Inverter - Revision history

Alex at 14:26, 15 February 2021

2021-02-15T14:26:49Z

Alex at 21:26, 11 February 2021

2021-02-11T21:26:16Z

Show changes

Alex: Marked this version for translation

2021-02-11T20:13:03Z

Marked this version for translation

Show changes

Alex at 20:01, 11 February 2021

2021-02-11T20:01:58Z

Alex at 19:56, 11 February 2021

2021-02-11T19:56:09Z

Show changes

Alex: /* Recyclability */

2021-02-10T14:13:10Z

Recyclability

Alex at 15:05, 1 January 2021

2021-01-01T15:05:05Z

Alex at 20:12, 29 December 2020

2020-12-29T20:12:13Z

Alex: /* Waveforms */

2020-11-29T15:56:28Z

Waveforms

Alex: /* Idle consumption */

2020-11-27T20:13:42Z

Idle consumption

@@ Line 3: / Line 3: @@
 <translate>
 <!--T:1-->
-[[File:Standalone-inverter201108.png|thumb|right|A standard off-grid system with an inverter. An inverter is connected directly to the battery bank through an [[Special:MyLanguage/Overcurrent protection|overcurrent protection device.]]]]
+[[File:Standalone-inverter201108.png|thumb|right|A standard off-grid system with an inverter. An inverter is connected directly to the enegy storage system through an [[Special:MyLanguage/Overcurrent protection|overcurrent protection device.]]]]
 <!--T:2-->

@@ Line 2: / Line 2: @@
 <languages />
 <translate>
 [[File:Standalone-inverter201108.png|thumb|right|A standard off-grid system with an inverter. An inverter is connected directly to the battery bank through an [[Overcurrent protection|overcurrent protection device.]]]]
-[[Solar PV module|PV modules]] and [[:Category:Energy storage|energy storage systems]] function with direct current (DC), yet due to the [[Electricity and energy|advantages of alternating current (AC)]] the majority of the appliances produced in the world are built to function with an AC input source. This means that it is common to incorporate an inverter, which can convert from DC to AC, into any any system that is intended to function with more than just basic appliances like lighting, cell phones and radios. There term inverter covers many different products with different functionality and cost, thus it is important to understand the different factors that go into choosing an inverter to determine the right one for your application.
+[[Special:MyLanguage/Solar PV module|PV modules]] and [[Special:MyLanguage/Energy storage|energy storage systems]] function with direct current (DC), yet due to the [[Special:MyLanguage/Electricity and energy|advantages of alternating current (AC)]] the majority of the appliances produced in the world are built to function with an AC input source. This means that it is common to incorporate an inverter, which can convert from DC to AC, into any any system that is intended to function with more than just basic appliances like lighting, cell phones and radios. There term inverter covers many different products with different functionality and cost, thus it is important to understand the different factors that go into choosing an inverter to determine the right one for your application.
 Inverters are the most electronically complex component and thus are a likely failure point, meaning that investing in a quality inverter is a wise choice. If the inverter in a system that is built around AC fails, then the system will stop functioning completely. For this reason, many system designers of small off-grid systems choose to incorporate DC lighting or a DC-based refrigerator into a system to offer the a more robust system that will continue to provide these basic functions even in the event of an inverter failure.
-The inverter for an off-grid system must will be sized and selected based upon the [[Load evaluation|load evaluation]] for a particular site - see [[:Category:Inverter sizing and selection|Inverter sizing and selection]] for more information.
+The inverter for an off-grid system must will be sized and selected based upon the [[Special:MyLanguage/Load evaluation|load evaluation]] for a particular site - see [[:Category:Inverter sizing and selection|Inverter sizing and selection]] for more information.
 ==Inverter/charger==
@@ Line 49: / Line 48: @@
 Inverter idle consumption can greatly affect the design of smaller PV systems as a constantly operating inverter may be the most energy intensive load that the system supplies. It is common practice with smaller systems that use DC for lighting and cell phone charging to incorporate an inverter that is only used as needed to reduce the size of the PV source.
 '''Example 1:''' A small off-grid PV system incorporates an 800W inverter that consumes 7W of power as it sits idle. How much energy will it consume if left on continuously?
-:*'''Daily idle consumption = watts × hours
+:Daily idle consumption = 7 W × 24 hr
-::Daily idle consumption = 7 W × 24 hr
+:Daily idle consumption = 168 W
 This is more energy than two efficient 3W LED lightbulbs - a common size in off-grid applications - would consume if left on continuously.
@@ Line 60: / Line 63: @@
 Inverters vary in terms of how efficiently the transform DC into AC. Many inverter manufacturers offer a maximum or peak efficiency number for their products, but this number is not likely to be achieved in practice. Inverters will only achieve these efficiency numbers when under a sufficient load, but the number drops rapidly with less loading. An off-grid inverter in practice will likely be somewhere in the 85-90% efficiency range. The efficiency of an inverter can have a significant impact on system design and performance.
 '''Example 1:''' Two inverters are being considered for an off-grid PV system. Both inverters have an 800W power rating, but one is 90% efficient and the other is 85% efficient. It is anticipated that the inverter will have to supply 2400Wh of energy each day. How much extra energy will each inverter require to meet this demand?
-:*'''Total energy demand = energy demand of loads ÷ inverter efficiency
+:Total energy demand inverter 1 = 2400 Wh ÷ .85 = 2824 Wh
-::Total energy demand inverter 1 = 2400 Wh ÷ .85 = 2824 Wh
+:Total energy demand inverter 2 = 2400 Wh ÷ .90 = 2667 Wh
 The less efficient inverter will require 157 Wh more of energy each day to supply the loads. This could mean that the PV source needs to be larger.
@@ Line 79: / Line 86: @@
 ===Programmability===
-The larger the power rating of an off-grid inverter, typically the more user programming is permitted to enable customization according to the end user needs. There are basic functions, like the set point for the [[Low voltage disconnect|low voltage disconnect]], and other more complicated functions related to its output, standby modes to save on idle consumption, generator input and monitoring. See [[Inverter programming|inverter programming]] for more information.
+The larger the power rating of an off-grid inverter, typically the more user programming is permitted to enable customization according to the end user needs. There are basic functions, like the set point for the [[Special:MyLanguage/Low voltage disconnect|low voltage disconnect]], and other more complicated functions related to its output, standby modes to save on idle consumption, generator input and monitoring. See [[Special:MyLanguage/Inverter programming|inverter programming]] for more information.
 ===Data logging/monitoring===

