ksmithaz1
Solar / EV Junkie
Victron: It may require twice the gear, and four times the engineering to get it going, but at least it only costs twice as much.
I’m really close to purchasing a victron system but having major second thoughts because:
* No arc fault detection
* No ground fault detection
* No integrated RSD system (yes it can be done with programming and hacking external hardware)
* and because of the above, not NEC compliant for installation in the United States.
Am I wrong? I hope so! because the inverter capacity, integrated generator support, communication, and VRM are hard to resist. Tell me where I am wrong or how to include the above features without spending additional thousands of dollars for a compliant system.
I think you are correct, though there has been quibbling about the wording in the code in multiple threads.I don't believe those functions are required for ground mounted panels. But if the inverter itself needs to be UL listed then there's a very limited range of Victron models that are suitable. If you don't need ul listing for inverter could potentially pair a Victron with a midnite Barcelona or hawkes bay 120/90A SCC which does have those functions available as options. But definitely check with your local authority before buying anything.
I have no grid to tie to and wouldnt be seeking an inspection, however I prefer to make as safe and compliant a system as possible.
I had 2 of the Honda Elements, great cars. However, it would be tough to stand up inside an Element unless you are vertically challenged.The Element not only has a carpet-less interior (rubber flooring would make for good safety measures with solar), but they also have split-folding picnic tables and a tailgate. That is definitely the next vehicle I'm going to convert for living.
equipment in dwelling, groundmount for first array — not sure in the futureIs your system going to be part of the dwelling I.E. panels mounted on the roof, equipment inside the house etc?
equipment in dwelling, groundmount for first array — not sure in the future
Midnite makes a DC ground fault breaker at around $100 and then would need a box/mounting.Got it. Have you researched 3rd party add-ons that might give the protections you seek?
At that point though, you're probably blowing the budget through the roof.
Midnite makes a DC ground fault breaker at around $100 and then would need a box/mounting.
I can’t find anything for arc fault.
You are 100% correct, because the USA is only a secondary market for them, and even then they focus on RV and marine markets first.I’m really close to purchasing a victron system but having major second thoughts because:
* No arc fault detection
* No ground fault detection
* No integrated RSD system (yes it can be done with programming and hacking external hardware)
* and because of the above, not NEC compliant for installation in the United States.
Am I wrong? I hope so! because the inverter capacity, integrated generator support, communication, and VRM are hard to resist. Tell me where I am wrong or how to include the above features without spending additional thousands of dollars for a compliant system.
Arc fault detection requires active monitoring of the circuit. It's sort of black magic.Midnite makes a DC ground fault breaker at around $100 and then would need a box/mounting.
I can’t find anything for arc fault.
Midnite makes a DC ground fault breaker at around $100 and then would need a box/mounting.
I can’t find anything for arc fault.
I’m really close to purchasing a victron system but having major second thoughts because:
* No arc fault detection
* No ground fault detection
* No integrated RSD system (yes it can be done with programming and hacking external hardware)
* and because of the above, not NEC compliant for installation in the United States.
Am I wrong? I hope so! because the inverter capacity, integrated generator support, communication, and VRM are hard to resist. Tell me where I am wrong or how to include the above features without spending additional thousands of dollars for a compliant system.
that is hearteningThe Victron MPPT RS450 have ground fault detection:
"3.2. MPPT grounding, detection of PV array insulation faults & Earth fault alarm notification The RS will test for sufficient resistive isolation between PV+ and GND, and PV- and GND."
ah interesting, i was not aware of this module! i wouldn't know where to begin with adapting it to a victron system, I haven't seen a report from anyone that has accomplished it.Maybe look into this link? Looks like a standalone add-on unit that does both arc-fault and ground-fault detection with shutdown control...
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www.midnitesolar.com
I know Midnight Solar charge controllers also had an option for arc fault detection.