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BERNT LORENTZ GmbH & Co. KG Kroegerskoppel 7, 24558 Henstedt-Ulzburg, Germany, Tel. +49 (0) 4193 7548 - 0, Fax - 29, www.lorentz.de
Errors excepted and possible alterations without prior notice.
4.3 Solar Array Wiring
The solar array can produce hazardous voltage even
under low light exposure. To prevent shock hazard while
wiring the array, leave one or more wires disconnected
or cover it with opaque material.
Solar-direct (non-battery) systems use a variety of array
configurations. Some use 12 V (nominal) modules, and
some use 24 V modules. Modules are connected in series
for 24 – 36 – 48V and up to 96 V (for PS1200 Systems),
and sometimes also in parallel to increase the current.
Refer to the System Wiring Diagram for your
system, attached at the end of this manual. Be sure the
modules (panels) match the description on your System
Wiring Diagram.
Solar module connections The terminals in the
module junction boxes can be confusing. Refer to the
module manufacturer’s instructions that are packed with
the modules. Make strong connections that will hold
for many years. Most array failures are caused by loose,
corroded, or shorted connections.
Type of wire Use either electrical conduit or outdoor
UV-resistant wire. The solar array has a life expectancy
beyond twenty years. Don’t degrade it with inferior
materials! Use minimum wire size #12 (4 mm
2
) for the
connections between modules and for short distances to
the controller. Some appropriate types of wire are: USE,
UF, SE and SOOW.
Solar tracker wiring If you are installing a solar
tracker, pay careful attention to the wire section that
leads from the moving rack down to the stationary
mounting pipe. Use a highly flexible wiring assembly.
Form a drip loop to shed water and to minimize stress.
SEE TRACKER PHOTO and caption in the PHOTO GAL-
LERY. Secure the assembly mechanically at each end
so the insulation and the connections are not stressed
by the tracker’s motion. Swing the tracker fully in each
direction, at various seasonal tilt angles, to verify that
the cable will not rub or restrict the tracking motion.
MC connectors Some PV modules have these quick
connectors. If the connector is not appropriate at some
junctions, you can cut the wire and make a conventional
connection.
WARNINGThe photovoltaic array
generates hazardous voltages. A
48 V (nominal) array can generate
nearly 100V when disconnected
from load. A short circuit or loose connection
will produce an arc that can cause serious burns.
All wiring must be done by qualified personnel,
in compliance with local, state, and national
electrical codes.
controller’s electronically commutated DC output to the
motor must be rated for 3-phase AC. In each case, the
clamping (bypass) voltage should be 90 V or higher, but
not much higher.
In extreme cases, it is best to employ the service of a
local lightning protection contractor.
Reference www.lightning.org
CAUTIONGround the cable shield
at the controller end only, not at
the float switch.
WARNINGIsolate solar pump
wiring from electric fence systems.
Do not connect the pump system
to the same ground rod as an
electric fence. Do not run power or
float switch cables close to an
electric fence.
Figure 9: Two types of PV module junction
systems
Quick-connect system using MC connectors (top),
junction box with screw terminals and conduit holes
(bottom)