explore the BusinessNet
Cooper Bussmann Introduces Full Range of Photovoltaic Array Protection Fuse-Links for Solar Power Installations
Story
Burton-on-Wolds, 30th April, 2008 — The cost of generating electrical energy continues to increase, and, as we are learning, generating this energy from fossil fuels is unfriendly to the environment. Thus, alternative means of generating power are being developed, and that requires new methods of circuit protection.
Alternative systems generating power from solar panels was once considered impractical due to initial start-up costs and the cumbersome equipment required to sustain the continued supply of electricity, and to convert the dc generated electricity into ac electricity for optimised use. However, the rapid improvement of solar panels and systems has made this alternative means a more viable solution in the generation of clean power.
One popular design is the use of photovoltaic (PV) strings, which consists of solar panels connected in series, or parallel. Either single strings or a combination of strings, or modules, can be utilised depending on the power generation required. Inverters have been designed to accommodate the use of either single or modular installations.
The development of these sophisticated solar panel systems has accelerated the demand for highperformance fuse-links. An area of concern had been the limited current condition in the event of a solar panel fault. The short-circuit condition associated with solar panels did not allow for sufficient current to open a standard fuse-link in a way that effectively isolated faulted strings.
Cooper Bussmann, leader in developing innovative circuit protection solutions, has designed a range of fuse-links specifically for protecting PV strings. Due to the sensitive nature of components incorporated into the inverter and the introduction of legislation permitting the inclusion of the inverter into semiarduous positions, a redesign of the fuse-link to protect the solar panel system components was required.
Fuse-links with full range low-fault current operation have been recognized by design engineers as the tried and tested means of protecting PV arrays. With ratings from 8A to 15A at 1000Vdc, the new Cooper Bussmann® PV fuse-links are ‘gR’ category and are manufactured to meet global standards of 4″, 5″ and 6″ solar cell panels. The fuse-links are tested and approved to IEC 60 269 and provide full range protection including over-loads down to 1.3 x IR and short circuits.
The specific performance of the Cooper Bussmann PV fuse-link is designed around the operational, environmental and potential fault conditions of PV strings. The fuse-links are manufactured in the popular 10x38mm cylindrical package allowing the use of off-the-shelf modular fuse-holders, PCB clips and open style fuse blocks, and packaged in material which is 100% recyclable.
These unique Cooper Bussmann PV fuse-links will assist design engineers in ensuring worker safety and equipment protection without sacrificing performance in alternative energy applications. Cooper Bussmann is continually investing in the design of fuse-links for the protection of emerging technologies utilising power electronics. Close global cooperation among the product and engineering teams ensures continuous component improvements including fuse-links to protect the next generation of “clean energy” equipment.
