Xantrex Technology GT3.0 User Manual

Download

Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter

GT3.0

Owner’s Manual

Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter

Owner’s Manual

About Xantrex

Xantrex Technology Inc. is a world-leading supplier of advanced power electronics and controls with products from 50 watt mobile units to one MW utility-s cale systems for wind, solar, batteries, fuel cells, microturbines, and backup power applications in both grid-connected and stand-alone systems . Xantrex products include inverters, battery chargers, programmable power supplies, and variable speed drives that convert, supply, control, clea n, and distribute electri cal pow er.

T rademarks

Xantrex Grid T ie Solar Inverter is a trademark of Xantrex International. Xantrex and Xanbus are registered trademarks of Xantrex International.

Other trademarks, registered tradema rks, and product names are the prope rty of their respective owners and are used herein for identi fication purposes only.

Notice of Copyright

Disclaimer

UNLESS SPECIFICALLY AGREED TO IN WRITING, XANTREX TECHNOLOGY INC. (“XANTREX”) (a) MAKES NO WARRANTY AS TO THE ACCURACY, SUFFICIENCY OR SUITABILITY OF ANY

TECHNICAL OR OTHER INFORMAT ION 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 ENTIREL Y AT THE USER’S RISK.

Date and Revision

September 2004 Revision B

Part Number

975-0131-01-01

Contact Information

Telephone: 1 800 670 0707 (toll free North America)

Fax: 1 800 994 7828 (toll free North America)

Email: customerservice@xantrex.com Web: www.xantrex.com

1 360 925 5097 (direct)

1 360 925 5143 (direct)

About This Manual

The purpose of this Owner’s Manua l is to pr ovide explanations a nd pr ocedures f or installing, operating, maintaining, and troublesh ooting the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter™.

Scope

The manual provi des sa fe ty guide lines, detail ed planni ng and setup inf ormation. It provides procedures f or installing the inverter and information about operating and troubleshooting the unit. It does not provide details about particular brands of photovoltaic (PV) panels. You need to consult individual PV manufacturers for this information.

Audience

The manual is intended for anyone who needs to install and operate the GT Inverter. Installers should be fully educated on the hazards of installing electrical equipment. Certified electricians or technicians are recommended.

Organization

This manual is organized into 6 chapters and an appendix. Chapter 1, “Introduction”, contains information about the features and functions

of the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter. Chapter 2, “Installation”, provides information about planning for and installing

the GT Inverter. It contains information to help you plan wire routes, AC and DC connections, and find a suitable location for installation. It also discusses requirements for grounding the GT Inverter and your PVarray.

Chapter 3, “Wiring the Inverter”, provides procedure s for making DC and AC wiring connections , and grounding the GT Inverter and the PV array. Instructions for wiring inverters in pa rallel are also provided.

Chapter 4, “Starting the Inverter”, contains informati on on starting up the Xantr ex Grid Tie Sola r Inverter and performing a Functional Test.

Chapter 5, “Monitoring the Inverter”, contains information for understanding the LCD screens and the LED indicators.

Chapter 6, “Maintenance and Troubleshooting”, contains information about how to provide general maintenance for the Xant rex Grid Tie Solar Inverter. It also provides information about troubleshooting the unit.

Appendix A, “Specifications”, contains information about the electrical and environmental specifications of the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter.

975-0131-01-01 iii

About This Manual

Conv en t io n s Used

The following conventions are used in this guide .

WARNING

Warnings identify conditions that could result in personal injury or loss of life.

CAUTION

Cautions ide ntify conditions or pra ctices that could result in damage to the unit or othe r equipment.

Important:

serious as a caution or warning.

These notes des cribe th ings whi ch are import ant for y ou to know, but not as

Abbreviat i ons and Acronyms

AC Alternating Current CSA Canadian S t andards Association DC Direct Current GT Grid Tie GUI Graphical User Interface LCD Liquid Crystal Display LED Light Emitting Diode MPPT Maximum Power Point Tracking PC Persona l Computer PV Photovoltaic PVGFP PV Ground Fault Protection PWM Pulse Wi dth Modulation STC Standard Test Condition UL Underwriters Laboratories Va c Volts AC Vdc Volts DC V

iv 975-0131-01-01

Voltage at Maximum Power Open Circuit Voltage

Relat ed Inf o rmation

You can find more information about Xantrex Technology Inc. as well as its products and services at www.xantrex.com

Other useful documentation on photovoltaic systems includes:

•“A Guide to Photovoltaic (PV) System Design and Installation”, California Energy Commission (CEC), publicati on #500 -01-02 0, June 2001 (a vailable at www.energy.ca.gov).

•“California Interconnection Guidebook: a Guide to Interconnecting Customer-owned Electric Generation Equipment to the Electric Utility Distribution System using California’s Electric Ru l e 21 ”, Ca lifo rni a E nergy Commission (CEC), publication #500-03-083, September 2003 (avail able at www.energy.ca.gov).

About This Manual

975-0131-01-01 v

Important Safety Instructions

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS—This manual contains important instructions that shall be followed during the installa tion and maintenance of the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inver ter.

1. Before installi ng and using the G T Inverter, read all instructions and cautionary markings on the inverter, wiring box, and all appropriate sections of this guide.

2. T o reduce risk of fire hazard, do not cover or obstruct the heat sink.

3. Observe the clearance recommendati ons as described on page 2–18. Do not install the G T Inverte r in a zero-clear ance or non-ventil at ed co mp a rt ment . Over he ati ng ma y resul t.

4. Use only accessories rec ommended or sold by the manufacturer . Doing otherwise may result in a risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.

5. To avoid a risk of fire and electric shock, make sure that existing wiring is in good condition and tha t wire is not undersized. Do not operate the GT Inverter with damaged or substandard wir ing.

6. Do not operate the GT Inverter if it has received a sharp blow, be en dropped, or otherwise damaged in any way . If the GT Inverter is damaged, see the Warranty section.

7. Do not disasse mble the GT Inverter. It conta ins no us er -se rvicea ble par ts. S ee Warranty for instruc tio ns on obtaining service. Attempting to service the GT Inverter yourself may result in a risk of electrical shock or fire and will void the factory warranty.

8. T o reduce the risk of electrical shock , disc onnect both AC and DC power from the GT Inverter before attempting any maintena nce or cleaning or working on any circuits connected to the inve rter. Turning off controls will not reduce this risk. Internal capacitors remain charged for 5 minutes after disconnecting all sources of power.

9. The GT Inverter must be provided with a n equipme nt-grounding conductor connected to the AC ground.

975-0131-01-01 vii

Safety

Regulatory Compliance

The GT Inverter has complete on-board over-current, over-temperature and anti-islanding protection, and meets U.S., Canadian and international safety operating standa rds and code requirements:

• UL 1741 – Standard for Inverters, Converters, and Controllers for Use in Independent Power Systems

• CSA C22.2 No. 107.1-01 General Use Power Supplies

• IEEE C62.41 Recommended Practice on Sur ge Voltage s in Low-Voltage AC Power Circuit s (Location

Categ ory B3).

To locate the firmware version number

The firmware version number for the protection processor is visible on a screen that appears when the unit starts up or is powered up after switching the AC/DC Disconnect switch to “on.” The screen reads:

Flash = 01.01

ROM = 01.01

The number appearing after “ROM” is the firmware version number for the protecti on processor.

FCC Information to the User

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate r adio frequency energy and, if not install ed and used in a ccordance with the in structions , may cause ha rmful inter ferenc e to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installati on. I f this equipment does cause harmful interfere nce to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encourage d to try to correct the interfe rence by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the rece iving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circ uit different from that to which the re ceiver is connected .

• Consult the dealer or an experie nced r adio/TV technician for help.

viii 975-0131-01-01

Safety

Verification and Commissioning Test

Purpose

This procedure is design ed to verify corr ect operati on of the Xantrex Grid T ie Solar In verter both on initi al operation and periodically through its life as required by the utilities.

Commissioning Test

Follow the startup and monitoring procedures as documented in Chapters 4 and 5. When operation of the inverter has been ver ified and the unit is producing power, run the Non-Islanding

test as described in this procedure.

Verification Test

Periodically run the Non-Islanding test. The inverter must respond within the 2-second limit for compliance and then hold of f on producing power for the required delay (default valu e of 5 minutes) .

Non-Islanding Test

This test requires that the AC circuit for the inverter be switched off. This can be accomplished by switching the breaker on the main panel that feeds the inverter(s). As an alternate, the disconnect for the home or business may be used as well. Have someone watch the front panel of the inverter. Within 2 seconds of switching the brea ker, the green light on the front of the inverter must go out. The display will respond with an AC Fault display, indicating that the AC is out of the operating range.

Re-energi ze the breaker to the inverter. The unit will respond by beginning its countdown. The green light will be off dur ing this tim e. Five minute s aft er applying AC (default value ), the gr een lig ht will tur n on and the inverter will beg in to push power to the grid. The display will then retur n to its on-l ine displa y showing the power being produced along with the tota l kWh produced to date.

Note: The default voltage, frequency and reconnec t delay value s as defined by UL1741 and CSA 107.1-01 are programmed into the unit at time of shipment from the factory. No changes to these settings can be made in the field by the user. Only authorized personne l with the utility’s permission may change these settings. Contact Xantrex Technology to gain permission and the procedure/e quipment to make these changes.

975-0131-01-01 ix

Contents

Important Safety In str uctions

Regulatory Compliance - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - viii FCC Information to the User - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - viii Verification and Commissioning Test - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ix

Introduction

About the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–2

Standard Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–3 Optional Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–4 Safety and Standards - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–5

Removable Components- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–6

Wiring Box (s tan d ard on N o rth Am eri ca n mod e ls) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–6 Optional Heat Sink Cover and Fan - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–7

Model Configurations - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–8

Installation

Installation Options - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2

Single Inverter Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2 Multiple Inverter I nstallations - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2

Planning the Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2

Inverter Location - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–4 PV Array Requirements - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–5 Grounding Requirements - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–8 Routing the Wires - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–11

Preparing for the Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–13

Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–13 Circuit Breakers and Disconnect Switch - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–13 Other Materials Needed - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–14 Equipment Needed - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–14

Mounting the Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–15

Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–15 Preparing to Mount the Unit - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–16 Installing the Mounti ng Bracket - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–17 Mounting the Inverter on the Bracket - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–22

Installing Accessories- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–23

975-0131-01-01 xi

Contents

Wiring the Inverte r

Accessing the Wiring Terminals - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2 Connecting the DC Wiring- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–4 Connecting the AC Wiring- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–7 Connecting Inverter s in Parallel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–10

DC and AC Wiring for Inverters in Parallel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–10

Communications Wiring for Inverters in Parallel- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–12

Xanbus Network Technology - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–12 Guidelines for Routing the Network Cables - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–15 Connect the Communications Cable between Inverters in Parallel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -3–16

Starting the Inverter

Startup Procedure - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–2

Checking the PV Array DC Voltage - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–2 Checking the AC Utility Voltage - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–2

Replacing the Wiring Box Cover - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–3

Starting up the GT Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–4

Monitoring the Inverter

Monitoring the Front Panel Display- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–2 Front Panel Display Screens and What They Mean - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–3

Startup Mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–3 Normal Operation Mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–3 Offline Mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–5 Fault Mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–6 Special Screens - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–8 Custom Screens - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–9

Status Indicator Lights- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–9

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Factors Affecting GT Inverter Performance - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–2

PV Array Factors - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–2

Other Factors - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–3 Performing General Maintenance - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–3 Replacing Parts - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–3

Replacing the Ground Fault Prot ection Fuse - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–4

Replacing the Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–5 Identifying Error /Fault Conditions and Solutions- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–8

xii 975-0131-01-01

Specifications

Electrical Specifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A–2

Input - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–2 Output - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–2 Adjustable disconne ct settings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–3 Efficiency - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–4

Environmental Specifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A–5

User Display - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–5 Mechanical Specifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A–5 Accessories - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A–6

Warranty and Return Information

Warranty - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - WA–1 Disclaimer - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - WA–2 Return Material Authorization Policy - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - WA–3 Return Procedure- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - WA–3 Out of Warranty Service- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - WA–3 Information About Your System - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - WA–4

