The information contained in this manual is subject to change by Advanced Energy
Industries, Inc. without prior notice. Advanced Energy Industries, Inc. makes no warranty of
any kind whatsoever, either expressed or implied, with respect to the information contained
herein. Advanced Energy Industries, Inc. shall not be liable in damages, of whatever kind, as
a result of the reliance on or use of the information contained herein.
PRODUCT USAGE STATEMENT
WARNING:
Read this entire manual and all other publications pertaining to the work to
be performed before you install, operate, or maintain this equipment. Practice
all plant and product safety instructions and precautions. Failure to follow
instructions can cause personal injury and/or property damage. If the
equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the
protection provided by the equipment may be impaired. All personnel who
work with or who are exposed to this equipment must take precautions to
protect themselves against serious or possibly fatal bodily injury.
Advanced Energy Industries, Inc., (AE) provides information on its products
and associated hazards, but it assumes no responsibility for the after-sale
operation of the equipment or the safety practices of the owner or user.
NEVER DEFEAT INTERLOCKS OR GROUNDS.
TRADEMARKS
is a registered trademark of Advanced Energy Industries, Inc.
Advanced Power Controls™ is a trademark of Advanced Energy Industries, Inc.
iv570-1002542-05B
Belden® is a registered trademark of Belden, Inc.
Modbus® is a registered trademark of Schneider Electric USA, Inc.
Power Factor Pro™ is a trademark of Advanced Energy Industries, Inc.
Windows® is a registered trademark of the Microsoft Corporation.
PATENTS
Subject to patents listed at http://www.advanced-energy.com/en/Patents.html.
CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
Advanced Energy’s technical writing staff has carefully developed this manual using
research-based document design principles. However, improvement is ongoing, and the
writing staff welcomes and appreciates customer feedback. Please send any comments on the
content, organization, or format of this user manual to:
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
• tech.writing@aei.com
To order a manual, please contact AE Solar Energy Technical Support:
• invertersupport@aei.com
570-1002542-05Bv
Advanced Energy
vi570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Table of Contents
Chapter 1. Safety and Product Compliance Guidelines
Important Safety Instructions ................................................................................ 1-1
Save These Instructions ........................................................................................ 1-1
Danger, Warning, and Caution Boxes in the Manual ............................................ 1-1
To ensure safe installation and operation of the Advanced Energy AE 3TL unit, read
and understand this manual before attempting to install and operate this unit. At a
minimum, read and follow the safety guidelines, instructions, and practices.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
1
This manual contains important instructions for the AE 3TL unit that shall be
followed during installation and maintenance of the unit.
DANGER, WARNING, AND CAUTION BOXES
IN THE MANUAL
This symbol represents important notes concerning potential harm to people, this
unit, or associated equipment. Advanced Energy includes this symbol in Danger,
Warning, and Caution boxes to identify specific levels of hazard seriousness.
DANGER:
DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury. DANGER is limited to the most extreme
situations.
DANGER:
DANGER indique une situation dangereuse imminente qui, si elle n’est pas
évitée, pourrait provoquer la mort ou des blessures graves. DANGER est
réservé aux situations les plus extrêmes.
570-1002542-05BSafety and Product Compliance Guidelines1‑1
Advanced Energy
WARNING:
WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury, and/or property damage.
AVERTISSEMENT:
AVERTISSEMENT indique une situation potentiellement dangereuse qui, si
elle n’est pas évitée, pourrait provoquer la mort ou des blessures graves et/
ou des dommages matériels.
CAUTION:
CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury, and/or property damage. CAUTION
is also used for property-damage-only accidents.
ATTENTION:
ATTENTION indique une situation potentiellement dangereuse qui, si elle
n’est pas évitée, pourrait provoquer des blessures mineures ou modérées et/
ou des dommages matériels. ATTENTION est également utilisé pour des
accidents causant uniquement des dommages matériels.
SAFETY GUIDELINES
Commissioning and operation of this unit must be carried out by qualified personnel.
Qualified personnel includes licensed electricians, service personnel, and authorized
operators who have read and fully understood all of the technical information and the
safety instructions contained in this manual.
Review the following information before attempting to install and operate the
product.
Rules for Safe Installation and Operation
Please note the following rules:
•
Do not attempt to install or operate this equipment without proper training.
• Ensure that this unit is properly grounded.
• Ensure that all cables are properly connected.
• Verify that input line voltage and current capacity are within specifications
before turning on the power supplies.
• Use proper electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions.
1‑2Safety and Product Compliance Guidelines570-1002542-05B
Ensure that any personnel entering a safety zone within a four foot area around any
operating inverter wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as
mandated by national, state, and local authorities.
Medical and First Aid Treatment
Personnel working in and around operating power generation equipment should be
trained in arc flash hazard, fire extinguisher selection and use, first aid, cardio
pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and automated external defibrillator (AED) use when
each is applicable.
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Safety Equipment Requirements
Authorized service personnel performing operations on this unit should have the
following minimum safety equipment available:
• Consult NFPA 70E, or applicable local standards, for PPE requirements on
switch gear operating at less than 600 V
• Electrical hazard footwear (ANSI Z41/Z85 rated)
• Lockout Tagout (LOTO) Kit
• Appropriate meter to verify the circuits are safely de-energized (1000 VAC and
DC rated, minimum)
• Any other equipment as applicable to your operation as required by national,
state, and local regulations
INTERPRETING PRODUCT LABELS
The following labels may appear on your unit:
570-1002542-05BSafety and Product Compliance Guidelines1‑3
1029
1028
1309
1027
3054
Advanced Energy
Protective Earth ground
Hazardous voltage
Hot surface
Refer to manual for more information
Heavy object—can cause muscle strain
or back injury
Electrocution hazard
Hazardous voltage
PRODUCT COMPLIANCE
The following sections include information about unit compliance and certification,
including the conditions of use required to be in compliance with the standards and
directives.
Safety and EMC Directives and Standards
Certain options of this unit have been tested for and comply with the following
electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and safety directives and standards and
industry guidelines.
1‑4Safety and Product Compliance Guidelines570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
☞Important
This equipment must be installed and used in accordance with the Conditions
of Use described in this manual. If this equipment is expanded, modified, or
installed into a larger system, the user is responsible to guarantee the
compliance of the overall system. If this equipment is used with external
components, the user must ensure that the Safety and EMC requirements are
not violated.
SAFETY DIRECTIVES AND STANDARDS
• UL1741
Inverters, Converters, Controllers and Interconnection System Equipment for
Use With Distributed Energy Resources (2010)
◦ IEEE 1547
Standard for Interconnecting Distributed Resource with Electric Power
Systems
◦ IEEE 1547.1
Standard for Conformance Tests Procedures for Equipment Interconnecting
Distributed Resources with Electric Power Systems
• FCC Part 15 Class B conducted emissions
• National Electrical Code
Can be installed in compliance with National Electrical Code 2008 and 2011
Editions Article 690 Solar Photovoltaic Systems
UTILITY INTERCONNECTION
• Voltage and Frequency Variation
IEEE 1547.1—Automatic disconnection device between a generator and the
public low-voltage grid
• Prevention of Islanding—IEEE 1547.1 Standard for Conformance Tests
Procedures for Equipment Interconnecting Distributed Resources with Electric
Power Systems was used for the test method; Automatic disconnection device
between a generator and the public low-voltage grid was used for timing
requirements
Electrical Safety
DANGER:
Risk of electrical shock. High voltages are present in the inverter cabinet.
The DC disconnect must be in the OFF position when working on the unit.
Wait five minutes to discharge high voltage before opening the connection
box of the inverter.
570-1002542-05BSafety and Product Compliance Guidelines1‑5
Advanced Energy
DANGER:
Risque de choc électrique. Le boîtier de l’onduleur contient de hautes
tensions. La source de tension CC (DC Disconnect) doit être à la position
OFF lorsque des travaux sont effectués sur l’appareil. Attendre cinq minutes
pour que les composants haute tension se déchargent avant d’ouvrir la boîte
de jonction de l’onduleur.
CAUTION:
Risk of electrical shock. All electrical installations should be accomplished in
accordance with applicable national or local standards.
ATTENTION:
Risque d'électrocution. Toutes les installations électriques doivent se faire
conformément aux normes nationales ou locales applicables.
DANGER:
Risk of electrical shock. Before connecting the inverter to the electrical utility
grid, your utility company must grant approval. Only qualified electricians
should make the connection to the utility grid.
DANGER:
Risque d’électrocution. L’autorisation officielle de votre compagnie locale
d’électricité est requise avant de brancher l’onduleur sur le réseau public.
Seul le personnel qualifié est autorisé à brancher le dispositif sur le réseau
public d’électricité.
☞Important
Electromagnetic radiation of the unit is equal to standard household equipment.
No special precautions are required for people with pacemakers, metallic
implants, or hearing aids.
DISCONNECT SWITCHES
The inverter is equipped with a disconnect for DC (power OFF) to stop power
conversion within the inverter. Before accessing the interior of the cabinet, the
disconnect must be in the OFF position.
Wiring Requirements
Inverters should be installed by qualified individuals and in accordance with LDC
regulations, local building, and electric codes. Consult NEC 690 (USA), CEC Section
50 and 64 (Canada), for additional information.
1‑6Safety and Product Compliance Guidelines570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
You must meet the following requirements when wiring the AE 3TL inverter:
Table 1‑1. Branch breaker size recommendations
ModelBreaker Size
AE 3TL-12kW20 A
AE 3TL-16kW30 A
AE 3TL-20kW35 A
AE 3TL-23kW40 A
WIRING INFORMATION
☞Important
You must use National Electrical Code (ANSI/NFPA 70) wiring methods.
•
All wiring methods and materials shall be in accordance with the National
Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70 as well as all state and local code requirements.
• Installations in Canada should be in accordance with the Canadian Electrical
Code (CEC) or applicable local standards.
• When sizing conductors and conduits for connection to the AE 3TL inverters,
both shall be in accordance with the National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70,
as well as state and local code requirements.
• The AC power conductor terminal connections in the inverter should be
tightened to the torque value specified in the installation instructions. Each
conductor should be connected separately to the terminal.
• The DC power conductor terminal connections in the inverter should be
tightened to the torque value specified in the installation instructions. Each
conductor should be connected separately to the terminal.
• AC overcurrent protection for the utility interconnect (grid-tied) must be
provided by the installers as part of the inverter installation.
• Use only conductors with an insulation rating of 90°C (194°F) minimum
insulation rating.
• This equipment is intended to be installed as part of a permanently grounded
electrical system per the NEC or local standards.
WIRING CONNECTIONS
The inverter is connected to the utility grid at the AC terminals in the connection box.
These terminals require the use of a UL-approved compression terminal connector.
The AE 3TL inverter is configured for 480 VAC, three-phase output.
The inverter is connected to the DC photovoltaic array in the connection box, which
includes ten positive and negative terminals. The fuse size cannot exceed the current
carrying capabilities of the unit or the conductor.
570-1002542-05BSafety and Product Compliance Guidelines1‑7
Advanced Energy
Grounding Requirements
Determine the appropriate grounding method with the responsible authority having
jurisdiction.
System grounding, if required by Section 250 of the National Electrical Code,
•
ANSI/NFPA 70, is the responsibility of the installer.
• The photovoltaic system grounding shall be installed per the requirements of
Section 690.41 through 690.47 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA
70, and is the responsibility of the installer.
GROUNDING THE PV MODULES
• The PV frames require an equipment grounding conductor per NEC
requirements.
• The inverter is a transformerless inverter. For this reason, it has no galvanic
isolation. Neither the (+) pole nor the (–) pole of the modules connected to the
inverter can be grounded. Only the array frame/racking and modules frame
must be grounded, or only the PV module frame and racking must be grounded.
• Insulation resistance detection (ground fault detection): Since the inverter is
connected to ungrounded PV arrays, it has an insulation resistance detection
circuit that measures the DC insulation resistance between the PV array inputs
and earth ground prior starting.
