ECET425L Lab 3: Series-Parallel and Power

ECET425L                               Lab 3: Series-Parallel and Power

Objectives:

• Learn some basics about series and parallel devices
• Be able to calculate battery run times based on power requirements

Parts List:

• Internet PV and Battery Spec Sheets
• SLA-VRLA Documents in Doc Sharing

Introduction:

Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries and PV panels have similar principles when placing them in series and parallel. You always place them in series to increase the voltage and in parallel to increase the current. Either method increases the power.

Step 1: Definitions

                  Define the following:

                  Power

                  Micro Inverter

                  MPPT Controller

                  Stand Alone RE System

                  Grid Tied RE System

                  AWG Wiring System

                  DC Combiner Box

                  DC Breaker

                  AC Disconnect Bypass Box

                  Main AC Service Panel

                 

Step 2: Questions

1. 1.     Go to upgi.com what is the output power of a 12 volt 110Ah battery for one hour?

1. 2.     What current will this correspond to?

1. 3.     As the battery current increases the amount of watt-hours does what? Why?

Step 3: Procedure

1. 1.     List the input specs for a Solectria PVI 13kw inverter; if you were using BPSX 170B solar panels then what is the configuration? How many series and how many in parallel?

1. 2.     The Max Voc of the inverter may be a problem at (higher, lower) temperatures if you did not consider it in the calculations.

1. 3.     If you have a grid tied system with battery backup if the power goes off will the electricity in your house be off or stay on?

Step 4: Calculations and Series Parallel Connections

1. 1.     Look at the specs for a Xantrex XW6048 inverter; what configuration of 8D batteries (12v 250Ah) would operate the inverter at maximum power for 1 hour? Assume 100% efficiency.

1. 2.     List your location; list the maximum and minimum sun hours for your location.

1. 3.     Draw the block diagram of an off grid solar system with battery backup.