Contents

Index

975-0131-01-01 xiii

xiv

Figures

Figure 1-1 Basic System Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–2 Figure 1-2 Main Features of the GT Inverter- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–4 Figure 1-3 Safety and Data Label Locations - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–5 Figure 1-4 Wiring Box for the GT Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–6 Figure 1-5 Optional Heat Sink Cover and Fan Assembly for the GT Inverter- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–7 Figure 2-1 Installation Options Overview- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–3 Figure 2-2 Basic Grounding Overview- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–9 Figure 2-3 Long Distance Grounding Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–10 Figure 2-4 Grounding With Extra Lightning Protection Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–11 Figure 2-5 Knockout Locations on Bottom of Wiring Box - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–12 Figure 2-6 Installation Overview- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–15 Figure 2-7 Dimensions of GT Inverter and Knockout Locations- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–17 Figure 2-8 Mou nt i ng Br ack et an d GT In v erter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–18 Figure 2-9 Examples of Mounting on a Pole or Rails - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–20 Figure 2-10 Installing the Mounting Bracket using Plywood Support - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–21 Figure 2-11 Proper Placement of the Inverter on the Mounting Bracket - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–22 Figure 2-12 Attaching the fan assembly- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–24 Figure 2-13 Location of Fan Connector - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–25 Figure 3-1 Removing the Wiring Box Cover- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2 Figure 3-2 AC and DC Terminal Block Location in the Wiring Box- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–3 Figure 3-3 AC/DC Disconnect Switch Positions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–4 Figure 3-4 DC Connections for Grounded PV Array - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–6 Figure 3-5 AC Connections from GT Inverter to Utility Service Panel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–9 Figure 3-6 Parallel GT Inverter DC and AC Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–11 Figure 3-7 Daisy Chain Layout- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–12 Figure 3-8 Male Network Terminator - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–13 Figure 3-9 Xanbus RJ45 Ports in the GT Inverter Wiring Box- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–13 Figure 3-10 RJ45 Connector - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–14 Figure 3-11 Communications Wiring for GT Inverters in Parallel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–17 Figure 4-1 AC/DC Disconnect Switch Positions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4–4 Figure 5-1 Front Panel LCD Location - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–2 Figure 5-2 Lo cati o n of Stat us Ind i cato r L ight s - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–10 Figure 6-1 Location of Fuse, Front Panel Cover Removed - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–5 Figure 6-2 Inverter and Wiring Box Sections - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–7 Figure A-1 Output Power vs. Ambient Temperature - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–3 Figure A-2 Typical Efficiency- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -A–4

975-0131-01-01 xv

xvi

Tables

Table 1-1 GT Inverter Models- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–8 Table 2-1 MPPT Operational Window - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–6 Table 2-2 Inverter Clearance Requirements - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–18 Table 3-1 Torque Values for Wires* - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–5 Table 3-2 T568A Standard Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–14 Table 3-3 Network Components and Part Numbers- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–15 Table 5-1 Startup Screens on GT Inverter Front Panel Display - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–3 Table 5-2 Normal Operation Default Screen - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–4 Table 5-3 Normal Operation Screens for All GT Inverter Units - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–4 Table 5-4 Additional Normal Operation Screens for Each GT Inverter Unit

in a Multiple Unit System- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–5 Table 5-5 Offline Mode Default Display- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–5 Table 5-6 Offline Mode Screens for All GT Inverter Units- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–6 Table 5-7 Additional Of fline Mode Screens for Each GT Inverter Unit in a Multiple Unit System - 5–6 Table 5-8 Fault Message Screens- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–7 Table 5-9 Additional Fault Mode Screens - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–8 Table 5-10 Special Message Screens - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–8 Table 5-11 Status Indicator LEDs - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5–9 Table 6-1 Troublesh ooting the GT Inverter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6–8

975-0131-01-01 xvii

xviii

Introduction

Chapter 1, “Introduction”, contains information about the features and functions of the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter.

The topics in this chapter are organized as follows.

“About the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter”:

•“S tandard Features” on page 1–3

•“Safety and St andards” on page 1–5 “Removable Components”:

•“Wiring Box (standard on North American models)” on page 1–6

•“Optional Heat Sink Cover and Fan” on page 1–7. “Model Configurations”.

Introduction

About the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter

The Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inver ter (GT Inverter) is designed to convert solar electric (photo voltaic or PV) power into utility-grade elec tricity that can be used by the home or sold to the local power company.

Installing the GT Inverter consists of mounting it to the wall and connecting the DC input to a PV array and the AC output to the utility. See Figure 1-1 for a simple diagram of a typical inst allation.

In order t o opera te, t he GT Inverter must have gri d power a vaila ble and co nnected. It will not provide backup power if the AC grid fails.

Photo voltaic (PV)

Panels - PV Array

Harvested

solar energy

Grid Tie Inverter

Figure 1-1 Basic System Overview

DC converted

to AC

Xantrex

GT Inverter

Utility Meter

Utility Grid

Surplus powe r

rout ed to U tility Grid

Powe r route d

to loads

Main Utility

Service Panel

Loads

1–2 975-0131-01-01

About the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter

PV compatibility The G T I nverter is de signed t o take advanta ge of solar mo dules c onfigure d as hi gh

voltage PV string arrays—single crystalli ne , poly crystall ine, or thin film—with a 195 to 550 Vdc input voltage Maximum Power Point range.

Maxi mum Power Point Tracking (MPPT)

The GT Inverter uses Xantrex pr opr ietary Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPP T) technology to harvest the maximum amount of energy from the solar array. MPPT learns your array ’s specific char acteristics, ma xim i zin g its outp u t at all times.

High efficiency The high-frequency, solid-state design of the GT Inverter is extremely efficient—

up to 95%.

Expandable Multiple GT Inverters may be connected in a parallel configuration for increased

net metering capacity or future system growth.

Communications protocol

The GT Inverter uses the Xanbus communi cate w i th othe r uni ts co nn ected in p ara llel with in the sys tem . Fo r more

Communications protocol, enabling it to

information, see “Xanbus Network Technology” on page 3–12.

Standard Features

The GT Inverter has the following standard features:

• Sealed inverter sect ion with multiple wiring options to facili tate a variety of installati on requir ements ( e.g., h ard-wir ed, “quick-connects,” wiring box wi th terminals, or with AC/DC disconnect);

• LCD providing easy-to-read system status and daily cumulative energy production information;

• Two LED indicator lights providing status and ground fault indication;

• Wiring box providing protection for all AC and DC connections and eliminating exposed “live” wiring if the inverter is removed.

WARNING: Shock hazard

The 600 volt DC/AC disconnect in the wiring box meets NEC Article 690. It is a nonserviceable component and shall rem ain in place. Removal can exp ose energized conductors.

975-0131-01-01 1–3

Introduction

Optional Features

GT Fan Kit (Xantrex part # 864-0201) includes:

• Heat sink cover

• Fan assembly.

Xantrex GT3.0 Inverter

Heat Sink

Optional Heat Sink cover

LCD

Figure 1-2

LED Indicator Light s

Wiring Box

AC/DC Disconnect Switch

Mounting Slots

Main Features of the GT Inverter

1–4 975-0131-01-01

Safety and Standards

About the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter

Meets standards and requirements

The GT Inverter has complete on-board over-current, over-temperature and antiislanding protec tion, and meets U.S., Canadian and internationa l safety operating standards and code requirements:

• UL 1741 – Standard for Inverters, Converters, and Controllers for Use in Independent Power Systems

• CSA C22.2 No. 107.1-01 General Use Power Supplies.

Safety Label

Location

Data Label

Location

Figure 1-3

Safety and Data Label Locations

Figure 1-3 shows the location of the safety la be l and the data label with model, serial and part num b er i nfo rma t ion.

975-0131-01-01 1–5

Introduction

Removab le Compo ne n ts

The wiring box is standard for all North Ameri can models of the G T Inverter. Some European models are available without the wiring box. See “Model Configurations” on page 1–8 for specific details. The heat sink cover and fan assembly are available in the optional Fan Kit.

Wiring Box (st andard on North American models)

The wiring box provides a location fo r making AC, DC and ground connections. It also contains the combine d AC/DC (Utility/PV array) Disconnect Switch.

The GT Inverter unit may be easily remove d from the wiring box in the event that the inverter requir es servicing.

Important:

requirement. It must be attached during operation. Che ck with your local authorities before removing the GT Inverter wiring box.

DC Connect holes

AC/DC Disconnect

Switch

Figure 1-4

In North America and other locations the wiring box is an electrical code

Control Board

Connect hole

AC Connect hole

Wiring Box

Front Cover

1.9 cm (3/4”) Threaded Conduit holes

Wiring Box for the GT Inverter

1–6 975-0131-01-01

Optional Heat Sink Cover and Fan

In areas where high ambient temperatures (>45°C/110°F) may be experienced (such a south-fa cing install at ion), a he at sink cove r and fan ass embly (GT Fan Kit, Xantrex part # 864-0201) can be added to the front of the unit. The fan assembly provides forced-a ir ventilation directly over the heat sink. The heat sink cover shades the heat sink from direct sunlight and provides a pathway to funnel the forced-air from the fans over the heat sink to optimize cooling.

WARNING: Burn hazard

In ext reme cond itions, the GT Inverter chassis can reach temperatures over 70°C (158°F), which can cause skin burns if accidentally touched. Ensure that the GT Inverter is located away fro m normal t raffic areas. See Figure 1-3 on page 1–5 for safety label loc ati on.

Removable Components

Heat Sink Cover

Top view

Fan Assembly

Front view

Figure 1-5

975-0131-01-01 1–7

Optional Heat Sink Cove r and Fan Assembly for the GT Inve rter

Introduction

Model Configu rations

The GT Inverter model number is in the format GTx.x-aa-bb-ccc, where:

• x.x Output Power: 3.0 KW

• aa Region: NA (N ort h Am eri ca)

• bb Wiring Box: WB (wiring box only)

• ccc Output Voltage: 208 Vac/60 Hz (North America) 3 phase

See Figure 1-3 on page 1–5 for data label location.

DE (Germany) SP (Spain) IT (Italy) FR (France)

DS (wiring box with AC/DC disconnect switch) HW (no wiring box) QC (Quick Connects and no wiring box , Europe

only, not available at this time)

230 Vac/50 Hz (Europe) 3 phase 240 Vac/60 Hz (North America).

T able 1-1 shows the different model conf igurations available.

Table 1-1

Model Number

GT3.0-NA-bb-208 GT3.0-aa2-bb-230

GT3.0-NA-bb-240

1. 208 Vac/60 Hz and 230 Vac/50 Hz models not available at this time

2. any region (aa) exce pt NA

GT Inverter Models

Output

Power

(x.x)

3.0

Output

Voltage

(ccc)

208 230 240

Wiring Box (bb)

WB DS HW QC

√√√ √√√√

√

Installation and wiring instructions are provided in Chapter 2, “Installation”, and Chapter 3, “Wiring the Inverter”.

1–8 975-0131-01-01

Installation

Chapter 2, “Installation”, provides information about planning for and installing the GT Inverter. It contains information to help you plan wire routes, AC and DC connections, and find a suitable location for installation. It also discusses requirements for grounding the GT Inverter and your PVarray.

Procedures are provided for installing the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter.

The topics in this chapter are organized as follows:

•“Ins talla tion Options” on page 2–2

•“Planning the Installation” on page 2–2

•“Pr ep aring for the Insta llation ” on page 2–13

•“Mounting the Inverter” on page 2–15

•“Installing Accessories” on page 2–23.

Installation

Installation Options

The GT Inverter may be installed as a single inverter for a single PV array of one or two PV strings, or in a multiple inverter configuration for multiple PV arrays (see Figure 2-1 for diagrams of both options) .

Single Inverter Installation

In this configuration, a single inverter collects the harve sted solar energy and routes the power to the main utilit y servic e panel to be used by the loads. Any surplus power not used by the loads will be injected into the utility grid.

Multiple Inv erter Installations

If multiple inverters are use d, each inverter must be wired to an independent PV array. In this configuration, each inverter collects the harvested solar energy from a separate PV array and routes the power to the main utility service panel to be used by the loads. Any surplus power not used by the loads will be injected into the utility grid.

Communications between inverters is optional, but can be enabled by installing communications cabling to the inverter RJ45 ports. See “Connect the Communications Cable between In verte rs in Parallel” on page 3–16.

Planning the Installation

The following issues need to be considered when planning for an installation using the GT Inverter. See the specified sections for more inform ation.

•“Inverter Location” on page 2–4

•“PV Array Requirements” on page 2–5

•“Grounding Requirements” on page 2–8

•“Routing the Wire s” on page 2–11.

Ensure that you have obtained all permits required by local authorities or utilities before commencing instal lation.

2–2 975-0131-01-01

Single Inverter Installation

Planning the Installation

Utility Grid

Photovoltaic Panels - PV Array

PV String # 1

PV String # 2

PV Array #1

Harvested solar energy

Multiple Inverter Insta llation

Xantrex

GT Inverter

Grid Tie Inverter

converted

to AC

Main Utility

Service Pan el

Utility Meter

Surplus pow er

routed to Utility Grid

Loads

Powe r ro ute d

to lo ads

Utility Grid

Utility Meter

Power route d

to loads

Surplus power

route d to Utilit y Grid

Loads

Phot ovoltaic Panels:

Multiple PV Arrays

Figure 2-1

solar energy

Harvested

solar energy

PV Array #2

Harvested

Xantrex GT Inverters

GT Inverter #1

Installation Options Overview

Grid Tie InverterGrid Tie Inverter

GT Inverter #2

DC converted to AC

converted

to AC

Main Utility

Service Panel

975-0131-01-01 2–3

Installation

Inverter Location

WARNING: Burn hazard

Do not in stall in a location where pe ople can accide ntally come into contact wi th the front of the inverter. High temperatures can be present on the face of the inverter, causing a potential burn hazard.

Inverter failure due to improper installation will void the inverter warranty. Consider the following when dete rmining where to install the inverter.

