, and have the carb heater on a manual
> switch, but it sounds like we can't really get at these circuits anymore
> since they're all pre-configured and pre-wired in the guts of the genset
> computer.
>
> The Kohler and Onan support folks said both these issues are due to EPA
> considering off-grid use as prime power as opposed to standby, so they are
> held to tougher emissions standards.
>
> Whatever the reasons, we're wondering what people are actually doing these
> days - still the standby units they kind-of warrantee for off-grid? 12RES
> from Kohler and the 13kw unit from Onan?  Generac?  Have folks been going
> back to the smaller gas units from Honda and running them more?  And how
> are cold climate folks dealing with the heating issue?
>
> Any suggestions appreciated!
>
> Lena Wilensky
>
> www.nunatakenergy.com
> 970-642-5554
> NABCEP Certified PV Installer:
> Cert. #R02907-17
>
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> Li

Re: [RE-wrenches] 600V charge controller questions

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Allan, you could network multiple Morningstar 600v controllers for the
output ampacity required (up to 4 controllers, ...yeah, I know they are
expensive).

Would you even need a transfer switch? Why not just wire Fronius IG and
Morningstar controller inputs in parallel (with associated fuses and
disconnects of course). Once batteries are charged and in float, the array
then would be available to the IG to sell to the grid. If the IG goes down
(which it prob will eventually) then the MS 600v controller will charge the
batts enough to get by. Seems like it would work, am I missing something?

RoyR

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org




On Sun, Jan 31, 2016 at 1:14 PM, Ray Walters <r...@solarray.com> wrote:

> We were called in on a system similar to this, and we ended up just
> installing an AC transfer switch.  Normally the GT array sold back to the
> grid side of the system, but in an extended outage, the customer had the
> option to switch the connection to the back up load side (AC coupled)
> He was made aware that battery regulation could be an issue, and to switch
> off the GT array when the batteries got even close to full.  Obviously this
> would not be acceptable in a full time off grid system, but this option
> could save your bacon in the very occasional long outage.
> It boils down to:  Is it better to let the batteries remain discharged and
> the customer to have no power, or take a chance on over charging the
> batteries in an emergency?
> Essentially, the system would remain full proof until they manually
> switched in the AC coupled system.  I look at this sort of like any other
> manual over ride switch: don't use it unless you understand the
> consequences, and really need it.  Add strongly worded warning stickers: "
> Danger Battery damage could result, Emergency use only!"
> The other options you are considering would certainly be better, but at
> significantly more cost.
>
> R.Ray Walters
> CTO, Solarray, Inc
> Nabcep Certified PV Installer,
> Licensed Master Electrician
> Solar Design Engineer303 505-8760
>
> On 1/30/2016 3:21 PM, Allan Sindelar wrote:
>
> Wrenches,
> I am serving as a consultant for a homeowner with an array of solar
> equipment that doesn't do what he wants, a common story. He wants
> independence in the event of an extended utility outage. To cut to the
> chase:
>
> He has one array of 3,100 watts feeding through a controller into a 48V
> battery bank. No issues with this.
> A second array of 4,230 rated watts (2 9-module strings of 235W Sharp
> modules) currently feeds a Fronius IG-4000 inverter and the grid. In the
> event of an outage this system shuts down, of course. He is looking at
> replacing his existing pair of old SW5548s with a single Schneider XW
> system, or possibly a Radian.
> I would like to give him the ability to switch from the Fronius inverter
> to a 600V charge controller if either a) the grid went down or b) the
> Fronius failed.
>
> I looked at Morningstar's TS-MPPT-600 controller with the DC transfer
> switch, but its DC output is rated as limited to 60A, less than the 4.2kW
> output of the array. The spec sheet gives a nominal maximum wattage of
> 3,200W, although a note adds that "input power can exceed Nominal Maximum
> Operating Power, but controller will limit and provide its rated continuous
> maximum output current into batteries. This will not harm the controller."
>
> I looked at Schneider's XW MPPT80 controller, which has the necessary
> higher capacity. But beside lacking any built-in or optional input
> metering, it lacks the transfer switch available with the Morningstar.
>
> So questions:
> - Is there a good transfer switch to use with the Schneider unit, to allow
> manual switching of the PV input between the Fronius (when the grid is up)
> and the controller and batteries (when the grid is down)?
> - Should I use the Morningstar unit, recommending that the periodic
> flatlining due to the excess wattage be simply accepted as a small
> concession to being able to use the array during an extended outage?
> - Is AC coupling simply a better approach?
> - Any other solutions?
>
> Thanks, Allan
>
> --
>
> *Allan Sindelar*
> al...@sindelarsolar.com
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional
> New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
> Founder (Retired), Positive Energy, Inc.
> *505 780-2738 <505%20780-2738> cell*
>
>
>
>
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&g

Re: [RE-wrenches] Battery corrosion issue

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Yup, id pre-drill and use an ez-out, or use a flaring tool as a small press
and drive it out.

RoyR
On Jan 20, 2016 3:54 PM, "Kristopher Schmid"  wrote:

> Greetings,
>
> Do any of you battery gurus have a suggestion for a method of removing a
> bolt remnant that is corroded into a flag terminal.  Both sides snapped off
> flush with the flag.  I was thinking try to drill it out or maybe a small
> gear pulling tool?  I will never again use the non stainless hardware
> supplied by the manufacturer...
>
> Picture attached for reference.
>
> Thanks!
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback OpticsRe

[Roy Rakobitsch]

I use OpticsRE on my off grid system. It seems stable in its current
revision. There are a few things that bug me about the GUI, such as not
being able to make drop-down preferences retain settings on log-in for
their graphs. Also not being able to make shunts display on top of
dashboard (i dont use outback charge controllers, so it cant tell my PV
output except through FNDC shunt). Curious to see how the mobile app looks
if it ever comes out, as some of the data from graphs is difficult to
extrapolate on a mobile device, as you cant hover a mouse over parts of the
graphs. Other than that it seems solid, and is set up nice for
dealer/installers to manage multiple sites at a glance. I love being able
to write to the aux relays and turn loads/charging sources on and off at
will. Ive not used it very long but it seems promising and kinda neat.  :)

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On Dec 17, 2015 10:05 PM, "Lou Russo" <l...@spreesolarsystems.com> wrote:

> Wrenches,
>
> I have several existing off-grid sites that now require remote monitoring.
> All of the systems are Outback FX series inverters with hubs, original
> Mates, and relatively easy WAN access.  I keep coming back to Outback's
> OpticsRE as a option.  I have been disappointed in most manufacture's
> attempts at web interfaces (Midnite, Schneider, Etc..), so I am hesitant to
> commit.  Does anybody out there have direct experience with multiple
> off-grid sites with OpticsRE? I saw 2 threads from July and last week, but
> no real in depth discussion around reliability, ease of use for the client,
> logging, control, troubleshooting, etc.. so any detailed real world
> experiences would be greatly appreciated.
>
>
> Aloha,
>
> Lou Russo
> l...@spreesolarsystems.com
> 440 345 6762
> Spree Solar Systems LLC
> CT-34322
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Batteries

[Roy Rakobitsch]

I would think the 1 gal sprayer would be perfect for customers with smaller
banks. When you start going through two, three or four gallons of distilled
water at a time, i could see it getting tedious. Ive used an elevated 5Gal
polyethylene tank with a 1/4" food grade hose connected to a small
polyethylene wand (and small hand operated ball valve)  it makes watering
so quick and easy, and no messes. You do need a good headlamp while doing
this to verify water level. :)

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On Dec 12, 2015 8:20 AM, "Roy Butler" <r...@four-winds-energy.com> wrote:

> Dan,
>
> We've been using the garden sprayer method for the last 14 years and it
> works great!
> Be sure to buy a sprayer with a plastic wand..the brass wands can
> create a bit too much excitement.
>
> Roy Butler
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
> NYSERDA eligible PV & wind installer
> Four Winds Renewable Energy, LLC
> 8902 Route 46, Arkport, NY 14807607-324-9747  www.four-winds-energy.com
>
> Although no trees were killed in the sending of this message,
> a large number of electrons were terribly inconvenienced.
>
>
>
> On 12/12/2015 7:54 AM, Dan Fink wrote:
>
> Hi Jerry; That's a great idea, I'm going to get one and try it next time I
> hit Home Depot. I also do not use automatic or central battery watering
> systems, as I feel they give a false sense of security. Nobody is in there
> regularly checking for loose connections and corrosion. My most important
> battery bank tool is a thermal imaging camera that connects to my
> smartphone.
>
> Dan Fink
> Adjunct Professor, Ecotech Institute
> IREC Certified Instructor™ for:
> ~ PV Installation Professional
> ~ Small Wind Installer
> Executive Director, Buckville Energy
> NABCEP Accredited Continuing Education Providers™
> 970.672.4342
>
>
>
> On Fri, Dec 11, 2015 at 5:41 PM, Jerry Shafer <jerrysgarag...@gmail.com>
> wrote:
>
>> Wrenches,
>> There has been allot of talk about batteries, i use allot of FLA and
>> Edison type batteries. When we do an install i aways include a one gallon
>> pump weed sprayer with distilled water, we cut the sprayer tip off and it
>> is an easy and fast way to fill batteries, this is a cheap way too. Battery
>> automatic fills are fine but there is no subsutute for eyes and hands on
>> inspections. Just wanted yo pass along a easy battery filling solution.
>> Jerry
>>
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Friend with system needs help

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Hmm, interesting. I didnt even know they had a frameless version. The ones
i have are SP-150P Siemens and have a very nice frame and jbox on back.
Probably my initial comment didnt make sense to you if you have a different
mod than i was referring to. Further troubleshooting should include a clamp
ammeter and looking for half the current from any module to see if any of
the blocking diodes have opened. Do these frameless mods have blocking
diodes somewhere?

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On Nov 19, 2015 2:07 PM, "Steve Jefferson" <steve.jeffer...@sma-america.com>
wrote:

> All 4 strings were run separately. And all 4 ran significantly lower than
> they should. Based off of calculations done.
>
>
>
> Dan was nice enough to spend some time with me on the phone about this.
>
> Think I may have another visit and more TS to do.
>
>
>
> Probably wont be until after the holidays, but I will up if anything is
> found.
>
>
>
> These mods are junk in my opinion, the lack of frame makes them weak. And
> when they were torn off the other roof in LA, the foam backing blocks just
> cracked and fell apart. Who knows what damage has been done to them.
>
>
>
> Thanks
>
>
>
> SMA America, LLC
>
> Steve Jefferson
>
> Service Line Supervisor
>
> 3925 Atherton Ave
>
> Rocklin, CA 95765 - 3714
>
> U.S.A.
>
> Tel:  +1 916 625 3185 (direct)
>
> Fax: +1 916 625 0871
>
> Mobile: +1 916 622 4253
>
> Email: steve.jeffer...@sma-america.com
>
> www.SMA-America.com <http://www.sma-america.com/>
>
>
>
> [image: cid:image001.png@01CF1CFA.FE18BEB0]
> <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQWzPuyqhzo=youtu.be>
>
>
>
> This email and any attachments thereto may contain SMA America, LLC
> confidential, privileged and private material for the sole use of the
> intended recipient. Any review, copying, or distribution of this email (or
> any attachments thereto) by others is strictly prohibited. If you are not
> the intended recipient, please contact the sender immediately and
> permanently delete the original and any copies of this email and any
> attachments thereto. Thank you.
>
>
>
>
>
> *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On
> Behalf Of *Brian Mehalic
> *Sent:* Thursday, November 19, 2015 10:47 AM
> *To:* RE-wrenches <re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org>
> *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] Friend with system needs help
>
>
>
> Steve, I didn't see if you answered Jay regarding operating the inverter
> on just a single string at a time.  I'd definitely try that before curve
> tracing.
>
>
>
>
> Brian Mehalic
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional™ R031508-59
>
>
>
> PV Curriculum Developer and Instructor
>
> Solar Energy International
> http://www.solarenergy.org
>
>
>
> On Thu, Nov 19, 2015 at 8:31 AM, jay <jay.pe...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> HI Steve,
>
>
>
> So they are all low?
>
>
>
> Then I suggest an IV curve tracer.
>
>
>
>
>
> jay
>
>
>
>
>
> On Nov 19, 2015, at 7:18 AM, Steve Jefferson <
> steve.jeffer...@sma-america.com> wrote:
>
>
>
> The outputs are pretty close. That’s what is throwing me off.
>
> In most trouble shooting adventures, the problem is fairly obvious.
>
> This one, not so much.
>
>
>
> SMA America, LLC
>
> Steve Jefferson
>
> Service Line Supervisor
>
> 3925 Atherton Ave
>
> Rocklin, CA 95765 - 3714
>
> U.S.A.
>
> Tel:  +1 916 625 3185 (direct)
>
> Fax: +1 916 625 0871
>
> Mobile: +1 916 622 4253
>
> Email: steve.jeffer...@sma-america.com
>
> www.SMA-America.com <http://www.sma-america.com/>
>
>
>
> 
> <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQWzPuyqhzo=youtu.be>
>
>
>
> This email and any attachments thereto may contain SMA America, LLC
> confidential, privileged and private material for the sole use of the
> intended recipient. Any review, copying, or distribution of this email (or
> any attachments thereto) by others is strictly prohibited. If you are not
> the intended recipient, please contact the sender immediately and
> permanently delete the original and any copies of this email and any
> attachments thereto. Thank you.
>
>
>
>
>
> *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
> <re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org>] *On Behalf Of *Jay
> *Sent:* Wednesday, November 18, 2015 1:42 PM
> *To:* RE-wrenches <re-wrenches@lists.re

Re: [RE-wrenches] Friend with system needs help

[Roy Rakobitsch]

I have these same modules at my home (circa 2002 i believe). I have found
issues with two modules (out of 30 mods) that had intermittent connections
due to the spot welds opening on the tabs coming from the back sheet, going
to the diodes in the j box. I fixed it with very small stainless machine
screws and nuts with toothed washers. I woild look carefully at these
connections, as they are not easy to see problems. Good luck.

