OutBack Power Technologies is a leader in advanced energy conversion technology. OutBack products include
true sine wave inverter/chargers, maximum power point tracking charge controllers, and system communication
components, as well as circuit breakers, batteries, accessories, and assembled systems.
Grid/Hybrid™
As a leader in off-grid energy systems designed around energy storage, OutBack Power is an innovator in
Grid/Hybrid system technology, providing the best of both worlds: grid-tied system savings during normal or
daylight operation, and off-grid independence during peak energy times or in the event of a power outage or an
emergency. Grid/Hybrid systems have the intelligence, agility and interoperability to operate in multiple energy
modes quickly, efficiently, and seamlessly, in order to deliver clean, continuous and reliable power to residential
and commercial users while maintaining grid stability.
Contact Information
17825 – 59th Avenue N.E.
Suite B
+1.360.618.4363 (Technical Support)
Hansastrasse 8
D-91126
+49.9122.79889.21 (Fax)
Disclaimer
UNLESS SPECIFICALLY AGREED TO IN WRITING, OUTBACK POWER TECHNOLOGIES:
(a) MAKES NO WARRANTY AS TO THE ACCURACY, SUFFICIENCY OR SUITABILITY OF ANY TECHNICAL OR OTHER
INFORMATION PROVIDED IN ITS MANUALS OR OTHER DOCUMENTATION.
(b) ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE, WHETHER DIRECT, INDIRECT,
CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL, WHICH MIGHT ARISE OUT OF THE USE OF SUCH INFORMATION. THE USE OF
ANY SUCH INFORMATION WILL BE ENTIRELY AT THE USER’S RISK.
OutBack Power Technologies cannot be responsible for system failure, damages, or injury resulting from
improper installation of their products.
Information included in this manual is subject to change without notice.
OutBack Power, the OutBack Power logo, FLEXpower ONE, and Grid/Hybrid are trademarks owned and used by
OutBack Power Technologies, Inc. The ALPHA logo and the phrase “member of the Alpha Group” are trademarks
owned and used by Alpha Technologies Inc. These trademarks may be registered in the United States and other
countries.
Welcome to OutBack Power Technologies ................................................................................................................. 3
Components and Accessories ......................................................................................................................................... 4
Renewable Energy ............................................................................................................................................................... 6
Battery Bank ........................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Removing Front Cover .................................................................................................................................................... 16
Terminals and Ports .......................................................................................................................................................... 17
DC Wiring ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
AC Wiring ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 22
AUX Wiring ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 26
Generator Control .............................................................................................................................................................................. 27
AC Configurations ............................................................................................................................................................. 31
Multiple-Inverter AC Installations (Stacking) ........................................................................................................................... 33
Functional Test ................................................................................................................................................................... 38
Symbols, Terms, and Definitions .................................................................. 39
Symbols Used ..................................................................................................................................................................... 39
Index ......................................................................................................... 41
900-0160-01-00 Rev A 1
Table of Contents
List of Tables
Table 1 Components and Accessories ......................................................................................................... 4
Table 2 Battery Bank Elements ....................................................................................................................... 8
Table 3 Ground Conductor Size and Torque Requirements .............................................................. 19
Table 4 DC Conductor Size and Torque Requirements ....................................................................... 21
Table 5 Terms and Definitions ...................................................................................................................... 39
List of Figures
Figure 1 Radian Series Inverter/Charger .................................................................................................. 3
Figure 2 Radian Inverter and Accessories ............................................................................................... 4
Figure 31 Parallel Wiring with GSLC .......................................................................................................... 37
2 900-0160-01-00 Rev A
Audience
Designed to be integrated as part of an OutBack
This book provides instructions for the physical installation and wiring of this product.
These instructions are for use by qualified personnel who meet all local and governmental code
requirements for licensing and training for the installation of electrical power systems with AC and DC
voltage up to 600 volts. This product is only serviceable by qualified personnel.
Welcome to OutBack Power Technologies
Thank you for purchasing the OutBack Radian Series Inverter/Charger. This product offers a complete
power conversion system between batteries and AC power. It can provide backup power, sell power
back to the utility grid, or provide complete stand-alone off-grid service.
