Sealed Gel Cell, Environment, Location | Xantrex Technology PS2.5

Section 7: Batteries

Sealed Gel Cell

Another type of deep-cycle battery construction is the sealed gel-cell. They don’t use removable battery caps. The electrolyte is in the form of a gel rather than a liquid. The sealed construction allows the batteries to be mounted in any position without spilling. The advantages are no maintenance (to the battery itself—the system will still require routine maintenance), long life (800 cycles claimed) and low self-discharge. The disadvantages are high initial cost and the possibility of damage from overcharging.

While there are many manufacturers of quality flooded batteries, there are only a few manufacturers of suitable gel-cells. Don’t confuse gel batteries with maintenance free batteries. The latter is typically a standard liquid electrolyte type battery without caps for adding water, and if the electrolyte gets low, you replace the battery.

AGM (absorbed glass mat) batteries are similar to gel-cells and deep-cycle types may be used in inverter applications.

Environment

For long life and good performance, batteries need to be located in protected, ventilated enclosure insulated from extremes in temperature.

Location

Batteries should be located in an accessible location with access to the battery caps and terminals. At least six inches of clearance above is recommended. They must be located as close as possible to the inverter, but can not limit the access to the inverter and the inverter’s over-current protection device. Do not locate the inverter in the same space as the batteries, unless the batteries are of the sealed gel- cell type.

Enclosures

Batteries must be protected inside a ventilated enclosure. The enclosure should be ventilated to the outdoors from the highest point to prevent accumulation of hydrogen gasses released in the charging process. An air intake should also be provided at a low point in the enclosure to allow air to enter the enclosure to promote good ventilation.

Temperature

The effective capacity of a battery is reduced when cold. This phenomenon is more significant with lead-acid type batteries compared to alkaline types. When the internal temperature of a lead-acid battery is 32θF (0θC) the capacity can be reduced by as much as 50%. This effectively reduces the size of the system’s “gas tank”, requiring more frequent “refueling” by the charger. This should be considered when designing the system. If extremely cold temperatures are expected at the location of a system, a heated equipment room should be considered.

If the system is located in an unheated space, an insulated enclosure is highly recommended for the batteries. During the charging process, the batteries release heat due to the internal resistance of the battery. If the batteries are insulated, the heat can be kept in the batteries to keep them warmer. This will substantially increase the performance of the system.

Prosine 2.5/3.0 Installation & Operation Guide

PS3.0, PS2.5 specifications

Xantrex Technology has made significant strides in the power electronics sector with the introduction of their PS2.5 and PS3.0 inverter models. These inverters are designed primarily for solar energy applications, offering reliable and efficient power conversion for residential and commercial solar installations. The PS series stands out in the market due to its advanced features, innovative technologies, and user-friendly characteristics.

One of the main features of the Xantrex PS2.5 and PS3.0 inverters is their high efficiency rating, typically above 97%. This means that a minimal amount of energy is lost during conversion, allowing users to maximize their solar energy utilization. Additionally, these inverters come with a wide input voltage range, making them versatile and capable of handling various solar panel configurations.

Both models are equipped with advanced MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) technology. This feature optimizes the energy output from solar panels by constantly adjusting the operating point to ensure maximum power is extracted, even in variable weather conditions or partial shading. This capability significantly enhances the overall energy harvest from solar systems.

Another notable characteristic is their compact and lightweight design, which facilitates easy installation and integration into existing systems. The inverters are also designed with robust thermal management solutions, ensuring they operate effectively even in high-temperature environments. This durability extends their lifespan and increases reliability, critical factors for any solar installation.

Xantrex has also prioritized user experience with the PS2.5 and PS3.0 models by providing a built-in monitoring system. Users can access real-time data on energy production, performance metrics, and system status through a user-friendly interface. This connectivity allows for quick troubleshooting and maintenance, thus enhancing the overall efficiency of solar energy systems.

Safety is paramount in the design of these inverters. They meet stringent international safety standards and come equipped with comprehensive protection features, including over-voltage, under-voltage, and short-circuit protection. This ensures the inverter operates safely, protecting both the user and the connected solar array.

In summary, Xantrex Technology's PS2.5 and PS3.0 inverters are engineered with cutting-edge features and technologies that cater to the evolving needs of solar energy users. Their efficiency, adaptability, and focus on safety make them an excellent choice for those looking to invest in renewable energy solutions. As the demand for sustainable energy continues to rise, Xantrex is poised to play a significant role in the market with these innovative inverter solutions.