Posts Tagged ‘Voltage Transducers’
Voltage Transducers Used in Solar Panel Arrays
Designed & Assembled in the USA
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Challenge
Solar Panels (photovoltaic arrays) are used primarily in two ways:
1. To charge batteries that are used to power remote loads where installing a connection to the utility grid would be cost prohibitive, and
2. To energize installations where the DC power is converted to 60 Hz AC power through a solid-state inverter. Monitoring and/or measuring of solar panel output voltage contributes to an efficient solar system output.
Solution
NK Technologies voltage transducers play a critical role in ensuring the efficient operation, safety, and performance optimization of solar panel systems by providing accurate and real-time voltage measurements.
Solar panels generate DC electricity which can vary based on a variety of factors such as sunlight intensity, temperature, and shading. A voltage transducer can be connected to the output terminals of the solar panels to continuously monitor the voltage level. By monitoring the voltage output, system optimization can be achieved. For example, if the voltage drops below a certain threshold, it can indicate a problem is affecting the system like a malfunctioning panel or shading. Detection of these issues allows corrective action to be taken to ensure the energy yield of the system is maximized.
Additionally, monitoring voltage levels can improve the overall safety of the system. If the voltage exceeds the safe threshold limit, it could increase the risk of electrical hazards or even damage the system or equipment connected to it. An NK Technologies voltage transducer can provide real-time monitoring to help prevent unsafe and costly events.
Solar panels may be used to power an inverter and convert the DC input into AC output. Alternatively, the DC input may be used to charge a battery array for later use. In both cases, monitoring the input and output voltages over time will ensure maximum system uptime and efficiency and provide the needed feedback for ongoing system maintenance.
Battery Charging System
Designed & Assembled in the USA
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Challenge
Voltage Sensing, Charging Control, Overcharge Protection, Under Voltage Protection, Fault Detection
Solution
Battery charging systems are utilized in many applications including renewable energy storage, cell towers, electric grid support, and rail transportation. In each of these applications, voltage transducers are a critical component as they allow you to monitor and control the battery charging process. NK Technologies’ line of voltage transducers ensures your implementation is running optimally by providing solutions for voltage sensing, charging control, overcharge and undervoltage protection, and fault detection.
At its most basic function, voltage transducers can be used to measure the voltage of the battery charging system when the voltage transducer is connected to the terminals of the battery being charged. It continuously measures and monitors the voltage across the battery terminals, providing real-time feedback on the battery's state of charge and voltage level. This allows for charging control. Based on the voltage readings from the transducer, the charging system can adjust the current or voltage to ensure optimal charging conditions. For example, if the voltage transducer detects that the battery voltage is low, it signals the charger to increase the charging current until the desired voltage level is reached.
One crucial function of a voltage transducer in a battery charging system is to prevent overcharging. Once the battery reaches its full charge, the voltage transducer signals the charger to either reduce the charging current or switch to a trickle charging mode. This avoids overcharging, which can damage the battery. Conversely, the voltage transducer can also detect an under-voltage condition. This occurs when the battery voltage drops below a certain threshold, indicating that the battery is discharged. In such cases, the charging system can adjust the charging parameters to provide the necessary current and voltage to recharge the battery safely.
Voltage transducers can also be used to detect faults in the charging system or the battery itself. For example, if the voltage transducer detects an unusually high or low voltage reading, it may indicate a problem such as a short circuit, a faulty battery cell, or a malfunctioning charger.
Data logging and analysis can be enabled by feeding the voltage transducer’s analog output to an analog input card of a process control device, such as a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), Distributed Control System (DCS), or a digital display capable of accepting an analog input. System operators can then track the charging process over time, identify trends, and diagnose potential issues with the battery or charging system. For example, in larger battery charging systems or applications where multiple batteries are being charged simultaneously, a voltage transducer paired with a PLC integration enables automated monitoring, control, and management of the charging process for each individual battery. A properly designed system can then remain online while individual battery cells can be evaluated and scheduled for maintenance or replacement.
Redesigned and Expanded Line of VTR Series Voltage Transducers
NK Technologies has redesigned and expanded its flagship line of voltage sensing products. VTR Series transducers now feature a new, easy-to-mount 36.5mm wide DIN-rail compatible enclosure and expanded models for applications up to 500V. Additional design improvements include an optional extended-duty transformer which provides for isolation voltages of up to 3500V – ideal for battery monitoring or solar applications and among the highest in the industry for similar products. Useful in detecting voltage surges, brown out conditions, and phase loss, standard features on the VTR Series include True RMS sensing, quick response time, wide temperature range and galvanic isolation. All VTR Series products are RoHS compliant with additional agency approvals pending.