Grid/Hybrid™ system
Battery-to-AC inverting which delivers split-phase power
(100/200 Vac to 120/240 Vac at 60 or 50 Hz)
Model GS8048A can continuously produce 8 kVA (33 Aac)
Model GS4048A can continuously produce 4 kVA (16 Aac)
Mounts easily with supplied mounting plate
All terminals exit at the bottom of the inverter, allowing the
installer to use a single distribution box; the GS Load Center
(GSLC) is specifically designed for this purpose
Uses spring-based AC terminals instead of screw-based
terminals; this eliminates torque requirements and periodic
re-tightening
Uses the MATE3™ System Display and Controller (sold
separately) for user interface as part of a Grid/Hybrid system
Uses the HUB™ Series Communications Manager for
networking as part of a Grid/Hybrid system
Features versatile mounting locations for the MATE3, HUB,
FLEXmax charge controller, and GSLC
The venting on the cover allows mounting of multiple Radian
inverters side by side with minimal clearance between them
Up to 10 Radian inverter/chargers can be stacked together
Introduction
Figure 1 Radian Series Inverter/Charger
: This product has a settable AC output range. In this book, many references to the output refer
NOTE
to the entire range. However, some references are made to 120/240 Vac or 60 Hz output. These are
intended as examples only.
900-0160-01-00 Rev A 3
Introduction
IMPORTANT:
Controller. Use of these products is not supported with the Radian Series.
IMPORTANT:
This product is not stackable with the GS8048 inverter. See page 32.
Mounting Bracket
Optional Components for Attachment to Radian Inverter
NOTE: The system display is required if any Radian functions
GSLC
HUB
MATE3 System Display
Components and Accessories
This product is not compatible with the OutBack MATE or MATE2 System Display and
Table 1 Components and Accessories
Included in Box
Radian Series Installation Manual (this book) RTS (Remote Temperature Sensor)
Radian Series Operator’s Manual Hardware Kit
MATE3 System Display and Controller FLEXmax Series Charge Controller
FW-MB3 (MATE3 bracket) FW-CCB or FW-CCB2 (charge controller brackets)
GSLC (GS Load Center) seriesHUB Series Communications Manager
Communications
Manager
need adjustment from the factory default settings.
Figure 2 Radian Inverter and Accessories
4 900-0160-01-00 Rev A
Charge Controllers
Planning
Applications
The Radian Series Inverter/Charger is intended for both off-grid and grid-interactive (Grid/Hybrid)
applications. It is designed to use a battery bank to store energy. It can work in conjunction with
photovoltaic (PV) modules to harvest solar energy, as well as wind turbines and other renewable
sources. These sources charge the battery, which in turn is used by the inverter.
The Radian inverter has two sets of AC input terminals. Two AC sources, such as a gas or diesel
generator and the utility grid, can be connected to the inverter. Other combinations of AC sources
are possible.
NOTE:
although this can be changed.
The Radian inverter’s settings can be changed to accommodate many applications.
The inverter can only accept one source at a time. The input marked
has priority,
Grid
Figure 3 Applications (Example)
900-0160-01-00 Rev A 5
Planning
Input Modes
The Radian inverter has seven modes of operation. These modes determine how the Radian interacts
with an AC source. Each mode has functions and priorities that are intended for a designated
application. Each of the Radian’s two AC inputs can be set to a different operating mode, so that
different applications can be supported.
Generator
imperfect AC waveform. The Radian can charge from the generator even when the generator is undersized
or substandard.
Support
other limitations may require temporary assistance to run very large loads. The Radian adds inverter and
battery power to the AC source to ensure that the loads receive the power they require.
Grid Tied
batteries above a selected “target” voltage, the Radian inverter will send the excess energy to any loads. If
the loads do not use all the excess energy, then the Radian will return (sell) that energy to the utility grid.
UPS
interruption when switching between AC input and batteries. The response speed has been increased so
that if an AC disconnect occurs the response time will be minimized.
Backup
have specialty requirements such as selling or support. The AC source will flow through the Radian inverter
to power the loads unless power is lost. If power is lost, then the Radian inverter will supply energy to the
loads from the battery bank until the AC source returns.