Fire Safety Indoor/Outdoor

Orientation

Temperature

Ground Clearance

Distance

• Do not install anywhere near combustible or flammable materials.

• The GT Inverter uses a Type 3R-rated enclosure (ve rtical moun t

only) that can be mounted indoors or outdoors. (Type 3R enclosures are intended for outdoor use primarily to provide a degree of protection against falling rain; and to be undamaged by the formation of ice on the enclosure.)

• While t h e 3 R-rated enclosu r e p rotects th e GT Inverter from moisture, outdoor installations should be located away from lawn sprinklers and other sources of spray.

• The GT Inverter must be mounted vertically on a wall or pole.

• Do not mount the GT Inverter horizontally.

• Ensure that the GT Inverter is mounted in a location where the

ambient te mperatur e range is

• At extreme hot or cold temperatures, the front panel LCD may not function normally. Above 45° C (113° F), the unit begins derating power . See “Environmental Specifications” on page A–5 and

“Output Power vs. Ambient Temperature” on pag e A–3.

• Outdoors, the GT Inverter requires at least 100 cm (39 inches) of

clearance between the bottom of the unit and the ground.

• Indoors, it is recommended that the same clearance between the bottom of the unit and the floor be used.

• To minimize copper losses, ensure that wire lengths between the PV array a n d t h e GT Inverter an d b etw een the inverter and t h e Main Utility Service Panel are kept to a minimum.

• Maximum distances will depend on wire gauges used and PV array output voltages.

-25° to +65° C (-13° to +149° F).

Debris free

2–4 975-0131-01-01

• Excessive debris (e.g., dust, leaves, cobwebs) can accumulate on the unit, interfering with wiring connections and ventilation. Do not install in a location where debris can accu mul ate (such as under a tree).

PV Array Requirements

WARNING: Shock hazard

Whenever a PV array is exposed to sunlight, a shock hazard exists at the output wires or exposed terminals. To reduce the risk of s hock during installation, cover the a rray with an opaque (dark) material before making any connections.

General Recommendations

It is important that the PV array is installed correctly to the manufacturer’s specifications and to local code requirements.

For general recommendations on PV array installation, the CEC Guide to Photovoltaic System Design and Installation document referenced in “Related Information” on page v is recommended. It is available at www.energy.ca.gov.

Equipment and Installation Recommendations

The following PV array equipment and installation recommendations are taken from the CEC Guide to Photovoltaic System Desig n and Insta llation document referred to above.

Planning the Installation

Equipment recommendations

Installation recommendations

Important:

requirement inc ludes even small obstructi ons such as vent pipes, chimneys and power lines. A small amount of shade can have a disproportionately high impact on system performance.

• All electric al equipment should be listed for the voltage and current ratings necessary for the application.

• All wiring should be sized correctly to minimize voltage drop.

• All exposed wires or conduits shou ld be sunlight resistant.

• All required overcurrent protections should be included in the system and

accessible fo r ma int enan c e.

• Depending on the installation, an external disconnect may be required if the inverter is installe d in a location not easily accessible to util ity or fire personnel. Consult local authorities for additional information.

• Integral roofing products should be properly rated.

• All electrical ter minations should be fully tightened, secured, and strain

relieved as appropriate.

• All mounting equipment should be insta lled according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

• All roof penetrat ions should be sealed with an acceptable sealing method that does not adversely impact the roo f warra nty.

• All wires, conduit , exposed c onductor s and ele ctri cal boxes s hould be sec ured and supported according to cod e requirements.

The PV array should be free of shade between 9:00AM and 4:00 PM. This

975-0131-01-01 2–5

Installation

Voltage and MPPT Requirements

MPPT ope rational window

Voltage requirements

Ensure that the PV array used in the system operates within the MPPT operational window (Table 2-1).

Table 2-1

Voltage Effect of Array Voltage Inverter Mode

< 195 Vdc Operating voltage will be shifted to 195 Vdc;

195 to 550 Vdc Maxi mum harvest of solar energy MPPT window 550 to 600 Vdc Will not allow maximum harvest of solar

> 600 Will shut down and may cause damage to the

MPPT Operational Window

Low power the array will not be at its maximum power point

Power derating energy

Shutdown inverter; stops selling surplus energy

The maximum power point volt age o f a str ing conne cted to the GT Inverter should be a minimum of 195 Vdc. If it is less than 195 Vdc, then the power point is shifted and the PV voltage is regulated to 195 Vdc.

By regulating the operati ng voltage of the solar modules, the MPPT software maximizes their output energy.

Effects of arr ay voltages outside of the MPPT ope rational window are shown in Table 2-1.

Maxi mum PV Power

The solar array should be sized such that its maximum power output does not exceed the limits of the MPPT operational window (195 to 550 Vdc). See “Guidelines for Matching PV Array Size to Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter Input”.

Under no conditions should the arra y voltage exceed 600 V

(open circuit

voltage).

2–6 975-0131-01-01

Planning the Installation

Guidelines for Matching PV Array Size to Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter Input

For determinin g the number of panels r equired in the PV string (panels connecte d in series), you must ensure that the following two requirements are met:

1. To avoid damage to the inverter, ensure that the PV array output will never exceed 600 Vdc under any conditions.

2. To achieve maximum energy harvest fr om your array, ensure that the V (voltage at maximum power) doe s not drop below 195 Vdc or increase above

550 Vdc under most conditions.

Guidelines to help you meet these requirements:

• Consider the expected V panel manufacturer provid es a V

of the string under all possible condit ions. The

rating per panel, but it is usually rat ed at

25°C (77°F). Pane l voltage increases in cold temperatures—the panel manufacturer shoul d be able to provide a coefficient of voltage inc rease per degree.

• The NEC also has required temperature/voltage deratings that must be used; these can be found in Table 690.7 of the 2002 NEC handbook. Y ou need to determine the coldest temperatures expected on the site, and size the array strings accordingly. The array’s maximum DC voltage in col dest expected temperature, with both manufacturer coeffici ent and NEC derating, must not exceed 600 Vdc to prevent inverter damage.

• Panel voltage decreas es in high temperatures. This will affect the panels’ VMP. Again, the man ufact u re r ’s coefficient must be used with the highest

expe cted temperature to determine the minimum V

Once you know the specification s of your panels, all these factors will help determine the maximum and minimum number of panels that can be used.

Visit www.xantrex.com/support to use an online PV array sizing tool.

975-0131-01-01 2–7

Installation

Grounding Requirements

WARNING: Shock hazard

The GT Inverter must be grounded by connection to a grounded permanent wiring system.

AC Grounding

North America The GT Inverter must be connected to a grounded, permanent wiring system.

The negative PV conductor must be bonded to the grounding system at only one point in the system, through the internal Ground Fault Detection circuit.

See Figure 2-2 for the location of the GT Inverter ground bar .

Elsewhere In other locations, AC grounding is governed by local codes. Consult with the

local utility for specific grounding requirements.

PV Grounding

In North America, PV arrays are require d to be connected to earth ground; in Europe they are not. PV Ground Fault Protection (PVGFP) is required in North America for ro of-mounted PV arrays.

The GT Inverter is designed to ha ve all PV positive, negative, and ground conductors connected inside its wiring box. The PV equipment ground should be connected to the GT Inverter ground bar. This ground bar must also be connected to the main utility breaker panel gro und bar and to the house grounding rod according to NEC requirements (see Figure 2-2).

The size for the conductor is usually based on the size of the largest conductor in the DC system.

Long Distance Grounding

If the PV array is more than 30 m (100 feet) from the inverter, then there must also be a direct connection from the array frame t o an earth ground ne xt to the array. A connection between this ground and the building ground connection via a buried wire between the two points is also necessary (see Figure 2-3).

Lightning Protection

Reduce the risk of lightning damage by using a single-point grounding system. In this system, all ground lines terminat e at the same point. This point normally is the main utility ground insta lled by the utility company to provide a ground for the house wiring (see Fi gure 2-4). This ground usually consists of a copper rod driv en

1.5 to 2.5 meters (6 to 8 feet) in to the eart h.

2–8 975-0131-01-01

Planning the Installation

PV Stri ng #1

PV String #2

PV Array

GND bar

Xantr ex GT Inver ter

Wiri ng B o x

AC/DC Disconnect

Switch

Main Ut ili ty

Service Pan el

NEUTRAL

GROUND

Neutral

-to-

Ground

Bond

Primary Earth

Ground

Figure 2-2

Basic Grounding Overview

975-0131-01-01 2–9

Installation

Array Earth

Ground

PV Array

PV String #2

Distance >30 m (100 ft)

PV String #1

When the distance between the PV Array and the GT Inverter is gr eat er than 3 0 m (100 ft), the array sho uld have its own earth ground, whi ch should be connected to the Primary Earth Ground by a buried wire. Check your local codes for grounding requirements.

Main Utility

Service Panel

GROUND

NEUTRAL

Neutral

-to-

Ground

Bond

Xantrex GT Inverter

Wiri ng B ox

GND bar

AC/DC Disconnect

Switch

Primary

Earth

Ground

(buried wire)

Figure 2-3

Long Distance Grounding Overview

2–10 975-0131-01-01

Planning the Installation

PV Array

PV String #1

PV Stri ng #2

Main Utility

Servic e Panel

NEUTRAL

GROUND

Neutral

-to-

Ground

Bond

Xantr ex GT I nver te r

Wiri ng B ox

GND b ar

AC/DC Disconnect

Switch

Primary

Earth

Ground

Figure 2-4

Grounding With Extra Lightning Protection Overview

Routing the Wires

Typical configurations

975-0131-01-01 2–11

Determine all wire routes to and from the GT Inverter. Typical routing configurations include:

• AC wiring from the GT Inverter to the main utility service panel

• DC input wiring from the PV array to the GT Inverter

• DC ground from the PV array to the Primary Earth Ground.

All wiring and installation methods should conform to applicable electrical and building codes.

For installations in the United States, the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local codes apply. For installations in Canada, the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) and local codes apply.

For all installations, local utilities may have additional requirements.

Installation

Conduit holes/knockouts

Pre-plan the wire and conduit runs. Knockouts for 1.9 cm (3/4 inch) or 2.5 cm (1 inch) conduit holes are located on the bottom and back of the wiring box. Threaded 3/4” conduit holes are located on each side of the wirin g box (Figure 2-5).

For maximum safety, run AC, DC, and communication wires in separate conduits.

Front of Wiring Box

Left side

1.9 cm (3/4”) Threaded Conduit Holes

1.9 cm (3/4”) or 2.5 cm (1”) Knockouts, also on back of Wiring Box

Right side

Figure 2-5

WARNING: Shock hazard

Check for existing electrical or plumbing prior to drilling holes in the walls.

Planning AC Wire Routing

AC connections include all the wires and connectors be tween the GT Inverter AC terminals and the main utility service panel. Pre-plan the se routes carefully before installing the components.

Planning DC Wire Routing

DC connections include all the wires and connectors between your PV array and the DC terminals of the GT Inverter. Pre-plan these routes carefully before installing the components.

Back of W i ring Box

Knockout Locations on Bottom of Wiring Box

AC/DC Disconnect Switch

2–12 975-0131-01-01

Prep aring for the Installatio n

Ensure your local utility is consulted for any requirements for connecting to or returning power to the grid. Obtain all permits necessary to complete the installati on. Con sult your local/national electrical code for more information.

This section includes the following topics:

•“Wiring” on page 2–13

•“Circuit Breakers and Disconnect Switch” on page 2–13

•“Other Mat erial s Need ed ” on page 2–14

•“Equipment Needed” on page 2–14.

Preparing for the Installation

Important:

DC wiring/cabling and wires/cables.

In this manual “wiring” and “wires” are used in reference to both AC and

Wiring

Wire size and length will be determined by the location of each component and their relative distance to each other. Wire sizes may also be aff ected by whether or not conduit is used.

Recommended wire stripping length

Acceptable wire sizes

Strip all wires 9 mm (3/8 inch).

The AC and DC terminal blocks in the GT Inverter accept wire sizes from #14 AWG to #6 AWG.

Wiring should be sized such that the maximum voltage drop at full power from the PV array to the inverter is 2% or less.

Important:

significant power losses and reduction in system efficiency.

Wiring should not be undersized. Undersizing of wiring can result in

Circuit Breakers and Disconnect Switch

The following circuit br eakers, disconnect switch and fuse are requir ed for installing this equipment.

AC Circuit Breaker Requirements

In North America, the main utility service panel must dedicate a double pole breaker (240 volts AC) to operate each GT Inverter ins t all ed . The GT Inverter requires a 20-Amp breaker.

975-0131-01-01 2–13

Installation

AC/DC Disconnect Switch

The wiring b ox incl udes a PV/Util ity disconnec t s witch t hat swi tches both AC and DC at the same time. If the inverter is to be installed without the integral Xantrex Wiring Box with Discon nect (Xantrex Part # 100-0243-01-01), separate approved AC and DC disconnects may be required by local authorities having jurisdiction.

WARNING: Shock hazard

The 600 volt DC/AC disconnect in the wiring box meets NEC Article 690. It is a non-serviceable component and shall remain in place. Removal can expose energized conductors.