• An Isolation Monitor Interrupter (IMI) is used to limit ground fault and backfeed current to the array and the protective earth connection. This device limits
shock hazards by restricting the ability of the unit to connect to the grid when
the system exceeds the limits stated in UL1741. Additionally, the PV array
Isolation Monitor Interrupter monitors for ground fault current as required by
UL1741. If a ground fault occurs, the inverter will disconnect and will not
restart until the fault has been cleared.
GROUNDING THE INVERTER
The grounding is provided to assure optimum overvoltage protection. The gauge of
the Equipment Grounding Conductor (EGC) must be sized in accordance with Table
250.122 of the NEC.
A GND stud bolt is available in the connection box below the grid connection.
GROUNDING THE AC CIRCUIT
A Protective Earth (PE) feed-through terminal block is available in the AC
connection area. The gauge of the AC grounding conductor must be sized in
accordance with Table 250.122 of the NEC.
• Establish a ground connection at one of the GND marked terminals before
connecting to the grid.
1‑8Safety and Product Compliance Guidelines570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Heat Hazard
The AE 3TL cabinet surface and heat sink can reach temperatures up to 75°C
(167°F).
WARNING:
Risk of burn. The inverter components can become extremely hot during
normal operation. Use caution when working around the heat sink area.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Risque de brulure. Certaines parties de l’onduleur peuvent atteindre des
températures considérables durant une exploitation normale. Soyez prudent
durant les travaux autour du puits thermique.
LOCKOUT AND TAGOUT REQUIREMENTS
To prepare the AE 3TL unit for maintenance or troubleshooting, you must deenergize and isolate the AC and the DC interface energy sources before working on
the unit.
ACRONYMS AND FREQUENTLY USED
TERMS
Table 1‑2. Acronyms and frequently used terms
A/DAnalog to digital conversion
AFIInsulation fault
ANSIAmerican National Standards Institute
BEMSBuilding energy management system
CFMCubic feet per minute
TermDescription
DeratingA controlled reduction in performance, usually dependent on
component temperatures.
DHCPDynamic host configuration protocol
DNSDomain name service
570-1002542-05BSafety and Product Compliance Guidelines1‑9
Advanced Energy
Table 1‑2. Acronyms and frequently used terms (Continued)
TermDescription
DSPDigital signal processor
DVIDigital video interface
EMIElectromagnetic interference
ESDElectrostatic discharge
GECGrounding electrode conductor
GFDIGround fault detector interruptor
IEEEInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
IGBTInsulated gate bipolar transistor
InverterAlso called the switching section or engine, this is the part of the
unit that inverts DC current to AC current.
IPInternet protocol
IslandingIslanding occurs when the inverter continues to feed power to a
de-energized AC main circuit.
LOTOLockout Tagout
MCM1000 circular mils utilized in wire sizing
MPPTMaximum power point tracking
NECNational Electric Code
NFPANational Fire Protection Association
NTPNetwork time protocol
OEM modeOriginal equipment manufacturer mode
PCBPrinted circuit board
PLLPhase lock loop
PPEPersonal protective equipment
PVPhotovoltaic
PVMPV monitoring
PVM SyncSoftware application used to query inverters
PWMPulse width modulation
Remote enable/
disable
The inverter system can be remotely turned on or off. The
inverter restarts after a five minute countdown.
RMSRoot mean squared
SCADASupervisory control and data acquisition. A computer system that
monitors and controls infrastructure or facility-based processes.
Set pointInverter is operating and delivering power at defined parameters.
StringA group of series-connected PV modules.
ULUnderwriter's Laboratory
1‑10Safety and Product Compliance Guidelines570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Table 1‑2. Acronyms and frequently used terms (Continued)
TermDescription
UTCUniversal time coordinate. Also known as Greenwich mean time.
VACVoltage alternating current
VDCVoltage direct current
VFDVacuum fluorescent display
VocOpen-circuit voltage
570-1002542-05BSafety and Product Compliance Guidelines1‑11
Advanced Energy
1‑12Safety and Product Compliance Guidelines570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Chapter
Product Overview
OVERVIEW OF THE AE 3TL THREE-PHASE
INVERTER
The Advanced Energy AE 3TL three-phase inverter converts direct current (DC)
power generated by a PV panel into alternating current (AC) compatible with the
local electrical distribution network (also called the public utility or the grid system).
The grid-tied, three-phase AE 3TL inverter is designed with a transformerless
topology. Therefore, this inverter may not be compatible for use with PV modules
that require a negative or positive polarity relative to ground. Contact the supplier
before using this inverter for these applications.
2
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The AE 3TL three-phase inverter contains everything needed to convert the DC
energy generated by the PV array(s) into AC energy for the utility grid.
Maximum CEC efficiency: 97.5% for AE 3TL-12kW, AE 3TL-16kW,
•
AE 3TL-20kW; 98.0% for AE 3TL-23kW
• Peak efficiency is 98.2%
• Transformerless design
• Options for 600 V and 1000 V projects
• Wide DC voltage operating range:
◦ 600 series is 125 V to 450 V
◦ 1000 series is 250 V to 900 V
• Connection box for wiring
• Integrated DC disconnect switch
• NEMA 4 electronics enclosure, NEMA 3R connection enclosure
• Finger-safe fuses
• Modbus communication
• Convection cooling with an internal temperature monitoring system to protect
the inverter from exceeding the permissible ambient temperature
570-1002542-05BProduct Overview2‑1
Inverter
PV array
Meter
Utility grid
Advanced Energy
The AE inverter provides conventional RS-485 and Ethernet communication
interfaces. The screen provides the feed-in power progression and other operating
data. The control panel buttons facilitate ease of operation.
Figure 2‑1. AE inverter installed in a utility grid PV system
IDENTIFYING THE PARTS OF THE AE 3TL
INVERTER
The inverter has two main sections: the main housing and the connection box. The
main housing contains the power conversion components. The connection box
contains the DC input and AC output connections.
The control panel includes a screen with four status LEDs and eight buttons for
navigating through data or inputting commands.
2‑2Product Overview570-1002542-05B
Main inverter housing
Connection box
Display, LEDs, and control buttons
Heatsink
DC Disconnect
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Figure 2‑2. Main components of the AE 3TL inverter
The name plate on the right side of the AE 3TL inverter can be used to identify a
specific unit. The name plate provides general electrical information for the inverter.
A warning label is located on the right side of inverter. The warning label includes
important notices to prevent electric shock and damage to the unit. Whenever you are
working with the unit, read and follow all the notifications on this warning label.
OVERVIEW OF THE INVERTER CONTROLS
AND DISPLAY
The AE 3TL inverter is easy to access and service. The unit provides the following
features to facilitate installation and operation:
• Display: The screen lights up the first time a button is pushed. It displays
measured values and parameters, and provides fault messages. The screen turns
off automatically when it is not in use.
• LED indicators: Four LEDs provide operating status.
• Control buttons: Eight control keys allow you to navigate the menus and
configure the inverter settings.
570-1002542-05BProduct Overview2‑3
Display
DC disconnect switch
Control buttons
LED indicators
Advanced Energy
• DC disconnect switch: The built-in disconnect switch allows you to disconnect
DC input from the inverter.
Figure 2‑3. Inverter controls and display
2‑4Product Overview570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Chapter
Planning
MOVING AND STORING THE INVERTER
Store the inverter in a clean and dry room in the original packaging. Always transport
the inverter in its original packaging. If the storage period exceeds two years, contact
AE Solar Energy Technical Support prior to connecting the inverter.
The moving and storage temperature must be between -25°C (-13°F) and +70°C
•
(+158°F).
• Temperature fluctuations may not exceed 20°C (35°F) per hour.
• The inverter contains electrolytic capacitors that can be stored for a maximum
of two years without voltage at a temperature of 40°C (104°F).
3
SELECTING A LOCATION
A qualified installer should select the location for the installation of an AE 3TL
inverter. Licensed and trained installers must comply with all local and national code
requirements for the installation of electrical power systems.
When choosing a location for the unit, consider the following criteria:
• The unit is suitable for both indoor and outdoor installation; the inverter cabinet
has a NEMA 4 rating and connection box enclosure has a NEMA 3R rating.
• The optimum location of the unit is shielded from direct exposure to sunlight.
• The unit should be mounted vertically to a flat, solid surface such as concrete,
metal, or wooden structure.
• The inverter is designed and tested to produce maximum continuous output
power within the operating temperature ranges. Refer to “Environmental
Specifications” on page 9-4 for model-specific continuous output power
ranges.
• Ensure that adequate space has been allowed for proper cooling. Refer to
“Dimensions” on page 3-3
• Ensure that the drilling location is not close to any electrical wiring or plumbing
within a wall.
• The inverter is capable of emitting audible noise and should be located away
from noise-sensitive areas that are populated by people or animals.
570-1002542-05BPlanning3‑1
50 cm (20”)
15 cm (6”)
15 cm (6”)5 cm (2”)
Advanced Energy
SPACING AND CLEARANCES
The inverter requires adequate space for proper cooling. When installed, the inverter
must have the following clearances:
Table 3‑1. Mounting clearances
LocationMinimum Clearance
Top51 cm (20″)
Bottom51 cm (20″)
Side15 cm (6″); right side of last inverter is 5 cm (2") clearance
Rear00 cm (0″)
FrontClearance as specified by NEC 110.26.
Figure 3‑1. Required clearances
☞Important
If the inverter will be used as the standard disconnect, the inverter must meet
NEC mounting requirements.
When installing the inverter, you should also consider the location of the LEDs and
the display for ease of visibility. AE recommends the display is located
approximately 160 cm (63″) above the ground.
3‑2Planning570-1002542-05B
DIMENSIONS
53 cm (21.1”)
94 cm
(37”)
27 cm (11”)
The following figure shows the unit dimensions.
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Figure 3‑2. Inverter dimensions
UTILITY GRID INTERCONNECTION
DANGER:
Risk of electrical shock. Before connecting the inverter to the electrical utility
grid, your utility company must grant approval. Only qualified electricians
should make the connection to the utility grid.
DANGER:
Risque d’électrocution. L’autorisation officielle de votre compagnie locale
d’électricité est requise avant de brancher l’onduleur sur le réseau public.
Seul le personnel qualifié est autorisé à brancher le dispositif sur le réseau
public d’électricité.
Utility Connection Requirements
Review all applicable national and local codes for specific requirements regarding the
size of the electrical service and the amount of current that is allowed to be fed into
the panel by the inverter.
570-1002542-05BPlanning3‑3
Advanced Energy
Contacting Your Local Utility
Contact your electrical utility before connecting the inverter to ensure there are no
local restrictions or special requirements. Your local utility company may require
specific inspections, equipment, or other procedures not covered in this document.
Voltage Output
The AC output voltage is available on the inverter nameplate for available output
voltage configurations. AC and DC power requirements are included in the
specifications. The inverter must be connected to a 480 VAC grounded Wye service.
CONNECTION BOX OVERVIEW
The connection box contains the electrical components that are used for the DC input
voltage and the AC output voltage. The following list describes the important
components contained in the connection box.
DC disconnect
•
• DC input connections:
◦ 600 series: Two terminal blocks, DC1 and DC2, for connecting the DC
conductors from the PV modules
◦ 1000 series: One terminal block for connecting the DC conductors from the
PV modules
• AC main connection: Terminal block for connecting the AC conductors from
the utility grid
• Communications board containing the communications connections:
◦ RS-485 IN and OUT connections
◦ Ethernet RJ-45 interface connection
◦ Analog input for sensor connection
3‑4Planning570-1002542-05B
Grounding stud
RS-485 connection
Sensor connection (analog)
RJ-45 Ethernet connection
AC input
DC inputs
DC disconnect
Communication board
Figure 3‑3. Components of the 600 series connection box
Grounding stud
RS-485 connection
Sensor connection (analog)
RJ-45 Ethernet connection
AC input
DC inputs
DC disconnect
Communication board
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Figure 3‑4. Components of the 1000 series connection box
570-1002542-05BPlanning3‑5
Advanced Energy
3‑6Planning570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Chapter
Installing
HANDLING AND UNPACKING
This section describes the required safe handling and unpacking procedures for the
AE 3TL inverter. Always follow the recommendations in this section to prevent
accidental damage or injury.
