Blue Sky Solar Boost 3024iL - Manual (Page 6)

Blue Sky Energy - Solar Boost 3024iL
5
OPTIONAL TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION
The optional battery temperature sensor automatically adjusts charge voltage setpoints based on battery temperature which enhances battery
performance and life, and decreases maintenance. The default compensation factor of −5.00mV/°C/cell is suitable for most lead-acid chemistry batteries.
FACTORY DEFAULT CHARGE VOLTAGE SETPOINT -VS.- BATTERY TEMPERATURE
FIGURE 2
MAXIMUM SETPOINT VOLTAGE LIMIT
Regardless of setpoint values entered by the user or result from temperature compensation the 3024 will not apply a charge voltage setpoint greater
than the maximum voltage setpoint limit factory configured to 15.5/31.0V. Note that actual battery voltage may briefly exceed this value by 0.1 – 0.2V as the
voltage control servo responds to changes in load.
MAXIMUM POWER POINT TRACKING (MPPT)
Patented MPPT technology can extract more power and increase charge current up to 30% or more compared to conventional controllers. The
principal operating conditions which affect current boost performance are PV array temperature and battery voltage. At constant solar intensity, available PV
voltage and power increase as PV temperature decreases but it takes an MPPT controller to access this extra power. When PV voltage is sufficiently high in Bulk
for MPPT to operate, a constant power output is delivered to the battery. Since output power is constant a decrease in battery voltage produces a further increase
in charge current. This means that the 3024 provides the greatest charge current increase when you need it most, in cold weather with a discharged battery. In
cool comfortable temperatures most systems see about 10 – 20% increase. Charge current increase can go to zero in hot temperatures, whereas charge current
increase can easily exceed 30% with a discharged battery and freezing temperatures. For a more complete MPPT description see
www.blueskyenergyinc.com .
MULTIPLE CHARGE CONTROLLERS ON THE IPN NETWORK
The IPN network architecture allows multiple charge controllers operate as a single charging machine. Up to 8 IPN compatible charge controllers can
reside on a single network and can share a single display or battery temperature sensor. Charge controllers can be added to grow a small system into a
large system and have this large system operate from the users standpoint as a single charge controller.
INSTALLATION
¾ WARNING: Read, understand and follow the Important Safety Instructions in the beginning of this manual before proceeding.
This unit must be installed and wired in accordance with National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70. Over current protection must be
provided externally. To reduce the risk of fire, connect to a circuit provided with 40A maximum branch-circuit over current protection
(50A with 12V battery and 12V PV modules) in accordance with National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70. Do not connect a PV
array capable of delivering greater than 24A of short circuit current I
SC
at STC (32A with 12V battery and 12V PV modules). Do not
connect BAT– and PV– together external to the unit. The unit is not provided with a GFDI (ground-fault detector/interrupter) device
and must be used with an external GFDI device as required by Article 690 of NEC for the installation location. To reduce risk of
electric shock, remove all sources of power before installing or servicing. Figures 3, 4 and 5 show generalized connections only and
are not intended to show all wiring, circuit protection and safety requirements for a photovoltaic electrical system.
¾ CAUTION: The 3024 is protected against reverse battery and PV polarity, and swapped PV and battery connections, but will be
damaged by reverse battery to the PV terminals. Transient voltage lightning protection is provided, but steady state voltage in
excess of 57VDC on the battery or PV terminals will damage the unit. Damage of either type voids the limited warranty.
ELECTROSTATIC HANDLING PRECAUTIONS
To minimize the likelihood of damage, discharge yourself by touching a water faucet or other electrical ground prior to handling the 3024 and avoid touching
circuit board components. The risk of electrostatic damage is highest when relative humidity is below 40%.