Ground Fault Fuse

There is a 600 volt 1-Amp ground fault protection fuse (Litte lfuse KLKD 1 or equivalent) in the GT Inverter.

WARNING: Shock hazard

Do not attempt to ser vice the ground fault fuse yourself. This should only be done by qualified service personnel.

Other Materials Needed

• Mounting support material, such as plywood or poles

• Conduit for wire runs and appropriate fittings/bushings

• Wood screws and anchors for screws, depen ding on mounting surface.

Equipment Needed

• Wire cutters/wire crimpers/wire strippers

• Assorted screw d rive rs , dri ll, etc.

• Level

• Digital Voltmeter

• Frequency counter (optional, for troubleshooting).

2–14 975-0131-01-01

Mounting the Inverter

Overview

WARNING: Fire, Shock and Energy Hazards

Before installing the GT Inverter, read all instructions and c autionary markings locat ed in this manual, on the PV array, and on the main service panel.

Mounting the Inverter

General installa tion steps

There are four main steps in the installation of the GT Inverter:

1. Mounting the GT Inverter and installing accessories (this chapter)

2. Making the DC connections from the PV array to the GT Inverter (“Connecting the DC Wiring ” on page 3–4)

3. Making the AC connections from the GT Inverter to the main utility service panel (“Connecting the AC Wiring” on page 3–7)

4. Grounding the PV array (see your PV equipment documentation).

Figure 2-6 summarizes these four steps.

PV Panels

Primary Earth/

Ground

Utility Meter

600 Vdc

Open

Circuit

Maximum

Utility Grid

Grid Tie Inv erter

Main Utility

Xantrex GT Inverter

Figure 2-6

Installation Overview

Service Panel

975-0131-01-01 2–15

Installation

In this chapter only the first step, mounting the inverter and installing accessorie s, is described.

Mounting steps Instructions for mounting the GT Inverter are described in the foll owing sections:

•“Preparing to Mount the Unit” on page 2–16

•“Installing the Mounting Bracket” on page 2–17

•“Mounting the Inverter on the Bracket” on page 2–22

•“Installing Accessories” on page 2–23.

Multiple inverter instructions

Mounting instr uctions for multiple inverters connected in parallel are desc ribed in “Mounting Multiple Inverter s in Parallel” on page 2–23.

Special wiring instr uctions for multiple inverters connec ted in parallel are described in “Connecting Inverters in Parallel” on page 3–10.

Preparing to Mount the Unit

Dimensions and Knockout Locations

The dimensions of the inverter an d the mounting bracket and some of the knockout locations on the wiring box are shown in Figure 2-7.

Four 2 cm or 2.5 cm (3/4 inch or 1 inch) knockouts are provided on the back and bottom of the unit to accommodate wiring:

• two on the bottom of the wiring box, on either side of the AC/DC Disconnect Switch

• two on the back of the wiring box.

Knockout Preparation

Four 2 cm (3/4 inch) conduit holes on the sides of the wiring box are filled with plastic plugs, which can be removed to insert conduit nipples as required for inverters mounte d in parallel. One or two of these side conduit holes may be used to accommodate communications wiring for multiple inverters mounted in parallel.

Remove your choice of knockouts from the wiring box to facilitate conduit installati on for wire runs. This is much easier to do prior to mounting the inverter.

Important:

knockouts. Be sure to install bushings or conduits in the knockout holes to protect the wires from damage.

If installed outdoors, conduit must be seal ed where it enters the wiring box.

Ensure there are no metal shav ings left in the inve r ter after removing the

2–16 975-0131-01-01

2 cm (3/4") conduit holes with threaded caps, on both sides

Side view Front view

14.6 cm

5.7"

55.0 cm

21.6"

69.6 cm

27.4"

72.5 cm

28.5"

40.3 cm

Mounting the Inverter

15.9"

Heat Sink

Cover

Front Panel

Wiring Box

Dual 2 cm or 2.5 cm (3/4" or 1") knockout s, back and bottom

5.8 cm

2.278"

Figure 2-7

Dimensions of GT Inverter and Knockout Locations

Installing the Mounting Bracket

The mounting bracke t for the GT Inverter allows the unit to be easily m ounted a nd dismounted for servi cing. It ha s two hooks that match correspo nding hooks on the back side of the inverter and wiring box. The inverter can be separated from the wiring box and removed from the bracket, leaving the wiring box in place.

Flange and Mounting Slots

975-0131-01-01 2–17

Installation

Rectangular slot s × 25 : 8 mm × 30 mm (5/16" × 1-3/1 6")

Mounting bracket Back side of the inverter

25.3 cm (10")

Mounting flanges

Figure 2-8

Mounting Bracket and GT Inverter

Clearance Requirements

For optimal and safe operation, ensure there is adequate clearance around the inverter. The minimum clearance recommendations in Table 2-2 assume a vertical mounting. If clearances are reduced below these minimums, rated power may not be achieved.

Table 2-2

Location Minimum Clearance

Above 30 cm (12 inches) Below:

• Inverter

• Bracket

In front Sufficient room to allow for easy access to read the display and to

On sides 15 cm (6 inches) to prevent thermal derating. When mounting units

58.7 cm (23.1")

Mounting slots for securing the inverter

Inverter Clearance Requirements

Outdoors:

• 100 cm (39 inches)

• 110cm (43inches)

Indoors: the same clearances are recommended but not required.

prevent accidental contact with hot surface.

side by side, 30 cm (12 inches) of clearance between the two units is recommended.

Mounting flanges

The inverter extends below the bracket by approximately 10 cm (4 inches)

2–18 975-0131-01-01

Surfaces for Mounting

Mounting the Inverter

WARNING: Shock hazard

Before drilling holes to mount the GT Inverter, ensure there are no electrical wires or plumbing in this area.

WARNING: Personal inju ry

The GT Inverter weighs approximately 20 kg (45 lbs). Always use proper lifting techniques during installation to prevent personal inju ry.

WARNING: Explosion hazard

Do not store combustible or flammable materials anywhere near the inverter.

The GT Inverter weighs approximate ly 20 kg (45 lbs). The supporting surface must be strong enough to handle 75 kg (160 lb). If the supporting surfa ce is not strong enough to handle that weigh t, the n supporting material such as a sheet of plywood can be used to enhance the strength of the mounting sur face.

The GT Inverter can be mounted to a vertical surface such as wallboard, wood siding, concrete wall or pole assembly.

Mounting on poles or rails

Mounting to wallboard with support

Mounting to siding using wall studs

Mounting to concrete surface

• See “Mounting on Poles o r Rails” on pa ge 2–20. Ensure the bottom of the unit is a minimum of 100 cm (39 inches) from the ground if mounted outdoors.

• Installation onto wa llboard requires either the use of a supporti ng material such as plywood or securing the mounting screws to supporting wall studs. Use at least two screws and anchors to secure the unit to the supporting material.

• If mounting to exterior siding using a wall stud for support, the plywood backing will not be needed. Use at least two lag screws to secure the unit to the supporting materi al. Ensure the screws enter the stud at least 4 cm (1.5 inches) to adequately support the weight of the unit. See “Mounting on Wallboard, Siding or Concrete” on page 2–21.

• If mounting the unit on a concrete surf ace using anchors with no supporting material, use f our sc rews an d ancho rs, i nstead of two, to adequate ly secure the unit and distribute the weight.

Important:

or other high-risk areas.

Important:

the GT Inverter.

Local codes may impose additional mounting r equirements in earthquake

Other than the mounting b r ac ket, no mounti ng hardware is supplied with

975-0131-01-01 2–19

Installation

Mounting on Poles or Rails

To mou nt the uni t us ing po les :

1. Ensure that poles or rails are securely assembled in place. If using horizontal rails, three rails are required: two for the mounting bracket and a third for securing the bottom edge of the inverter wiring box (see Figure 2-9).

2. Connect the mounting bracket vertically to the poles or rails (Figure 2-9):

• Be sure to use at least two bolts to secure the mounting bracket to the

• Position the lower edge of the bracke t a minimum of 110 cm (43 inches)

3. If using a single vertical pole, ensure that the inverter is secure and unable to rotate around the pole.

support.

above the floor or ground.

Mounting Bracket

Ground /

Floor

Figure 2-9

At least 2 bolt s to secure b racket t o

poles/rails.

110 cm

(43”)

For sec u ring

the bottom of

the wiring box

Examples of Mounting on a Pole or Rails

48 cm

(18.9”)

15 cm

(5.9”)

100 cm

(39”)

Ground /

Floor

2–20 975-0131-01-01

Mounting on Wallboard, Siding or Concrete

To mount the GT Inverter to wallboard, siding, or concrete:

1. Locate the area where the GT Inverter is to be installed.

2. Install backing support material if required. See Figure 2-10.

Mounting the Inverter

Figure 2-10

At least 2 screws

with washers to

secure bracket

to plywood

110 cm (43")

Ground / Floor Ground / Floor

Single GT Inverter Dual GT Inverters

30 cm (12")

110 cm (43")

Installing the Mounting Bracket using Plywood Support

3. Using a level, place the mounting bracket against the wall surface at least 110 cm (43 inches) from the ground. See Table 2-2 on page 2–18 to ensure minimum clearance requirements are met.

4. Mark the location for mounting screws if using a wall stud for support. At least four mounting screws and anchors are needed for concrete installations or wallboard installa tions where no wall studs are available for support.

For multiple inverters mounted in parallel, the brackets should be mounted 30 cm (1 2 inch es) ap art . Inv er te rs mo unted le ss tha n 30 cm (12 inches ) ap ar t may not achieve full rated power.

5. Remove the bracket and drill the holes using an appropriately sized drill bit. Drill appropriately sized holes for screws or anchors.

6. Secure the bracket to the supporting surface using at least two screws and washers.

975-0131-01-01 2–21

Installation

Mounting the Inverter on the Bracket

Mounting a Single Inverter

To mou nt the in v erte r on the mo un ti ng bra c ket:

1. Place the GT Inverter’s mounting hooks, located on the back of the enclosure, over the bracket and ensure the inverter is seated properly, as shown in Figure 2-11.

2. After the unit is correctly seated on the bracket hooks, locate the mounting slots in the flange below the wiring box and mark the location on the wall for securing screws.

3. Remove the inverter and drill pilot holes in the wallboard or siding for the securing screws.

4. Reinstall the GT Inverter on the bracket and se cure the bottom of the uni t with appropriate screws or anchors, and tighten.

Slide the mounting hooks on the inverter over the hooks on the mounting bracket.

flange with

mounting slots

Figure 2-11

2–22 975-0131-01-01

Proper Placement of the Inverter on the Mounting Bracket

Ensure the inverter is seated properly on the mounting bracket

Mounting Multiple Inverters in Parallel

As shown in Figur e 2-10, inverters can be mounted side by side on wallboard or a plywood support. A minimum of 30 cm (12 in ches) of cleara nce betwee n the uni ts is recommended.

Conduit nipples should be insta lled on one side of the first inverter before mounting on the bracket. Ensure that the sealing ring is located on the conduit nipple between inverters, i.e., on the outside of the wiring box. The lock nut is attached after the nipple is inserted into the conduit hole of the second inver ter

Instal li n g Acc e ssories

The optional fan assembly and heat sink cover (see Figure 1-5 on page 1–7) should be installed toge ther. Neithe r accessory should be installed without the other.

Installing the Fan Assembly

WARNING: Shock hazard

If the inverter is already installed and oper ational, turn OFF the breaker switc hes in the main utilit y se rvice panel and the AC/DC Disconnect switch on the inverter wiring box before performing thi s pro ce dure.

Installing Accessories

WARNING: Shock hazard

Hazardous voltag es may be present when cover is removed. After disconnecting all sources of ener gy, wait 5 minutes before removing cov er.

WARNING: Burn hazard

Ensure that the in verter and heat sink are not too hot to touch before attempting this procedure.

Important:

The fan assembly (see Figure 1-5 on page 1–7) is optional for the GT Inverter. Installing the fan ass embly involves two main steps:

1. Attaching the fan assembly to the inver ter.

2. Connecting the fan wires.

The fan assembly should only be installed by qualified personnel.

975-0131-01-01 2–23

Installation

To attach the fan assembly to the inverter:

1. Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the four panhead screws and washers from the front panel of the inverter (two screws on each side), immediately below the heat sink (see Figure 2-12).

2. Place the fan bracket with screw holes overlapping the screw holes on the inverter. The fans should be facing up, on the upper side of the fan bracket.

3. Replace the four panhead screws and washers removed in step 1.

Figure 2-12

Attaching the fan assembly

2–24 975-0131-01-01

Installing Accessories

To connect the fan wires:

1. Remove the wiring box cover b y removing t he two sc rews on the under side of the wiring box. Removing the wiring box cover will expose the screws that secure the front panel cover.

2. Remove the front pa nel cove r by r emoving the two screws on the unde rside of the front panel.

3. Plug the wire leads from the fan assembly into the pin connectors on the DC circuit board. The pins are located to the left of the LCD below the ground fault protection f use.

4. Replace the front panel cover using the screws removed in step 2, with the wire leads passing through the notch at the top of the cover, ensuring that the wires are not pinched.