RoyR

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On Nov 18, 2015 3:38 PM, "Steve Jefferson" <steve.jeffer...@sma-america.com>
wrote:

> Afternoon wrenches,
>
>
>
> I have a friend who I helped install second hand modules onto a pergola
> structure at their home.
>
>
>
> The system is as follows:
>
>
>
> 44 – Siemens SP-150
>
> 1 – SMA SB6000US-12 (XFMR unit)
>
>
>
> Since install, they have not produced half of what they should be.  I have
> tested the diodes and they seem to be good, there were a couple that tested
> questionable, so they were replaced.
>
> VOC is good, but it seems that under load the system goes to garbage.
>
>
>
> I am at a loss of what/how to test anything else that may determine cause.
>
>
>
> Would a PV Analyzer help? Would there happen to be anyone in the
> Sacramento area with one who could come to the site? Obviously the customer
> will pay for their time.
>
>
>
> Thanks in advanced.
>
>
>
> SMA America, LLC
>
> Steve Jefferson
>
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>
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>
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> [image: cid:image001.png@01CF1CFA.FE18BEB0]
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Re: [RE-wrenches] AGS sensitive battery charger

[Roy Rakobitsch]

The midnite classic 250 can do this fine. Rectify the generator 110vac to
around 165vdc and feed into classic. Use Aux functions to start and stop
generator based on battery voltage or SOC %.

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On Oct 15, 2015 6:15 PM, "Chris Daum" <ch...@oasismontana.com> wrote:

> Dear people:
>
> I'm looking for an easy solution for battery charging off a generator, but
> trying to save the cost of a big inverter.  I have a customer who needs to
> charge a 48V battery bank with a 30A charger off of a generator--but I need
> it to sense when the battery voltage is low, so that the "device" (charger)
> will automatically turn on the (2-wire start) generator and charge the
> batteries.  I am trying to avoid the cost of, say, a Magnum 4448PAE with
> its AGS module, and just get a voltage sensitive battery charger.  Is this
> doable?  Any ideas?
>
> THANKS.
>
>
> Chris Daum
> Oasis Montana Inc.
> 406-777-4309
> 406-777-0830 fax
> www.oasismontana.com
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Flying with Makita batteries in checked or carryon?

[Roy Rakobitsch]

I usually try to ship tools and materials ahead of time, but have flown
with plenty of tools/batteries and aerosols and various chemicals that you
probably shouldnt fly with (all of these have been in checked bags). Ive
had my bags searched plenty of times, and never have there been any issues,
except once TSA took and discarded my sunscreen!!, which had the top taped
shut. -I found that pretty strange, and flew home with a sunburn. You'll
probably be fine.

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On Sep 29, 2015 9:39 AM, "Synergy Renewable Systems" <
ryan.hark...@energycraft.com> wrote:

> I've checked tools, hardware, wire, and spare batteries both domestic and
> internationally and had no issues.  They did search the bag once, but left
> all my things.
>
>
>
>
> *Ryan HarkinsNABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional™ /Project
> Manager*
>
>
> Synergy Renewable Systems, LLC
> PO Box 58
> Stoughton, WI 53589
> PH: (608) 712-7862
> ryan.hark...@energycraft.com
> www.energycraft.com
>
>
>
> On Sep 28, 2015, at 8:37 PM, Jerry Shafer <jerrysgarag...@gmail.com>
> wrote:
>
> Wrenches
> I fly a few times a month, one time they ask about all batteries, I will
> not carry anything check it all not had any issues.
> Jerry
> On Sep 28, 2015 3:18 PM, "Dan Fink" <danbo...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
>> Esteemed Wrenches
>> I normally drive to jobs with my tools, or UPS ship the tools ahead of
>> time. This upcoming MET tower maintenance job in Nevada is too tight a
>> timeline to drive or ship. I figured some of you have recent experience
>> with this, and the rules seem to change quickly. I have to fly with my
>> impact, driver, 3 batteries and charger.
>>
>> From the TSA PDF (no date of course):
>>
>> https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ash/ash_programs/hazmat/passenger_info/media/faa_airline_passengers_and_batteries.pdf
>>
>> My batteries are 56 watt-hour lithium ion; I'd rather not have this heavy
>> stuff in my carry-on. What is "protected" for checked bags, the Makita has
>> a sliding sleeve. Does that count? No "spare" batteries allowed in checked
>> bags? I am taking this that I can bring one battery in my checked bag, one
>> in my carryon, and a charger? That would work.
>>
>> Any input appreciated, a long security delay or seized tools would be a
>> big problem.
>>
>> Dan Fink
>> Adjunct Professor, Ecotech Institute
>> IREC Certified Instructor™ for:
>> ~ PV Installation Professional
>> ~ Small Wind Installer
>> Executive Director, Buckville Energy
>> NABCEP / IREC / ISPQ Accredited Continuing Education Providers™
>> 970.672.4342
>>
>>
>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] panel failure

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Ron, I replied a few days ago, ill fwd if you want.