Unpacking the Unit
Multiple handles are located on both sides of the inverter to facilitate lifting the unit
during installation. Due to the length and weight of the inverter, two people are
required to lift the unit.
4
WARNING:
Use proper lifting methods to unpack and mount the inverter. Improper
methods could result in serious injury or damage the unit.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Employer les méthodes de levage appropriées pour déballer et installer
l’onduleur. L’utilisation de méthodes inappropriées pourrait entraîner des
blessures graves ou endommager l’appareil.
WARNING:
Heavy equipment. AE 3TL units weigh up to 55 kg (120 lb) with pallet and
packaging. If the unit is lifted incorrectly, it may result in death. In addition,
improper handling may result in serious damage to the unit and may also
void the warranty. Keep all doors securely closed while moving the unit. Only
use lifting equipment that is rated for the weight of the unit. Only use the
specified lifting points.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Équipement lourd. Les unités AE 3TL pèsent jusqu’à 55 kg (120 lb) avec
palettes et emballage. Tout levage inadéquat de l’unité peut provoquer la
mort. De plus, toute manipulation inadéquate peut provoquer des dommages
graves à l’unité et pourrait aussi annuler la garantie. Garder toutes les portes
bien fermées lors du déplacement de l’unité. Utiliser uniquement un
équipement de levage d'une capacité nominale convenant au poids de cette
unité. Utiliser uniquement les points de levage spécifiés.
570-1002542-05BInstalling4‑1
Advanced Energy
TOOLS REQUIRED
•
TO UNPACK THE INVERTER
1. Set the box on a solid surface with the arrows pointing up.
WARNING:
Do not attempt to lift the full weight of the unit from the left or right sides only.
Attempting to lift from just the left or right sides only will result in an unstable
and unsafe condition.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Ne pas tenter de soulever l’unité uniquement à partir du côté gauche ou
droit. Toute tentative de soulever l’unité par le côté gauche ou droit pourrait
occasionner une situation d’instabilité dangereuse.
Utility knife
The unit is packed so the bottom of the inverter, the connection box, is what
you see when you open the top of the box.
4‑2Installing570-1002542-05B
Upper handle
Central handle
Lower handle
Central handle
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Figure 4‑1. Handle locations
2. Carefully open the box.
3. Use the central handles on each side of the inverter to lift the inverter from the
box.
The cardboard flap remains attached to the inverter housing and can be used to
protect the unit when it is placed on the floor to prevent damage to the lid.
Save the shipping container in case in the future the inverter needs to be moved
in to a new location or returned for service.
Package Contents
The following items are included with the inverter when it is packaged for shipping:
• Wall mount bracket with Phillips screws and M8 washers to secure the bracket
• Connector parts:
to the wall
◦ Two 4-pin RS-485 connectors
◦ One 5-pin connector for irradiation sensor
570-1002542-05BInstalling4‑3
Advanced Energy
• User manual
To Inspect the Inverter
Inspect the shipping materials and the inverter for any cosmetic or structural
1.
damage.
2. Inspect the screen for any visible damage.
If no damage is apparent, proceed with the inverter installation.
If you do see signs of shipping damage, contact Advanced Energy and the
carrier immediately. If you need to return the inverter, it must be shipped in the
original shipping container.
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
DANGER:
RISK OF DEATH OR BODILY INJURY. Disconnect and lockout/tagout all
sources of input power before working on this unit or anything connected to
it.
DANGER:
RISQUE DE MORT OU DE BLESSURES CORPORELLES. Débrancher et
verrouiller/étiqueter toutes les sources de puissance d’entrée avant de
travailler sur cette unité ou sur tout élément qui y est raccordé.
WARNING:
Do not attempt to lift the full weight of the unit from the left or right sides only.
Attempting to lift from just the left or right sides only will result in an unstable
and unsafe condition.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Ne pas tenter de soulever l’unité uniquement à partir du côté gauche ou
droit. Toute tentative de soulever l’unité par le côté gauche ou droit pourrait
occasionner une situation d’instabilité dangereuse.
4‑4Installing570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
WARNING:
Maintenance personnel must receive proper training before installing,
troubleshooting, or maintaining high-energy electrical equipment. Potentially
lethal voltages could cause death, serious personal injury, or damage to the
equipment. Ensure that all appropriate safety precautions are taken.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Le personnel d’entretien doit recevoir une formation appropriée avant
d’installer, de dépanner ou d’entretenir un équipement électrique à haute
énergie. Des tensions potentiellement mortelles pourraient provoquer la
mort, des blessures graves ou des dommages à l’équipement. S’assurer que
toutes les consignes de sécurité appropriées ont été respectées.
WARNING:
Installation errors can cause a fire, explosion, or electrocution. Never install
the inverter near combustible building materials or in an area where there is
a risk of explosion.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Toute erreur d’installation pourrait causer un incendie, une explosion ou
provoquer une électrocution. Ne jamais installer l’onduleur à proximité de
matériaux de construction combustibles ou dans un endroit à risque
d’explosion.
Select an installation location that meets the following requirements:
•
Observe all applicable building codes.
• If installing the unit outdoors, do not mount the unit in direct sunlight. A shaded
area is preferable.
• Area must be well ventilated for heat dissipation from the inverter.
• Maintain a minimum clearance of 3 m (approximately 10′) from combustible
materials.
• Install the unit vertically on a stable wall of concrete, metal, or wooden
framework capable of supporting the following:
◦ 49 kg (108 lb) per inverter
◦ Allow for a safety margin for the weight of the inverter multiplied by the
number of inverters
◦ Each inverter needs four weight bearing installation points
• The mounting hardware should be selected based on the following:
◦ Wall anchors for concrete or block walls
◦ Bolts and nuts for metal or wooden framework
570-1002542-05BInstalling4‑5
Heatsink cooling fins
Advanced Energy
• The display should be located approximately 160 cm (63″) above the ground for
•
☞Important
ease of use and operation. An elevated mounting position is permitted if easy
access to the display is provided. Viewing the display using a ladder, an aerial
platform or the equivalent is acceptable.
Minimum clearances for each inverter must be observed.
Do not impair or block the heat sink cooling fins. Never install the units above
one another. Do not cover the cooling fins of the heat sink as this might cause
overheating of the inverter and may void the warranty.
Figure 4‑2. Inverter cooling fins
MOUNTING THE UNIT
Mounting Requirements
4‑6Installing570-1002542-05B
The wall mount bracket included with the inverter can be used for installation on a
concrete wall or a metal framework. Before mounting the inverter, ensure that the
wall can handle the weight of the inverter(s).
When mounting the inverter, consider the following requirements:
WARNING:
Before drilling holes to mount the inverter, verify that there are no electrical
wires or plumbing in the area.
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
AVERTISSEMENT:
Avant de percer des trous pour installer l’onduleur, vérifier qu’iln’y a aucun fil
électrique ou plomberie dans le secteu.
CAUTION:
When rack mounting the AE 3TL unit, you must use support rails to support
the unit. The AE 3TL unit face plate will not support the weight of the unit.
ATTENTION:
Si vous effectuez un montage sur rails de l’appareil AE 3TL , il est
nécessaire d’utiliser un dispositif d’appui pour supporter l’appareil. La plaque
avant de l’appareil AE 3TL ne peut supporter le poids de celui-ci.
CAUTION:
Care MUST be taken to protect the inverter from compressive stresses or
forces which may dent or deform the cabinet or cause damage to the
inverter. Damage caused by improper handling may void the warranty. Safe
handling, operating, and installation practices are the responsibility of the
installer.
ATTENTION:
Redoubler de vigilance pour protéger l’inverseur des contraintes ou forces en
compression qui peuvent endommager ou déformer l’armoire ou
endommager l’inverseur. Les dommages causés par la manipulation
inadéquate peuvent annuler la garantie. Les pratiques sécuritaires de
manipulation, de fonctionnement et d’installation incombent à l’installateur.
Tools and Materials Required
• Wall mount bracket
• Parts bag included with the inverter
• Drill
• M5 hexagonal head screw driver
• Phillips screws
• Tool for installing anchor bolts if mounting on a wall
To Mount the Inverter
1. Hold the wall mount bracket against the wall or framework where the inverter
will be mounted.
570-1002542-05BInstalling4‑7
WALL
M5 X 20 SCREW
M5 FLAT WASHER
M5 LOCKNUT
SEE CHART FOR ANCHORS
Advanced Energy
2. Use a pencil to draw a level, horizontal line approximately 40 cm (16″) above
the position intended for the display.
The inverter is designed only for vertical installation.
The following illustration shows the required dimensions and drilling locations
to attach the wall mount bracket to the wall.
Figure 4‑3. Wall mount bracket
3. Hold the wall mount bracket with the end with mounting hooks to the pencil
line. Verify that the wall mount bracket is level.
4. With the wall mount bracket in place, mark the screw holes with a pencil.
5. Remove the wall mount bracket.
6. Drill pilot holes.
7. Attach the wall mount bracket using the provided washers and screws.
8. Lift the inverter using the four side handles and hang it on the wall mount
bracket hooks by aligning the mounting points on the rear of the heatsink.
☞Important
Due to the weight of the inverter, AE recommends using two people to
lift the inverter and hang it on the wall mount bracket. Follow local or
OSHA guidelines when lifting or moving equipment.
The lower end of the heatsink should rest against the support on the bottom
front of the wall mount bracket.
4‑8Installing570-1002542-05B
Heatsink cooling fins
Lower edge of heatsink
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
AC AND DC WIRING FEEDTHROUGH
Figure 4‑4. Mounting the inverter on the wall mount bracket
9. Fasten the heatsink to the wall mount bracket using two washers and two of the
included screws.
CAUTION:
For outdoor installations make liquid-tight connections to the unit.
ATTENTION:
Pour les installations extérieures, effectuer des connexions étanches à
l’unité.
The inverter provides feedthrough locations for AC and DC wiring, the
communication cable, and the sensor connection in the bottom service plate of the
connection box. When you select a feedthrough, ensure that the location of the
conduit will not block access to the inverter cabinet. Do not attach conduit to the
cabinet.
570-1002542-05BInstalling4‑9
Advanced Energy
☞Important
All conductors must enter the connection box through the available
feedthrough locations which are for the sole purpose of providing a safe and
convenient way to route wiring in to and out of the inverter. Penetrating the
inverter housing in any other location voids the warranty.
Installing a Feedthrough
TOOLS AND MATERIALS REQUIRED
•
NEMA 3R conduit hubs with rubber seals
TO INSTALL A FEEDTHROUGH
1. Insert the appropriately sized liquid-tight NEMA 3R conduit hub in the
feedthrough opening.
To assure NEMA 3R protection, use conduit hubs with a rubber seal.
CONNECTING THE GROUNDING STUD
WARNING:
Before making any other connection, you must connect the secondary
Protective Earth (ground) stud to the system ground terminal. This
connection is a mandatory connection.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Avant d’effectuer tout autre branchement, vous devez connecter la borne de
mise à la terre de protection secondaire à la borne de terre du système. Ce
branchement est obligatoire.
The connection box contains a grounding stud. The ground is provided to assure
optimum overvoltage protection. Install the grounding line as far away as possible,
and not directly parallel, to the main feed line.
Tools Required
• Wire cutter
• Wire stripper
• Insulated gloves
4‑10Installing570-1002542-05B
To Connect the Grounding Stud
Grounding stud
The grounding stud is located in the same place in both the 600 and 1000 series.