5. Replace the wiring box cover using the screws rem oved in step 1.

Fan connectors

Figure 2-13

Location of Fan Connector

975-0131-01-01 2–25

Installation

Installing the Heat Sink Cover

You may find it easier to install the heat sink cover before mounting the inverter. If the inverter is already installed and in operation, it is best to perform the

following procedure s after dark or on an overcast day when the unit is cool.

WARNING: Burn hazard

Ensure that the inverter and cover are not too hot to hold firmly before installing or removing the heat sink cover.

To install the heat sink cover on the inverter:

1. Hold the heat sink cover vertically in front of you with the curved edge upward and the flanges bent away from you.

2. Insert the heat sink cover le ft side flange into the groove on the le ft side of the inverter heat sink. It should snap into place.

3. Push the cover so that it curves outward (awa y from the inve rter) and insert the right side fl ange into the groove on the right side of the inverter heat sink. It should snap into place.

To remove the

Important:

on the right side .

1. Press the righ t si de of the hea t si nk cover inwar d (i. e., towa rd the l eft side) and simultaneously lif t it upwards to pull it out of the groove on the right side of the inverter.

2. Pull the left side of the cover out of the inverter left side groove.

heat sink cover from the inverte r:

You may start with the left or right side of the co ver. This example starts

2–26 975-0131-01-01

W iring the Inverter

Chapter 3, “Wiring the Inverter”, provides procedures for making DC and AC wiring connections, and grounding the GT Inverter and the PV array. Instructions for wiring inverters in parallel are also provided.

The topics in this chapter are organized as follows:

•“Accessing the Wiring Terminals” on page 3–2

•“Connect ing the DC Wiring” on page 3–4

•“Connect ing the AC Wiring” on page 3–7

•“Connecting Inverters in Parallel” on page 3–10.

Wiring the Inverter

Accessing the Wiring Terminals

You must remove the GT I nverter wiring box cover to access the terminal bloc ks, ground bar and communications por ts (for inverters in parallel).

To remove the wiring box cover:

1. Using a Phillips screwdr iver , remove th e two screws on the bott om side of the wiring box and set in a safe place (see Figure 3-1 for location of screws).

2. Lift the cover off the wiring box.

When replacing the wiring box cover, be careful not to pinch any wires in the wiring box.

Wiring box cover screws

Knockouts

Figure 3-1

AC and DC connections are made at the wiring terminals shown in Fi gure 3-2.

Insulating barrie r The clear plastic insulating barri er inside the wiring box is a permanent

component. It is intended to separate the high-voltage AC and DC wiring from any communicatio ns cabling and to pr event wiring from coming into contact with the wiring box cover.

When wiring the unit, it is necessary to pull the cover back to access the wiring terminals. Aft er com pleting the wir ing, re place t he insul at ing barr ier to its or ig inal position.

Communications wiring

For multiple i nve rt ers in pa rall el , com mu n icat io n s wiri ng i s conn ected b etw een RJ45 connectors on each invert er (see Figure 3-9).

Removing the Wiring Box Cover

3–2 975-0131-01-01

Accessing the Wiring Terminals

Figure 3-2

DC Terminals for connecti ng PV arrays

AC/DC Disconnect Switch

AC and DC Terminal Block Location in the Wiring Box

AC Terminals for connecting to mai n utility service panel

975-0131-01-01 3–3

Wiring the Inverter

Connecting the DC Wiring

WARNING: Shock hazard

Whenever a PV array is exposed to sunlight, a shock hazard exists at the output wires or exposed termin als. Ensure that the AC/DC Disconnect Switch is set to OFF before commencing any wiring. See Figure 3-3.

WARNING: Shock hazard

The 600 volt AC/DC disconnect in the wiring box meets NEC Article 690. It is a non-serviceable component and shall remain in place. Removal can expose energized conductors.

Figure 3-3

The following proc edure is illus trated i n Figure 3-4. If there will be more than one PV string, label the positive and negative wire pairs appropriately ( f or example: PV 1, PV 2).

3–4 975-0131-01-01

AC/DC Disconn ect Switch Positions

Connecting the DC Wiring

To wire the PV array to GT Invert er:

1. Install DC conduit from the PV string(s) to the GT Inverter wiring box, through one of the knockout holes.

2. Remove the wiring box cover (see page 3–2).

3. Route the wires from th e PV string(s) through the conduit and into the wiring box.

4. Connect the DC Ground from each PV string to the GROUND bar in the wiring box.

5. Connect the POSITIVE (+) wire from the #1 PV string to the PV1 (+) terminal. Double check that the wire is in the proper location and tighten the screw.

6. Connect the NEGATIVE (–) wire fro m the #1 PV strin g to the PV1 (–)terminal. Double check that the wire is in the proper location and tighten the screw.

7. Repeat for the #2 PV string, if there is one. Double check that the wires are in the proper locations and tighten the screws:

a) Connect the POSITIVE (+) wire from the #2 PV string to the

PV2 (+) terminal.

b) Connect the NEGATIVE (–) wire from the #2 PV strin g to the

PV2 (–)terminal.

8. Ensure all connection s are corre ctly wired and properly torqued according to values shown in Table 3-1.

Table 3-1

14 to 10 2.5 to 6.0 35 4.0

Torque Values for Wires*

Wire Size T orque

AWG mm

8 10.0 40 4.5 6 25.0 45 5.1

in-lb Nm

*Use copper conductors only.

975-0131-01-01 3–5

Wiring the Inverter

PV String #2

–

PV Array

– +

PV String #1

Xantrex GT I nverter

Wiring Box

GND bar

AC/DC Disconnect

Switch

Figure 3-4

Important:

box may be required. This fusing is to be provided by the installer .

3–6 975-0131-01-01

DC Connections for Grounded PV Array

Depending upon installation and local codes, fusing and/or a combiner

Connecting the AC Wiring

WARNING: Shock hazard

AC utility wiring to the GT Inverter unit is performed directly at the main break er panel. This should be done only by a qualified installer or electrician.

WARNING: Shock hazard

Before wiring the G T Inverte r, e nsure the ma in breaker in t he primary utility b r eaker box is switc hed OFF. Switch this break er ON onl y af ter all wir ing i s comple ted a s ins tructe d in the procedures.

Connecting the AC Wiring

Important:

inverter to be connected to a dedicated circu it and no other outlets or devices ma y be connected to this circuit. The NEC also i mposes limitations on the size of the inverter and the manner in which it is connected t o the utility grid. The ci rcuit breakers t hat are used in the mai n p an el that feed the inverter circ u i t must be for b ack-fed oper ation and labeled as such.

The GT Inverter can be connected to a single bi-directional meter, or to dual meters, where one meter indicate s power used and the second meter indicates power sold (power supplied back to the util ity). Consult with the local utility to determine the proper co mponents to install, and obtain any permits required prior to installation.

The following procedure is illustrated in Figure 3-5.

Important:

In the United States, the National Electrical Code (NEC) requires the

Neutral conductor wiring is not r equired in this in stallation.

975-0131-01-01 3–7

Wiring the Inverter

To wire the main utility service panel to the GT Inverter:

1. Install conduit f rom the main utility service panel to the wiring box of the GT Inverter. Run the two HOT wires (L1 and L2) and ground wire from the service panel through the conduit and into the inverter wiring box.

2. Install or use an existin g double-pole 20-Amp circuit breaker (or two single-pole br eakers, ga nged) in the main utili ty se rvice pane l, and ensu re that the breakers are set to OFF.

3. Connect the ground wire (green or bare copper) from the ground bar in the main utility service panel to the GND bar in the wiring box.

4. Connect the L1 HOT wire (black) from the double-pole breaker installed in the main utility servic e panel, to the L1 GRID terminal in the wiring box.

5. Connect the L2 HOT wire (red) from the double-pole breaker installed in the main utility service panel, to the L2 GRID terminal in the wiring box.

6. Ensure all connection s are corre ctly wired and properly torqued according to values shown in Table 3-1 on page 3–5.

3–8 975-0131-01-01

GND bar

Xantre x GT Inver ter

Wiri ng B o x

AC/DC Disconnect Switch

Connecting the AC Wiring

Utility Grid

L1 L2 Neutral

Utility Meter

L1 L2 Neutral

Main Utility

Service Panel

GROUND

NEUTRAL

Neutral

Ground

Bond

-to-

Figure 3-5

Primary Earth

Ground

AC Connections from GT Inverter to Utility Service Panel

975-0131-01-01 3–9

Wiring the Inverter

Connec ting Inverters in Parallel

GT Inverters can be connected in a parallel configuration for larger PV array systems. In thi s confi g urat i on, separate solar array s are requ i red fo r eac h GT Inverter unit. The output of each GT Inverter feeds a separate dual-pole 20-Amp circuit breaker (L1 and L2) in the main utility service panel.

DC and AC Wiring for Inverters in Parallel

The following procedures a re illustrated in Figure 3-6. The illustration and instructions assume only two inverters, but in fact more than two inverters can be used in a parallel configuration.

If there will be more than one PV string, label the positive and negativ e wire pairs appropriately (for example: PV 1, PV 2).

Connecting DC wiring

Connecting AC wiring

To wire the PV array to GT Inverters in parallel:

1. Install the DC conduit from the PV strings to the GT Inverter wiring boxes, through appropriate knockout holes. Metal conduit is highly recommended.

2. Remove the wiring box cover (see page 3–2).

3. Route the wires from th e PV string(s) through the conduit and into the wiring box.

4. Connect the DC Ground from each PV array to the GND bar in the wiring box.

5. Follow the instructi ons on page 3–4 for connecting POSITIVE (+) and NEGATIVE (–) wires from each PV arra y to each GT Inverter.

6. Ensure all connection s are corre ctly wired and properly torqued according to values shown in Table 3-1 on page 3–5.

To wire the main utility service panel to the GT Inverters in parallel:

1. Run conduit from the main uti lity service panel to the wiri ng boxes of the GT Inverters.

2. Follow the instruc tions on page 3–7 for connecting L1 a nd L2 HOT wires and ground wire from the main utility service panel to each GT Inverter.

3. Ensure all connection s are corre ctly wired and properly torqued according to values shown in Table 3-1 on page 3–5.

3–10 975-0131-01-01

Connecting Inverters in Parallel

Figure 3-6

975-0131-01-01 3–11

Parallel GT Inverter DC and AC Wiring

Wiring the Inverter

Communications Wiring for Inverters in Parallel

Communications wiring betwe en GT Inverters mounted in parallel allows informatio n ab out eac h inve rt er and its ass oci at ed PV arra y to be comm u ni cat ed between all of the inverter s in the system. Information about the entire system can be displayed on any inverter LCD in the system.

For example, in a two-inverter system, if inverter #1 is producing 1500 W and inverter #2 is producing 2000 W, both inverters display a total system power of 3500 W. The cumulative energy pro duced by both inverters that day is also displayed.

You can still view infor mation f or an individua l i nverter i n a syst em. Se e “To view unit-specific screens in a multiple unit system:” on page 5–5.

Without commun icat ions w iring each inverter in a system will on ly dis pl ay information perti nent to the unit and its associated PV array.

Xanbus Network Technology

GT Inverters use Xanbus technology to communicate with other inverters in parallel. Communications wiring between inverters is laid out in a “daisy chain” pattern, each device on the network linked together with separate lengths of cable, as shown in Figure 3-7.

For more information on instal ling a Xanbus network, see the Xanbus System Installation Guide , available at www.xantrex.com.

Xanbus-enabled

Device 1

Terminator

Figure 3-7

Daisy Chain Layout

Xanbus-enabled

Device 2

Xanbus-enabled

Device 3

Terminator

CAUT ION: Equip men t dama ge

Connect only Xanbus-enabled devices.

Although th e cabling and connec tors used in this network system are the same as ethernet connectors, this network is not an ethernet system. Equipment damage may resul t from attempting to connect Xanbus to different systems.

3–12 975-0131-01-01

Communications Wiring for Inverters in Parallel

T erminators Male network terminators (Figure 3-8) are r equired at both ends of the network to

ensure the communication signa l quality on the network.

GT Inverter Xanbus Ports

Figure 3-8

Male Network Terminator

Two RJ45 ports are provided in the GT Inverter, accessib le fro m the wiri ng box. See Figure 3-9 for the location of these ports.

RJ11 ports (not used)

Figure 3-9

RJ45 Xanbus ports

RS-232 port (used to connect a PC to use the GUI. See “Custom Screens” on page 5–9)

Male network terminator

Xanbus RJ45 Ports in the GT Inverter Wiring Box

975-0131-01-01 3–13

Wiring the Inverter

Cabling Requirements

CAUTION: Equipment damage

Do not use crossover cable in a Xanbus system.

The network uses Category 5 (CAT 5) cable, a standard cable availabl e from any computer supply store. The cable consist s of e ight condu ctors in four twi ste d pairs with an RJ45 modula r connector wired to the T568A standard. Table 3-2 contains the arrangements of wire colors to pin numbers for the T568A standard.