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On Sep 16, 2015 1:57 AM, "Brian Teitelbaum" <bteitelb...@aeesolar.com>
wrote:

> Ron,
>
> I'll pipe in here. If the module "works" when he bypasses the diodes, then
> the diodes, or the solder connections on the ribbons or the diodes, must be
> at fault.
>
> I put "works" in quotes because we don't have the details on the meter
> readings.
>
> Brian
> AEE Solar
>
>
>
> -Original Message-
> From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On
> Behalf Of Ron Young
> Sent: Tuesday, September 15, 2015 11:45 PM
> To: RE-wrenches
> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] panel failure
>
> Thanks Allan, I was wondering about the lack of response as this group is
> always very helpful. One begins to suspect the phantom cause, i.e. the rest
> of the story that wasn’t told to us by the customer. It happens from time
> to
> time ;-)
>
> Ron
>
> > On Sep 15, 2015, at 9:07 PM, Allan Sindelar <al...@sindelarsolar.com>
> > wrote:
> >
> > Ron,
> > The lack of response may indeed be your answer. I didn't reply because it
> > hasn't happened on my watch and I have no idea what would cause what you
> > describe.
> > Allan
> >
> >> On Sep 15, 2015, at 8:30 PM, RM You <solarea...@solareagle.com> wrote:
> >>
> >> Just wondering if any esteemed wrenches have an idea what could cause
> >> this problem? Customer says nothing unusual happened that he is aware of
> >> and the panels had been working fine for many years but now 4 of 6
> panels
> >> just quit. Doesn’t appear to be a diode failure.
> >>
> >> Ron
> >>
> >>> On Sep 11, 2015, at 4:58 PM, RM You <solarea...@solareagle.com> wrote:
> >>>
> >>> I have a customer who has 6 siemens 48w panels that are 20 years old
> >>> (hooked in parallel to a 12v battery). He says that 4 of them have
> >>> failed in that there is no output unless he bypasses the diodes.
> However
> >>> he pulled the diodes and checked them on a diode check and separately
> on
> >>> a battery with a light bulb and they appear to be functioning
> correctly.
> >>> Any ideas what could be causing this anomaly?
> >>>
> >>> Ron Young
> >>>
> >>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] panel failure

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Although i cant vouch for 20 year old siemens, my siemens modules (14 yr
old sp-150s) had an intermittent connection develop between the stainless
ribbon that exits the back sheet and the terminal where the blocking diodes
connect (3 diodes). They used a spot welder to join the materials. This had
opened up - the small spot welds broke.  Like I said, yours may be
different, but might be worth a shot scoping out the integrity of these
connections. This would be on the posts that feed the blocking diodes, so
before the diodes.

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On Sep 16, 2015 7:47 AM, "Roy Rakobitsch" <winds...@gmail.com> wrote:

> Ron, I replied a few days ago, ill fwd if you want.
>
> Roy Rakobitsch
> NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
> Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
> Wind/PV Design Engineer
> Windsine LLC
> 631-514-4166
> www.windsine.org
> On Sep 16, 2015 1:57 AM, "Brian Teitelbaum" <bteitelb...@aeesolar.com>
> wrote:
>
>> Ron,
>>
>> I'll pipe in here. If the module "works" when he bypasses the diodes, then
>> the diodes, or the solder connections on the ribbons or the diodes, must
>> be
>> at fault.
>>
>> I put "works" in quotes because we don't have the details on the meter
>> readings.
>>
>> Brian
>> AEE Solar
>>
>>
>>
>> -Original Message-
>> From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On
>> Behalf Of Ron Young
>> Sent: Tuesday, September 15, 2015 11:45 PM
>> To: RE-wrenches
>> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] panel failure
>>
>> Thanks Allan, I was wondering about the lack of response as this group is
>> always very helpful. One begins to suspect the phantom cause, i.e. the
>> rest
>> of the story that wasn’t told to us by the customer. It happens from time
>> to
>> time ;-)
>>
>> Ron
>>
>> > On Sep 15, 2015, at 9:07 PM, Allan Sindelar <al...@sindelarsolar.com>
>> > wrote:
>> >
>> > Ron,
>> > The lack of response may indeed be your answer. I didn't reply because
>> it
>> > hasn't happened on my watch and I have no idea what would cause what you
>> > describe.
>> > Allan
>> >
>> >> On Sep 15, 2015, at 8:30 PM, RM You <solarea...@solareagle.com> wrote:
>> >>
>> >> Just wondering if any esteemed wrenches have an idea what could cause
>> >> this problem? Customer says nothing unusual happened that he is aware
>> of
>> >> and the panels had been working fine for many years but now 4 of 6
>> panels
>> >> just quit. Doesn’t appear to be a diode failure.
>> >>
>> >> Ron
>> >>
>> >>> On Sep 11, 2015, at 4:58 PM, RM You <solarea...@solareagle.com>
>> wrote:
>> >>>
>> >>> I have a customer who has 6 siemens 48w panels that are 20 years old
>> >>> (hooked in parallel to a 12v battery). He says that 4 of them have
>> >>> failed in that there is no output unless he bypasses the diodes.
>> However
>> >>> he pulled the diodes and checked them on a diode check and separately
>> on
>> >>> a battery with a light bulb and they appear to be functioning
>> correctly.
>> >>> Any ideas what could be causing this anomaly?
>> >>>
>> >>> Ron Young
>> >>>
>> >>
>> >> ___
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Re: [RE-wrenches] panel failure

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Although i cant vouch for 20 year old siemens, my siemens modules (14 yr
old sp-150s) had an intermittent connection develop between the stainless
ribbon that exits the back sheet and the terminal where the blocking diodes
connect (3 diodes). There used a spot welder to join the materials. This
had opened up - the small spot welds broke.  Like I said, yours may be
different, but might be worth a shot scoping out the integrity of these
connections.

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On Sep 11, 2015 6:58 PM, "RM You" <solarea...@solareagle.com> wrote:

> I have a customer who has 6 siemens 48w panels that are 20 years old
> (hooked in parallel to a 12v battery). He says that 4 of them have failed
> in that there is no output unless he bypasses the diodes. However he pulled
> the diodes and checked them on a diode check and separately on a battery
> with a light bulb and they appear to be functioning correctly. Any ideas
> what could be causing this anomaly?
>
> Ron Young
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] DC conductor line loss numbers

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Maybe 600vdc charge controller?

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety  Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On Jul 22, 2015 1:52 PM, Jerry Shafer jerrysgarag...@gmail.com wrote:

 Wrenches
 Some time back there was discussion on the conductor size and efficiency
 rating requirement for long DC runs.
 What I am looking at is this, 400 feet of MCM 400 to keep the line loss at
 or below 1% per NEC code for an off grid application, cost vs return is not
 acceptable. 2/0 is less than 2.5% and the cost is far less. Specs are 4
 strings of 3, 250 watt modules feeding one Outback FM 80 charge controller.
 There are lots of things I can do like SMA instread, or 200 VDC charge
 controller but nothing can be changed except the wire gauge. Does anyone
 recall a thread with this topic.

 thoughts ??
 Jerry

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Re: [RE-wrenches] SnapNrack

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Loctite makes anti seize in aerosol cans. Not necessarily less messy but
certainly less tedious if all bolts are prepped on the ground and carried
up in a bucket for assembly.

