A converter is a device that allows you to change the form of electric current. They are most often used to change direct current to alternating current. The devices also allow you to modify selected parameters, such as voltage or frequency of current. How to calculate the demand for continuous power of a converter and in which installations is it necessary?
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How to calculate the continuous power requirement of a converter?
Correct calculation of the demand for continuous power of the converter is necessary for the device to operate effectively and efficiently. There are solutions available on the market with different parameters, but if it is not properly matched to the needs, the device will not operate properly, losses may occur.
The first step to determining the optimal power of the converter is to identify the devices that are to be powered by the current from the converter. To perform the calculations, the parameters of the individual devices will be necessary, in particular the rated power and the type of load (e.g. inductive or resistive).
The next step is to calculate the total power drawn by each device. For each, the total power should be calculated and then the results added up. This value is one of the key factors needed to determine which converter will be the best.
In addition to power, the type of load generated by the load is equally important. The most characteristic are two - inductive and resistive load. The first is associated with devices equipped with engines that generate a large load when started. Refrigerators or air conditioners initially draw much more energy than their rated power. Therefore, if the converter is to effectively support this type of equipment, its power must be sufficiently high. It is assumed that a converter with a power reserve of approx. 3-5 times greater than the rated power value should be selected. Resistive load is generated by, for example, light bulbs. Unlike inductive load, resistive load is more stable and its value is close to the specified rated power.
Among the important parameters that must be taken into account during calculations, the so-called peak (instantaneous) power of the converter should be indicated. This parameter is especially important if devices characterized by high initial power are to be operated, requiring high initial power to start. Examples include refrigerators, as well as heat pumps or air conditioners.
What is better to choose: Photovoltaic inverter or charge regulator?
The choice between a photovoltaic inverter and a charge controller is best considered individually, taking into account specific factors and needs. The type of photovoltaic installation used, as well as the way in which the energy generated by it is used, are of great importance here.
Photovoltaic inverters allow direct current generated by photovoltaic panels to be converted into alternating current, which is most often used by devices operating in the network. A photovoltaic converter will work primarily in an on-grid installation, i.e. when the excess generated current is transferred to an external network. It will also be necessary when the current generated by PV panels will supply the network in which devices requiring alternating current operate. The installed inverter means that devices can use the current generated by the photovoltaic system directly.
An alternative to inverters are special charge regulators. These are devices responsible for regulating and controlling the flow of current directly from the panels to special batteries. Properly selected regulators help protect the battery from excessive discharge or overcharging and overload. This solution is most often used in off-grid installations, i.e. when photovoltaics are not connected to the external network. Voltage converters are needed to store energy in batteries, in order to store energy safely and without the risk of overcharging.
In what installations is a voltage converter necessary?
Voltage converters are essential in both on-grid and off-grid installations. In both solutions, they allow the input voltage to be changed to suit the target needs.
Where the installation is connected to an external network, the voltage converter guarantees safe conversion of current, which can then be fed into the power grid. Solar panels generate direct current, and before it can be transmitted, the supply voltage must be changed to alternating current. This applies to both transmission to the external network and to the home installation. The role of the converter is to integrate the photovoltaic panel system with the network.
The use of converters is necessary in every off-grid installation, because without them, powering devices with current directly from PV panels or batteries would not be possible. Home appliances need alternating current to function properly. Control of the input voltage and output voltage protects the devices in the house. Connection to the converter is necessary to ensure the efficiency of the components. However, it must be remembered that it must be properly selected. The converter and other elements of the system, such as the transistor, coils, diodes, capacitors, work together to protect the systems and devices. They eliminate interference, improve efficiency, increase the efficiency of the converter, regulating the supply voltage to the needs of the system and the power source.