Strip 20 mm (3/4″) of protective covering from the grounding conductor.
1.
2. Connect the separate equipment grounding conductor from the grounding stud
to an earth ground.
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Figure 4‑5. Grounding stud in the connection box
3. Pull test the ground conductor.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
WARNING:
Use suitable precautions; this area contains high voltages that could cause
serious injury or death.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Prendre les mesures de précaution adéquates; cette partie contient de
hautes tensions pouvant causer des blessures graves ou entraîner la mort.
WARNING:
Risk of damage to equipment. The inverter contains Electrostatic Discharge
(ESD) sensitive circuitry. Discharge any static charge potential, by touching
bare skin to earth ground, prior to contacting any internal components.
570-1002542-05BInstalling4‑11
Advanced Energy
AVERTISSEMENT:
Risque d’endommagement matériel. L’onduleur est équipé de circuits
sensibles aux décharges d’électricité statique (DES). Déchargez toute
accumulation d’électricité statique en mettant la peau nue en contact direct
avec la terre avant de toucher un composant interne.
WARNING:
Do not open the connection box during damp or dusty conditions. Working
with exposed electrical components in damp weather may result in
dangerous electrical shock. Dust may damage the electrical components in
the connection box.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Ne pas ouvrir la boîte de jonction dans un environnement humide ou
poussiéreux. La manipulation de composants électriques exposés par temps
humide peut entraîner un grave choc électrique. La poussière peut
endommager les composants électriques de la boîte de jonction.
CAUTION:
All electrical installations should be completed in accordance with national
and local electrical codes. The inverter must be connected to a dedicated
circuit with no other outlets or devices connected to the same circuit.
ATTENTION:
Toutes les installations électriques devraient être faites selon les codes de
l’électricité locaux. Le Code national de l’électricité exige que l’onduleur soit
connecté à un circuit spécialisé sans aucun autre dispositif ou sortie
connecté au même circuit.
The inverter is equipped with a DC disconnect for DC power OFF to stop power
conversion within the inverter. Before accessing the interior of the cabinet, the DC
disconnect must be in the OFF position. Since this disconnect only stops power
conversion within the inverter, both the DC (photovoltaic array) and AC (utility grid)
circuits must be isolated in order to fully ensure that the inverter is de-energized.
Opening the Connection Box
TOOLS REQUIRED
•
Allen wrench (Allen wrench adaptor for a socket wrench recommended)
4‑12Installing570-1002542-05B
TO REMOVE THE CONNECTION BOX COVER
1.
Turn the DC disconnect switch to the OFF position.
2. Remove the screws with spring lock washers on the two left corners of the
connection box cover.
3. Open the cover.
The connection box cover swings to the right on its hinge.
☞Important
Handle the cover with care. Even minor damage to the cover can create
an inadequate seal between the cover and the connection box, allowing
moisture to penetrate and damage sensitive electronic components.
DC Connection Examples
CAUTION:
The input and output circuits are isolated from the enclosure. System
grounding, when required by national and local electrical code, is the
responsibility of the installer.
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
ATTENTION:
Les circuits d’entrée et de sortie sont isolés de l’enceinte. La mise à la terre
du système, lorsqu’elle est exigée par le code d’électricité national ou local,
est la responsabilité de l’installateur.
DC conductors must be installed per NEC 690.35.
☞Important
The installation of transformerless inverters requires an ungrounded PV array.
600 SERIES
The DC input must be distributed evenly on the DC terminal blocks, DC1 and DC2,
as shown in Figure 4-6. The DC terminal inputs must have separate inverter
feedthroughs.
570-1002542-05BInstalling4‑13
1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
DC2DC1
Module 1
Module 1
Module nModule n
Module n
Module 1
1 2 3 4 5 61 2 3 4 5 6
Advanced Energy
Figure 4‑6. 600 series DC connection example
1000 SERIES
Figure 4‑7. 1000 series DC connection example
4‑14Installing570-1002542-05B
DC Conductors
DANGER:
Electrical connections must comply with national and local standards.
Voltage drop and other considerations may dictate that larger wire sizes be
used.
DANGER:
Les connexions électriques doivent être conformes aux normes nationales et
locales. Des chutes de tension et autres facteurs peuvent imposer l’usage de
fils de plus gros calibre.
WARNING:
Use suitable precautions; this area contains high voltages that could cause
serious injury or death.
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
AVERTISSEMENT:
Prendre les mesures de précaution adéquates; cette partie contient de
hautes tensions pouvant causer des blessures graves ou entraîner la mort.
WARNING:
All electrical installations should be completed in accordance with national
and local electrical codes. The inverter must be connected to a dedicated
circuit with no other outlets or devices connected to the same circuit.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Tous les travaux électrique doivent être effectués conformément aux codes
de l’électricité national et local. L’onduleur doit être branché sur un circuit
dédié ne comprenant aucune autre sortie ou aucun autre dispositif
connecté(e) au même circuit.
Observe the following requirement when selecting the DC conductor:
Use 12 AWG to 8 AWG (4 mm² to 10 mm²) copper wire, rated for 90°C
•
(194°F)
DC conductors should be installed per NEC 690.35.
The inverter should not exceed the following operating data regardless of the
operating circumstances:
570-1002542-05BInstalling4‑15
Advanced Energy
Table 4‑1. Maximum DC operating data
Maximum per Fuse Bank12TL16TL20TL23TL
DC voltage
DC operating current27.5 A33 A37.5 A40 A
DC Connections
DANGER:
Electrical connections must comply with national and local standards.
Voltage drop and other considerations may dictate that larger wire sizes be
used.
DANGER:
Les connexions électriques doivent être conformes aux normes nationales et
locales. Des chutes de tension et autres facteurs peuvent imposer l’usage de
fils de plus gros calibre.
600 series: 500 V
1000 series: 1000 V
DANGER:
Risk of electrical shock. When exposed to light, PV arrays create electrical
energy that could cause a hazardous condition.
DANGER:
Risque d’électrocution. Lorsqu’elles sont exposées à la lumière, les piles
photovoltaïques génèrent un courant électrique susceptible de causer des
conditions dangereuses.
CAUTION:
Be careful to not damage the insulation on individual cable conductors while
removing outer cable insulation.
ATTENTION:
Prendre soin de ne pas endommager l’isolant sur les conducteurs des câbles
individuels au moment de retirer l’isolant du câble extérieur.
DANGER:
Before proceeding with the DC wiring, confirm that the PV array has been
disconnected from the inverter using the external DC disconnect.
4‑16Installing570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
DANGER:
Avant d’effectuer les branchements CC, assurez-vous que les piles PV sont
déconnectées de l’onduleur en utilisant le connecteur CC externe.
DANGER:
Make sure the PV array polarity and voltage between the positive and
negative cables are correct before connecting the PV array cables to the DC
terminal block.
DANGER:
Assurez-vous que la polarité et le voltage des câbles positifs et négatifs des
piles PV sont corrects avant de brancher les câbles des piles PV aux bornes
CC.
The connection box provides over-current and over-voltage protection for the DC
side of the inverter. The DC input fuse holders are used to disconnect the PV array
modules for servicing.
600 SERIES
The DC terminals are connected to the PV array modules using the two banks of DC
fuse holders, DC1 and DC2. Each DC bank has ten fuse holders to connect to the
positive and negative PV array conductors.
Figure 4-8 shows the terminal block locations used to connect the DC conductors
from the PV modules. The incoming voltage and current from the PV arrays must be
balanced between DC1 and DC2, and must be kept separate. The installation must
have identically configured strings, including the same type and number of PV
modules, balanced equally between DC1 and DC2. This is necessary to stay within
safe operating limits of the inverter.
570-1002542-05BInstalling4‑17
DC1 inputs
DC2 inputs
DC inputs
Advanced Energy
Figure 4‑8. 600 series DC terminal block locations
1000 SERIES
The 1000 V series includes six string input pairs with no balancing requirements.
Figure 4‑9. 1000 series DC terminal block location
DC FUSES
The inverter uses string fuses to protect the solar modules. A decisive factor for fuse
protection of solar modules is the maximum short-circuit current of the respective
solar module. The inverter comes standard with 15 A fuses. 20 A fuses are the
maximum allowed. Refer to NEC 690 for fuse sizing.
4‑18Installing570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
☞Important
The size of the string fuses must not exceed the series fuse rating of the PV
module. For example, if 15 A is specified on the data sheet of the PV module,
this is the recommended fuse rating. If the data sheet does not contain
specifications for the series fuse rating, contact the PV module manufacturer.
If a string fuse with a lower trip value is used, the rated fuse current is lower than the
short circuit current of the solar module. In this scenario, when there is an increased
irradiation situation, the irradiation could cause the panel(s) to produce more current
than normal and blow the fuse.
CONNECTING TO THE DC INPUT TERMINALS
DANGER:
Make sure the PV array polarity and voltage between the positive and
negative cables are correct before connecting the PV array cables to the DC
terminal block.
DANGER:
Assurez-vous que la polarité et le voltage des câbles positifs et négatifs des
piles PV sont corrects avant de brancher les câbles des piles PV aux bornes
CC.
DANGER:
Risk of electrical shock. When exposed to light, PV arrays create electrical
energy that could cause a hazardous condition.
DANGER:
Risque d’électrocution. Lorsqu’elles sont exposées à la lumière, les piles
photovoltaïques génèrent un courant électrique susceptible de causer des
conditions dangereuses.
WARNING:
Do not open the connection box during damp or dusty conditions. Working
with exposed electrical components in damp weather may result in
dangerous electrical shock. Dust may damage the electrical components in
the connection box.
570-1002542-05BInstalling4‑19
Advanced Energy
Use the following steps to connect the conductors from the PV arrays to the inverter.
Use only copper conductors.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Ne pas ouvrir la boîte de jonction dans un environnement humide ou
poussiéreux. La manipulation de composants électriques exposés par temps
humide peut entraîner un grave choc électrique. La poussière peut
endommager les composants électriques de la boîte de jonction.
WARNING:
Risk of electrical shock. Replacing string fuses requires that the strings are
fully de-energized and the DC disconnect is in the OFF position.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Risque de choc électrique. Lors du remplacement des fusibles de chaîne, les
chaînes doivent être complètement mises hors tension et le coupe-circuit DC
du courant continu (DC Disconnect) doit être à la position d’arrêt (OFF).
Tools Required
Flat-head screwdriver
•
• Wire cutter
• Wire stripper
• Multi-meter
• Insulated gloves
To Connect to the DC Input Terminals
1. Determine the appropriate size of the DC conductors using the following table.
Terminals are rated for the maximum wire size listed in the following table. An
electrician should determine the appropriate wire size for your installation.
Table 4‑2. DC conductor sizing
ConductorConductor Size: All AE 3TL Models
Positive/negative (from multi-
12 AWG to 8 AWG Cu
string array)
2. Ensure that the DC disconnect switch is in the OFF position.
Open the connection box cover.
3.
4. Check the polarity of the DC home runs at the connection point to ensure
proper polarity.
4‑20Installing570-1002542-05B
DC1+ inputs
DC2+ inputs
DC1- inputs
DC2- inputs
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
☞Important
The AE inverter is a transformerless unit. Do not connect the unit with
PV modules that require positive (+) or negative (-) polarity to ground.
Only the array or PV module frame may be grounded.
Route the PV array conductors through the conduit to the desired entry conduit
5.
hub on the DC side on the bottom of the inverter connection box. For the 500 V
series, use separate feed-throughs for the DC1 and DC2 inputs.
☞Important
Use only UL listed rainproof or wet location hubs for entry into the
connection box.
6. Strip each DC conductor 20 mm (3/4″).
7. Connect the DC positive and the DC negative conductors to the correct polarity
of the DC input terminal block.
Guide each stripped conductor into the appropriate screw terminal.
