Charge Controllers and Max Array Watts

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RickR
RickR Registered Users Posts: 2 ✭
in Off Grid Solar & Battery Systems #1
I am looking to add a 3rd array to my system. I have 10 Trina 250 watt panels available. I currently use 2 FM60s on my other arrays and have a Mate3 for monitoring/programming. The specs for the FM80 I am looking at, say max array is 2000 watts and max amps are 80.The panels are rated at 8.85amps short circuit current which would exceed the 80amps. I planned to have 5 strings of 2 panels each to come in at 44.25amps. But the array wattage would still exceed the 2000 specified. Would I be safe in going foward?
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  • mcgivor
    mcgivor Solar Expert Posts: 3,854 ✭✭✭✭✭✭
    #2
    Under most conditions the 2500W array will only generate ~1900W, the only time it would approach or exceed the rated output is if in extreme cold. The best way to determine the compatibility is to use Outback's string sizing tool
    1500W, 6× Schutten 250W Poly panels , Schneider MPPT 60 150 CC, Schneider SW 2524 inverter, 400Ah LFP 24V nominal battery with Battery Bodyguard BMS 
    Second system 1890W  3 × 300W No name brand poly, 3×330 Sunsolar Poly panels, Morningstar TS 60 PWM controller, no name 2000W inverter 400Ah LFP 24V nominal battery with Daly BMS, used for water pumping and day time air conditioning.  
    5Kw Yanmar clone single cylinder air cooled diesel generator for rare emergency charging and welding.
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  • Vic
    Vic Solar Expert Posts: 3,211 ✭✭✭✭
    #3
    The OB FM60 & FM80 CCs  also have a maximum total PV Isc Limit of 48 and 64 Amps respectively.   These limits are generally fairly difficult  to to exceed,  without running all PVs in parallel ("strings" of one PV),  or really excessive over-PVing the CC.

    FWIW,    Vic
    Off Grid - Two systems -- 4 SW+ 5548 Inverters, Surrette 4KS25 1280 AH X2@48V, 11.1 KW STC PV, 4X MidNite Classic 150 w/ WBjrs, Beta KID on S-530s, MX-60s, MN Bkrs/Boxes.  25 KVA Polyphase Kubota diesel,  Honda Eu6500isa,  Eu3000is-es, Eu2000,  Eu1000 gensets.  Thanks Wind-Sun for this great Forum.
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