48V charger from an inverter/charger vs. a normal charger

stantale
stantale Registered Users Posts: 1
I have an IOTA DLS 54-13. Seems like finding any 48V charger over 13A is difficult.

What I don't understand is how some inverter/chargers that provide 48V->110V as well as shore/grid power tie in to charge the 48V bank seem to handle 30A or even 45A in charging mode no problem. e.g. Outback-Power-FX3048T-3000W-48V-Sine-Wave-InverterCharger.

Are there any charger only modules around 45A that might be cheaper and more importantly more efficient?

Also, any one know of 3/4 stage 48V battery charger that runs on 48V generator output?

thanks!

Comments

  • BB.
    BB. Super Moderators, Administrators Posts: 33,422 admin
    The inverter-chargers are typically the answer for 48 volt systems.

    In theory, the charging function in an inverter-charger is almost "free". Not much extra in the way of parts to add a charger function (not saying this is easy for the designer).

    -Bill
    Near San Francisco California: 3.5kWatt Grid Tied Solar power system+small backup genset
  • inetdog
    inetdog Solar Expert Posts: 3,123 ✭✭✭✭
    BB. said:
    The inverter-chargers are typically the answer for 48 volt systems.

    In theory, the charging function in an inverter-charger is almost "free". Not much extra in the way of parts to add a charger function (not saying this is easy for the designer).

    -Bill
    +1
    The inverter portion requires the capability of handling enough current at 48V to supply the rated power of the inverter. That might range from 20A for a 1kW inverter to 80A for a 4kW inverter.
    Once the series control elements capable of that current are in place, they and the same transformer used to produce line voltage AC can be turned around to perform charging.
    Solar powered CCs have the advantage of a DC input to start with, but otherwise need to pay up front for all of the power handling elements.
    SMA SB 3000, old BP panels.