DANGER:
Make sure the PV array polarity and voltage between the positive and
negative cables are correct before connecting the PV array cables to
the DC terminal block.
DANGER:
Assurez-vous que la polarité et le voltage des câbles positifs et
négatifs des piles PV sont corrects avant de brancher les câbles des
piles PV aux bornes CC.
Figure 4‑10. 500 V series DC input terminal blocks in the connection box
570-1002542-05BInstalling4‑21
DC- inputs
DC+ inputs
Advanced Energy
Figure 4‑11. 1000 V series DC input terminal blocks in the connection box
8. For the 500 V series, ensure that the same number of strings are installed in
9. Tighten each screw terminal.
DC1 and DC2 inputs.
10. Pull test each conductor.
AC Conductors
DANGER:
Electrical connections must comply with national and local standards.
Voltage drop and other considerations may dictate that larger wire sizes be
used.
DANGER:
Les connexions électriques doivent être conformes aux normes nationales et
locales. Des chutes de tension et autres facteurs peuvent imposer l’usage de
fils de plus gros calibre.
WARNING:
Use suitable precautions; this area contains high voltages that could cause
serious injury or death.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Prendre les mesures de précaution adéquates; cette partie contient de
hautes tensions pouvant causer des blessures graves ou entraîner la mort.
4‑22Installing570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
WARNING:
All electrical installations should be completed in accordance with national
and local electrical codes. The inverter must be connected to a dedicated
circuit with no other outlets or devices connected to the same circuit.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Tous les travaux électrique doivent être effectués conformément aux codes
de l’électricité national et local. L’onduleur doit être branché sur un circuit
dédié ne comprenant aucune autre sortie ou aucun autre dispositif
connecté(e) au même circuit.
Observe the following requirements when selecting the AC conductor:
• Use from 10 AWG to 6 AWG (6 mm² to 16 mm²) copper wire, rated for 90°C
(194°F)
Select the AC conductor gauge so that line losses are as low as possible. The design
of the AC lines and terminals is similar to the DC connections except that the 125%
factor is not used:
• Ioutmax x 125% x (1/Derating)
To facilitate installation, fine-wire line is recommended as the feed line for all crosssections.
CONNECTING TO THE ELECTRICAL GRID
DANGER:
Risk of electrical shock. Before connecting the inverter to the electrical utility
grid, your utility company must grant approval. Only qualified electricians
should make the connection to the utility grid.
DANGER:
Risque d’électrocution. L’autorisation officielle de votre compagnie locale
d’électricité est requise avant de brancher l’onduleur sur le réseau public.
Seul le personnel qualifié est autorisé à brancher le dispositif sur le réseau
public d’électricité.
DANGER:
RISK OF DEATH OR BODILY INJURY. Disconnect and lockout/tagout all
sources of input power before working on this unit or anything connected to
it.
570-1002542-05BInstalling4‑23
Advanced Energy
DANGER:
RISQUE DE MORT OU DE BLESSURES CORPORELLES. Débrancher et
verrouiller/étiqueter toutes les sources de puissance d’entrée avant de
travailler sur cette unité ou sur tout élément qui y est raccordé.
CAUTION:
Risk of electrical shock. All electrical installations should be accomplished in
accordance with applicable national or local standards.
ATTENTION:
Risque d'électrocution. Toutes les installations électriques doivent se faire
conformément aux normes nationales ou locales applicables.
DANGER:
Electrical connections must comply with national and local standards.
Voltage drop and other considerations may dictate that larger wire sizes be
used.
DANGER:
Les connexions électriques doivent être conformes aux normes nationales et
locales. Des chutes de tension et autres facteurs peuvent imposer l’usage de
fils de plus gros calibre.
WARNING:
Risk of electrical shock. To avoid injury or damage to the equipment, the
ground conductor must be connected on the AC terminal block.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Risque de choc électrique. Pour éviter des blessures ou des dommages à
l’équipement, le conducteur de mise à la terre doit être connecté sur un bloc
de dérivation CA.
WARNING:
Do not open the connection box during damp or dusty conditions. Working
with exposed electrical components in damp weather may result in
dangerous electrical shock. Dust may damage the electrical components in
the connection box.
4‑24Installing570-1002542-05B
AC connections
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
AVERTISSEMENT:
Ne pas ouvrir la boîte de jonction dans un environnement humide ou
poussiéreux. La manipulation de composants électriques exposés par temps
humide peut entraîner un grave choc électrique. La poussière peut
endommager les composants électriques de la boîte de jonction.
Tools Required
•
Torque wrench
• Multi-meter
• Flat-head screwdriver
To Connect the AC Wiring
1. Run the appropriately sized conduit from the utility connection to the conduit
entry on the bottom of the inverter cabinet.
The AC connections must be made through the conduit hub AC location
installed in the bottom of the cabinet.
2. Feed the AC conductors through the conduit and into the connection box.
The AC terminal block allows for the connection of five, #10 through #6 AWG
conductors.
Figure 4‑12. 500 V series AC connections
570-1002542-05BInstalling4‑25
AC inputs
GND
GND
L1
L2
L3
N
Advanced Energy
Figure 4‑13. 1000 V series AC connections
3. Connect the grounding conductor to one of the AC terminals marked GND.
A Protective Earth (PE) feed-through terminal block is available in the AC
connection area. The gauge of the AC grounded conductor must be sized in
accordance with NEC requirements.
Figure 4‑14. AC terminals
4. Connect the remaining grid-side conductors to the L1, L2, L3, and N locations
on the AC terminal block
5. Tighten each AC input terminal and torque each terminal clockwise to a value
between 1.2 Nm (10.6 lb-in) and 1.5 Nm (13.0 lb-in).
6. Turn on the utility circuit breaker.
7. Using a multi-meter, confirm the AC voltage measurement coming from the
utility. The utility line is routed to the feedthrough installed on the bottom of
the inverter.
The maximum is 304.7 V (phase to neutral conductor). If the AC voltage is
higher, contact your local utility company.
8. Confirm that the feed-in AC utility voltage meets the requirements of the
power system using a multi-meter by measuring the AC voltage between line
and ground.
4‑26Installing570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
9. Turn off the utility grid circuit breaker.
Complete a final check of the connections to ensure they are snug and
10.
protected from rain.
11. Close the connection box cover.
570-1002542-05BInstalling4‑27
Advanced Energy
4‑28Installing570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Chapter
Operation
FIRST TIME OPERATION
WARNING:
Before turning on the inverter, ensure that the connection box cover is
properly installed.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Avant d’allumer l’onduleur, s’assurer que le couvercle de la boîte de jonction
est bien installé.
5
WARNING:
Use suitable precautions; this area contains high voltages that could cause
serious injury or death.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Prendre les mesures de précaution adéquates; cette partie contient de
hautes tensions pouvant causer des blessures graves ou entraîner la mort.
WARNING:
Maintenance personnel must receive proper training before installing,
troubleshooting, or maintaining high-energy electrical equipment. Potentially
lethal voltages could cause death, serious personal injury, or damage to the
equipment. Ensure that all appropriate safety precautions are taken.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Le personnel d’entretien doit recevoir une formation appropriée avant
d’installer, de dépanner ou d’entretenir un équipement électrique à haute
énergie. Des tensions potentiellement mortelles pourraient provoquer la
mort, des blessures graves ou des dommages à l’équipement. S’assurer que
toutes les consignes de sécurité appropriées ont été respectées.
WARNING:
Do not attempt to turn on power until the AE 3TL unit is grounded.
570-1002542-05BOperation5‑1
F1F2
ESC
READYONALARMEARTH FLT
PAC 0 W
UAC
0.0 V
UDC 0 V
y day 0.0 kWh
Initializing
F1 - Menu
Advanced Energy
AVERTISSEMENT:
Ne pas mettre l’appareil AE 3TL en marche s’il n’a pas été mis à la terre.
To Operate the AE 3TL Inverter for the First Time
1.
Verify that the AC, DC, and ground connections are correctly and securely
installed.
2. Verify that the connection box cover is secure.
3. Close the AC system circuit breakers or insert the external main fuse.
4. Turn the DC disconnect to the ON position.
If the solar modules are receiving sufficient sunlight and no fault exists, the
following sequence will occur:
◦ Self test: All status LEDs light up indicating system initialization during
which the PV array is checked for wire insulation integrity. If the wire
insulation is damaged, the inverter will not start and displays a fault. Before
clearing the fault and restarting the inverter, check all PV wiring for nicks,
pinches, and breaks. On first time startup, this process may take as long as an
hour.
5. Verify that the initialization procedure is complete by checking the following:
◦ Initialization: Status LED Ready flashes. The display is lit with the following
information:
◦ ON LED is continuously lit.
◦
The display begins providing data.
The inverter electronics, the control panel, display, and operating buttons are
active when DC voltage is applied since they are supplied exclusively from the
DC input.
5‑2Operation570-1002542-05B
☞Important
The inverter automatically performs a self-test after completion of the
initialization routine. The individual system components are checked and
data is imported from the power control board (PCB). If there is a fault,
the type of fault will indicate what corrective measures have to be taken.
Verify that the startup procedure has started by checking the following:
6.
◦ Status LED Ready is continuously lit.
◦ Status LED ON flashes.
☞Important
When the solar array voltage is greater than 200 V, the startup procedure
starts.
In normal operating circumstances, the startup procedure takes approximately five
minutes. For the initial startup, this procedure may take longer.
NORMAL START UP
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
WARNING:
Before turning on the inverter, ensure that the connection box cover is
properly installed.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Avant d’allumer l’onduleur, s’assurer que le couvercle de la boîte de jonction
est bien installé.
WARNING:
Maintenance personnel must receive proper training before installing,
troubleshooting, or maintaining high-energy electrical equipment. Potentially
lethal voltages could cause death, serious personal injury, or damage to the
equipment. Ensure that all appropriate safety precautions are taken.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Le personnel d’entretien doit recevoir une formation appropriée avant
d’installer, de dépanner ou d’entretenir un équipement électrique à haute
énergie. Des tensions potentiellement mortelles pourraient provoquer la
mort, des blessures graves ou des dommages à l’équipement. S’assurer que
toutes les consignes de sécurité appropriées ont été respectées.
570-1002542-05BOperation5‑3
F1F2
ESC
READYONALARMEARTH FLT
PAC 0 W
UAC
0.0 V
UDC 0 V
y day 0.0 kWh
Initializing
F1 - Menu
Advanced Energy
WARNING:
Do not attempt to turn on power until the AE 3TL unit is grounded.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Ne pas mettre l’appareil AE 3TL en marche s’il n’a pas été mis à la terre.
To Start Up the AE 3TL Inverter
Verify the connection box cover is secure.
1.
2. Close the AC system circuit breakers or insert the external main fuse.
3. Turn the DC disconnect to the ON position.
If the solar modules are receiving sufficient sunlight and no fault exists, the
following sequence will occur:
◦ Self test: All status LEDs light up indicating system initialization. This
process takes approximately five minutes.
4. Verify that the initialization procedure is complete by checking the following:
☞Important
On first time startup, this process may take as long as an hour.
◦ System check: After the self test completes, the Ready LED flashes
indicating the UL-required five minute system check. The display is lit with
the following information:
Status LED READY is continuously lit.
◦
◦ The display begins providing data.
5‑4Operation570-1002542-05B
The inverter electronics, the control panel, display, and operating buttons, are
active when DC voltage is applied since they are supplied exclusively from the
DC input.
5. Verify that the startup procedure has started by checking the following:
◦ Status LED Ready is continuously lit.
Digital display
LED indicators
Enter key
Up key
Down key
F1F2
ESC
READYONALARMEARTH FLT
Analysis
Actual Value
Failure Memory
Configuration
Device Information
F1-Menu
Scroll left key
Scroll right key
Escape key
Status LED ON flashes.
◦
☞Important
When the solar array voltage is greater than 200 V, the startup procedure
starts.