@@ Line 66: / Line 66: @@
 == Recyclability ==
-Inverters contain a variety of different materials and chemicals that can be hazardous if not disposed of properly. They should be treated as electronic waste.
+Inverters contain a variety of different materials and chemicals that can be hazardous if not disposed of properly. They should be treated as electronic waste. Contacting the manufacturer is recommended.
 == Notes/references==

@@ Line 22: / Line 22: @@
 The most important characteristic of an inverter - that helps to define its functionality and quality - is the ''waveform'' of its alternating current output. The AC that the grid supplies comes in a pure sine wave, which is what all AC appliances are designed to use as their input. A smooth variation between directions of current flow that is operating is necessary for the proper functioning of various complex appliances, but for other simpler appliances it doesn't matter.  The three types of output wave forms that are available in the market are the following:
 *'''Pure sine wave (PSW):''' An inverter that outputs AC in a sine wave that is indistinguishable from that supplied by the electricity grid. The creation of a pure sine wave requires a more complex inverter design that costs more, but the additional cost of a pure sine wave inverter often bring additional efficiency and quality. It is recommended that any system that relies on AC continuously to supply loads incorporate a PSW inverter.
-*'''Modified sine wave (MSW):''' An inverter that outputs AC in a waveform that is rougher than a pure sine wave, but that is indistinguishable for most appliances. MSW are a more economical option for small systems that require AC, but that are only going to supply simple loads (cell phones, radios, lights etc.) Should not be considered if a system is intended to be used with certain types of loads - motors, laser printers, battery chargers, washing machines, high-end music equipment - as it can cause them to work improperly or damage them. Motors will consume roughly 25% more energy with a MSW inverter compared to a PSW inverter and the life of the motor will be shortened as that extra energy will be converted into heat. If a system doesn't rely on AC continously, but only periodically for smaller loads, then it is an option that should be considered.
+*'''Modified sine wave (MSW):''' An inverter that outputs AC in a waveform that is rougher than a pure sine wave, but that is indistinguishable for most appliances. MSW are a more economical option for small systems that require AC, but that are only going to supply simple loads (cell phones, radios, lights etc.) Should not be considered if a system is intended to be used with certain types of loads - motors, laser printers, battery chargers, washing machines, high-end music equipment - as it can cause them to work improperly or damage them. Motors will consume roughly 25% more energy with a MSW inverter compared to a PSW inverter and the life of the motor will be shortened as that extra energy will be converted into heat. If a system doesn't rely on AC continuously, but only periodically for smaller loads, then it is an option that should be considered.
 *'''Square wave:''' The simplest and cheapest form of inverter. Current direction switches very rapidly and can damage certain appliances. Will work fine with simple loads like cell phones and lighting, but not recommended for use in a PV system. Frequently poorly designed and manufactured. A modified sine wave or pure sine wave inverter will not cost very much more.
@@ Line 63: / Line 63: @@
 == Maintenance ==
-The user manual for an inverter should always be consulted, but most inverters do not require much maintenance if they are used under proper conditions. They should be kept free of dust, insects and water. Connections should be periodically revised - at least once a year - to make sure that they are still tightened properly and not creating unnecessary resistance.
+The user manual for an inverter should always be consulted, but most inverters do not require much maintenance if they are used under proper conditions. They should be kept free of dust, insects, and water. Connections should be periodically revised - at least once a year - to make sure that they are still tightened properly and not creating unnecessary resistance.
 == Recyclability ==
 Inverters contain a variety of different materials and chemicals that can be hazardous if not disposed of properly. They should be treated as electronic waste.
-== Notes ==
+== Notes/references==

