[RE-wrenches] Apprentice

2015-04-16 Thread Ray Walters
Hi Folks; I am considering hiring an apprentice, and I wanted to know if any else has tried this, and what advice and experience everyone had to offer. Also what would be the best way to advertise: Craig's List? / Wanted passionate techy soul to share warm fires and cold brews with, watch bea

Re: [RE-wrenches] Apprentice interview

2015-04-17 Thread Ray Walters
om:*RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org <mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org>] *On Behalf Of *Ray Walters *Sent:* Thursday, April 16, 2015 4:50 PM *To:* RE-wrenches *Subject:* [RE-wrenches] Apprentice Hi Folks; I am co

Re: [RE-wrenches] Apprentice interview

2015-04-17 Thread Ray Walters
1988" *P*Please consider the environment before printing this email. *From:*RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On Behalf Of *Ray Walters *Sent:* Friday, April 17, 2015 2:53 PM *To:* RE-wrenches *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] Apprentice interview Hi All; Than

Re: [RE-wrenches] Water level testing

2015-04-25 Thread Ray Walters
I agree with Windy and this article, the electric sounders can be finicky. I've never tried the airline method, but some well folks from Texas taught me to use an inverted plumbing fitting on a string. When it hits the water you can feel it on the line, because the small pocket of trapped a

Re: [RE-wrenches] Extreme snow load ground mount?

2015-04-27 Thread Ray Walters
Gravity only acts downward. The modules are rated to 113 PSF which is with the module laying flat. If the module is at an angle, it can take more downward force. For instance if it is at 70 degree tilt, It could take a downward force of 113 PSF / cos 70 or 330 PSF. Its possibly reasonable to

Re: [RE-wrenches] Apprentice interview

2015-04-28 Thread Ray Walters
equate training enabling the apprentice to acheive the target qualification. On Apr 17, 2015 4:53 PM, "Ray Walters" <mailto:r...@solarray.com>> wrote: Hi All; Thanks for the replies so far; I apologize for my misunderstood attempt at humor in my initial post.

Re: [RE-wrenches] Apprentice interview

2015-04-28 Thread Ray Walters
Solar Design Engineer 303 505-8760 On 4/28/2015 6:52 PM, Chris Mason wrote: I think you should describe the job as a trainee. You can do anything you want after that. Just don't call it an apprenticeship. On Tue, Apr 28, 2015 at 8:45 PM, Ray Walters <mailto:r...@solarray.com>>

Re: [RE-wrenches] Apprentice interview

2015-04-30 Thread Ray Walters
Hi Luke; I would say that the ability to think is the primary attribute I'm looking for, and the difference between an apprentice and a laborer. It is indeed rare. Most folks really just don't soak up much of the knowledge we're trying to pass on, either due to lack of interest or lack of b

Re: [RE-wrenches] LARGE Underground vault box

2015-04-30 Thread Ray Walters
oldcastleprecast.com/enclosuresolutions I was just looking at these enclosures for a potential battery enclosure to set in the ground for more stable temperatures. R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc Nabcep Certified PV Installer, Licensed Master Electrician Solar Design Engineer 303 505-8760 On

Re: [RE-wrenches] Fw: Xantrex C-40 Drifting

2015-05-19 Thread Ray Walters
Hi Jarmo; Early solar systems actually tried to use the principle of matching array Vmpp to battery voltage in lieu of charge controllers. The biggest issue is that when it is is hot the module voltage can drop below the battery voltage needed, and when its cold the voltage will still be to

Re: [RE-wrenches] Array easily adjustable from 30 to 90 degrees

2015-05-20 Thread Ray Walters
Most pole mounts do not go to 90 deg. BTW. The pivot would need to stick out South of the pole. We make specialty racks, and could build something like this for you. Contact me off list. R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc Nabcep Certified PV Installer, Licensed Master Electrician Solar Design

Re: [RE-wrenches] FLA battery setpoints with larger arrays

2015-05-22 Thread Ray Walters
Hi Allan; This is an interesting thread, as all of us ( I think) have gone heavier on the solar arrays and lighter on the battery banks based on economics. I too have noticed higher gassing and more water consumption, and I too have adjusted set points down slightly to account for this. I th