6. Verify the feed-in operation has started by checking the following:
◦ Status LED Ready goes off.
◦ Status LED ON is continuously lit.
Under normal operating circumstances, this procedure takes approximately five
minutes.
CONTROL PANEL
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
The control panel located on the front of the AE 3TL inverter provides a display,
LEDs, and control buttons. The display provides the following information:
• Operation status
• Monitoring parameters
• System faults
• Inverter information
The control panel is only active when the inverter has DC voltage.
570-1002542-05BOperation5‑5
Figure 5‑1. Inverter display and control keys
Advanced Energy
LED Indicators
The AE 3TL inverter has four LED indicators that provide status information. All
four LEDs light up for six seconds during the self test.
Table 5‑1. LED indicators
LED IndicatorColorDescription
READYGreen
ONYellow
ALARMRed
EARTH FLTRed
Control Panel Buttons
Lights up when the solar array voltage is
greater than 200 V.
Flashes during the initialization procedure.
Persists on when the feed-in DC voltage from
the PV array reaches the minimum operating
voltage for the inverter.
Turns off when the ON LED is continuously
lit.
Flashes during the activation procedure.
Continuously lit during operation.
Flashes when a temporary failure occurs.
Continuously lit when a fault occurs.
Continuously lit during a fault of the DC
isolation test.
The control panel has eight buttons below the display.
Table 5‑2. Control panel buttons
Screen InformationDescription
F1Displays main menu
F2Edit the displayed parameter
ESC
•
Fault acknowledgement
• Return to previous screen/menu
• Cancel without saving
5‑6Operation570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Table 5‑2. Control panel buttons (Continued)
Screen InformationDescription
This is the enter button. This button confirms the
following:
Menu selection
•
• Input value
►Right arrow button
◄ Left arrow button
• Allows navigation within the current menu
level.
• Positions the cursor within a parameter.
◦ ◄ positions before the decimal point
◦ ► positions after the decimal point
▲Up arrow button
▼Down arrow button
Allows navigation to the previous or next menu.
▲ increases the selected digit by 1 each time the
button is pressed.
▼ decreases the selected digit by 1 each time the
button is pressed.
First Level Display Screens
The main menu provides five menu selections. To access each menu:
Use the up/down arrows to highlight the menu
•
• Press the enter button to access the menu.
Table 5‑3. Inverter menus
Menu OptionsDescription
Analysis
Actual Value
Failure Memory
Displays the Energy absolute and Energy normalized data
Displays DC, AC and Sensor data
Displays the fault log
570-1002542-05BOperation5‑7
Advanced Energy
Table 5‑3. Inverter menus (Continued)
Menu OptionsDescription
Configuration
Device Information
The following parameters can be configured:
• Languages
• Communication: Ethernet, USB, RS485
• Date/time
• Portal settings: Activation, Configuration data, Server IP,
Server port, Portal text
• Extended: Update, Clear data logger, Numerical list
• Password
Displays the following information:
• Version number
• Country
• Current language
• Device type
• Serial number
SETTING THE COUNTRY CODE
The country code is not preset at the factory, so must be set the first time the inverter
is operated. The country code determines the following for each inverter:
Determines the utility monitoring parameters for the country where the inverter
•
is installed.
• Sets the menu language.
☞Important
If an AE 3TL inverter is operated with the wrong country code, the utility
company may revoke the operating license. The manufacturer disclaims all
liability for operation of any AE solar inverter with the wrong country code.
☞Important
After setting and confirming the country code, you can no longer alter the
country code. This also applies to devices that are, or were, in operation. The
country code can only be changed by factory-trained service personnel.
5‑8Operation570-1002542-05B
To Set the Country Code
Enter
Up
Down
F1F2
ESC
READYONALARMEARTH FLT
Canada
France
Germany
USA
F1-Menu
Escape key
USA
F1F2
ESC
READYONALARMEARTH FLT
Accept ?
Yes
= Enter
No = Esc
Immediately after the DC voltage is switched on for the first time, a window appears
on the display requesting confirmation of the country code. You can select one of the
listed countries. The term "country code", however, is not shown in the menu. The
display lights up the first time you press the button.
Highlight the country code for your install location using the ▲ and ▼ buttons.
1.
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
2. Press the enter button to select the country code.
A second prompt displays, requesting confirmation of the country code. Press
3.
enter to confirm the country code.
After the country code has been confirmed, it can no longer be changed except
by factory-trained service personnel. This also applies to devices that have
previously been in operation.
☞Important
If this is not the country code you want to select, press the ESC button to
cancel. In this case you cannot put the inverter into operation, nor can
you continue working in the menu.
570-1002542-05BOperation5‑9
F1F2
ESC
READYONALARMEARTH FLT
PAC 14493 W
UAC
279.8 V
UDC 370 V
y day 31.5 kWh
Operation
F1-Menu
Advanced Energy
Selecting and confirming the country code also sets the language for the display
menus. The language setting may be modified without changing the country
code.
NORMAL OPERATION
Each time the unit powers on, the inverter runs a self-diagnostic procedure to ensure
that it is performing correctly. This includes a check of the of the DC conductor
insulation to verify the insulation is not damaged. If the insulation is damaged, the
inverter automatically shuts down. The insulation fault must be eliminated before
restarting the inverter.
When the inverter is functioning in the normal state:
Monitoring information displays on the display screen
•
• Configuration settings can be entered using the buttons
• The inverter records operating data
Normal Status Screens
The following screens are available during normal operation.
The current yield data and the accumulated operating hours through the current day
display.
Figure 5‑3. Display of absolute yield data
NORMALIZED YIELD DATA
The normalized yield data is used for a special form of scaling. As every inverter has
its specific rated power, the internal calculations are based on the actual (system)
power defined by the number of solar modules connected to the particular converter
and the form of interconnection of these solar modules (combination of parallel and
series connection).
1. Press the ► button followed by the ▼ button.
The screen displays the progression of the normalized (scaled) yield data.
570-1002542-05BOperation5‑11
Figure 5‑4. Display of normalized yield data
2. Press the ESC button to return to the basic screen.
F1F2
ESC
READYONALARMEARTH FLT
P1155.00
System size
4.0
kWP
F1-Menu
Advanced Energy
NORMALIZATION INPUT
To receive the normalized yield data, press the F2 button and enter the connected PV
generator output at parameter P1155 as follows:
1.
2. Press the ▲ button to increase the number in the selected position or press the
3. Press the ESC button to display the previous Yield normalized screen.
4. Press F1 to return to the menu display.
5. Press enter to confirm the entered parameter value. Your password must be
Select the position of the number you want to change by pressing the ◄ button
to select a position left of the decimal point or by pressing the ► button to
select a position after the decimal point.
▼ button to decrease the number in the selected position.
entered correctly to change the parameter.
Figure 5‑5. Normalization input
To View a Data Graph
You can display a graph of current or past feed-in power data from the basic
operating screen.
1. Press the ◄ button one time to view the feed-in power for the current day.
5‑12Operation570-1002542-05B
Figure 5‑6. Current day's feed-in power
2. Press the ▼ button one time to view the feed-in power for the previous day
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Figure 5‑7. Previous day's feed-in power
3. Press the ESC button to return to the basic operating screen.
The inverter stores data which records measured values while the inverter is
running. The default configuration includes 16 measurement channels.
Table 5‑4. Data storage
Logging CycleLength of Storage Time
1 minute6 months
5 minutes2.5 years
10 minutes5 years
CONFIGURING THE INVERTER
The following configuration settings can be set up or modified:
•
Date and time
• Menu language
• Communication options
• Portal settings
To Enter the Password
The inverter password is required to configure the inverter and to make changes to
the parameters.
☞Important
The default password is set at the factory to 72555.
1. Press the F1 button to display the main menu.
2. Press the ▼ button until Configuration is highlighted and press the enter
button.
3. Press the ▼ button until Password is highlighted and press the enter button.
The Password Input screen displays.
570-1002542-05BOperation5‑13
Advanced Energy
4. Position the cursor over the first digit location for entering the five digit
password. Use the ▲ or▼ buttons to scroll to the correct number.
Move the cursor one position to the right, the second position of the password.
5.
Use the ▲ or ▼ buttons to scroll to the correct number.
Continue to enter the remaining digits of the password until all five numbers
have been selected.
6. Press the enter button to confirm your entry.
To Adjust the Date and Time
The date and time can be changed on AE 3TL inverters. Operational data is recorded
by the date and time. Therefore, it is important to ensure the time of inverter is
adjusted correctly.
Use the enter button to change between different units of time. Use the up and down
arrow buttons to adjust the value of the unit such as year, month, day, hour, minute,
and second.
1. Press the F1 button to display the main menu.
2. Press the ▼ button until Configuration is highlighted, and then press the enter
button.
3. Press the ▼ button until Date/Time is highlighted, and then press the enter
button.
4. Use the ◄ and ► buttons to select the day, month, year, hour, minutes, and
seconds.
5. Press the enter button to confirm the setting.
To Change the Menu Language
The display menu language is set automatically when the country code is selected.
The menu language can be modified at any time, independently of the country code.
1. Press the F1 button to display the main menu.
2. Press the ▼ button until Configuration is highlighted, and then press the enter
button.
3. Press the▼ button once to highlight Languages, and then press the enter
button.
4. Use the ▲ and ▼ buttons to select the desired language.
5. Press the enter button to confirm the setting.
The display is blank for a few seconds and then switches to the desired
language.
6. Press ESC to return to the main menu.
5‑14Operation570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
To Select the Communications Settings
The communications method must be configured before the inverter is connected to a
network.
Press the F1 button to display the main menu.
1.
2. Press the ▼ button until Configuration is highlighted, and then press the enter
button.
3. Press the ▼ button twice to highlight Communication, and then press the
enter button.
4. Use the ▼ and ▲ buttons to select the desired communication method.
The options are:
◦ Ethernet: Set the following parameters:
▪ Protocol: Enter the protocol
▪ IP Address: Enter the IP address
▪ Subnet mask: Enter the subnet mask
▪ Standard gateway: Enter the standard gateway
▪ Protocol port: The default is 21062. For port forwarding, enter the
protocol port assigned to the network.
▪ DNS address: Enter the DNS address
◦ USB: Set the following parameter:
▪ Protocol: Enter the protocol
◦ RS-485: Set the following parameters:
▪ USP address: Enter the USP address
▪ Protocol: Enter the protocol
▪ Baud rate: Enter the baud rate
5. Press the enter button to confirm each setting as you complete the information.
6. Press ESC to return to the main menu.
To Configure the Portal Settings
The portal settings determine where data is sent.
1. Press the F1 button to display the main menu.
2. Press the ▼ button until Configuration is highlighted, and then press the enter
button.
3. Press the ▼ button once to highlight Portal Settings, and then press the enter
button.
570-1002542-05BOperation5‑15
Advanced Energy
4. Use the ▲ and ▼ buttons to select the following:
◦ Activation:
▪ 0 = off
▪ 1 = on
◦ Send configuration:
▪ 0 = no configuration data in the queue
▪ 1 = configuration data being sent
◦ Server IP: Displays the server IP address
◦ Server port: Displays the port number of the web server
◦ Portal test: Yes sends a data packet to the web server (portal). There is no
acknowledgement. To verify that the data packet was sent, contact AE Solar
Energy Technical Support.
◦ Password:
◦ Extended:
Press the enter button to confirm each of the above settings.
5.
6. Press ESC to return to the main menu.
DATA LOGGER
The inverter contains an internal data logger which records measured values while
the inverter is running. The data logger uses a circular buffer, which means that when
the memory is full, the oldest data is overwritten. The default configuration includes
16 measurement channels.
Table 5‑5. Data storage
1 minute6 months
5 minutes2.5 years
10 minutes5 years
Logging CycleLength of Storage Time
The following parameters are used to set the data logger.