@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
 [[Category:Inverter]]
-[[File:Standalone-inverter201108.png|thumb|right|A standard offgrid system with an inverter. An inverter is connected directly to the battery bank through an [[Overcurrent protection|overcurrent protection device.]]]]
+[[File:Standalone-inverter201108.png|thumb|right|A standard off-grid system with an inverter. An inverter is connected directly to the battery bank through an [[Overcurrent protection|overcurrent protection device.]]]]
 [[Solar PV module|PV modules]] and [[:Category:Energy storage|energy storage systems]] function with direct current (DC), yet due to the [[Electricity and energy|advantages of alternating current (AC)]] the majority of the appliances produced in the world are built to function with an AC input source. This means that it is common to incorporate an inverter, which can convert from DC to AC, into any any system that is intended to function with more than just basic appliances like lighting, cell phones and radios. There term inverter covers many different products with different functionality and cost, thus it is important to understand the different factors that go into choosing an inverter to determine the right one for your application.
-Inverters are the most electronically complex component and thus are a likely failure point, meaning that investing in a quality inverter is a wise choice. If the inverter in a system that is built around AC fails, then the system will stop functioning completely. For this reason, many system designers of small offgrid systems choose to incorporate DC lighting or a DC-based refrigerator into a system to offer the a more robust system that will continue to provide these basic functions even in the event of an inverter failure.
+Inverters are the most electronically complex component and thus are a likely failure point, meaning that investing in a quality inverter is a wise choice. If the inverter in a system that is built around AC fails, then the system will stop functioning completely. For this reason, many system designers of small off-grid systems choose to incorporate DC lighting or a DC-based refrigerator into a system to offer the a more robust system that will continue to provide these basic functions even in the event of an inverter failure.
 The inverter for an off-grid system must will be sized and selected based upon the [[Load evaluation|load evaluation]] for a particular site - see [[:Category:Inverter sizing and selection|Inverter sizing and selection]] for more information.
@@ Line 9: / Line 9: @@
 ==Inverter/charger==
 [[File:Standalone-inverterchargerunlabeled201108.png|thumb|A PV system with an inverter/charger and generator.]]
-Many larger offgrid inverters - called inverter/chargers - are able to accept AC input from a generator and convert it to DC to be able to charge the battery bank if weather conditions are poor. This can be a wise investment for larger systems as the size of the [[:Category:PV source|PV source]] and [[:Category:Energy storage|energy storage system]] do not need to be as large to be able to meet demand during infrequent periods of bad weather. Additionally, an inverter can play an important role as a system with a bypass switch will permit the generator to directly power AC loads if the PV system is not functioning properly or needs to be disconnected for maintenance. An inverter/charger will have to be chosen in accordance with the size/type of generator that will be used.
+Many larger off-grid inverters - called inverter/chargers - are able to accept AC input from a generator and convert it to DC to be able to charge the battery bank if weather conditions are poor. This can be a wise investment for larger systems as the size of the [[:Category:PV source|PV source]] and [[:Category:Energy storage|energy storage system]] do not need to be as large to be able to meet demand during infrequent periods of bad weather. Additionally, an inverter can play an important role as a system with a bypass switch will permit the generator to directly power AC loads if the PV system is not functioning properly or needs to be disconnected for maintenance. An inverter/charger will have to be chosen in accordance with the size/type of generator that will be used.
 ==Watt/VA output==
 All inverters are rated based upon the amount of power or volts/amps that they can continuously supply. In addition to this continuous rating an inverter will be able to supply higher amounts of power for brief periods of time in order to supply loads that require momentary surges of more current when starting. These additional ratings may come in 30 minute, 5 minute, 1 minute, 30 second, 10 second or 1 second ratings. All loads and their energy requirements will need to be evaluated to select the appropriate inverter - see [[:Category:Inverter sizing and selection|inverter sizing and selection]] for more information.
@@ Line 15: / Line 15: @@
 Inverters are typically available in 12 V, 24 V, or 48 V. Inverters with a smaller power rating will typically be available in 12/24 V configurations and larger inverters will be available in 24/48 V configurations.
 ==AC output voltage==
