Magnum Energy Magnum Panel (MP Series) - Manual (Page 29)

Page 22 © 2011 Magnum Energy, Inc.
3.0 Installation
3.2 Location
Choosing an appropriate location for the MP/inverter system should be determined early in the
installation process; install it only in a location that meets the following requirements:
Indoors - The MP/inverter system must be mounted indoors in a relatively clean and dry environ-
ment away from sources of high temperature and moisture. The MP enclosure uses plated copper
busbars, powder coated metal components, and plated fasteners, which means it is very toler-
ant to corrosive or condensing environments (one in which humidity and/or temperature change
causes water to form on components). However, inverters are complex microprocessor controlled
devices and should be treated as sophisticated electronic devices, such as computers or stereo
equipment. When selecting the location for the MP/inverter system, don’t think of it in the same
terms as the other connected equipment, e.g., batteries, generators, etc. When inverters are
exposed to a corrosive or condensing environment their life will be shorten, and damage because
of corrosion is not covered by the product warranty.
Ventilation - If a Magnum inverter is installed on the MP enclosure, the inverter will pull in air
through the intake vents. In order for the inverter to provide full output power and avoid over-
temperature fault conditions, do not cover or block the MP enclosure ventilation openings or install
it in an area with limited airfl ow. At the minimum, allow 3 inches of clearance to the left and right
of the MP enclosure to provide adequate ventilation.
Close to the Battery Bank - The MP enclosure/inverter system should be located as close to the
batteries as possible. This is to ensure the battery cable length is kept short. Long DC wires tend
to lose effi ciency and reduce the overall performance of an inverter. However, the MP enclosure,
the inverter, and any other equipment that can spark (or that corrosion could damage) should not
be installed in the same compartment/room as the batteries, or mounted where it will be exposed
to gases produced by the batteries. These gases are corrosive and will damage this equipment;
also, if these gases are not ventilated and if allowed to collect, they could ignite and cause an
explosion. Consult your battery supplier for proper installation requirements.
Info: Consult the inverter owner’s manual to determine the proper inverter-to-battery
cable size for the distance used. However, this cable must not be sized any smaller than
0000 (4/0) AWG if the DC disconnect breaker in the MP enclosure will also be used as
the overcurrent device. If a cable smaller than 4/0 AWG is used, an appropriately sized
fuse must be installed to provide overcurrent protection to this smaller cable.
Safe - Keep any fl ammable/combustible material (e.g., paper, cloth, plastic, etc.) that may be
ignited by heat, sparks or fl ames at a minimum distance of 12 feet away from the MP/inverter
system. Do not install the MP/inverter system in any area that contains extremely fl ammable liq-
uids like gasoline or propane, or in locations that require ignition-protected devices. Sparks from
relays, circuit breakers, etc., could ignite the fumes or spills.
Accessible - Do not block access to the front of the MP enclosure. Maintain at least a 36” (91 cm)
clear space in front to access the AC and DC wiring terminals and connections inside the MP en-
closure, as they will need to be checked and tightened periodically.
RFI - Most inverters can create RFI (Radio Frequency Interference). Keep this in mind when de-
termining the placement of the MP/inverter system. You should locate the MP/inverter system as
far away as possible from any electronic equipment susceptible to radio frequency and electro-
magnetic interference.
Expandability - The MP enclosure was specifi cally designed to allow multiple inverters to be con-
nected together. Keep in mind as your power needs grow, you can connect additional inverters
(using MPX enclosures - up to your models maximum inverter capability) to increase your power
capability. Use Figures 3-5 or 3-6 (depending on your MP model) to determine if you are allowing
the appropriate vertical and horizontal room to expand your MP/inverter system.
Rodent Proof - Ensure the MP/inverter system is located in an area that prevents rodents and
insects from entering and damaging wires/components – the MP/inverter can provide a warm
habitat in a cold environment. Mesh screens or nets may need to be installed over any openings
to ensure the unit is kept rodent free and well ventilated.