5‑16Operation570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Table 5‑6. Data logger parameters
Parameter NumberParameter DefinitionDescription
P450.00Data logger on or off
Switches the data logger
on and off:
•
0: Off
• 1: On (data is
recorded regularly)
P451.00Data logger time intervalContains the time interval
(60, 300, 600 seconds)
frequency at which the
data logger saves data.
P452.00-39Parameter number data
logger
Contains a list of all
parameter numbers that
are to be recorded. This
only works in conjunction
with the indices (P453.x).
Parameter numbers that do
not exist are ignored.
P453.00-39Indices data loggerContains a list of all
indices for the parameter
numbers that are to be
recorded. This only works
in conjunction with the
parameter numbers
(P452.x). Parameter
numbers that do not exist
are ignored.
To Configure the Data Logger Settings
Press the F1 button to display the main menu.
1.
2. Press the ▼ button until Configuration is highlighted, and then press the enter
button.
3. Press the ▼ button until Extended is highlighted, and then press the enter
button.
4. Press the ▼ button until Numerical List is highlighted, and then press the
enter button.
5. To navigate to a specific parameter, use the ▲ and ▼ buttons to highlight the
parameter, and then press the enter button.
a. Use the ◄ and ► buttons to highlight specific numbers.
b. Use the ▲ and ▼ buttons to change the number value.
570-1002542-05BOperation5‑17
Advanced Energy
6.
c. Press the enter button to confirm the setting.
Press ESC to return to the main menu.
5‑18Operation570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Chapter
Data Monitoring and Controls
DATA COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW
The AE 3TL inverter is equipped with integrated data monitoring hardware for
accessing inverter data. The KP board provides communication access to inverter
performance data using the following methods:
AESiteLink using REFUlog: Inverter direct monitoring using the AE web-
•
based monitoring solution
• Third party monitoring: USS protocol is translated to Modbus via an external
Obvius gateway (optional).
6
PREPARING FOR INVERTER MONITORING
Internet service must be set up at the installation site before the inverter can be
accessed online. An Ethernet connection can be used to connect to the Internet and
enable the free AE, web-based inverter direct monitoring, or to a local Modbus/TCP
network for third party monitoring.
The data monitoring module supports only hard-wired CAT5 solutions to the
inverter. Wireless options external to the inverter are another solution. To access the
data monitoring information, customers need to provide a broadband Ethernet
connection to the inverter, based on the following specifications:
• Provide a static IP assignment or reserved DHCP that must be configured at the
router. A specific IP address must be loaded into the inverter. This can be cable
Internet, a DSL line, or equivalent.
• Provide a hard-wired Ethernet connection between the user interface PCB in the
inverter and the closest site LAN connection.
• Power cycle the inverter to allow the inverter to communicate via Ethernet
TCP/IP as well as a gateway out to the Internet.
If multiple inverters are commissioned to a single site, an Ethernet hub can be located
in an outdoor-rated enclosure to distribute the LAN to the inverters.
☞Important
The data monitoring module does not support dial-up modem connectivity.
☞Important
Some complex networks may require a system administrator to add the inverter
to the network, or to configure the unit to a static IP address.
570-1002542-05BData Monitoring and Controls6‑1
Advanced Energy
All AE commercial inverters come standard with an Ethernet port that is intended to
be connected to the Internet or to a local area network. Communication is one way –
the inverter only communicates externally to the AE cloud hosted servers.
Ethernet Network Layout
AE offers a robust, direct web-based monitoring solution for the AE 3TL that allows
you to remotely monitor the performance of your installation. The following figure is
an example of the network layout for this type of installation.
Figure 6‑1. Ethernet network layout
To utilize this monitoring service, the following installation steps must occur:
• Inverter must be installed and wired to the customer's local area network
(LAN).
• Inverter must be assigned an IP address and be able to communicate to an
outside network.
• An online account must be created. This is an automated process that can be
completed by visiting the www.refulog.com website.
6‑2Data Monitoring and Controls570-1002542-05B
RS-485 NETWORK LAYOUT
When multiple inverters or other Modbus slave devices are connected to a single
Modbus master device, the multiple devices need to be connected in a daisy chain
layout.
☞Important
When multiple devices are wired to the network, the network shield must be
terminated to earth ground at one point on the network, typically at the
beginning or the end. For device connections, the shield must be rewired to
provide a continuous shield and isolated from ground.
Installing the RS-485 Cable
RS-485 WIRING REQUIREMENTS
The Modbus RTU connections are made using shielded, insulated, 18-24 gauge
twisted-pair communication cable that has a characteristic impedance of 120
RS-485 network will not pass through any high voltage (> 300 V) areas, then 300 V
rated cable may be used in the low voltage data monitoring compartment of the
inverter. Check with your local inspector or project engineer if you need assistance in
determining this requirement.
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Ω. If the
Some appropriate 300 V data cables include:
• Belden 3105A (1P22 AWG shielded)
• Belden 3082A (1P15 AWG + 1P18 AWG shielded)
Belden 7897A (1P15 AWG + 1P18 AWG shielded) is an example of a 600 V rated
cable that may also be used; others exist as well.
TO CONNECT RS-485
RS-485 OUTRS-485 IN
Pin 1Bus termination +Pin 1Reference +
Pin 2RS-485 OUTPin 2RS-485 IN
Pin 3RS-485 OUTPin 3RS-485 IN
Pin 4Bus termination –Pin 4Reference –
Bus termination (wire jumper) between pins 1 and 2 and pins 3 and 4
1. Insert the communication and control wires from below with conduits or
connector(s). The communication wires shall be installed in the cable ducts
provided.
Ethernet, RS-485 (IN and OUT), and Analog (Sensor) terminals are provided.
570-1002542-05BData Monitoring and Controls6‑3
RS-485 IN/OUT
A = IN
B = OUT
Analog (sensor)
Ethernet (RJ-45)
Advanced Energy
Figure 6‑2. Communication interface RS-485, Analog (Sensor), Ethernet (RJ-45)
2. Note that every bus user must have a unique address.
3. The bus termination on the last bus user (inverter "n") needs to be jumpered on
terminal A (out) between pins 1 and 2 and pins 3 and 4.
6‑4Data Monitoring and Controls570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Figure 6‑3. RS-485 connections
☞Important
Use an Ethernet cable of S/FTP design (Shielded Foiled Twisted Pair).
570-1002542-05BData Monitoring and Controls6‑5
Advanced Energy
6‑6Data Monitoring and Controls570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Chapter
Maintenance
WARNING:
These servicing instructions are for use by qualified personnel only. To
reduce the risk of electric shock, do not perform any servicing other than that
specified in the operating instructions.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Ces instructions d’entretien sont destinées uniquement à un personnel
qualifié. Pour réduire le risque d'électrocution, ne pas effectuer un entretien
autre que celui spécifié dans les instructions de fonctionnement.
WARNING:
Maintenance personnel must receive proper training before installing,
troubleshooting, or maintaining high-energy electrical equipment. Potentially
lethal voltages could cause death, serious personal injury, or damage to the
equipment. Ensure that all appropriate safety precautions are taken.
7
AVERTISSEMENT:
Le personnel d’entretien doit recevoir une formation appropriée avant
d’installer, de dépanner ou d’entretenir un équipement électrique à haute
énergie. Des tensions potentiellement mortelles pourraient provoquer la
mort, des blessures graves ou des dommages à l’équipement. S’assurer que
toutes les consignes de sécurité appropriées ont été respectées.
Routine maintenance of the AE inverter should be performed according the
maintenance schedule in this manual in order to maintain the overall performance of
the unit. Some maintenance procedures are required every five, ten, fifteen, and
twenty years from point of installation.
The user manual includes maintenance procedures that you can perform without
specialized equipment.
570-1002542-05BMaintenance7‑1
Advanced Energy
VISUAL INSPECTION
DANGER:
Risk of electrical shock. High voltages are present in the inverter cabinet.
Both AC and DC disconnects must be in the OFF position when working on
the unit. Wait five minutes to discharge high voltage before opening the front
panels of the inverter.
DANGER:
Risque d’électrocution. L’intérieur de l’onduleur est soumis à des hautes
tensions. Les interrupteurs de courant alternatif et continu doivent être mis
HORS TENSION durant les travaux sur l’unité. Attendez cinq minutes afin de
permettre la décharge du courant haute tension avant de démonter les
panneaux avant de l’onduleur.
DANGER:
RISK OF DEATH OR BODILY INJURY. Disconnect and lockout/tagout all
sources of input power before working on this unit or anything connected to
it.
DANGER:
RISQUE DE MORT OU DE BLESSURES CORPORELLES. Débrancher et
verrouiller/étiqueter toutes les sources de puissance d’entrée avant de
travailler sur cette unité ou sur tout élément qui y est raccordé.
AE recommends visually inspecting the inverter every time it is serviced. Start by
observing the front, back, and sides of the inverter for damage, foreign objects, or
dust and debris that may have accumulated around the inverter.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
The following maintenance should be performed by a qualified service person. Please
refer to the AE Terms and Conditions of Sale for warranty-related items. Complete
the maintenance checklist below and save the information for your records.
7‑2Maintenance570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Table 7‑1. Maintenance checklist
Item #Check or ProcedureMaintenance
Cycle
General inspection and cleaning
1Record general site conditions.Annually
2Record inverter performance data from inverter display.Annually
3Record environmental conditions.Annually
4Remove dirt and debris from underneath the inverter.Annually
5Inspect and touch up damage to exterior paint.Annually
6Inspect and clean interior of the connection box.Annually
7Clean heatsink.Annually
8Inspect and replace seals if necessary.Annually
9Confirm presence of product documentation.Annually
Connections and wiring
10Complete visual inspection of electrical connections and wiring.Annually
11Complete mechanical inspection of connections and wiring.Annually
12Measure torque of all electrical connections and retorque as
needed.
13Complete thermal scan of inverter connections, wiring and
electronics in the connection box.
Repair
14Replace connection box seal if lid is not sealing adequately.As needed
TO CLEAN THE DISPLAY AND LEDS
Use a clean, damp cloth to remove dust and dirt from the digital display and the
LEDs.
REPLACING THE FUSES
Annually
Annually
Tools Required
15 A fuses
•
570-1002542-05BMaintenance7‑3
Advanced Energy
To Replace the Fuses
Observe proper LOTO procedures to isolate the unit electrically.
1.
2. Open the connection box cover.
3. Flip the fuse holder switch to expose the fuse.
4. Remove the fuse from the fuse cover.
5. Insert a new fuse into the fuse cover.
Ensure that the new fuse is the recommended rating and brand. The inverter
combiner box is equipped with standard 15 A string fuses. Contact AE Solar
Energy Technical Support for information about replacement fuses.
6. Reinstall the fuse cover with the new fuse into the fuse holder.
It is important to ensure that the fuse cover is inserted tightly into the fuse
holder.
7‑4Maintenance570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
Chapter
Troubleshooting and Solar
Energy Technical Support
Before calling AE Solar Energy Technical Support, perform recommended checks
and troubleshooting procedures. If you are still unable to resolve the issue and
resume normal operation after following these checks and procedures, contact AE
Solar Energy Technical Support.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHECKLIST
DANGER:
RISK OF DEATH OR BODILY INJURY. Disconnect and lockout/tagout all
sources of input power before working on this unit or anything connected to
it.
8
DANGER:
RISQUE DE MORT OU DE BLESSURES CORPORELLES. Débrancher et
verrouiller/étiqueter toutes les sources de puissance d’entrée avant de
travailler sur cette unité ou sur tout élément qui y est raccordé. Certaines
surfaces de l’armoire de commutation CA/CC peuvent être alimentées même
lorsque les sectionneurs sont en position
panneau photovoltaïque et le point de raccordement au service public
d'électricité au moyen de dispositifs de déconnexion externes avant de
travailler dans cette armoire.