-Inverters are manufactured for use in specific geographic markets given the voltage of the local grid, but is necessary to confirm that the specifications of the inverter - especially if importing the product - conform to the local voltage. Common output voltages for offgrid inverters are 120 V, 220 V, 240 V.
+Inverters are manufactured for use in specific geographic markets given the voltage of the local grid, but is necessary to confirm that the specifications of the inverter - especially if importing the product - conform to the local voltage. Common output voltages for off-grid inverters are 120 V, 220 V, 240 V.
 ==Frequency==
-The frequency of the grid varies globally between 50 Hz-60 Hz. An offgrid inverter that matches the local grid specifications should be chosen.
+The frequency of the grid varies globally between 50 Hz-60 Hz. An off-grid inverter that matches the local grid specifications should be chosen.
 ==Waveforms==
 [[File:Inverterwaveforms.png|thumb|right|'''A comparison of the different inverter output wave forms:''' ''(1)'' Pure sine wave ''(2)'' Modified sine wave ''(3)'' Square wave]]
 The most important characteristic of an inverter - that helps to define its functionality and quality - is the ''waveform'' of its alternating current output. The AC that the grid supplies comes in a pure sine wave, which is what all AC appliances are designed to use as their input. A smooth variation between directions of current flow that is operating is necessary for the proper functioning of various complex appliances, but for other simpler appliances it doesn't matter.  The three types of output wave forms that are available in the market are the following:
-*'''Pure sine wave (PSW):''' An inverter that outputs AC in a sine wave that is indistinguishable from that supplied by the electricity grid. The creation of a pure sine wave requires a more complex inverter design that costs more, but the additional cost of a pure sine wave inverter often bring additional efficiency and quality. It is recommended that any system that relies on AC continously to supply loads incorporate a PSW inverter.
+*'''Pure sine wave (PSW):''' An inverter that outputs AC in a sine wave that is indistinguishable from that supplied by the electricity grid. The creation of a pure sine wave requires a more complex inverter design that costs more, but the additional cost of a pure sine wave inverter often bring additional efficiency and quality. It is recommended that any system that relies on AC continuously to supply loads incorporate a PSW inverter.
-*'''Modified sine wave (MSW):''' An inverter that outputs AC in a waveform that is more rough than a pure sine wave, but that is indistinguishable for most appliances. MSW are a more economical option for small systems that require AC, but that are only going to supply simple loads (cell phones, radios, lights etc.) Should not be considered if a system is intended to be used with certain types of loads - motors, laser printers, battery chargers, washing machines, high-end music equipment - as it cause them to work improperly or damage them. Motors will consume roughly 25% more energy with a MSW inverter compared to a PSW inverter and the life of the motor will be shortened as that extra energy will be converted into heat. If a system doesn't rely on AC continously, but only periodically for smaller loads, then it is an option that should be considered.
+*'''Modified sine wave (MSW):''' An inverter that outputs AC in a waveform that is rougher than a pure sine wave, but that is indistinguishable for most appliances. MSW are a more economical option for small systems that require AC, but that are only going to supply simple loads (cell phones, radios, lights etc.) Should not be considered if a system is intended to be used with certain types of loads - motors, laser printers, battery chargers, washing machines, high-end music equipment - as it can cause them to work improperly or damage them. Motors will consume roughly 25% more energy with a MSW inverter compared to a PSW inverter and the life of the motor will be shortened as that extra energy will be converted into heat. If a system doesn't rely on AC continously, but only periodically for smaller loads, then it is an option that should be considered.
 *'''Square wave:''' The simplest and cheapest form of inverter. Current direction switches very rapidly and can damage certain appliances. Will work fine with simple loads like cell phones and lighting, but not recommended for use in a PV system. Frequently poorly designed and manufactured. A modified sine wave or pure sine wave inverter will not cost very much more.
 ==Idle consumption==
-An inverter requires energy even if it is not currently supplying loads. Larger offgrid inverters may require more than 30W when not supplying loads, smaller inverters tend to require around 4-8 W. Some inverters will include a low consumption standby mode to reduce idle consumption, but standby modes often do not function well with small offgrid systems as the inverter only activates when a load of a sufficient size is connected to the system. A cell phone charger will likely not wake the inverter from standby mode.