Mini Grid
renewable energy. The system will run off the renewable energy until the battery voltage falls to a specified
low level. When this occurs, the Radian inverter will connect to the utility grid to power the loads. The
Radian inverter will disconnect from the utility grid when the batteries are sufficiently recharged.
Grid Zero:
renewable energy. The system will remain connected to the utility grid, but will only draw power from it
when no other power is available. The default power sources are the batteries and renewable energy, which
attempt to “zero” the use of the AC source. The batteries are discharged and recharged while remaining
grid-connected.
: This mode is intended for a wide range of AC sources, including generators with a rough or
: This mode is intended for systems using the utility grid or a generator. AC source size, wiring, or
: This mode is intended for grid-interactive systems. When renewable energy sources charge the
: This mode is intended for systems primarily intended to maintain power to the loads without any
: This mode is intended for systems that have the utility grid or a generator available, but do not
: This mode is intended for systems that have the utility grid as an input and a sizable amount of
This mode is intended for systems that have the utility grid as an input and a sizable amount of
See the Radian Series Inverter/Charger Operator’s Manual for additional information on these modes,
including the reasons and considerations for using each mode.
Renewable Energy
The Radian Series Inverter/Charger cannot connect directly to photovoltaic arrays, wind turbines,
or other renewable sources. As a required part of a Grid/Hybrid system, the batteries are the inverter’s
primary source of power. However, if the renewable sources are used to charge the batteries, the
inverter can use their energy by drawing it from the batteries.
The renewable source is always treated as a battery charger, even if all of its power is used
immediately. The renewable source must have a charge controller or some way to prevent
overcharging. OutBack Power’s FLEXmax family of charge controllers can be used for this purpose, as
can other products.
The GSLC will receive the mechanical and electrical connections for up to two FLEXmax charge
controllers. It can receive the electrical connections for two FLEXmax Extreme charge controllers.
6 900-0160-01-00 Rev A
Planning
IMPORTANT:
factory default settings, may cause the batteries to be undercharged or overcharged.
CAUTION: Hazard to Equipment
product warranty. (Sealed batteries may be an exception.)
Any losses are essentially amp-hour
stem cannot use.
increased to account for losses.
These are the most basic
Battery Bank
When planning a battery bank, consider the following:
Cables:
will determine the placement of the battery bank. Other local codes or regulations may apply and may take
priority over OutBack recommendations.
Battery Type: The Radian inverter/charger uses a three-stage charge cycle.
~ The cycle was designed for lead-chemistry batteries intended for deep discharge. These include
~ Each stage of the charging cycle can be reconfigured or omitted from the cycle if necessary.
~ The Radian inverter/charger is designed to work with a 48-volt battery bank. Before constructing a
Charger Settings and Maintenance:
usually recommended for safety reasons. It may be necessary to use a fan to ventilate the battery enclosure.
Batteries must be regularly maintained according to the instructions of the battery manufacturer.
Recommendations for battery cable size and length are shown on page 20. The maximum length
batteries for marine, golf-cart, and forklift applications. They also include gel-cell batteries and
absorbed glass-mat (AGM) batteries. OutBack Power recommends the use of batteries designed
specifically for renewable energy applications. Automotive batteries are strongly discouraged and will
have a short life if used in inverter applications.
This programming is performed using the system display. The charger can be customized to charge a
wide range of battery technologies including nickel, lithium-ion, and sodium-sulfur batteries.
battery bank, confirm the nominal voltage of individual batteries.
A vented battery enclosure may be required by electric code and is
Bank Size:
accurately as possible, beginning with the items below. This avoids underperformance or wasted capacity.
These ten items are obtainable in different places, summarized in Table 2 on the next page. Some of the
information is specific to the site or application. Some can be obtained from the battery manufacturer.
Information on OutBack products is available from OutBack Power Technologies or its dealers.
A. Size of load:
B. Daily hours of use:
C. Days of autonomy:
D. Application: This often helps define or prioritize the previous three items. Off-grid systems often
require enough capacity to last for an extended period before recharging. Grid-connected systems
frequently need only enough capacity for short-term backup during outages.
E. Conductor efficiency: Wire size and other factors
will waste power due to resistance and voltage drop.