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety  Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On Jun 29, 2015 12:32 PM, Ray Walters r...@solarray.com wrote:

  Anti seize also comes in larger cans with a brush, but it still can get
 messy.
 Also on the torque issue,  I found just using the T handle hex wrench from
 the manufacturer (we use S Flex) gets the torque where it should be, and
 even a gorilla can't over torque it too far.
 Old fashioned, but we have less heavy tools to carry on the roof, and no
 over torque issues.   With lubed threads, the T handle wrench can twirl,
 which is almost as fast as using a power tool.

 R.Ray Walters
 CTO, Solarray, Inc
 Nabcep Certified PV Installer,
 Licensed Master Electrician
 Solar Design Engineer303 505-8760

 On 6/29/2015 11:12 AM, Allan Sindelar wrote:

 Kurt,
 Less messy, yes; less tedious, maybe: anti-seize also comes in a
 semi-solid stick form, like a large lip balm tube with a cap and a twist
 dial on the bottom to raise the level of the anti-seize as it's used. One
 quick rub on the threads per bolt. Purchased through Fastenal.
 Allan

  *Allan Sindelar*
 al...@sindelarsolar.com
 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
 NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional
 New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
 Founder (Retired), Positive Energy, Inc.
 *505 780-2738 505%20780-2738 cell*


  On 6/29/2015 11:05 AM, Kurt Johnsen wrote:

  Esteemed Wrenches,
 Does anyone know of a less tedious and messy way to lube the bolts than
 squeeze tube anti-seize?

 My 2 cents; I believe that the torque specs for an engineered assembly are
 put in there for a reason. Ignoring them puts the installer on the hook for
 any failures. Aside from being the right thing to do, using torque wrenches
 helps avoid assuming unnecessary financial risk which my thin margins
 cannot afford.

  Kurt Johnsen

 On Sun, Jun 28, 2015 at 5:27 PM, Ray Walters r...@solarray.com wrote:

  Besides your note that cordless impact drivers can over torque the
 clamps, also they spin the bolts too fast which can lead to spalling of the
 SS hardware.
 We now hand torque those connects.  Finally, most torque specs are for
 lubricated bolts.  We use anti-seize on the threads before torquing.
 Using a cordless impact driver and no lube can cause not only module
 damage but also clamp damage, and end up with clamps not actually securing
 the modules, because the bolts spalled out before fully clamping.

 R.Ray Walters
 CTO, Solarray, Inc
 Nabcep Certified PV Installer,
 Licensed Master Electrician
 Solar Design Engineer303 505-8760

  On 6/28/2015 3:06 PM, Benn Kilburn wrote:

  Chris,
  It sounds (to me) that you are describing the bonding tooth dug
 through the aluminum frame and into the glass? or at least compressed the
 frame enough to break the glass?  If that is the case then i'm betting that
 the clamp bolt was way over-torqued.

 You need to check the recommended tightening torque for the module and
 for the racking system you are using.  For example, what we are using these
 days, Kinetic, the tightening torque for mid and end clamps is 12 ft-lb and
 here are some recommended clamping torques from some different module
 mfgrs
 Conergy 8 NM - 6 ft-lb
  Hanwha 5 NM - 3.7 ft-lb
  JA Solar 18-24 NM - 13-18 ft-lb
  These likely vary based on the construction of the module frame.
 I've also found that some module mfgrs do not list recommended tightening
 torques in their install manuals, so best to use discretion.

 We had a module break after clamping it down.  The crew described it as
 'putting the module in place, clamping it down and turning around to grab
 the next module and hearing a 'crack' followed by the crackling glass sound
 (if you have ever heard a module break, the crackling sound can last for a
 few minutes).  The break pattern in the glass seemed to focus on a
 particular mid clamp.  I used a torque wrench, set at around 10 ft-lb and
 checked all the mid-clamp bolts, increasing the torque setting by a few
 ft-lb each time until it finally turned a bolt instead of clicking.  I
 found that most of the bolts were close to 30 ft-lb and the one that
 appeared to break the glass was about 34 ft-lb.
  Suffice to say, we were getting carried away with tightening using
 cordless impact drivers.
  At that point i and the rest of the crew started using the torque
 wrench as we were going along until we had a better feel for what was the
 proper torque.  (i've done this before, but it is something that needs to
 be self re-calibrated often.


  *Benn Kilburn *
 CSA Certified Solar Photovoltaic Systems Electrician, SkyFire Energy Inc
 6706 – 82 Ave NW | Edmonton, AB | T6B 0E7
 P: 780-474-8992 | F: 888

Re: [RE-wrenches] Battery Bank to Inverter Wiring

[Roy Rakobitsch]

In my experience, adding large electrolytic filter caps at the inverter
seems to help quite a bit with ac ripple issues and increases inverter
efficiency a bit as well.

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety  Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On Jun 29, 2015 5:05 PM, Ray Walters r...@solarray.com wrote:

  This is fascinating because while I knew the DC cables had an AC
 component, I never realized how much inductance played in the volt drop to
 the inverter.  Thanks for bringing this to our attention Jarmo.
 Which brings up another question based on Benn's question:  isn't the
 battery itself part of the inductive loop?  and would the lead inside and
 steel cases act to increase the inductance?  Should we consider changing
 battery layouts not just to shorten cable lengths, but to counter
 inductance in the batteries themselves?  If needed, we could actually wire
 the batteries to twist by putting every other 2 v cell in the opposite
 row.
 My guess is that it wouldn't be worth it, but I've been wrong many
 times...

 R.Ray Walters
 CTO, Solarray, Inc
 Nabcep Certified PV Installer,
 Licensed Master Electrician
 Solar Design Engineer303 505-8760

 On 6/29/2015 3:55 PM, Benn Kilburn wrote:

 What about when you have the (+) and (-) terminals at opposite ends of a
 larger battery bank?  Sure you can run the conductors side-by-side once
 they meet up on their way to the inverter, but would you consider the
 distance between the end terminals a large loop?
 Ideally the battery string is laid out so the end terminals are close
 together and close to the inverter, but this isn't always the case.

 Benn Kilburn
 SkyFire Energy Inc.
 780-906-7807


 On Jun 29, 2015, at 10:28 AM, jarmo.venalai...@schneider-electric.com
 wrote:

  Hi:

 From the comments so far, it appears that within the wrenches group, good
 practices are the rule and DC cables are kept side by side, so the problem
 I mentioned hasn't come up much.

 I have seen large loop battery cables a couple of times in solar
 installs myself out on islands way down south.  Also on boats/RV's/motor
 homes.

 Please keep the cable loop in mind when you do bench tests of inverters,
 as it may screw up the results and make it seem like there is something
 wrong with the inverter.

