Re: [RE-wrenches] 3 Xantrex XW system

2009-04-29 Thread Mark Edmunds
Hi William, Brian There was a change made to the XW Distribution Panel to accommodate nine 2-pole breakers for 3 inverter installations, as the original version was with 8 slots only. Unfortunately the original 8 breaker capacity version is still working its way through the inventory in the fie

Re: [RE-wrenches] concentrated photovoltaics

2009-04-29 Thread Tom Elliot
I guess my question is more along the lines of is it feasible, what are the costs if it is, what is the predicted lifespan and does it represent any kind of legitimate breakthrough in terms of cost? (especially for the first link, ZenithSolar) Tom - Original Message - From: "Bruce"

Re: [RE-wrenches] Solid state relay (SSR) questions

2009-04-29 Thread Max Balchowsky
We've used Optoblocks (SSR's) for years in traffic signal work, very reliable. Max Balchowsky SEE systems From: Marv Dargatz To: RE-wrenches Sent: Wednesday, April 29, 2009 10:33:51 AM Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Solid state relay (SSR) questions Hey Mi

Re: [RE-wrenches] concentrated photovoltaics

2009-04-29 Thread Bruce
The main issue that I understand with concentrated PV, is that it works much better in the desert. Any moisture in the air diffuses the sunlight so it comes in at random angles. I think the insolation tables for a location give numbers for concentrated solar. Bruce Tom Elliot wrote: Has any

Re: [RE-wrenches] Solid state relay (SSR) questions

2009-04-29 Thread Marv Dargatz
Hey Mick, We used a lot of SSRs in wind turbine controls.  Found them to be extremely reliable.  Overrating the device is a very good idea.  Also be careful of very low temperatures, as the Current Transfer Ratio (CTR) of the optical isolation can degrade over time and eventually cause failure

[RE-wrenches] Solid state relay (SSR) questions

2009-04-29 Thread Mick Abraham
Hello, Wrenchers and special greetings to the silicon gurus to whom I address these questions about solid state relays. A client wants a gizmo to connect grid "AC In" to their inverter/charger when the battery voltage is low...resembling the LBX function on the good ol' Trace SW inverter. The grid

Re: [RE-wrenches] To Megger or not to Megger

2009-04-29 Thread Joel Davidson
Hello Matt, All UL modules or panels with accessible metal parts are rquired to be production line factory dielectric voltage-withstand tested for 1 minute without electrical breakdown at 2 times maximum system dc voltage plus 1,000 volts (UL 1703, Section 43). Joel Davidson - Original Mes

Re: [RE-wrenches] To Megger or not to Megger

2009-04-29 Thread Joel Davidson
Hello Matt, Both hands up here too. One in the factory and one in the field. I require technicians to use the UL 1703 standard dc test potential of 2 times maximum system voltage plus 1,000 volts (or 3,000 vdc). Be safe. Wear your gloves. Joel Davidson - Original Message - From: Ma

Re: [RE-wrenches] 3 Xantrex XW system

2009-04-29 Thread Allan Sindelar
William, I haven't used the XW system yet, so take this advice with that caution: Talk with Robin at Midnite, 425 374-9060. He has developed his own power distribution panel for use with the XW. It may have features that you need. Allan at PosE _ From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wr

Re: [RE-wrenches] Cable spec request

2009-04-29 Thread bob ellison
Hi Allan, I have several part reels of 4 twisted pair Belden that I use for e meters. It is shielded, static line, direct burial and all the good stuff. Always best run alone to keep the signal from getting scrambled but it you usually run it together, so be it.. Let me know, Bob __