Typical acceptable efficiency is 96 to 99%.
F. Inverter efficiency: Radian specifications list
“Typical Efficiency” to help estimate operating loss.
Battery charger settings need to be correct for a given battery type. Always follow
battery manufacturer recommendations. Making incorrect settings, or leaving them at
Batteries can emit vapors which are corrosive over long periods of time. Installing the
inverter in the battery compartment may cause corrosion which is not covered by the
Battery bank capacity is measured in amp-hours. Determine the required bank specifications as
and essential factors used
capacity that the sy
The battery bank size can be
900-0160-01-00 Rev A 7
Planning
G. System DC voltage: The Radian inverter
1) A ÷ [E x F] 1000 ÷ (0.98 x 0.93) = 1097.2 W
Table 2 Battery Bank Elements
Item
Source of information
A. Load Size
Site-specific
B. Daily Hours
Site-specific
C. Days of Autonomy
Site-specific
D. Application
Site-specific
E. Conductor Efficiency
Site-specific
F. Inverter Efficiency
Inverter manufacturer
G. System Vdc
Inverter manufacturer
H. Battery Vdc
Battery manufacturer
I. Capacity
Battery manufacturer
J. Maximum DoD
Battery manufacturer
requires nominal 48 Vdc to operate.
H. Battery voltage: Most individual battery
voltages are less than the system DC voltage.
The batteries need to be placed in series to
deliver the correct voltage.
I. Capacity: Battery capacity, which is measured
in amp-hours, is not usually a fixed number.
It is specified based on the rate of discharge.
For example, the OutBack EnergyCell 200RE is
rated at 154.7 Ahr when discharged at the
5-hour rate (to terminal voltage 1.85 Vpc). This is a high rate of discharge that would hypothetically
drain the battery in 5 hours. The same battery is rated at 215.8 Ahr when used at the 100-hour rate.
Use the appropriate discharge rate (correlated to the expected loads) to measure the capacity of a
battery. Use battery specifications for terminal voltage 1.85 Vpc whenever possible.
J. Maximum depth of discharge (DoD): Most batteries cannot be discharged below a certain level
without damage. The bank requires enough total capacity to keep this from happening.
To Calculate Minimum Battery Bank Size (refer to Table 2 for letter designations):
1. The load size, item A, is measured in watts. Compensate this figure for efficiency loss. Multiply the
conductor efficiency by the inverter efficiency (E x F). (These items are represented as percentages,
but may be displayed as decimals for calculation.) Divide item A by the result.
2. Convert the compensated load into amperes (Adc). Divide the step 1 result by the system voltage
(item G).
3. Determine the daily load consumption in ampere-hours (amp-hours, or Ahr). Multiply the step 2
result by the daily usage hours (item B).
4. Adjust the total for required days of autonomy (the days the system must operate without
recharging) and the maximum DoD. Multiply the step 3 result by C and divide by J.
The result is the total amp-hour capacity required for the battery bank.
5. Determine the number of parallel battery strings required. Divide the Ahr figure from step 4 by the
individual battery capacity (I). Round the result to the next highest whole number.
6. Determine the total number of batteries required. Divide the system voltage by the battery voltage
(G ÷ H). Multiply the result by the step 5 result.
The result is the total required quantity of the chosen battery model.
EXAMPLE #1
A. Backup loads: 1.0 kW (1000 W)
B. Hours of use: 8
C. Days of autonomy: 1
D. Grid-interactive system (GS4048A inverter)
E. Conductor efficiency: 98% (0.98)
F. Inverter efficiency: 93% (0.93)
G. System voltage: 48 Vdc
H. Batteries: OutBack EnergyCell 220GH (12 Vdc)
I. Capacity at 8-hour rate: 199.8 Ahr
J. Maximum DoD: 80% (0.8)
8 900-0160-01-00 Rev A
2) 1 ÷ G 1097.2 ÷ 48 = 22.9 Adc
3) 2 x B 22.9 x 8 = 182.9 Ahr
4) [3 x C] ÷ J [182.9 x 1] ÷ 0.8 = 228.6 Ahr
5) 4 ÷ I 228.6 ÷ 199.8 = 1.14 (rounded to 2)
6) [G ÷ H] x 5 [48 ÷ 12] x 2 strings = 8 batteries
Planning
EXAMPLE #2
CAUTION: Equipment Damage
1) A ÷ [E x F] 1750 ÷ (0.97 x 0.93) = 1939.9 W
A. Backup loads: 1.75 kW (1750 W)
B. Hours of use: 8
C. Days of autonomy: 2
D. Off-grid system (GS4048A inverter)
E. Conductor efficiency: 97% (0.97)
F. Inverter efficiency: 93% (0.93)
G. System voltage: 48 Vdc
H. Batteries: OutBack EnergyCell 200RE (12 Vdc)
I. Capacity at 8-hour rate: 167.5 Ahr
J. Maximum DoD: 50% (0.5)
2) 1 ÷ G 1939.9 ÷ 48 = 40.4 Adc
3) 2 x B 40.4 x 8 = 323.3 Ahr
4) [3 x C] ÷ J [323.3 x 2] ÷ 0.5 = 1293.3 Ahr
5) 4 ÷ I 1293.3 ÷ 167.5 = 7.7 (rounded to 8)
6) [G ÷ H] x 5 [48 ÷ 12] x 8 strings = 32 batteries
Generator
These Radian models can work with any “split-phase” generator that delivers reliable AC power at the
appropriate voltage and frequency. They cannot work with a single-phase or three-phase generator.
Use of a three-phase generator with this equipment may damage either the inverter or
the generator. This damage to the inverter is not covered by the product warranty.
The Radian inverter/charger can provide a start signal to control an automatic start generator. If automatic
generator starting is required, the generator must be an electric-start model with automatic choke. It
should have two-wire start capability. For other configurations, additional equipment may be required.
In any configuration, the inverter may need to be programmed using the system display.
Perform all programming according to the specifications of the generator and the required operation of the
inverter. Parameters to be programmed may include generator size, automatic starting requirements, and
potential fluctuations in generator AC voltage.
Generator Sizing
A generator should be sized to provide enough power for all the loads and the battery charger.
Available generator power may be limited by ratings for circuit breakers and/or generator connectors.
The maximum allowed AC circuit breaker size is 50 Aac per Radian inverter/charger.
The generator must be able to provide current to all inverters. Minimum generator wattage
recommended to be twice the wattage of the inverter system. Many generators may not be able to
maintain AC voltage or frequency for long periods of time if they are loaded more than 80% of
rated capacity.
A generator that is to be installed in a building usually should not have a bond between the neutral and
ground connections. The generator should only be bonded if there is a specific need. Installations in North
America are expected to bond the neutral and ground at the main electrical panel. See page 22 for more
information on neutral-ground bonding.
1
is usually
1
This is the wattage value after deratings for the following: peak versus continuous power, load power factor considerations,
fuel type, altitude, and ambient temperature.
900-0160-01-00 Rev A 9
Planning
WARNING: Shock Hazard or Equipment Damage
inappropriate places. This could create an electric shock hazard or damage the equipment.
AC Source
AC Loads
GSLC Bypass
Inoperative
Inverter
Input Wiring
Output Wiring
AC Source
AC Loads
Output Wiring
Inactive Radian Inverters
GSLC Bypass Devices
(not to be used)
External Bypass Device
Input Wiring
Maintenance Bypass Switching
Inverter systems are often equipped with AC maintenance bypass switches or interlocks. If the
inverter system ever needs to be shut down or removed, the AC sources and loads must be
disconnected. A bypass device allows the AC source to deliver power directly to the loads, bypassing
the inverter. This can minimize disruption to the system and avoids the need for extensive rewiring.
Radian
Figure 4 Bypass Switching
The GS Load Center (GSLC) can be equipped with bypass circuit breakers for this purpose. However, if
multiple Radian inverters are stacked in a single system, then the GSLC bypass kits should not be used.
The bypass function must be simultaneous for all inverters. The GSLC bypass kits operate
independently, not simultaneously.
Both manual and automatic double-throw bypass switches are commonly available in a range of sizes
and options. These are highly recommended for systems with more than a single inverter.
Using independent bypass devices on multiple inverters can result in power being routed to
Figure 5 Bypass Switching for Multiple Inverters
10 900-0160-01-00 Rev A
Installation
Enclosure Height 28” (71.1 cm)
Mounting Hole Spacing 1.97" (5.0 cm)
Enclosure
Height with
Flange
29.1” (74 cm)
Width 16” (40.6 cm)
Depth
The dimensions of an assembled system with mounting plate and GSLC are shown on the next page.
Location and Environmental Requirements
Radian Series Inverter/Chargers must be located in a weather-proof enclosure or enclosed area. It is
not designed for exposure to water or excessive wind-blown dust and debris. It carries an Ingress
Protection (IP) rating of 20 and a Relative Humidity (RH) rating of 93%.
The Radian inverter must be wall-mounted in an upright position. The inverter is not approved for
mounting in any other position or orientation.
Recommended minimum clearance is 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) for the front and top of the inverter.
The sides and bottom may be enclosed or obscured with no restriction when mounting accessory devices or
one other Radian inverter. If more than two Radian inverters are installed side by side with the GSLC, the
inverters should be separated by at least 0.9 inches (2.3 cm) to accommodate the GSLC hinged doors.
The Radian inverter will function best if operated in a temperature range of -4°F to 77°F (–20°C to 25°C). At
temperatures up to 122°F (50°C), all inverter components meet their specifications, but the inverter’s power
is derated. It can function in environments as cold as –40°F (–40°C) and as warm as 140°F (60°C), but it may
not meet all component specifications. This temperature range also applies to storage.
The specifications are listed in the Radian Series Inverter/Charger Operator’s Manual.
Dimensions
8.75"
(22 cm)
Figure 6 Dimensions
900-0160-01-00 Rev A 11
Installation
Width 16.0” (40.6 cm)
0.45” (1.1 cm)
0.45” (1.1 cm)
13.7”
28”
29.0”
12.5”
45.0”
8.75”
(22.2 cm)
14.0” (35.6 cm)
This illustration can be used as a
(114.3 cm)
(71.1 cm )
(73.7 cm)
(31.8 cm)
basic template for planning layouts,
marking mounting holes, etc.
when installing a system.
12900-0160-01-00 Rev A
The requirements for mounting the
Radian inverter are described
beginning on the next page.
Figure 7 System Dimensions
Installation
IMPORTANT:
with inadequate fasteners.
The Radian inverter is mounted using these
Continued on the next page…
16.0” (40.6 cm)
Mounting Plate
8.0” (20.3 cm)
4.1”
5.0”
(12.7 cm)
Insulated screwdriver set; should include
DVM or Voltmeter
Tools Required
The following tools may be required for this installation:
Wrench and socket sets; should include torque and ratchet
wrenches; also reversible (stubby) wrenches for narrow access
Wire cutters/strippers
a #2 Phillips screwdriver 15 to16” long
Long-nose pliers
Mounting
Two or more people may be needed to install the Radian inverter/charger due to its weight.
Mount and secure each component before attaching any wiring. Local or national wiring codes may require
the bottom of the inverter to be enclosed. The GS Load Center was specifically designed for this purpose.
Avoid large air gaps behind the Radian inverter/charger and its mounting plate. These can result in louder
mechanical noise during heavy inverting or charging. Mount the plate on a flat, solid mounting surface.
Use correct fasteners to secure the mounting plate and the Radian inverter/charger to the
mounting surface. OutBack cannot be responsible for damage to the product if it is attached
The Radian inverter/charger comes equipped with a mounting plate, as shown in Figure 8.
steps.
1.The mounting plate is to be screwed or
bolted directly to a solid mounting surface
such as wall studs. (See Figure 8.) Lag
screws are provided for this purpose.
~The plate is designed to mount on wall
studs with a spacing of 16” (40.6 cm).
If the studs have a different spacing,
plywood or similar material should be
installed over the studs. This material
should be1/2” size or thicker. The
mounting plate can be installed on the
plywood surface.
~If multiple Radian inverter/chargers are
being installed, all mounting plates
should be installed first. The inverters
can be mounted and secured one at a
time when this is done.
(10.4 cm)
6.0” (15.2 cm)
Figure 8 Installing the Mounting Plate
900-0160-01-00 Rev A 13
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