Xantrex Technology 806-1840-01, 806-1020 AC Distribution Panels, AC Cabling, Equipment Damage

Basic Installation Procedures

AC Distribution Panels

Most systems incorporate distribution centers both ahead of the Freedom HF (the AC source panel) and between the Freedom HF and the loads (the AC load panel). An AC source panel includes a main circuit breaker, which serves as over-current protection and as a disconnect for the AC shore power supply line. Additional circuit breakers serve individual circuits, one of which serves the Freedom HF. The AC load panel can incorporate an AC output circuit breaker and breakers for individual load circuits.

EQUIPMENT DAMAGE

Do not connect the output of the Freedom HF to what is known as a “multi-wire branch circuit”. These are four-wire circuits consisting of a ground, neutral, and two lines that are 180 degrees out of phase with each other (from a standard 120/240V “split phase” circuit). These circuits are commonly used in kitchens to power “split receptacles” where the top and bottom halves of a duplex receptacle are connected to different lines.

Failure to follow these instructions can damage the unit and/or damage other equipment.

AC Cabling

AC cabling includes all the wires and connectors between the AC source and the Freedom HF, as well as all cabling between the Freedom HF and the AC output panels, circuit breakers, and loads. The type and size of the wiring varies with the installation and load. For example, in high vibration environments, such as marine or RV applications, wire nuts may not be acceptable, so crimp splices would be required. In other applications, flexible multiple-strand wire may be required. Installation codes usually specify solid or stranded, overall size of the conductors, and type and temperature rating of the insulation around the wire.

AC breakers and fuses must be sized to adequately protect the wiring that is installed on the input and output AC circuits of the Freedom HF. All breakers and wiring must be sized and connected in accordance with the electrical codes or regulations applicable to your installation. Table 1 gives some examples of wiring sizes based on the U.S. National Electrical Code and the Canadian Electrical Code. These examples are based on using a 2- conductor-plus-ground cable rated at 75 °C, and assuming an ambient temperature of up to 30 °C. Ensure that your breakers, and fuses have suitable temperature ratings for your wiring. Other codes and regulations may also be applicable to your installation.

Table 1 Required AC Wire Size vs Breaker Rating

Breaker Size (amps)	10A	15A	20A	30A
Minimum Wire Size	14AWG	14AWG	12AWG	10AWG

8 Freedom HF Installation Guide