 JARMO

 _

 * Jarmo Venalainen*  |  * Schneider Electric **  |  Xantrex Brand*  |
 *CANADA*  |   *Sales Application Engineer*
 * Phone:* +604-422-2528  |   *Tech Support:* 800-670-0707  |   *Mobile:*
 +604-505-0291
 * Email:* *jarmo.venalai...@schneider-electric.com*
 jarmo.venalai...@schneider-electric.com  |   *Site:** www.Xantrex.com*
 http://www.xantrex.com/  |   *Address:* 3700 Gilmore Way, Burnaby, BC
 V5G4M1
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 *** Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail



   From: b...@midnitesolar.com b...@midnitesolar.com  To: RE-wrenches 
 re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org,   Date: 06/28/2015 10:30 PM  Subject: Re:
 [RE-wrenches] Battery Bank to Inverter Wiring  Sent by: RE-wrenches 
 re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
 --




 On 6/28/2015 9:20 AM, Allan Sindelar wrote:
 I'm not an EE, but I can't see what difference twisting would make in
 the absence of a building/collapsing field as is normal with AC.

 It is little known that with the typical inverters that use the heavy
 power transformers,
 have a lot of AC 120 Hz (or 100 Hz for 50 Hz systems) current mixed in
 with that DC battery current.

 The AC output current reflects back to the input as ripple current.  This
 is why you want to
 have at least short as possible Sbattery cable runs AND keep the wires as
 close together as possible.

 Twisting the battery cables may help a bit but that is probably overkill.

 The problem has to do with inductance in the battery cables.  You can use
 as big of cable
 as you can fit in to reduce resistance, but that will not help to lower
 the inductance.
 The problems you can sometimes have with high inductance is that L-C
 resonance at the
 inverter can raise the peak voltages seen at the inverter input terminals
 and can be hard on
 the inverter.

 Then again,  the high frequency, lighter weight inverters will typically
 keep most of that ripple
 inside,  between the DC input and AC output and battery cable inductance
 will not be as much
 of a problem on the battery cables.

 boB Gudgel




 On 6/28/2015 9:20 AM, Allan Sindelar wrote:
 As a matter of course I have always run the positive and negative
 conductors of high-current cable pairs together, but have never

Re: [RE-wrenches] Voltage Degradation with Uni-Solar laminate

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Ive installed a few systems with these laminates years ago, but havent kept
up with performance much unfortunately.  I have heard of the diodes going
bad (which are glued into the laminate along the sides). Maybe thats your
issue? Just speculating...

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety  Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On May 31, 2015 2:49 PM, Allan Sindelar al...@sindelarsolar.com wrote:

 Luke,
 I have never worked with Uni-Solar laminates, although I expect to for the
 first time this summer, at 12,800' in the White-Inyo mountains, but that's
 another story. I installed one small cabin system with US64s in 1999 (the
 rancher wanted modules that would keep performing with a few vandals'
 bullet holes, which never happened) and they continue to perform as new.

 So take my two comments with that disclaimer in mind. First, you measured
 only 63% of rated output. That's pretty low at the controller, even if the
 roof is hot. Could there be something else to search for as a cause?

 Assuming it's indeed simply weak voltage, consider a Midnite Classic 200
 or 250, to give the voltage window to allow repairing to a higher nominal
 input, maybe 72 or 96 volts, so that the charge voltage will always be
 higher than battery voltage.

 Allan

  On May 31, 2015, at 11:55 AM, Luke Christy sgsrenewab...@gmail.com
 wrote:
 
  Hello Off-Grid Wrenches,
 
  I recently made a periodic maintenance visit to a residential off-grid
 system I take care of here in Southern CO, and discovered an interesting
 problem.
 
  This system has an array of 48x Uni-Solar PVL-68 laminate modules
 applied directly to standing-seam metal roofing.
 
  The data logging on the controller (Outback MX-60) indicated that the
 system was having trouble completing a charge cycle and going to float.
 Initially I assumed was due to heavy electrical use by the occupants
 (renters). After a little checking, I noticed that the module string
 voltage was only about 0.5V above the battery voltage!
  This was a cool late morning, with full sun, and the array was charging
 almost 2kW at 54.5V. The module strings were running at 55V. I've noticed
 the module voltage being lower than I'd like before, but it has never been
 this low. I suspect this is the real reason the system hasn't been able to
 complete a charge cycle.
 
  By removing the loads I was able to get an open-circuit voltage of 71V,
 but that still seems pretty low.
 
  Has anyone else experienced a voltage degradation issue with the
 Uni-Solar laminate? What was the expected annual voltage degradation for
 this technology?
 
  These modules do have some age on them. The system was installed about
 15 years ago (by a competent installer who is now retired). The system was
 installed before MPPT controllers were common, so I assume the modules are
 wired in strings of 4 for 48V nominal.
 
  Any experiences or opinions are appreciated.
  Thanks in advance.
 
  -Luke
 
 
  Luke Christy
 
  NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional™: Certification #031409-25
  NABCEP Certified Solar Heating Installer™: Certification #ST032611-03
  CoSEIA Certified PV Installer
 
  Solar Gain Services, LLC
  PO Box 531
  Monte Vista, CO. 81144
  sgsrenewab...@gmail.com
  719.588.3044
  www.sgsrenewables.com
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Re: [RE-wrenches] iron aluminum

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Ive fabricated many steel racks and pole mounts. Some fabbed in my shop and
others simply welded together on site. If they know what they are getting
into and are aware of the risks involved, id say go for it. Show them
pictures of good designs and maybe they can try to duplicate something
similar.

As far as galvanic reactions, i have used thick nylon washers under
aluminum L-feet and rail to mount to steel beams and tube. I use a
stainless bolt to bolt it down to the steel as to have the stainless in
contact with the aluminum and steel via the nylon washer so those two
metals are never in contact. Use a nylon washer (or similar) small enough
diameter to be hidden under the L-foot so UV (sun light) will never contact
it. There are probably other good solutions as well.

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety  Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On May 28, 2015 9:21 PM, RM You solarea...@solareagle.com wrote:

 Hi Wrenches, I have had a couple of customers want to fabricate their own
 PV pole mounts and racks out of iron. Aside from the galvanic corrosion and
 weight issues is there anything else I should caution these guys about? Any
 stories about failures etc? My druthers are to stay with the engineered
 aluminum pole mounts but when you’re dealing with someone with fabrication
 experience and the cost for pre-fab is high then the obvious outcome
 occurs. If the unit is properly treated/painted I imagine it could last
 many years. Is there a way to attach an anode to such a rack or would
 simple non conductive insulation between panels and rack be the best answer?

 Ron Young
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Supply side

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Why not a simple line side tap?

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety  Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine LLC
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org
On May 25, 2015 3:00 AM, frenergy frene...@psln.com wrote:

  Wrenches,

 Customer currently has a hacked up 200 amp Sylvania meter/mains
 panel.  He also is averaging a load of 74 KWhrs/day! which will require
 about 15  KW system size at this site.  Obviously a system this size cannot
 backfeed the busses in the load center.  Because the exiting panel is a
 mess anyway, I'm suggesting it gets changed out.

 What sort of new 200 amp service would facilitate a clean supply
 side connection.  One thought is have separate Utility meter socket then a
 12 X 12 J-box with a monster power distribution block in it and then a
 distribution panel (without the meter socket)...this being a way to insert
 a means to grid-tie between the meter and the 200 amp main breaker.  A
 little spendy but nothing like going to higher amp service to be able to
 load side connect.

 A 400 amp panel is not an option as the existing 165' of 3 pvc
 underground conduit to the pole currently has 4/0 alum.  The utility says
 it would have to be 4 for the new cable and the cost $10K+ for the upgrade.

 Other ideas??

 Thanks in advance

 Bill

 Feather River Solar Electric

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Hidden freight damage

[Roy Rakobitsch]

This has happened to me a bunch. In my opinion, it is very important to
unpack all modules and equipment and inspect them before signing for a
delivery. We would have the driver unload modules on skids onto ground (if
he had a lift gate) or onto dock, and cut open module skids, inspect and
take tons of pictures. If everything looked good then sign for delivery
and load modules into shop one by one (by hand). Kinda labor intensive,
but its better than being stuck having to eat thousands of dollars in
damages. Sometimes on damaged module orders, you wouldnt have to refuse
complete delivery, just work with your distributor for reimbursement or
replacement on damaged items (because you took extra care to document all
the damage with pictures).


Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
NYSERDA eligible Small Wind installer
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety  Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine Inc.
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org



On Mon, November 4, 2013 11:47 am, Luke Christy wrote:
 Wrenches,

 We have been in business for about 8 years, and up until now, the shipping
 gods have smiled upon me, but apparently my luck has run out, as I've had
 2 costly shipping nightmares within a month,  and I'm just wondering what
 other Wrenches have done to protect themselves from the liability involved
 in trusting expensive shipments to the freight carriers.  Here's my
 situation:

 I recently had a pallet of modules shipped, and it arrived with multiple
 broken modules, due apparently to careless handling,and having had
 something heavy set on top of the pallet.  I have my freight shipments
 sent to a neighboring business which is kind enough to receive them for
 me, since they have many full time staff who are always available during
 business hours to fork shipments off a truck.  In this case the forklift
 driver did not notice the damage (it was not immediately evident), and the
 delivery was signed for.  However, upon picking up the pallet an hour
 later, I  realized that the shipment was damaged, called the freight
 company immediately to notify them of the damage, and subsequently filed a
 detailed written claim.

 I just got notice that my claim was denied by the carrier, evidently
 without considering any of the photos or the written explanation I
 submitted with the claim. They simply cited that the shipment had been
 signed for without noting damage.
 It is clear to me that the carrier was responsible for the damage, yet
 apparently because the damage was hidden and the BOL was signed, they can
 leave me holding the bag for a significant amount of money.

 This particular incident could have been worse, but it is the first time
 I've had it happen and it certainly makes me worried about future
 deliveries. It suddenly seems like an unacceptable liability to have
 others sign for my deliveries without a thorough inspection.

 I asked my distributor whether the shipments have any insurance on them,
 and the person I spoke with didn't know the answer. So my $50 Ebay
 shipment is insured, but my $50,000 worth of equipment isn't? My insurance
 agent says that I can make a claim on my commercial insurance, but advised
 against it in this case, since the loss was only around $1K, and is
 guaranteed to raise my future premiums.

 I know that things get damaged or lost all the time in shipment, and I'm
 wondering how other businesses handle it.  Businesses that do larger
 volume must have damaged freight all the time.  Is it just impossible to
 get freight companies to take responsibility for damage that is not
 immediately evident, since they are acting as judge on their own behalf?
 Do you just refuse to sign the bill of lading until you've examined all
 the contents of the packages (this is a logistical nightmare in most
 cases)?  Do you just chalk it up to the cost of doing business and/or make
 claims to your commercial insurance?

 Would appreciate your thoughts / experiences with this issue.
 Thanks. - Luke

 Luke Christy

 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional™: Certification #031409-25
 NABCEP Certified Solar Heating Installer™: Certification #ST032611-03
 CoSEIA Certified PV Installer

 Solar Gain Services, LLC
 PO Box 531
 Monte Vista, CO. 81144
 sgsrenewab...@gmail.com
 719.588.3044
 www.sgsrenewables.com









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applicable law. If you are not the intended

Re: [RE-wrenches] Adding Charge Controller(s)

[Roy Rakobitsch]

Not sure what this is worth, but with most Kyocera modules that used the
same size cells (but different amount of cells per module) you could wire
many different VOC modules in series as long as the total number of CELLS
per string was the same. It wouldnt matter what the individual module
ratings were (as long as the total array was mounted at the same tilt and
azimuth, an MPPT charge controller wouldnt know the difference. Ive done
this many times with grid tie inverters, and honestly it wouldnt make a
difference with a charge controller either. Different age cells/modules
may make a slight difference. But what Im suggesting is to count the cells
in the strings.

Hope that made sense.


Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
NYSERDA eligible Small Wind installer
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety  Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine Inc.
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org


On Thu, October 24, 2013 8:51 pm, toddc...@finestplanet.com wrote:

 VMP not VOC

 todd



 On Thursday, October 24, 2013 1:26pm, jay peltz j...@asis.com said:



 Hi Jeffe,

 I don't know the specs on those Kyocera, but if they are the same VOC
 then they
 are fine together.

 As to a enclosure for the CC's, I'd look at Midnight.
 They have about a million different boxes, you'll find one that will do
 the job
 for you I'm sure.

 Depending on the area, you might look at a midnight 150v, or  200v or
 250v
 controller, as you can then run all in series.

 jay

 peltz power


 On Oct 24, 2013, at 1:13 PM, Jesse Dahl wrote:

  Hello,
 
  Looked at a system today that consisted of the following:
 
  15 - Kyocera 158W modules
  3 -   Kyocera 185W modules
  1 -   Outback MX60
  8 -   New Trojan L16RE (48V system)
  1 -   Xantrex SW Plus
 
  6 months ago he swapped out his old charge controller to the new MX60
 and
 purchased the new batteries at that time.  The array wiring did not
 change and is
 wired in 6 strings of 3.  (confusing to the MX60?)
 
  He is now adding 4 Kyocera 240W modules.  He also purchased another
 MX60 for
 this array.
 
  From my perspective, removing the 3 185W modules and getting them on
 their
 own controller would be a better use of the modules.  The system
 currently does
 not have any disconnects on the PV side.  There are fuses in the
 combiner boxes on
 the array, but no disconnects inside at the charge controller.  So
 adding 3 charge
 controllers, and now needing to add GFDI, means a box of some kind needs
 to be
 added to house these breakers.
 
  Outbacks GFPs and panel mount breakers will work, but what is the best
 mounting solution for these?  One DC Flexware enclosure? It will of
 course allow
 for all the DC OCPD  and allow for the landing of the output of the
 charge
 controllers.  Or is there another enclosure/OCPD solution I should look
 at?
 
 
  Thanks as always!
 
  Jesse
 
 
 
 
 

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Troubleshooting Off-grid PV

[Roy Rakobitsch]

I second what David is saying. I have seen many failed KC120's as well and
they seem to fail most often at the top of the module where some
insulating tape has been used to isolate the cell interconnecting bus as
they pass over one another on their way to the j-box. There will be some
slight evidence of browning inside the lamination looking at the front top
of the module (usually but not always). Curious to see what you find.

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
NYSERDA eligible Small Wind installer
Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety  Rescue
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine Inc.
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org


On Sun, May 27, 2012 7:17 pm, David Katz wrote:
 I would check each string.  I have seen many failed 120 watt Kyocera
 modules. They had a delamination problem.
 David Katz

 Sent from my HTC smartphone on the Now Network from Sprint!


 - Reply message -
 From: Eric Stikes e...@harvesthesun.com
 To: RE-wrenches re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
 Subject: [RE-wrenches] Troubleshooting Off-grid PV
 Date: Sun, May 27, 2012 2:51 pm



 Hi Wrenches,

 I inherited an off-grid PV system that seems to be significantly under
 producing. I have:

 12 KC120's (~17V 7A each) paired up 2 in series, for 6 strings terminated
 on new 15A breakers in a new Midnite combiner,
 Output of combiner passes through a 60A breaker then into a SolarBoost 50
 charge controller. An SW4024 ties in the CC, a Kohler 8.5 Gen set, and a
 Yuasa 24V battery bank.

 My problem is that I never see more than about 5A (displayed at charge
 controller) coming off the array, even in full sun, regardless of the
 state of charge of the batteries. I figure I should see, at least once in
 a while, closer to between 20-30A. Batteries are, admittedly, passed their
 life expectancy as the system was installed in '02 and I am sure this is
 part of the problem. I'm thinking that if the batteries are at about 1/2
 capacity (don't own a hydrometer...yet), the controller senses the
 batteries are near full SOC even at lower voltage (~24V) and is therefore
 attempting to trickle charge even in the bulk stage. Though this is not
 how the CC is supposed to function in bulk, obviously, I'm assuming the
 old batteries are altering the standard operating conditions of the
 system. I've adjusted the Bulk set point on the CC but that doesn't seem
 to make a difference.

 I doubt this is part of the problem but the generator is problematic as
 well (it has it's own array of maladies).

 Any insight is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 --
 Eric Stikes
 Owner
 SunHarvest Solar
 +1 (530) 798 - 3738
 www.harvesthesun.comhttp://www.harvesthesun.com/
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Re: [RE-wrenches] pole mounts

[Roy Rakobitsch]

I would think that adding concrete partially up the pole would cause water
and condensation to collect near the bottom and not drain properly. This
could possibly lead to freezing and the pipe being blown out or damaged,
even if the top is completely capped. I would think that you should either
completely fill the pipe, or leave it empty with a good layer of gravel at
the bottom to allow it to drain properly. I also have no studies to back
this up, but it was just a thought.

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
NYSERDA eligible Small Wind installer
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine Inc.
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org

On Tue, July 26, 2011 3:05 pm, Dave Palumbo wrote:
 Todd,



 We add concrete inside of our steel pipe masts, up to grade level, in the
 interest of having more weight below ground level. I wouldn’t say that
 it made the pipe stronger (that better be strong enough as is) but more
 weight down low will help keep it rooted in a big wind event.



 Dave



 From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
 [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of
 toddc...@finestplanet.com
 Sent: Tuesday, July 26, 2011 2:50 PM
 To: RE-wrenches
 Subject: [RE-wrenches] pole mounts



 Wrenches,



 Fact or fiction: Adding concrete to the inside of a pole mount pipe makes
 it stronger.



 Thanks,



 Todd




 Sent from Finest Planet WebMail.

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Interfacing an Air 403 wind generator

[Roy Rakobitsch]

The Air403 would need a battery to operate. It will not work without one,
so if you are removing all batteries because of inability to maintain
them, this may not work. If you DO keep a small battery onsite for the
AIR403 to charge, it can be interfaced to the grid with a battery based
inverter such as an Outback GVFX of the appropriate voltage for the
battery. This will most likely prove uneconomical, but it is certainly
do-able.

Roy Rakobitsch
NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
NYSERDA eligible Small Wind installer
Wind/PV Design Engineer
Windsine Inc.
631-514-4166
www.windsine.org

On Thu, May 5, 2011 2:15 pm, Peter Talmage wrote:
 Hi Dana,

 The battery and all associated equipment is being totally removed as the
 folks are now unable to do the required maintenance. They really love the
 little Air 403 and would like to interface it if at all possible even if
 it doesn't make economical sense.

 Peter

 --- On Thu, 5/5/11, Dana d...@solarwork.com wrote:

 From: Dana d...@solarwork.com
 Subject: [RE-wrenches] Interfacing an Air 403 wind generator
 To: 'RE-wrenches' re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
 Date: Thursday, May 5, 2011, 1:32 PM

 The Air is DC, wouldn’t it just feed the battery bank and  there for
 less from the PV to the battery bank and therefore more PV to go to the
 grid tie………  It is a mighty small unit to go to the effort to grid
 tie unless he has a 18MPH+ yearly wind speed. If he has that much wind go
 for a SWWP - Skystream wind turbine that is UL listed for grid tie.  Dana
 OrzelGreat Solar Works, IncE - d...@solarwork.comv - 970.626.5253F -
 970.626.4140C - 970.209.4076web - www.solarwork.com  Responsible
 Technologies for Responsible People since 1988Do not ever believe
 anything, but seriously trust through action.  From:
 re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
 [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Peter
 Talmage
 Sent: Thursday, May 05, 2011 11:26 AM
 To: RE-wrenches
 Subject: [RE-wrenches] Interfacing an Air 403 wind generator  I have a
 client with an independent power system who is going utility interfaced.
 We are putting the 24 volt arrays on Ephase inverters. He wants the Air
 403 to be interfaced as well. Has anyone done this and if so, how ? 
 Thanks

 Peter Talmage, P.E.

 Energy and Design  
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