Table 3-2

Pin Number Conductor Name CAT 5 Cable Insulation Color

1 NET_S White/Green 2NET_S Green 3 NET_C White/Orange 4 CAN_L Blue 5 CAN_H White/Blue 6 NET_C Orange 7 NET_S White/Brown 8 NET_C Brown

RJ45 Connector Requirements

The network cable uses modular RJ45 connectors, as shown in Figure 3-10. The connector is suitable for cost-sensitive applications and is easily installed. The RJ45 connector should be a modular plug, 8-position, 8-contact for round, stranded, unshielded cable.

T568A Standard Wiring

Figure 3-10

3–14 975-0131-01-01

RJ45 Connector

Purchasing Network Components

Consult with your syste m desi gner to de ter mine what networ k component s wil l be needed for your specific installation. Table 3-3 provides a partial list of network components and part numbers. Pre-made cables are available in standard len gths from 3 feet to 75 feet .

Call your dealer or visit www.xantrex.com to purchase network components.

Communications Wiring for Inverters in Parallel

Table 3-3

Network Component Part Number

Network termination — Male (2 per pack) 809-0901 Network cable 3 ft. (0.9 m) 809-0935 Network cable 5 feet (1.5 m) 809-0936 Network cable 7 feet (2.0 m) 809-0937 Network cable 10 feet (3.0 m) 809-0938 Network cable 14 feet (4.3 m) 809-0939 Network cable 25 feet (7.6 m) 809-0940 Network cable 50 feet (15.2 m) 809-0941 Network cable 75 feet (22.9 m) 809-0942

Network Components and Part Numbers

Guidelines for Routing the Network Cables

WARNING: Shock hazard

Do not route the network cabl es in the same conduit or panel as the AC and DC power cabling.

To ensure maximum performance of your network, follow these guidelines when routing the network cables. Route the cables before installing Xanbus-enabled devices.

• Route the cables away from sharp edges that might damage the insulation. Avoid sharp bends in the cable—no less than a 10-cm (4-inch) radius.

• Allow for som e slac k in the cab l e ten sion .

• Keep the alignment of wire pairs inside the sheath as straight as possible.

• Allow separation between da ta and power cable s (data cables should only

cross a power cable at right angles).

• Do not staple the cable with metal cable staples. Use the appropriate hardware fasteners to avoid damage to the cable.

CAUTION: Unpredictable device behavior

Do not connect one end of the network to the other to make a ring.

975-0131-01-01 3–15

Wiring the Inverter

Connect the Communications Cable between Inverters in Parallel

WARNING: Shock hazard

Hazardous voltag es may be present when cover is removed. After disconnecting all sources of ener gy, wait 5 minutes before removing cov er.

The following procedure is illustrated in Figure 3-11 on page 3–17. The illustration and procedure assume only two inverters connected in parallel. However, there can be more than two inverters wired in this configur ation.

To provide communication between inverters mounted in parallel:

1. Remove the wiring box cover from each unit.

2. On each unit, remove the plug from a 1.9 cm (3/4”) side conduit hole and install appropri ate conduit between the two units.

3. Connect the communication cable to any RJ45 port in Inverter #1.

4. Pass the cable through the conduit be tween Inverter #1 and Inverter #2. Inside each unit’s wiring box, ensure the communication cable runs

horizontally alo ng the flat-bottomed channel formed when the insula tion barrier is in place. The cable should r un on top of the insulation barrier and out the side conduit hole, avoiding any contact with the AC and DC wiring.

5. Connect the communication cable to any RJ45 port in Inverter #2.

6. For more than two inverters in parallel, continue connecting cable as described above.

7. Insert male network termina tors into the empty RJ45 ports in the inverters at the beginning and end of the network. There should be no empty RJ45 ports.

3–16 975-0131-01-01

Communications Wiring for Inverters in Parallel

PV Array #2

–

PV Array #1

–

Communications cable

in separate condu it fr om AC and DC wiring.

Figure 3-11

Xantrex GT Inverter #1

Wiring Box

Male Te rmin at or

GND bar

AC/DC Disconnect

Switch

GND

G L2 L1

Communications Wiring for GT Inve rt er s in Parallel

Xant r ex GT I nve rt e r #2

Wiring Box

Male Terminator

bar

AC/DC Disconnect

Switch

L2 G L1

To Utility Service Panel. See

Figure 3-6 on page 3–11 for

details of wiring connections.

975-0131-01-01 3–17

3–18

Starting the Inverter

Chapter 4, “Starting the Inverter”, contains information on starting up the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter and performing a Functional Test.

The topics in this chapter are organized as follows:

•“Startup Procedure” on page 4–2

•“Replacing the Wiring Box Cover” on page 4–3.

Starting the Inverter

Startup Proce du re

Starting up the GT Inverter requires severa l steps. You will need to:

1. Ensure the AC/DC Disconnect switch loc ated on the bottom of the G T Inverter unit is in the OFF position (see Figure 4-1).

2. Check the PV array DC voltage (see procedure below).

3. Check the AC utility voltage (see procedure below).

4. Replace the cover on the wiring box (see “Replacing the Wiring Box Cover” on page 4–3).

5. Start up the GT Inverter by switching the AC/DC Disconnect switch ON.

WARNING: Shock hazard

Hazardous voltages are present from two sources. Use extreme caution during star tup procedure. Before applying power to the GT Inverter, ensure all AC and DC wiring is correct.

Checkin g the PV Array DC Voltage

To check the PV array DC voltage:

1. Uncover the PV arrays and expose them to full sunlight. The sunlight must be intense enough to produce the required output voltage.

2. Measure the PV arr ay open circuit DC voltage across the DC positive (+) and negative ( –) terminals. This voltage must be greater than 150 volts DC to energize the electronics.

Checking the AC Utility Voltage

To check the AC utility voltage:

1. Switch on the main and inverter breakers in the main electrical service panel.

2. Using an AC voltmeter , measure the AC open circuit utility volta ge betwe en L1 and L2. Ensure this voltage is at approximately the nominal value. The inverter operate s with a line-to-line voltage (L1 to L2) range around the nominal value.

See “Output” on page A–2 for the operating utility voltage range for the GT Inverter.

4–2 975-0131-01-01

Replacing the Wiring Box Cover

After performing the volta ge checks, replace all covers that were removed during installation and startup.

WARNING: Shock hazard

Before reattaching cove r s, turn OFF the breaker switches in the main utility service panel and the AC/DC Disconnec t s witch on the GT Inverter.

If the front panel cove r wa s remo v ed fro m the GT Inverter, then it mus t be replaced before the wiring box c over is r eplaced.

To replace the front panel cover:

1. Place the cover in position on the front panel, being careful not to pinch any wires. The fan wires should pass through the notch in the upper edge of the front panel cover.

2. Ensure that the two screw holes in the bottom of the front pa nel cover are aligned with the corresponding holes in the bottom of the inverter (not the wiring box).

Replacing the Wiring Box Cover

3. Replace the two screws removed when the cover was removed (see “Installing the Fan Assembly” on page 2–23), and tighten securely.

To replace the wiring box cover:

1. Place the cover in position on the wiring box, being careful not to pinch any wires in the wiring box.

2. Ensure that the two screw holes in the bottom of the wiring box cover are aligned with the corresponding holes in the bottom of the wiring box.

3. Replace the two screws removed when the cover was removed (see “Accessing the W iring Terminals” on page 3–2), and tighten securely.

975-0131-01-01 4–3

Starting the Inverter

Starting up the GT Inverter

To start up the inverter:

1. Switch the AC/DC Disconnect switch to the ON position (see Figure 4-1).

2. Check the GT Inverter LCD. The startup screens (see Table 5-1 on page 5–3) shou l d a p pear f o r five second s e a ch, and the n the “Reconnecting in sss seconds” special screen (see Table 5-10 on page 5–8) will appear until the five-minute, five-second (default value) protec tion timer countdown is completed.

AC/DC Disconnect Switch

Figure 4-1

AC/DC Disconn ect Switch Positions

4–4 975-0131-01-01

Monitoring the Inverter

Chapter 5, “Monitoring the Inverter”, contains information for understanding the LCD screens and the LED indicators.

The topics in this chapter are organized as follows:

•“Monitoring the Front Panel Display” on page 5–2

•“Front Panel Display Screens and What They Mean” on page 5–3

•“Status Indicator Lights” on page 5–9.

Monitoring the Inverter

Monitoring the Front Panel Display

During startup During startup, the inverter’s front panel LCD (see Figure 5-1) shows the first

three screens described in Table 5-1, “Startup Screens on GT Inverter Front Panel Display” on page 5–3.

During waiting period

When the five-minute, five-second (305 seconds) protection timer begins, the inverter displays “Reconnecting in sss seconds” (see Table 5-10, “Special Message Screens” on page 5–8).

During operation When the protection timer stops, the GT Inverter begins selling power, indicated

by the power output reading in the displa y (see Tabl e 5-2, “Normal Operation Default Scr een” on page 5–4).

When the inverter is offline or ther e is fault condition

When the GT Inverter is offline (e.g., at night) or a fault cond ition has been detected, the LCD shows a message screen to indicate that state. The specific fault condition will be identified. See Table 5-5, “Offline Mode Default Display” on page 5–5 and Table 5-8, “Fault Message Screens” on page 5–7.

Important:

The values in the front panel LCD are not user adjustable.

Front panel LCD

Tap Xantrex logo for backlight/ status screens.

V iewing more information

Figure 5-1

Additional screens of infor mation about the performanc e of the G T Inverter c an be displayed by tapping the Xantrex logo on the inverte r front panel. This causes the

Front Panel LCD Location

LCD to cycle thr ou gh a se ries of info rma tio n screen s in No rma l Op era tio n, Offline or Fault modes. The se are described in detail in the following section, “Front Panel Display Screens and What They Mean”.

5–2 975-0131-01-01

Front Pane l Display Screens and What They Mean

Fro n t Panel Di splay Screens and What They Mean

The front panel display shows dif ferent message screens during diff erent modes of operation (Sta rtup, Normal, Of fline , and Fault). All singl e units displ ay a basic set of message screens; multiple unit systems display additional screens in Normal Operation and Offline modes.

In addition there are Special message screens that may appear in any operational mode. All of these message screens are descr ibed in more detail in the following tables.

Startup Mode

During startup, the GT Inverter displays three message screens on its f ront panel LCD. These screens appear in the following order (Ta ble5-1).

Table 5-1

GT3.0-NA-240

Flash = 01.01

..ROM = 01.01

Vh=262 Vl=212

Fh=60.5 Fl=59.3

* all numbers in this and following tables are examples only.

Startup Screens on GT Inverter Front Panel Display

Display*

Xantrex

Duration Description

5 sec. Startup message 1: Inverter name and model

number

5 sec Startup message 2: Model and revision

numbers for Fl ash and ROM memory on the GT Inverter. The ROM revision number applies to the protectio n pr oce ssor.

5 sec Startup message 3: Anti-islanding Utility Grid

trip points.

Vh: high voltage threshold Vl: low voltage threshold Fh: high frequ enc y threshold Fl: low frequency thres hold

The five-minute, fiv e second prot ection tim er begins it s countdown dur ing startup and the “Reconnecting in sss seconds” s creen appear s until the timer count down i s complete.

Normal Operation Mode

The LCD on the GT Inverter is refreshed every two seconds, so all readings are current to within two sec onds. There is a default displa y availabl e at all times, and a series of additional scre ens that can be displayed by tapping the Xantrex logo near the LCD to change the display.

Normal Operation default display

975-0131-01-01 5–3

After the protection tim er has completed its countdown and during normal operation, the GT Inverter displays the normal oper ation mess age screen shown in Table 5-2.

Monitoring the Inverter

More screens for all systems

Table 5-2

System 2000W

Today 9.875kWh

Normal Operation Default Screen

Display Description

Power being produced by the system now. Cumulative energy produced by the system today.

If there is sufficient energy from the PV array, this screen is displayed continuously while the system is operating normally. In a multiple unit system with communications cables properly connected, the power and cumulative energy values displayed are for the entire system.

During low light conditions when the GT Inverter cannot produce any power, the Normal Operation default screen flashes alternately (every two seconds) with the Insufficient Solar Energy screen (see Table 5-10, “Special Mes sa ge Screens” on page 5–8).

Besides the default normal opera tion display, more system information message s can be viewed .

To view more Normal Operation information:

• T ap the Xantrex logo near the LCD to advance the display to the next scree n. Normal operati on screens shown i n Table 5-3 are displayed in the or der given, as you tap successively on the unit. They are common to all GT Inverter systems, no matter how many units are installed.

If you continue to tap the unit, then the LCD continues to cycle through all of the available normal operation screens. Each screen is displayed for a maximum of 30 seconds. If you do not tap again during that time period, then the LCD backlight turns off and the display reverts to the default system message screen.

Table 5-3

Tap Display* Description

1st tim e

2nd time

3rd time

4th time

5th time

Normal Operation Screens for All GT Inverter Units

System 2000W

Today 2.500kWh

System Lifetime

305kWh

Time Online

Today hh:mm:ss Array Readings

350.5V 8.4A

Grid Readings

242.6V 60.0Hz

LCD backlight turns on for better readability and default Normal Operati on screen is displayed.

Lifetime energy produced by the GT Inverter system.

