Siemens brochure Options for Sinvert PVS 600Series inverters

© Siemens AG 2012

Options for SINVERT PVS 600Series inverters

Basic versions and options

The SINVERT PVS 600Series of inverters can be adapted and expanded by means of options in order to meet the individual needs of the plant.

The following 4 options are available:

–PV array grounding

–1 000 V option

–Symmetry monitoring

–Cabinet heating

PV array grounding

In most cases, PV systems constitute a DC IT system. In a DC IT system, neither the positive nor negative pole is grounded.

When using certain module types, however, either a positive or negative grounding of the PV generator is required. It is only by this grounding that damage to modules and a steady loss of power can be prevented, i.e. that the maximum yield can be obtained on a continuous basis.

The "PV array grounding positive pole" option allows functional grounding of the positive conductor inside the SINVERT PVS inverter if this is a requirement of the photovoltaic modules used (e.g. large number of thick-film modules).

The "PV array grounding negative pole" option allows functional grounding of the negative conductor inside the SINVERT PVS inverter if this is a requirement of the photovoltaic modules used (e.g. large number of thin-film modules).

PV systems no longer constitute a DC IT system when their modules are grounded. For safety reasons, the PV system must be fenced in and designated as an electrical operating area. Only qualified electricians may be granted access.

Grounding an active conductor (positive pole or negative pole) means that the inverter's insulation measuring function no longer works in the normal way. A hazardous current can start to flow as soon as the first insulation damage occurs. For this reason, in the case of positive pole grounding, the current between the positive pole and ground is measured, and in the case of negative pole grounding, the current between the negative pole and ground. When the current increases to a critical level, the ground connection is automatically separated.

1 000 V option

The 1 000 V option increases the maximum permissible input voltage of the SINVERT PVS inverter from 820 to 1 000 V. Provision of this option ensures that the PV plant will enter operation smoothly even with voltages in excess of 820 V which can occur, for example, on cold days or in arrays containing thin-film modules. The option thus maximizes the potential yield of the installation. The MPP voltage range of the SINVERT PVS inverter is not changed.

Symmetry monitoring

The "symmetry monitoring" option measures the normalized currents at the DC inputs internally and cross-compares the values. If this comparison indicates deviations over time, a message is generated. The message can be used as a guide to localizing faults early in sections of the PV generator (e.g. cell failure).

Cabinet heating

The "cabinet heating" option minimizes the risk of conden- sation forming on the moisture-sensitive components in the SINVERT PVS photovoltaic inverter at low ambient tempera- tures. Reliable operation and maximum energy yields to the grid are dependent on compliance with the operating tempe- rature range prescribed for the relevant SINVERT PVS inverter. This function is recommended for locations at which the ambient temperature can drop below 7 °C.

Order numbers for the options

Each of the four options has its own order number which is to be specified in addition to the order number of the basic version (see "Selection and ordering data", page 23).

10SINVERT PVS 600Series central inverters