+An inverter requires energy even if it is not currently supplying loads. Larger off-grid inverters may require more than 30W when not supplying loads, smaller inverters tend to require around 4-8 W. Some inverters will include a low consumption standby mode to reduce idle consumption, but standby modes often do not function well with small off-grid systems as the inverter only activates when a load of a sufficient size is connected to the system. A cell phone charger will likely not wake the inverter from standby mode.
 Inverter idle consumption can greatly affect the design of smaller PV systems as a constantly operating inverter may be the most energy intensive load that the system supplies. It is common practice with smaller systems that use DC for lighting and cell phone charging to incorporate an inverter that is only used as needed to reduce the size of the PV source.
-'''Example 1:''' A small offgrid PV system incorporates an 800W inverter that consumes 7W of power as it sits idle. How much energy will it consume if left on continously?
+'''Example 1:''' A small off-grid PV system incorporates an 800W inverter that consumes 7W of power as it sits idle. How much energy will it consume if left on continuously?
 :*'''Daily idle consumption = watts × hours
 ::Daily idle consumption = 7 W × 24 hr
 ::Daily idle consumption = 168 W
-This is more energy than two efficient 3W LED lightbulbs - a common size in offgrid applications - would consume if left on continuously.
+This is more energy than two efficient 3W LED lightbulbs - a common size in off-grid applications - would consume if left on continuously.
 ==Efficiency==
-Inverters vary in terms of how efficiently the transform DC into AC. Many inverter manufacturers offer a maximum or peak efficiency number for their products, but this number is not likely to be achieved in practice. Inverters will only achieve these efficiency numbers when under a sufficient load, but the number drops rapidly with less loading. An offgrid inverter in practice will likely be somewhere in the 85-90% efficiency range. The efficiency of an inverter can have a significant impact on system design and performance.
+Inverters vary in terms of how efficiently the transform DC into AC. Many inverter manufacturers offer a maximum or peak efficiency number for their products, but this number is not likely to be achieved in practice. Inverters will only achieve these efficiency numbers when under a sufficient load, but the number drops rapidly with less loading. An off-grid inverter in practice will likely be somewhere in the 85-90% efficiency range. The efficiency of an inverter can have a significant impact on system design and performance.
-'''Example 1:''' Two inverters are being considered for an offgrid PV system. Both inverters have an 800W power rating, but one is 90% efficient and the other is 85% efficient. It is anticipated that the inverter will have to supply 2400Wh of energy each day. How much extra energy will each inverter require to meet this demand?
+'''Example 1:''' Two inverters are being considered for an off-grid PV system. Both inverters have an 800W power rating, but one is 90% efficient and the other is 85% efficient. It is anticipated that the inverter will have to supply 2400Wh of energy each day. How much extra energy will each inverter require to meet this demand?
 :*'''Total energy demand = energy demand of loads ÷ inverter efficiency
 ::Total energy demand inverter 1 = 2400 Wh ÷ .85 = 2824 Wh
@@ Line 54: / Line 54: @@
 ===Programmability===
-The larger the power rating of an offgrid inverter, typically the more user programming is permitted to enable customization according to the end user needs. There are basic functions, like the set point for the [[Low voltage disconnect|low voltage disconnect]], and other more complicated functions related to its output, standby modes to save on idle consumption, generator input and monitoring. See [[Inverter programming|inverter programming]] for more information.
+The larger the power rating of an off-grid inverter, typically the more user programming is permitted to enable customization according to the end user needs. There are basic functions, like the set point for the [[Low voltage disconnect|low voltage disconnect]], and other more complicated functions related to its output, standby modes to save on idle consumption, generator input and monitoring. See [[Inverter programming|inverter programming]] for more information.
 ===Data logging/monitoring===
@@ Line 60: / Line 60: @@
 == Projected life ==
-There is no specific projected life for a charge controller as it varies significnatly based upon quality and conditions of use. A low quality charge controller may only last six months before failing, whereas a high quality charge controller used under optimal conditions could last decades. Higher cost does not always directly translate into a high quality charge controller, as there are very cheap PWM charge controllers on the market that are extremely well-built and durable.
+There is no specific projected life for an inverter as it varies significantly based upon its quality and how it is used. A low-quality inverter may only last for six months of heavy use before failing, whereas a high-quality charge controller used lightly could last decades. With inverters you generally get what you pay for.
 == Maintenance ==