Section 7: Batteries

This section of the manual is included to help you better understand the factors involved with battery charging, care, and maintenance, by discussing the physical make-up and characteristics of chemical storage batteries. This is not intended to be an exhaustive discussion of battery types, but simply a guideline. The manufacturer of each specific battery is the best authority as to its use and care.

Batteries come in different sizes, types, amp-hours, voltages and chemistries. It is not possible here to discuss all aspects in detail. However, there are basic guidelines you can follow that will help in battery selection and ensure that your batteries are better maintained than the majority.

Terminology

A description of battery charger operation requires the use of terms with which you may not be familiar. The following terms appear in the description of batteries and battery charger operation.

Electrolyte Typically a mixture of water and sulfuric acid, it is commonly referred to as battery acid.

Plates Originally made of lead, now fabricated from lead oxide. Plates connect to the battery terminals and provide a structure for the chemicals that create current. There are several plates in each cell, each insulated from the other by separators.

Sulfating As a battery discharges, its plates become covered with lead sulfate. During recharging, the lead sulfate leaves the plates and recombines with the electrolyte. If the lead sulfate remains on the plates for an extended period of time (over two months), it hardens, and recharging will not remove it. This reduces the effective plate area and the battery’s capacity. Equalization helps reduce sulfation on flooded batteries.

Stratification Over time, a battery’s electrolyte (liquid) tends to separate. The electrolyte at the top of the battery becomes watery while at the bottom it becomes more acidic. This effect is corrosive to the plates. Equalization helps reduce stratification.

Deep Cycle A deep cycle occurs when a battery is discharged to less than 50% of its capacity (50% depth-of-discharge). A deep cycle battery is one that is intended to be repeatedly, deeply discharged and charged.

Temperature Compensation Optimal battery charging voltage is temperature dependent. As ambient temperatures fall, the proper voltage for each charge stage needs to be increased. A battery temperature sensor automatically re-scales charge-voltage settings to compensate for ambient temperatures. The compensation slope based on cell voltage is -2.17mv per degree Fahrenheit per cell (30mv per degree Celsius) for lead-acid batteries.

Types

There are two principal types of batteries: starting and deep-cycle. There are several different types of battery chemistries including flooded lead-acid, nickel-iron (NiFe), nickel-cadmium (NiCad), alkaline, and gel-cell just to name a few. Batteries are either sealed or vented. However, there are even different kinds of these batteries. This section explains some of the differences between the different lead acid batteries to help you choose a battery which best suits your needs.

Prosine 2.5/3.0 Installation & Operation Guide

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Xantrex Technology PS2.5, PS3.0 installation and operation guide Batteries, Terminology, Types
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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.
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