Length of time in verter has be en onli ne today, in hours (hh), minutes (mm) and seconds (ss).

Immediate DC voltage and curre nt readings from the PV array.

Immediate AC voltage and frequency readings from th e G r id

5–4 975-0131-01-01

Front Pane l Display Screens and What They Mean

* In a multiple unit system with communications cables properly installed, the

system values displayed are for the entire system. For example, in a two-inverter system, if inverter #1 is producing 1500 W and inverter #2 is producing 2000 W, both inverters display a total system power of 3500 W. Time online and array readings are for the local inverter and PV array associat ed with that inverte r.

Additional messages for multiple unit systems only

In addition, to the normal system message screens, additional screens spe cific to each GT Inverter unit can be displayed when the unit is networked to other GT Inverters. These scree ns are only available on multiple unit systems.

To view unit-specific screens in a multiple unit system:

1. T ap the Xantrex logo near the LCD to advance the display to the next scree n. Continue tapping until the final system message screen (“Grid Readings”, in Table 5-3 above) is displayed.

2. T ap again. Normal operation screens shown in Table 5-4 are displayed in the order given, as you tap successiv ely on the unit.

If you continue to tap the unit, then the LCD will cy cle throug h all of the avail able normal operation scree ns. Each message is displayed for up to 30 seconds. If you do not tap again within that time per iod, then the LCD backlight turns off and the display reverts to the default normal operation screen (Table 5-2).

Table 5-4

Additional Normal Operation Screens for Each GT Inverter Unit in a

Multiple Unit System

Tap Display Description

6th time

7th time

Unit 1500W

Today 1.250kWh

Unit Lifetime

150kWh

Power being produced by thi s uni t now. Cumulative energy produced by this uni t today .

Lifetime energy produced by this GT Inverter unit

Offline Mode

Offline default display

Offline message s for all systems

975-0131-01-01 5–5

At night and when no power is bei ng produce d by t he PV array ( of fline mode), the GT Inverter displays the screen shown in Ta ble 5-5.

Table 5-5

Offline Mode Default Display

Display Description

Inverter

Offline

Displayed at al l times w h il e th e sy s t em is offlin e.

Additional message screens can be viewed when the system is offline by tapping the Xantrex logo near the LCD. Each additiona l tap displays the next screen, in the order shown in Table 5-6.

Monitoring the Inverter

These message screens are common to all GT Inverter systems, no matter how many units are installed. If you continue to tap the unit, then the LCD will continue to cycle through all of the available offline mode screens.

Additional Offline messages for multiple unit systems

Table 5-6

Tap Display*

1st tim e

2nd time

3rd time

4th time

* In a multiple unit system with communications cables properly installed, the

Offline Mode Screens for All GT Inverter Units

Description

Inverter

Offline

System 0W

Today 2.50kWh

System Lifetime

305kWh

Time Online

hh:mm:ss

system val ues d isp lay ed a re fo r t he e ntir e sys tem. Tim e o nlin e is for the loca l inverter.

LCD back light turns on for better readability and default Offline Mode screen is displayed.

Power being produced by the system now. Cumulative energy produced by the system today.

Lifetime energy produced by the system.

Total time that the system was online today, in hours (hh), minutes (mm) and seconds (ss).

Multiple unit systems in offline mode display all of the message scre ens shown in T able 5-6, plus the additional screens shown in Table 5-7. These additional screens are displayed f ollowing the “Time Online” screen.

These screens are only displayed on multiple unit GT Inverter systems with communications cabling properly installed. If you continue to tap the unit, then the LCD continues to cycle through all of the avai lable offline mode screens.

Table 5-7

Additional Offline Mode Screens for Each GT Inverter Unit in a

Multiple Unit System

Tap Display Description

5th time

6th time

Unit 0W

Today 1.25kWh Unit Lifetime

150kWh

Power being produced by thi s uni t now. Cumulative energy produced by this unit today.

Lifetime energy produced by this unit.

Fault Mode

When a fault state is detected, the appropriate fault message appears on the front panel display at the next scree n ref resh (i.e., within 2 seconds). The GT Inverter fault message screens are shown in Table 5-8.

5–6 975-0131-01-01

Front Pane l Display Screens and What They Mean

Fault Mode causes These message screens only appear when there is a fault, and then flash

alternately with the Inverter Offline default screen (Table5-5) until the fault is corrected.

Table 5-8

DC Voltage Fault

AC Voltage Fault

Frequency Fault

Over Temp Fault

81.4C 178.5F

Ground Fault Reset System

Fault Message Screens

Display Description

145.5V

280V

0.0Hz

When the actual DC voltage is over or under the allowable range, 165 to 600 Vdc. Self-clearing, no action required. The PV array should be configured such that DC voltage does not fall below 195 Vdc or rise above 600 Vdc.*

When the actual AC voltage is over or under the allowable range , as sp ecified in “Output” on page A –2. This is a utili ty f ault; it will clear itself when th e AC voltage comes within the specified ran ge.†

When the actual Frequency is over or under the allowable range, as specified in “Output” on page A–2. This is a utility fault; it will clear itself when the frequency c omes within t he specified range.

When the unit’s internal temperat u r e is g re at er th a n 8 0 ° C (176° F), the unit will shut down automatically and only restart when the temperature has dropped to less than 70° C (158° F).

When a grounding fault is detected. The ground fault fuse will be blown. The system must be shut down completely, the fault corrected, the fuse replaced (see “Replacing the Ground Fault Protection Fuse” on page 6–4) and then the system restarted. Troubleshooting a grounding fault should be performed by qualifie d pers onnel.

†

Impedance Fault

Detected

Unit Shutdown

via Remote

Protection uP

Not Responding

* It is normal to recei ve this fault durin g low light condi tions at dawn or dusk. At

such tim es, th e array d oes no t ha ve suff ici ent ener gy to po we r the in ver ter, s o the PV voltage drops below 165 volts occasionally.

† Grid fault. When this fault is cleared the protection timer will begin its

countdown and you will see the “Reconnecting in s ss seconds” and “Inverter Offline” special screens (see Table 5-10) flashing alternately until the countdown is complete.

975-0131-01-01 5–7

Applicable only in German installations.

Appears if the GT Inverter unit has been shut down via a computer connected to the RS-232 port.

The protection processor is not responding.

†

Monitoring the Inverter

Additional Fault messages for all systems

Additional message screens can be viewed in fault mode by tapping the Xantrex logo near the LCD. Each additional tap displays the next screen in the order shown in Table 5-9.

Table 5-9

Tap Display*

1st time Curre n t f a u lt me ssage

2nd time

3rd time

4th time

5th time

6th time

* In a multiple unit system with communications cables properly installed, the

Additional Fault Mode Screens

Description

LCD backlight turns on for better readability.

screen (see Table 5-8 )

System 0W

Today 2.500kWh

System Lifetime

305kWh

Time Online

Today hh:mm:ss Array Readings

350.5V 8.4A

Grid Readings

242.6V 60.0Hz

system values displayed are for the entire system. Time online and array readings are for the local inverter and PV array associated with that inve r ter .

Energy being produced by the system now. Cumulative energy produced by the system today.

Lifetime energy produced by the GT Inverter system.

Length of time inverter was online today, in hours (hh), minutes (mm) and seconds (ss).

Immediate DC voltage and curre nt readings of power from the PV array.

Immediate AC voltage and frequency readings of power from the Grid.

Special Screens

Special message screens are displaye d in specific situations that are not considered fault situations. They can appear in any mode of operation. These screens are described in Table 5-10.

Table 5-10

Reconnecting in

sss seconds

5–8 975-0131-01-01

Special Message Screens

Display Description

Time remaini ng in seconds (sss) before the GT Inverter reconnects to th e G r id . Th i s is a pr o t ection ti m e r ; it ru n s for approximately five minutes at startup and after any Grid fault.

Inverter

Offline

GT Inverter switching (or has switch ed) from Normal Operation to Offline mode. This screen may flash alternately with a F au l t m essage scr een.

Status Indicator Lights

Custom Screens

Table 5-10

System *3500W

Today 15.56kWh

Unit *1800W

Today 7.82kWh

Insufficient Solar Energy

Special Message Screens

Display Description

The “*” in these two screens (see Table 5-2 and Table 5-4) indicates that the unit is derating its output power because the invert er heat sink temperature is abov e 75 ° C (167° F).

The asterisk only appears when the power is actua lly being limited by the inverter.

Indicates the GT Inverter is not producing power due to insufficient solar energy during low light conditions in early morning or late aftern oon or when the PV array is in shade. This scr een flashes alternately with the Normal Op eration default screen.

Two custom screens are available. The inverter does not display them unless they are configured using a computer connected to the RS-232 port inside the wiring box. If programmed, the custom scree ns display as the fourth and fifth screens during the startup seque nce. They can also be viewed by tapping the unit during normal operation and fault mode.

The first custom screen is inte nde d for the home owner to display information such as the name or location of the PV array associated with the inverter.

The second custom scre en is intended for instal lers, who can configure the screen to display, for example, contact info rm at io n for serv i ce .

A PC graphical user interface that can be used for configuring custom screens is available for download at www.xantrex.com.

Status Indicator Lights

The GT Inverter is equipped with two sta tus indic ator lights ( LEDs) loc ated be low the front panel LCD (Figure 5-2). These LEDs indicate the inver ter’s current status (Table 5-11) and assist in troubleshooting the perf or mance of the unit.

Only one indicator light will be lit at any time.

Table 5-11

LED on Means

GREEN GT Inverter is on (DC voltage and AC voltage are qualif ied and the

975-0131-01-01 5–9

Status Indicator LEDs

protection timer has fi nished) and delivering energy to the grid. No action required. Turns off when a fault state is detected.

Monitoring the Inverter

Table 5-11

LED on Means

RED Ground fault condition detected.

Status Indicator LEDs

Check for any fault messages on the display (see Ta ble 5-8), and refer also to Table 6-1, “Trou bleshooting the GT Inverter” on page 6–8 to resolve the f ault condition.

Green LED

Red LED

Figure 5-2

5–10 975-0131-01-01

Location of Status Indicator Lights

Maintenance and

Troubleshooting

Chapter 6, “Maintenance and T roubleshooting”, contains information about how to provide general maintenance for the Xantrex Grid Tie Solar Inverter. It also provides information about troubleshooting the unit.

The topics in this chapter are organized as follows:

•“Factors Affecting GT Inverter Performance” on page 6–2

•“Performing General Maintenance” on page 6–3

•“Replacing Parts” on page 6–3

•“Identifying Error/Fault Conditions and Solutions” on page 6–8.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Factors Affecting GT Inverter Performance

This section describes several factors that will affect the amount of power that a properly install ed and operating GT Inverter can produce.

PV Array Factors

PV array ratings PV arrays are rated at ideal f actor y conditions, such as specified illum ina tion

(1000 W/m2), spectrum of the light and specified temperature (25°C / 77°F), which seldom reflect real-world installations. This is called the STC (Standard Test Condition) rating and is the figure that appears on the PV module nameplate label.

Expected performance

Temperature and reduced output

Angle of the sun The angle of the sun in relation to the PV array surface—the arra y

Partial shade Shading of only a single module of the array will reduce the output of the entir e

Because of several unavoidable environmental factors, you can expect your PVarray to produce around 60% to 70% of its peak STC-rated output for a properly designed and ins talled PV system on a typical day.

PV array temperature affects the output of the entire system. As the temperature on the array surface heats up, its energy output goes down. Roof-mounted arrays also collect the heat generate d by the roof surface (or tr apped under the array ) and will produce less output than pole-mounted arrays, which allow greater air circulation behind the panels.

Important:

circuits from overheating and possible damage in high heat conditions. For maximum output in hot climates, mount the GT Inverter in a shaded location with goo d air flow.

orientation—can dr amatically affec t the PV array outpu t. The array energy output will vary depending on the time of day and time of year as the sun’s angle in relation to the array cha nges. Sunlight output decreases as the sun approaches the horizons (such as in winter in North America) due to the greater atmospheric air mass it must penetrate, reducing both the light intensity that strike s the array’s surface and spec trum of the li ght. In general , you can e xpect only four to s ix hour s of direct sunlight per day.

system. Suc h sh ading can b e cau sed by som et h ing as sim ple as the sh ad ow of a utility wire or tree bran ch on part of the array’s surface. This condition, in eff ect, acts like a weak battery in a flashlight, reducing the total output, even thoug h the other batteries are good. However, the output loss is not proportionate to shading.

The GT Inverter will reduce its energy output to protect its electronic

The GT Inverter is designed to maximize its energy production in all of the above situations using its MPPT algorithm.

6–2 975-0131-01-01

Other Factors

Other factors that contribute to system losses are:

• Dust or dirt on the array

• Fog or smog

• Mismatched PV array modules, with slight inconsistencies in performance

from one module to another.

• Inverter efficiency

• Wir e l osse s

• Utility grid voltage.

For additional i nformation and technical note s concerning PV array perform ance, please visit our Web site at www.xantrex.com.

Performing General Maintenance

Follow these simple routi nes to ensure many years of service and optimal performance of your solar ener gy system.