OFF. Verrouiller et étiqueter le
WARNING:
Maintenance personnel must receive proper training before installing,
troubleshooting, or maintaining high-energy electrical equipment. Potentially
lethal voltages could cause death, serious personal injury, or damage to the
equipment. Ensure that all appropriate safety precautions are taken.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Le personnel d’entretien doit recevoir une formation appropriée avant
d’installer, de dépanner ou d’entretenir un équipement électrique à haute
énergie. Des tensions potentiellement mortelles pourraient provoquer la
mort, des blessures graves ou des dommages à l’équipement. S’assurer que
toutes les consignes de sécurité appropriées ont été respectées.
570-1002542-05BTroubleshooting and Solar Energy Technical Support8‑1
Advanced Energy
The inverter provides four LEDs and a display that are the primary indicators of the
system status.
When the FAULT LED is on:
Record the message on the display.
1.
2. Turn the DC disconnect switch to the OFF position.
REVERSE CURRENT
The inverter is equipped with string fuses at both positive and negative terminals,
DC1 and DC2, to ensure that no dangerous reverse currents can occur in the event of
a short circuit.
Reverse currents are fault currents that only occur in PV systems that consist of
strings connected in parallel. Short circuits in individual modules or in cells of a
module, or a double ground fault can cause the open-circuit voltage of the affected
string to decrease to a degree that the intact strings connected in parallel force a
reverse current through the defective string. This can lead to excessive heating and
thus harm the string. The reverse current could also cause secondary damage.
To avoid damage to PV systems, appropriate precautions should be taken. There are
two possible situations that may create a reverse current:
• String sizing: Fusing is recommended when the PV array is sized such that the
total short-circuit currents from the non-faulted strings (n-1), is below the
maximum backfeed current for the modules.
• Fault event: A properly designed PV system ensures that reverse current during
a fault event does not exceed the harmful limit. Each string should be fused
individually using a series of connected fuses. If a fault occurs in this situation,
the array string with the fault will separate from the intact string, thus avoiding
damage to the string.
TROUBLESHOOTING FAILURES AND
FAULTS
WARNING:
Maintenance personnel must receive proper training before installing,
troubleshooting, or maintaining high-energy electrical equipment. Potentially
lethal voltages could cause death, serious personal injury, or damage to the
equipment. Ensure that all appropriate safety precautions are taken.
8‑2Troubleshooting and Solar Energy Technical Support570-1002542-05B
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
AVERTISSEMENT:
Le personnel d’entretien doit recevoir une formation appropriée avant
d’installer, de dépanner ou d’entretenir un équipement électrique à haute
énergie. Des tensions potentiellement mortelles pourraient provoquer la
mort, des blessures graves ou des dommages à l’équipement. S’assurer que
toutes les consignes de sécurité appropriées ont été respectées.
DANGER:
This unit contains energy storage devices that take up to 5 minutes to
discharge. Verify the high energy capacitors are completely discharged
before working on this unit.
DANGER:
Cette unité contient des dispositifs de stockage d’énergie qui prennent
jusqu’à 5 minutes pour se décharger. Vérifier que les condensateurs à haute
énergie sont complètement déchargés avant de travailler sur l’unité.
The inverter display screen is the primary indicator of a possible problem with the
inverter. The inverter can detect and display inverter failures and faults.
Temporary failure: Inverter disconnects temporarily from the AC main, the red
•
ALARM LED flashes on the control panel, and the temporary failure is
automatically acknowledged by the inverter and a startup attempt is made if the
message is no longer pending. The failure is saved in memory.
• Fault: During operation, permanently programmed and parameter limits are
monitored continuously. To protect the inverter power section from damage, the
inverter is disconnected from the voltage if a limit value is exceeded or a fault
occurs. The red ALARM LED is continuously lit. The last 100 faults are saved
in memory.
For each category, the following occurs:
• Fault text is displayed on the screen
• Alarm LED is flashing or solid
• Message is written to the failure memory
1. Press the F1 button to display the main menu.
2. Select the Failure Memory menu item.
3. Use the ◄ and ► buttons to scroll between the data and the error number.
570-1002542-05BTroubleshooting and Solar Energy Technical Support8‑3
F1F2
ESC
READYONALARMEARTH FLT
Analysis
Actual Value
Failure Memory
Configuration
Device Information
F1-Menu
Advanced Energy
Figure 8‑1. Failure Memory menu item
Clearing a Fault
When the inverter shuts down due to a fault, the inverter is locked out of restarting
until the fault is acknowledged. As long as the cause of the fault still exists, it is not
possible to clear the fault. The fault can only be cleared after the cause has been
eliminated.
TO CLEAR A FAULT
1. Record the information provided on the display screen.
2. Press the ESC button and de-energize the inverter by turning off the DC
3. Perform a visual inspection for the following:
4. Correct the fault condition.
5. Turn the inverter on.
disconnect to acknowledge the fault message.
◦ Check all connections for loose or disconnected wires
◦ Check all fuses for a blown or loose fuse
◦ Hardware issues
☞Important
If the visual inspection reveals potentially unsafe conditions, discontinue
troubleshooting and contact AE Solar Energy Technical Support or email
invertersupport@aei.com prior to proceeding.
8‑4Troubleshooting and Solar Energy Technical Support570-1002542-05B
Overvoltage Fault
600 SERIES
The inverter has two DC inputs, DC1 and DC2, each of which is limited to 500 V. A
relay (combiner) inside the inverter connects the two arrays, in series, upon
activation. This doubles the voltage level inside the inverter.
A symmetry controller balances the voltages of the two terminals, positive of DC1
and negative of DC2, so they do not exceed 500 V with respect to ground under any
condition. If the controller detects an asymmetry, the controller shuts down the
inverter. When the inverter shuts down the relay opens, which connects the arrays
back into the parallel configuration, limiting the voltage of any array conductor (with
respect to ground) to 500 V.
In the rare instance of a failure of the combiner relay, the two arrays will be left
connected in series even with the inverter deactivated. Since the symmetry controller
does not operate in this condition, there is the possibility of the voltage of an array
terminal to ground exceeding 500 V. The inverter detects this fault condition and
displays the message ARRAY OVERVOLTAGE.
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
1000 SERIES
The 1000 series is limited to 1000 VDC maximum. If the inverter detects more than
1000 V V with respect to ground, it will shut down. The inverter will display an
ARRAY OVERVOLTAGE error.
TO RESOLVE AN OVERVOLTAGE FAULT
If an ARRAY OVERVOLTAGE message is displayed on the screen, complete the
following steps:
1.
Turn the DC disconnect switch to the OFF position.
2. Contact AE Solar Energy Technical Support.
Inverter Faults
The following table lists the inverter faults. If the FAULT LED is lit, check the
display message and take the appropriate action
570-1002542-05BTroubleshooting and Solar Energy Technical Support8‑5
Advanced Energy
Table 8‑1. Inverter faults
Display Screen TextOperation ConditionDescription
ACTIVATION LTTimeout. Intermediate circuit
is precharging.
ACTIVATION LT 1Failure of a power branch in
the boost converter.
ACTIVATION LT 2Drop of intermediate circuit
voltage below limit value
P0024.0 (power section).
ACTIVATION LT 3Set point value for
intermediate circuit
symmetrization faulty.
ACTIVATION LT 4Timeout. Intermediate circuit
symmetrization.
1.
Acknowledge the
fault by pressing the
ESC button and deenergizeing the
inverter.
2. Contact AE Solar
Energy Technical
Support if this fault
reoccurs.
AFI FAULTFault current detection (ENS,
power section).
AFI WARNINGAn insulating fault was
detected during the system's
automatic insulation test
(ENS, power section).
COMMUNICATION LTCommunication problem
between control system and
power section.
Arc Fault Interrupt (AFI)
sensor failed.
1. Check the PCB
contact.
2. Contact AE Solar
Energy Technical
Support to replace.
Check the system's
insulation and repair.
1. Acknowledge the
fault by pressing the
ESC button and deenergizeing the
inverter.
2. Contact AE Solar
Energy Technical
Support if the fault
occurs again.
CONTROLLER VOLTAGE 1Boost converter of the
positive intermediate circuit
Wait until the controller
has restabilized.
could not regulate
sufficiently.
CONTROLLER VOLTAGE 2Boost converter of the
negative intermediate circuit
Wait until the controller
has restabilized.
could not regulate
sufficiently.
8‑6Troubleshooting and Solar Energy Technical Support570-1002542-05B
Table 8‑1. Inverter faults (Continued)
Display Screen TextOperation ConditionDescription
Advanced Energy® AE 3TL Inverters
CONTROLLER VOLTAGE 3Asymmetry in intermediate
circuit low.
CONTROLLER VOLTAGE 4Asymmetry in intermediate
circuit high.
CONTROLLER VOLTAGE 5Dropping of positive
intermediate circuit below
utility main connection peak
value.
CONTROLLER VOLTAGE 6Dropping of negative
intermediate circuit below
utility main connection peak
value.
CONTROLLER VOLTAGE 7Dropping of positive
intermediate circuit voltage
below limit value P0024.0.
CONTROLLER VOLTAGE 8Positive intermediate circuit
voltage exceeds limit value
P0024.1
CONTROLLER VOLTAGE 9Dropping of negative
intermediate circuit voltage
below limit value P0024.0.
Wait until the controller
has restabilized.
Wait until the controller
has restabilized.
Wait until the controller
has restabilized.
Wait until the controller
has restabilized.
Wait until the controller
has restabilized.
Wait until the controller
has restabilized.
Wait until the controller
has restabilized.
CONTROLLER VOLTAGE 10Negative intermediate circuit
voltage exceeds limit value
P0024.1.
CONTROLLER VOLTAGE 11Positive boosted intermediate
circuit voltage exceeds limit
value P0024.1.
CONTROLLER VOLTAGE 12Negative boosted
intermediate circuit voltage
exceeds limit value P0024.1.
COUNTRY CODE INCONS LTCoding and subcoding for
country of use do not match.
DC OFFSETDC current in AC power
supply.
Wait until the controller
has restabilized.
Wait until the controller
has restabilized.
Wait until the controller
has restabilized.
Contact AE Solar Energy
Technical Support.
Acknowledge the
1.
fault by pressing the
ESC button and deenergizeing the
inverter.
2. Contact AE Solar
Energy Technical
Support if the fault
occurs again.
570-1002542-05BTroubleshooting and Solar Energy Technical Support8‑7
Advanced Energy
Table 8‑1. Inverter faults (Continued)
Display Screen TextOperation ConditionDescription
DEVICE FAULT LTOverload shutdown in power
section.
ETHERNET CONNECTION 1Ethernet connection setup
unsuccessful.
ETHERNET CONNECTION 2Ethernet disconnected.
ETHERNET CONNECTION 3There is no 100 Mbit/s
Ethernet connection.
GEN INSULATION AFILTAn insulating fault was
detected during the system's
automatic insulation test
(ENS, power section).
GEN INSULATION AFISRAn insulating fault was
detected during the system's
automatic insulation test
(ENS, control section).
GEN INSULATION LTAn insulating fault was
detected during the system's
automatic insulation test
(ENS, power section).
Acknowledge the fault by
pressing the ESC button
and de-energizeing the
inverter.
Check the Ethernet
connection.
Set up Ethernet
connection with 100 Mbit/
s.
Check the system's
insulation and repair.
GRID FREQUENCYDetection of a utility main
frequency fault (ENS, control
section). This fault indication
is possibly caused by
switching operation on the
utility main.
GRID FREQUENCY FLLDetection of a utility main
fault (ENS, control section).
This fault indication is
possibly caused by switching
operation on the utility main.
Inverter will
1.
automatically restart
when utility voltage
and frequency
returns within
normal limits.
2. Contact the grid
operator if the grid
voltage is not in the
normal range.
3. Contact AE Solar
Energy Technical
Support if the grid
voltage is in the
normal range.
8‑8Troubleshooting and Solar Energy Technical Support570-1002542-05B
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