Re: [RE-wrenches] FLA battery setpoints with larger arrays

2015-05-22 Thread Ray Walters
Hi Bill; If the battery is in an insulated box indoors, it definitely can over heat. Also if ambient temps get into the 90s, the additional heat from charging can push the battery into the danger zone. In hot desert or tropical climates, it may actually be difficult to keep the battery belo

Re: [RE-wrenches] FLA battery setpoints with larger arrays

2015-05-22 Thread Ray Walters
I thought I'd post some info on Battery Temp from a few manus: HUP Solar One: do not exceed 105 F Full River AGMs: max recommended operating temp 104F and from Trojan: for every 10C increase in temperature the reaction rate doubles. Thus, a month of operation at 35C is equivalent to 2 months a

Re: [RE-wrenches] FLA battery setpoints with larger arrays

2015-05-23 Thread Ray Walters
Hi Folks; In our area, below 0F cold is definitely an issue, but I agree it does extend battery life if it doesn't freeze. From a design stand point you can end up with a really large battery: double the size to account for only discharging it 50% for freeze protection, then double it again

Re: [RE-wrenches] FLA battery setpoints with larger arrays

2015-05-23 Thread Ray Walters
Having the LVD be temperature compensated so that the load is always disconnected above the freeze point of the battery would be a Huge Improvement on the whole concept of LVD. In combination with State of Charge monitoring, like the Whiz bang Jr, would be the most effective, and just program

Re: [RE-wrenches] iron & aluminum

2015-05-29 Thread Ray Walters
I've seen a couple of homemade pole mounts that were really good, but most are not properly designed. Fabrication experience is good, but the problems I've seen were design issues, not bad welding. (this goes for commercial racks too) Ground mounts are less prone to errors, but pole mounts ar

Re: [RE-wrenches] iron & aluminum

2015-05-29 Thread Ray Walters
Around here, wood dry rots around the screws, so after about 5 years, timber built frames are blowing apart. While it might be possible to do a decent timber base frame using pressure treated wood and carriage bolts for the attachments, you could not use wood for the final cross rails as you no

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

2015-05-31 Thread Ray Walters
Yes, amorphous modules degrade faster then crystalline cells. 15 years will really start catching up with you, that's why we always tried to stick to monocrystalline when we could. I think your best option for now is to rewire the array for much higher voltage. Even your current voltage problem

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

2015-05-31 Thread Ray Walters
I agree, scratch my previous suggestion of 8 in series on the Outback controller. I got so used to Midnites that I forgot how unforgiving the Outback controllers are with high Voc. Run the Unisolar modules through the Midnite sizer. http://www.midnitesolar.com/sizingTool/index.php R.Ray Wal

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

2015-06-03 Thread Ray Walters
, jay peltz wrote: HI Ray, Can you tell me/us where you have your data on the a-Si having higher voltage degradation over time? thanks jay On Sun, May 31, 2015 at 11:31 AM, Ray Walters <mailto:r...@solarray.com>> wrote: Yes, amorphous modules degrade faster then crystalline

Re: [RE-wrenches] Integrating with Lightning Protection

2015-06-04 Thread Ray Walters
I think an important point, is not to connect to their system in more than one place. You don't want to create any loops that would pick up the induced current from a lightning strike. We've bonded to the lightning rod systems at their attachment to ground. The idea being that if their syste

Re: [RE-wrenches] #2 -#8 AWG Crimpers

2015-06-04 Thread Ray Walters
The breaker post weakness came up on the list a couple of years back, and Midnite responded by switching to the sturdier post. I haven't tried the 300 v versions though. I also haven't kept up with what Outback is using, but that post design should have never been used on anything beyond stra

Re: [RE-wrenches] SI/SB MicroGrid - Recovery From Low Battery Shut Off

2015-06-06 Thread Ray Walters
Actually its much more cost effective to use charge controllers than GT inverters for the PV input. Just price out a 4 Kw GT inverter of your choice compared to a Midnite Classic for instance. It's in the ball park of 25 cents/ watt savings, and that's not chump change. I only use AC coupling

[RE-wrenches] Genasun

2015-06-23 Thread Ray Walters
HI All; Anyone heard of or tried these controllers: https://genasun.com/products-store/mppt-solar-charge-controllers/golf-cart-solar-charge-boost-controllers/ They seem like a great idea: use a single 60 cell module to charge a 36v or 48v golfcart battery pack. The good old 60 cell (39" x 65")

Re: [RE-wrenches] SnapNrack

2015-06-28 Thread Ray Walters
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.

Re: [RE-wrenches] SnapNrack

2015-06-28 Thread Ray Walters
phenomenon. Sincerely, Glenn Burt Sent from my 'smart' phone so please excuse grammar and typos. ---- From: Ray Walters <mailto:r...@solarray.com> Sent: ‎6/‎28/‎2015 17:27 To: RE-wrenches <mailto:re-wrenches@li

Re: [RE-wrenches] SnapNrack

2015-06-29 Thread Ray Walters
Climbing, Safety & Rescue Wind/PV Design Engineer Windsine LLC 631-514-4166 www.windsine.org <http://www.windsine.org> On Jun 29, 2015 12:32 PM, "Ray Walters" <mailto:r...@solarray.com>> wrote: Anti seize also comes in larger cans with a brush, but it still c

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

2015-06-29 Thread Ray Walters
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

Re: [RE-wrenches] [SPAM] Re: Mate Drop and Charge Functions

2015-07-12 Thread Ray Walters
You would think that a computer device that retails for more than many laptops would be able to afford more memory, a bigger screen, and an interface that didn't feel like preWindows DOS. I just don't even bother with Outback much anymore. Other companies' solutions work better, are easier to s

Re: [RE-wrenches] OutBack 2024 troubleshooting question

2015-07-14 Thread Ray Walters
Seems like something wrong with the generator, if the Vac is going that low, or there's a loose connection eating voltage somewhere. The Outback might still try to charge, but not be able to actually produce any amps with that low an input voltage. Check the Vac at the genny when this is happenin

[RE-wrenches] Clamp on Meter

2015-07-15 Thread Ray Walters
Hi All; My Fluke 36 clamp on DC meter just died again. It will not zero. This happened before, and I had it repaired, but I think its time for a new one, as its 15 years old. What are folks using these days? I'm looking at the Fluke 376; it does AC/DC current, but also is rated to 1000 v, wh

Re: [RE-wrenches] Clamp on Meter

2015-07-15 Thread Ray Walters
o:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org>] On Behalf Of Ray Walters Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2015 5:20 PM To: RE-wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] Clamp on Meter Hi All; My Fluke 36 clamp on DC meter just died again. It will not zero. This happened before, and I had

Re: [RE-wrenches] APT Beaker

2015-07-18 Thread Ray Walters
I thought the APT panels had Square D QOU breakers? Also Midnite makes an adapter plate that lets you use a newer panel mount DC breaker in the place of the old medium Heini breakers. Might not help there. I added an MPPT controller to an APT center a couple years ago, and I just added a small

Re: [RE-wrenches] APT Beaker

2015-07-18 Thread Ray Walters
7/18/2015 8:27 PM, Ray Walters wrote: I thought the APT panels had Square D QOU breakers? Also Midnite makes an adapter plate that lets you use a newer panel mount DC breaker in the place of the old medium Heini breakers. Might not help there. I added an MPPT controller to an APT center a couple

Re: [RE-wrenches] APT Beaker

2015-07-19 Thread Ray Walters
Sindelar wrote: Ray, If you have, it wasn't correct. The CFs are 1" wide, the QOUs are 3/4", and the mounting holes are 1" apart. Are you sure? The CFs have a 125 VDC rating. Allan ** On 7/18/2015 10:27 PM, Ray Walters wrote: I've seen both on the DC side. The QOU

Re: [RE-wrenches] to flash or not to flash

2015-08-07 Thread Ray Walters
My opinion is that if the L foot has enough surface area it constitutes a flashing, and that large flashings can actually cause more damage to the roof than they prevent. I also agree that an attachement doesn't constitute a penetration. I just finished an install on a metal roof with hundreds o

Re: [RE-wrenches] to flash or not to flash

2015-08-07 Thread Ray Walters
Hi William; First, a sealed L foot is not a sealant only attachment system. It has quite a bit of surface area beyond the hole just like a flashing, and has mechanical attachment through the roof to the structure (which a flashing often does not). I consider an L foot to be a mini flashing fo

Re: [RE-wrenches] to flash or not to flash

2015-08-07 Thread Ray Walters
array, Inc Nabcep Certified PV Installer, Licensed Master Electrician Solar Design Engineer 303 505-8760 On 8/7/2015 12:08 PM, Jay wrote: Hi Ray Can you elaborate on how a large flashing can cause more damage than it prevents? Thanks Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On Aug 7, 2015, at 10:

Re: [RE-wrenches] clear sealant recommendations

2015-08-11 Thread Ray Walters
I've used Lexel before, it's the best clear caulk I've used. I used it even to repair cracks on plastic lens on concentrating modules. It holds its clarity for a long time, however I don't know if its approved for asphalt shingles. R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc Nabcep Certified PV Installe

Re: [RE-wrenches] Trojan Batteries

2015-08-12 Thread Ray Walters
Oh I'm going to risk the wrath of Trojan and others, but I can confirm issues with the Trojan L16 having premature cell failures within a couple of years just as you reported. We use the T105 RE and have not had problems, but stay away from their L16 line. I otherwise do not know or understan

Re: [RE-wrenches] Trojan Batteries

2015-08-12 Thread Ray Walters
er 303 505-8760 On 8/12/2015 8:26 PM, Jay wrote: Hi Ray Would that be random dead cells? Jay Peltz power Sent from my iPhone On Aug 12, 2015, at 6:44 PM, Ray Walters wrote: Oh I'm going to risk the wrath of Trojan and others, but I can confirm issues with the Trojan L16 having

Re: [RE-wrenches] Trojan Batteries

2015-08-13 Thread Ray Walters
Solar Way Drive Hyde Park, VT 05655 802-371-8678 cell 802-888-4917 home -Original Message- From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Ray Walters Sent: Thursday, August 13, 2015 12:38 AM To: RE-wrenches Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Trojan Batterie

Re: [RE-wrenches] wiring methods between arrays

2015-08-14 Thread Ray Walters
What would be nifty, is if the chase was at the angle of the roof, so that its top edge was level. Then instead of being a trip hazard it could be a step. R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc Nabcep Certified PV Installer, Licensed Master Electrician Solar Design Engineer 303 505-8760 On 8/14/201

[RE-wrenches] AC Coupled with Generator

2015-08-17 Thread Ray Walters
HI Esteemed Wrenches: I am consulting on a system I have never seen, that consists of a 6.7Kw Enphase roof mounted system, and 2 backup generators. Each generator has an automatic 200 amp transfer switch to back up its own 200 amp panel. Both 200 amp panels are fed by a 400 amp service from

Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupled with Generator

2015-08-17 Thread Ray Walters
lectrician Solar Design Engineer 303 505-8760 On 8/17/2015 8:36 PM, Jerry Shafer wrote: I cant see this working well without some battery based inverter Jerry On Aug 17, 2015 10:10 AM, "Ray Walters" <mailto:r...@solarray.com>> wrote: HI Esteemed Wrenches: I am consul

Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupled with Generator

2015-08-20 Thread Ray Walters
ke an interesting project. Good Luck. On Mon, Aug 17, 2015 at 8:36 PM, Jerry Shafer mailto:jerrysgarag...@gmail.com>> wrote: I cant see this working well without some battery based inverter Jerry On Aug 17, 2015 10:10 AM, "Ray Walters" mailto:r...@solarray.c

Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupled with Generator

2015-08-21 Thread Ray Walters
e Radian is nice because it has two AC Input terminals. Sounds like an interesting project. Good Luck. On Mon, Aug 17, 2015 at 8:36 PM, Jerry Shafer mailto:jerrysgarag...@gmail.com>> wrote: I cant see this working well without some battery based inverter Jerry On Aug 17, 2

Re: [RE-wrenches] AC Coupled with Generator

2015-08-21 Thread Ray Walters
and charge controller would stay online to finish the charge. No wasted energy to dump loads and the customer has more usable power from the system. This may cost more than going to a dump load though. Larry On Aug 20, 2015, at 10:56 PM, Ray Walters <mailto:r...@solarray.com>> wro

Re: [RE-wrenches] clear sealant recommendations

2015-08-26 Thread Ray Walters
here in Hawaii ($4.99 a tube). I have also heard that black zips or sealant holds up better in the UV light, and my field experience seems to validate this. On Tue, Aug 11, 2015 at 5:09 PM, Ray Walters mailto:r...@solarray.com>> wrote: I've used Lexel before, i

Re: [RE-wrenches] to flash or not to flash

2015-08-26 Thread Ray Walters
That was exactly the failure I anticipated when using flashings. Tearing up the shingle to shingle adhesive and pulling those nails out is more disruptive than the actual attachment itself. I'm going to flash on an upcoming job for legal/ insurance reasons, but not because its better. I too ha

[RE-wrenches] Rapid Shutdown Battery Systems

2015-08-26 Thread Ray Walters
Hi Wrenches; I have an upcoming project to be inspected, ,and having spent too much time on off grid and out of country work, I'm now playing catch up with the new 690.12 and 690.71(H) requirements. The proposed GTB system is 3 Radians with a ground mounted 18kW array and large HUP battery ban

Re: [RE-wrenches] Rapid Shutdown Battery Systems

2015-08-26 Thread Ray Walters
mp;productCat_ID=39&sortOrder=4&act=p> (Previous Model Num: MNBCB-1000/50-Battery Combiner) MidNite 1000amp battery combiner box Includes a 1000amp Positive and Negative bus bar with 3/8 inch studs. On Aug 26, 2015, at 3:39 PM, Ray Walters wrote: Hi Wrenches; I have an upcoming proj

Re: [RE-wrenches] Rapid Shutdown Battery Systems

2015-08-26 Thread Ray Walters
location of the bird house and locking it would be a quick solution to the malicious shutting off of a system. FF do carry and do use bolt cutters. On Aug 26, 2015, at 7:26 PM, Ray Walters wrote: I spoke with Phil Undercuffler from Outback, who is a long term respected member of our list

Re: [RE-wrenches] Rapid Shutdown Battery Systems

2015-08-27 Thread Ray Walters
g off the dc from the array and the ac out of the inverters solves the problem--keep the battery as close as possible and don't worry about trying to turn off the battery circuit to the inverter. Bill. -Original Message- From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wre

Re: [RE-wrenches] to flash or not to flash

2015-08-29 Thread Ray Walters
Excellent point, sir. I have looked at quite a few from the attic, later when doing upgrades, and I haven't seen leaks. But NO, I have not carefully gone back on every install to confirm. No news is good news, but that still doesn't mean 100% leak free. Also, I'm working in a drier climate,

Re: [RE-wrenches] Guarding against live parts 690.7 (D)

2015-09-04 Thread Ray Walters
WilIiam; checked out your guards on your website, that looks really clean, but also like a lot of work and expense. I'm still so surprised manufacturers are not offering an option like that to their frame systems. My question: how come you didn't just fence the array? Shading issues on the

Re: [RE-wrenches] Guarding against live parts 690.7 (D)

2015-09-10 Thread Ray Walters
gree with his interpretation. W Gradient Cap_mini Lic 773985 millersolar.com <http://www.millersolar.com/> 805-438-5600 *From:*RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org <mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org>] *On Behalf Of *Ray Walters *Sent:* Friday,

Re: [RE-wrenches] 80kW Radian

2015-09-16 Thread Ray Walters
I would add to your question: What BOS battery disconnect and combiner are folks using? Outback can stack but doesn't offer the other gear. I can share some pics supplied by their Tech support of a 5 Radian setup using telecom style overhead Buss bars; not sure how many inspectors are going to

Re: [RE-wrenches] Rooftop DC disconnects

2015-09-24 Thread Ray Walters
The other option is Midnite Solar's remote controlled breakers or combiner boxes. They make up to a 250 amp breaker, but I found on large battery systems that we need some thing larger. Colorado is now requiring Rapid Disconnect for the batteries as well, which is NOT the original intent of th

Re: [RE-wrenches] Flying with Makita batteries in checked or carryon?

2015-09-28 Thread Ray Walters
Flown many times with my tools. Batteries are carry on, and all the rest of the tools need to go in the checked baggage. R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc Nabcep Certified PV Installer, Licensed Master Electrician Solar Design Engineer 303 505-8760 On 9/28/2015 7:18 PM, Dan Fink wrote: Esteeme

Re: [RE-wrenches] Haticon Mid and Ends

2015-10-05 Thread Ray Walters
Contact S Flex in Denver http://www.sflex.com/htdocs/index.php/us/contact-information R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc Nabcep Certified PV Installer, Licensed Master Electrician Solar Design Engineer 303 505-8760 On 10/5/2015 7:37 PM, James Rudolph wrote: Aloha Wrenches, Does anybody know where

Re: [RE-wrenches] PV testing

2015-10-06 Thread Ray Walters
I agree, many module failures only show up under load. I just use a clamp on meter while the modules are still wired to the batteries. The PV150 can capture operating current and power as well, so it should be able to identify most module fails. I'm just not sure if it can do this without a lo

Re: [RE-wrenches] Haticon Mid and Ends

2015-10-06 Thread Ray Walters
have this same issue? Thanks, -- Bill Loesch Solar 1 - Saint Louis Solar 314 631 1094 On 10/5/2015 10:13 PM, Ray Walters wrote: Contact S Flex in Denver http://www.sflex.com/htdocs/index.php/us/contact-information R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc

[RE-wrenches] DPW Rack Problems

2015-10-06 Thread Ray Walters
Greetings All; I have used DP&W's top of pole racks for 20 years, but I've had my share of trouble, too. First the lead times are horrible, sometimes pushing 2 months. Second, the cost is approaching the cost of the modules, especially for high wind ratings. Third, they just can't seem to wai

Re: [RE-wrenches] Current limiting fuse at battery bank

2015-10-22 Thread Ray Walters
I agree installing a fuse at the battery bank is a good idea. However actually doing it right is tough. Putting the class T fuse and holder in a battery enclosure with flooded cells is going to cause more trouble than it solves. I've seen class T fuses oozing green goo out the ends, and the

Re: [RE-wrenches] traveling with digital meters

2015-11-09 Thread Ray Walters
Wow, I just got back from over seas myself, went through multiple checks, and have never had a problem with the probes on my meters. I always carry those on. I mean they're not really worse than a pen, pencil, paper clip, etc Or maybe there are some Ninja solar installers that can do some s

Re: [RE-wrenches] What is this racking system?

2015-11-10 Thread Ray Walters
Sorry Drake, I don't know what that one is. These rack questions come up so often on the list, we should create a data base to ID all the racking systems. R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc Nabcep Certified PV Installer, Licensed Master Electrician Solar Design Engineer 303 505-8760 On 11/10/201

[RE-wrenches] Sunnyboy TL with Batteries

2015-11-11 Thread Ray Walters
Hi All; It just occurred to me that the new secure power supply model Sunny Boy TL inverters might be able to charge a battery based inverter through its regular AC input, and avoid some of the control issues inherent to regular AC coupled systems. This would allow the secure power output to

[RE-wrenches] CEC Approved Retailer?

2015-11-17 Thread Ray Walters
HI All; I just ran across a solar retailer in Colorado claiming to be a "CEC approved retailer". Ever heard of that? I looked it up and the Clean Energy Council in Australia has an CEC approved retailer list, which of course this company is not on the list. CEC is also the Consumer Electronic

Re: [RE-wrenches] Mixing battery sizes in the same bank

2015-11-18 Thread Ray Walters
Even if it works for short term testing, I would imagine long term issues that would require more frequent equalization, and shorter cycle life. R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc Nabcep Certified PV Installer, Licensed Master Electrician Solar Design Engineer 303 505-8760 On 11/18/2015 5:09 PM,

Re: [RE-wrenches] Panasonic PV modules, missing you

2015-11-29 Thread Ray Walters
Dellta LA lightning arrestors would not prevent the diode damage you mentioned. I think many others on the list will confirm that Delta LAs are not effective at preventing equipment damage, and probably only useful in preventing complete wire melt down. Midnite found the Delta didn't start c

Re: [RE-wrenches] Wire management dual axis tracker

2015-11-30 Thread Ray Walters
We used to just bundle the PV cables and secure them close to the pivot point at both the rack and the pole with insulated wire loom clamps. We always made a big enough loop to handle full articulation, but not too long so they wouldn't catch on the Combiner box, etc. We also started using b

Re: [RE-wrenches] Wire management dual axis tracker

2015-12-01 Thread Ray Walters
- 970.626.5253 C - 208.721.7003 "Responsible Technologies for Responsible People since 1988" *P*Please consider the environment before printing this email. *From:*RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On Behalf Of *Ray Walters *Sent:* Monday, November 30, 201

Re: [RE-wrenches] Frozen T-105s

2015-12-03 Thread Ray Walters
Basically I would try to save the batteries and sell this guy what he really needs: a better system. Obviously there is no LVD, and so this whole sad story of 8 v out of 48v, and frozen electrolyte (more like just water). He needs a real inverter/ charger and put all his loads on AC or at least

Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback customer service???

2015-12-08 Thread Ray Walters
HI Larry; I second your suggestion that dealers have a separate, expedited contact line that reaches someone with a higher level of expertise. 1) We're repeat customers, and their front line sales team. 2) We're not going to call unless its something trickier to figure out. This has been a long

[RE-wrenches] Discover Batteries

2015-12-12 Thread Ray Walters
Anyone heard of or used Discover Batteries? http://discover-energy.com/products/advanced-tubular-batteries/ They have a sealed lead acid battery that they are claiming 1900 cycles to 80% DOD. Sounds amazing, but They are head quartered in Canada, and I'm having a hard time getting info on t

Re: [RE-wrenches] Discover Batteries

2015-12-13 Thread Ray Walters
9 AM, jay wrote: HI Ray, Not really that unique. Most industrial VRLA are pretty close. Just a quick check of the Outback site, has their RE version at 1500 cycles at 80%DOD and OPzV at 1800 cycles. Unigy, and Absolite 2P are going to right there as well. jay peltz power On Dec 12, 2

Re: [RE-wrenches] Rolls Surrette not honoring their warranty

2015-12-15 Thread Ray Walters
We've gotten Rolls clunkers right from the factory with zero volts, and yes we had to get nasty to get it replaced. They wanted to charge us shipping under the warranty terms, and I stood my ground: they sold a hunk of lead, when I paid for a battery. That is not completing the sales transacti

Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback customer service???

2015-12-15 Thread Ray Walters
I think many manufacturers use Refurb parts for repair/ warranty. I had a cell phone replaced under warranty and the "new" one was not new at all. R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc Nabcep Certified PV Installer, Licensed Master Electrician Solar Design Engineer 303 505-8760 On 12/15/2015 7:24 P

Re: [RE-wrenches] 4 ways to keep a battery for a long time

2015-12-17 Thread Ray Walters
Hi Larry and Jay; I totally agree, that taking into account charge and discharge rates, DOD, and temperature, we should be able to more accurately model a battery's lifespan. We already have temp sensors at the battery, so it seems just a matter of software to do this. Also battery's nonlin

Re: [RE-wrenches] HuP Conundrum

2015-12-17 Thread Ray Walters
It's also possible to charge just the weak cells using an automotive charger set to 6 v. R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc Nabcep Certified PV Installer, Licensed Master Electrician Solar Design Engineer 303 505-8760 On 12/17/2015 8:29 AM, Luke Christy wrote: Thanks Guys, for the feedback. I r

Re: [RE-wrenches] 4 ways to keep a battery for a long time

2015-12-18 Thread Ray Walters
3 505-8760 On 12/18/2015 8:44 AM, Starlight Solar Power Systems wrote: On Dec 17, 2015, at 11:55 AM, Ray Walters wrote: ...but as far as I can tell, every other storage chemistry has similar characteristics: lower capacity at low temps, a high temp limit, non-linear cycle life depending on DOD,

Re: [RE-wrenches] the federal tax credit this year

2015-12-19 Thread Ray Walters
I heard Congress just approved the extension of the 30% tax credit beyond 2016. Supposedly the rule changed to "begin construction" from "put into service", but I don't think that takes effect till 2017. Definitely want a tax pro to look the whole thing over, especially in light of the new ru

Re: [RE-wrenches] Surrette L-16 battereis

2015-12-28 Thread Ray Walters
The HUP is a smaller footprint than L16s because it is a taller battery. We've moded quite a few battery boxes just by raising them and adding a strip of wood at the bottom. R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc Nabcep Certified PV Installer, Licensed Master Electrician Solar Design Engineer 303 50

Re: [RE-wrenches] fire extinguishers

2016-01-14 Thread Ray Walters
I think I would put in an eye wash station first, followed by a set of cable cutters. The one battery fire I experienced was a quick burn of the hydrogen off of a single cell, lasted a few seconds with very little heat, and extinguished it self. It was the result of a shorted battery cable, s

Re: [RE-wrenches] Battery corrosion issue

2016-01-20 Thread Ray Walters
The EZ out is for unscrewing a threaded connection, I've spent a bunch of time with those only to have the EZ out break off in there too. Then you've got a real mess of hardened tool steel. I would first drill several small 1/8" holes in the lead around the circumference of the bolt. Then,

Re: [RE-wrenches] Solarworld

2016-01-21 Thread Ray Walters
What I've seen lately in my Spam box, advertised at the usual ridiculous price, is for low wattage Solarworld modules. We currently are installing 285 and 290 watt models, and what was being offered were 260 and under. Either they're knock offs, or someone is moving some really old stock. Thi

Re: [RE-wrenches] Plastic washers

2016-01-28 Thread Ray Walters
I would use a SS washer with integrated Neoprene rubber gasket. We use them on roof work, and Unirac uses them under the lag on their roof flashings. Image result for neoprene washers https://www.copperstate.com/shop/429/neoprene-washers Thanks, R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc Nabcep Certifi

Re: [RE-wrenches] Plastic washers

2016-01-28 Thread Ray Walters
plastics is they don’t compress so you do get a ridged structure. jay peltz power On Jan 28, 2016, at 10:15 AM, Ray Walters <mailto:r...@solarray.com>> wrote: I would use a SS washer with integrated Neoprene rubber gasket. We use them on roof work, and Unirac uses them under the lag

[RE-wrenches] Battery Box Construction

2016-01-28 Thread Ray Walters
Hi All; We're looking to improve our battery box construction, and are considering using 1/8" think polypropylene sheeting. I've used small premade boxes before, but this will be for a HUP install, and we would want to build the box around the batteries after. Does anyone have experience/ c

Re: [RE-wrenches] Battery Box Construction

2016-01-28 Thread Ray Walters
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 cell* ** On 1/28/2016 3:25 PM, Ray Walters wrote: Hi All; We're looking to

Re: [RE-wrenches] Battery Box Construction

2016-01-29 Thread Ray Walters
respirators to Demo a box that was in a dilapidated and soon to be be razed structure. The general contractor and client stood by laughing and commented that it looked like a scene from Breaking Bad! On Jan 28, 2016, at 9:18 PM, Ray Walters <mailto:r...@solarray.com>> wrote: Thanks fo

Re: [RE-wrenches] Aquion Batteries

2016-01-29 Thread Ray Walters
That new chart is for a single block, but we would want the M100 or M110 which is 12 of those S30 blocks connected together (580 AH @ 20 hr rate). I haven't tried them, but I penciled out the ROI and at 3000 cycles they stand up well against other lead acid batteries. 40 v is low, but I believ

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

2016-01-31 Thread Ray Walters
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

Re: [RE-wrenches] Radian ROCB in Outback GSLC 120/240 AC

2016-02-04 Thread Ray Walters
What batteries are you using? I've had flooded lead acid batteries have several mA of current flowing to ground through the acid mist along the side of the battery. I had the battery bank supposedly isolated but got a shock and traced the connection to ground to the middle of the battery pack

[RE-wrenches] Old Net Metering

2016-02-09 Thread Ray Walters
Greetings Esteemed Wrenches; I just received an interesting call from an owner of a late 1990s vintage GTB system here in Colorado. (Trace SW4048 I'm guessing) The tenants had disconnected the grid for almost 2 years and lived in the house off grid. They had also done many scary wiring "upgr

Re: [RE-wrenches] Old Net Metering

2016-02-09 Thread Ray Walters
the owners manual 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 Feb 9, 2016, at 12:23 PM, Ray Walters wrote: Greetings Esteemed Wrenches; I just received an interesting call

Re: [RE-wrenches] Old Net Metering

2016-02-09 Thread Ray Walters
Design Expert All Solar, Inc. 1463 M St Penrose Colorado 81240 Sent by Jeremy's iPhone. Sorry for typos and shorthand! > On Feb 9, 2016, at 12:23 PM, Ray Walters mailto:r...@solarray.com>> wrote: > > Greetings Esteemed Wrenches; > >

Re: [RE-wrenches] PV-direct air heating?

2016-03-09 Thread Ray Walters
I believe you would still need a battery for the Classic to work properly. R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc Nabcep Certified PV Installer, Licensed Master Electrician Solar Design Engineer 303 505-8760 On 3/9/2016 7:07 PM, Dan Fink wrote: I have an interesting question I haven't run into before,

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