Recommissioning Delta Solvia 3.8 Inverter

edibble
edibble Registered Users Posts: 2 ✭
edited November 17 in Grid Tie and Grid Interactive Systems #1
I have the manual and running a very similar PV array from the original install. 
Originally 12 320 watts panels in two strings then parallel. Now 10 panels in two strings and parallel. Measuring 335 volts into inverter. Have settings changed after 3 years of storage? Getting a fault error upon hookup but no error code. System is grounded and wired with #10 wire same as the original. I’m going to install a shunt and an amp meter to see if amperage is appropriate for the inverter. The panel’s max output is 5.65 amps.  I’m not getting any power on the AC side. 

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  • BB.
    BB. Super Moderators, Administrators Posts: 33,719 admin
    #2
    Anything from the inverter at all (status LED/LCD information, noise, etc.)?

    Just an FYI on measuring current. Current Clamp Meters are a very safe and quick method to measure current when diagnosing problems...

    There are AC only and AC+DC current meters. For working with solar power/battery powered systems, you need to get the AC+DC version... Here are a couple examples:

    https://www.amazon.com/UNI-T-Multimeter-Voltmeter-Continuity-Capacitor/dp/B0BBMKLL5H?th=1 (low cost, good enough for our needs, AC+DC clamp meter)

    https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019CY4FB4 (mid priced, lots of functions, AC+DC current clamp meter)

    For diagnosing the system...

    Check for correct DC polarity to the inverter's DC input.

    What is the solar array input voltage when connected to the AC inverter's input? Low/intermittent voltage may indicate a poor array electrical connection somewhere... The 335 VDC array voltage is measured when the inverter is connected and should be running?

    Many inverters contain a Ground Fault Detector Fuse... Check if your inverter has a fuse (typically 1 amp) and is not blown. When connected to the array in sunlight, the voltage across the fuse should be pretty near zero volts. If you get high DC voltage, the fuse is probably blown.

    When you get a DC current meter, you can short the array and measure the current... Be very careful with shorting the array... You have very dangerous High Voltage DC, and suggest your short the bare wire ends (that connect to the inverter's DC input). Shorting the connections using the MC4 connectors can damage the electrical connects from arcs. Covering the array with a dark tarp can keep the current low/near zero when making the connections/for safety.

    In full sun, if you get at least 50% of the rated current, the array connections are probably OK.

    -Bill


    Near San Francisco California: 3.5kWatt Grid Tied Solar power system+small backup genset
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  • edibble
    edibble Registered Users Posts: 2 ✭
    #3
    Thanks. I was worried about shorting the system to measure amperage. I will check the manual to see if there is a blown fuse. I bought an auto ranging true RMS AC/DC clamp meter. Checked polarity at the panel connection. I’m not sure that the shunt and power meter will measure amps without a load though. 
    I was getting menus when I turned on the power. I have to check the menu sequence again to see if there is any error code with the fault light. 
    Was hoping someone had experience with this exact line of inverter. They were solar city installed. 
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