1. Keep the heatsink clear of dust and debris.

Performing General Maintenance

WARNING: Shock and fire hazard

Do not use a pressure washer to clean the GT Inverter, or use other cleaning methods that could allow water to enter the unit.

2. Clean the PV array, during the cool part of the day, whenever it is visibly

3. Periodically inspe ct the system to make sure that all wiring and supports are

4. On a sunny day near noon on March 21 and September 21 of each year,

Replacing Parts

WARNING: Shock hazard

There are no us er-replaceable parts on the GT Inverter. Do not attempt to service the unit yourself.

See the “W arranty and Return Information” on page WA–1 for information on how to get service for your GT Inverter.

dirty.

securely in pla ce.

review the output of the system and compare with previous year’s reading. Maintain a log of system performance readings so that you can recognize when system performance becomes inconsistent.

975-0131-01-01 6–3

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Replacing the Ground Fault Protection Fuse

WARNING: Shock and fire hazard

Fuses should only be replaced by qualified service personnel. For continued protection against risk of fire, replace only with same type and ratings of fuse.

WARNING: Shock hazard

After disconnect ing both AC and DC power from the GT Inverter, wait five minutes before attempting any maintenance or cleaning or working on any circuits connected to the inverter. Internal capacitors remain char ged for five minutes after disconnecting all sources of power.

WARNING: Shock hazard

Danger o u s voltages can exist inside the inverter. If ther e is leakage c urrent from t he POSITIVE PV lead to ground at the array , touching the NEGATIVE PV lead could cause a life-thre atening shock even wit h the disconnect switch turned off . Ungrounded negative DC current on the PV NEGATIVE (–) wire present s an extreme s h o ck hazard.

When the fuse has blown due to a fault, incorrect handling can be life-threatenin g. Use an insulated fuse puller.

If possible, cover PV arrays wit h an opa que material during this procedure.

The ground fault protection f use will blow when severe leakage occurs between the PV array and earth ground, or when the system has been inst alled with faulty wiring. Before replacing the fuse, it is important to have qualified service personnel determine the caus e of the ground fault.

To replace a ground fault protection fuse:

1. Remove the wiring box and front panel covers (described on page 2–23 and page 3–2). The ground fault protection fuse is located on the left side of the LCD panel, behind the front panel cover (Figure 6-1).

2. Using an insulated fuse pulle r, remove the blown fuse and replace it with a new AC/DC midget cartridge, rated 600 Vdc, 1A (Lit telfuse KLKD 1 or equivalent).

3. Replace the front panel and wiring box covers (described on page 2–23 and page 4–3).

6–4 975-0131-01-01

Replacing Parts

Figure 6-1

Ground Fault

Protection Fuse

Location of Fuse, Front Panel Cover Removed

LCD

Replacing the Inverter

You can swap out the inverter and re pla ce it with another GT Inverter, leaving the existing wiring box in place. This means that you do not have to disturb wiring connections in the wiring box. However, you do have to disconnect wiring between the inverter and the wiring box.

WARNING: Shock hazard

Separating the inverter from the wiring box breaks the ground path between PV NEGATIVE (–) and earth ground. When the wires between the inverter and wiring box are disconnec ted a nd expos ed, b oth PV l eads ar e float ing at the array open ci rcuit v olt age. If there is leaka ge curre nt from t he POSITIVE PV l ead to g round a t the array, touching the NEGATIVE PV lead could cause a life-threa tening shock even wit h the dis connec t switch turned off . Ungrounded negative DC current on th e PV NEGATIVE (–) wire presents an extreme shock hazard.

Use insulated tools only when disconnect ing wires between the invert er and wiring box. Cap all disconnected wires with wire nuts.

If possible, cover PV arrays wit h an opa que material during this procedure.

975-0131-01-01 6–5

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Recommended tools:

• Insulated screwdriver

• Wire nut for PV NEGATIVE (–) wire

• 7 mm socket and small ratchet, or 7 mm open wrench.

WARNING: Shock hazard

The inverter shoul d only be removed from the wiring box when a replace ment inverter is immediately available. When replacing an inv erter, ensure t h e A C/DC Disconnect switch is locked (or otherwis e secured) in the OFF positio n. Do not leave the top of the wiring box exposed for extended periods of time.

WARNING: Shock hazard

Before replacing the inverter, turn OFF the brea ker switches in the main utility se r vice panel and the AC/DC Disconnect switch on the GT Inverter.

To remove the inverter from the wiring box:

1. Turn OFF the breake r switches in the main utility service panel and the AC/DC Disconnect switch on the G T Inverte r. If possible, cover the PV arrays with an opaque material.

2. Remove the covers from the wiring box and inverter front (described on page 2–23 and page 3–2).

3. Using an insulated screwdriver, disconnect the PV NEGATIVE (–) wire from the te rmi na l bl oc k insi d e th e inve rt er. Cap the wir e im m edi at e ly wi th a wi r e nu t.

4. Disconnect the remaini ng AC, DC and communications wires between the inverter and the wiring box, inside the inverter. Cap all disconnected AC and DC wires with wire nuts.

5. Inside the inverter, remove the four nuts attaching the wiring box to the inverter.

6. Lift the inverter off the mounting bracket, leaving the wiri ng box in place.

6–6 975-0131-01-01

Front view Back view

Inverter

Lower flange behind wiring box

Wiring box

Replacing Parts

Figure 6-2

Inverter and Wiring Box Sections

To replace the inverter on the wiring box:

1. If it has not already been removed, remove the front panel cover on the inverter now. The wiring box cover should have be en remov ed in the pr evious procedure.

2. Mount the invert er on the upper mounting bracket above the wiring box, with the lower flange behind the wiring box.

3. Replace the nuts that connect the inverter and the wiring box. Secure all nuts tightly.

4. Remove the wire nut from the PV NEGATIVE (–) wire and reconnect i t to the terminal block inside the inverter.

5. Uncap the remaining DC and AC wires and reconnect them to the terminal block inside the inverte r.

6. Replace the front panel and wiring box covers (described on page 2–23 and page 4–3).

7. Turn ON the brea ker swi tches in t he main utilit y se rvice panel and the AC/ DC Disconnect switch on the GT Inverter.

975-0131-01-01 6–7

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Identifying Error/ Fault Conditi on s an d Solution s

Most error or fault conditions will be identified by fault message screens on the GT Inverter front panel LCD. These are described in the “Fault Mode” section on page 5–6 of this manual. Most of these fault conditions are self-correcting and require no user action to remedy.

See “Front Panel Display Screens and What They Mean” on page 5–3 for more information.

Table 6-1 is intended to assist in determining fault conditions that may require user action to remedy.

Table 6-1

Problem Cause Remedy

• The inverter LED indicator li ghts do not illuminate, and the inverter does not operat e in suf fic i e nt sunlight

• The display reads “Inverter Off line”

• The Vdc reading is 0.

Only the inverter RED LED is illuminated.

Tr oubleshooting the GT Inverter

AC/DC Disconnect Switch is off, or utilty service panel AC or DC breakers are switched off.

No AC grid or DC array voltage is present.

Ground fault condition detected.

Turn on AC/DC Disc onnect Switch and breaker s in the sequence described in “St artup Procedure” on page 4–2.

Check source of the AC voltage. Ensure that the inverter AC/DC Disconnect Swit ch is set ON.

Check AC connections and ensure AC voltage within the range specified in “Output” on page A–2 is present.

Check DC connectio ns. Check the DC voltage on the positive and ne gative input terminalsand ensure 195–550 Vdc is prese nt.

Check for incorrectly wired PV arrays or try again on a day with brighter sunl ight intensity.

Check for any fault messages on the dis play (see Table 5-8 on page 5–7). System should be checked by a qualified electrician and repaired.

6–8 975-0131-01-01

Specifications

Appendix A, “Specifications”, contains information about the electrical and environmental specifications of the Xantrex Grid Tie Sola r Inverter.

The topics in this appendix are organized as follows:

•“Electrical Specifications” on page A–2

•“Environmental Specifications” on page A–5

•“Mechanical Specifica tions ” on page A–5

Specifications

Electric al Specif ications

Input

Input voltage, Maxim um Power Point range 195 to 550 Vdc Absolute maximum array open circuit voltage 600 Vdc Maximum input current 16.6 A DC Maximum array short circuit curre nt 19 A DC Recommended PV array power Up to 3300 W Reverse polarity protection Short circuit diode Ground fault protection GF detection, I

DIF

> 1 A

Output

GT3.0 North American GT3.0 European

Maximum output power 3000 W AC 3000 W AC Nominal output power over rated te m p range 2500 W AC 2500 W AC Maximum utility backfeed current 20 A 20 A Nominal output voltage 240 V 230 V Operating range, utility voltage (default)* Nominal output frequency 60 Hz 50 Hz Operating range, utility frequency (default)* 59.3 to 60.5 Hz 47.1 to 50.9 Hz Maximum continuous output current 14.2 A 14.9 A Output overcurrent protection 20 A RMS 20 A RMS Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) < 5% <5% Power factor >0.9 >0.9 Utility monitoring—islanding protection Vac, fac as per UL1741

211 to 264 Vac 202 to 253 Vac

Output characteristics Current source Output current waveform Sine wave

* Requires Utility permission and qualified service personnel to change settin gs.

A–2 975-0131-01-01

Adjustable Disconnect Settings

The adjustable disc onnect setti ng v alues va ry depe nding on whet her the inv erter is a 208 Vac/60 Hz, 240 Vac/60 Hz, or 230 Vac/50 Hz model. Utility permission is required prior to changi ng the settings on the inverter.

The default values of these settings differ from the utility specifications on page A–2. These differences take into account the accura cy ranges listed in the table below, and are intended to ensure that utility specifications a re always met.

Default Values Adjustme nt Range

Electrical Specif ications

Setting

Accuracy208 Vac/60 Hz 240 Vac/60 Hz 230 Vac/50 Hz From... To...

AC Low Voltage 186 Vac 214 Vac 205 Vac

180 Vac 269 Vac +/– 3 Vac

AC High Voltage 225 Vac 261 Vac 250 Vac AC Low Frequency 59.4 Hz 47.1 Hz

46.0 Hz 62.0 Hz +/ – 0.1 Hz

AC High Frequency 60.4 Hz 50.9 Hz Reconnect Delay 305 sec. 60 sec. 600 sec. +/– 5 sec.

Output Power Versus Ambient Temperature

Once the heat sink on th e invert er reach e s a maxi m u m te mperature limi t, the GT Inverter reduces its energy output to ensure maximum component ratings are not exceeded.

GT3.0 GRID TIE SOLAR INVERTER

Output Power versus Ambient Temperature

3500

3000

2500

2000

1500

Power (Watts)

1000

500

-25-15-5 5 152535455565

Figure A-1

Output Power vs. Ambient Temperature

Ambient Temper ature (C)

Standard Unit w/ Optional Fan Kit

975-0131-01-01 A–3

Specifications

Efficiency

Maximum efficienc y 94.6% Efficiency at 75% of nominal

94.5%

output power rating Euro effi ci en c y 93.3% Nighttime tare loss 1 W

TYPICAL EFFICIENCY [%]

at 195VD C, 240VA C , 25 C

100

Efficiency (%)

0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000

Figure A-2

Output Power (W)

Typical Efficiency

A–4 975-0131-01-01

Environmental Specifications

Rated operating temperature range -25° to +45° C (-13° to +113° F) Tolerable operatin g temperat u re

range Storage tempera ture range -40° to +85° C (-40° to +185° F) Power derating Derating curv e ab ove +45° C (+113° F);

Tolerable relative humidity limit Operating: 100% conde nsing

User Display

Type alphanumeric liquid crystal Size 2 lines by 16 characters Backlight yes

Display Accuracy

Instantaneous Power +/- (30 W + 1% of reading) Voltage +/- (1% of rating + 1% of reading) Current +/- (1% of rating + 1% of reading) System Lifetime energy +/- 5%

Environmental Specifications

-25° to +65° C (-13° to +149° F)

see Figure A-1 on page A–3

Storage: <95%, non-condensi ng

Mechan ical Specificat io n s

Outdoor enclosure NEMA 3R, Rainproof Inverter dimensions

(H × W × D) Shipping dimensions

(H × W × D) Inve r t e r w eight 20 .4 kg (45 lb) Shipping weight 26.6 kg (58.7 lb) Input and output terminals

Disconnect switc h Integrated switch, disconnects both AC and DC (meets

975-0131-01-01 A–5

72.5 × 40.3 × 14.6 cm (28. 5 × 15.9 × 5.7

86.6 × 51.8 × 26.2 cm (34 × 20.4 × 10.3 inches)

AC and DC terminals ac cept wi re sizes of 2. 5 to 25 mm (#14 to #6 AWG)

NEC article 690), rated @ 600 Vdc

inches)

Specifications

Accessories

GT Fan Kit (includes fan assembly and heat sink cover)

Part number 864-0201 Fan contro l Thermal, activa tes when the internal surfa ce of the hea t sink

reaches 60° C (140° F).

Fan power consumption (operating)

3.84 W

A–6 975-0131-01-01

Xantrex Technology GT3.0 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual