AMETEK Programmable Power will be offering a fully automated EN50530 test solution that utilizes three core ‘Surround the Inverter’ elements: the TerraSAS Solar Array Simulator, MX/RS Grid-Simulator and CTS Compliance Test System. The programmable power products and systems simulate the output of solar arrays, the loads applied to the output of the inverter and the interface with the grid, providing a comprehensive and energy efficient means of testing PV inverters.
Problem
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Testing to the EN50530 standard for efficiency of grid-connected PV inverters normally requires an engineer or technician to be present to manually progress through each curve set.
Solution
The automated test system is configured and controlled via AMETEK ‘Windows’-based software that enables users to select the EN50530 Test regime, connect the inverter under test, start the test, walk away and return to collect the report. The system provides a turn-key approach to testing the maximum peak power tracking (MPPT) characteristics for grid-tied inverters and DC charge controllers. The ability to simulate virtually any fill factor or solar cell material allows the customer to validate the MPPT algorithm with a power source. Hardware control is accomplished by an application running on the local controller that communicates directly to the PV simulator using RS422, which operates as a dedicated IV curve generation processor.
Applications
PV inverter manufacturers and testing houses.
Platform
TerraSAS Solar Array Simulators are available as single- or multi-channel systems from 5kW-1MW (80V-1500V). Single/Three-Phase MX/RS Series Grid Simulators are available from 15kVA-1MVA and offer an innovative Energy Regeneration mode that returns up to 85% of the electricity generated by the inverter back to the grid.
Availability
Shipment of the EN50530 solution is expected to begin in early Q2 of 2012.