DC run to inverter

[schuh8]

I am designing a grid tie system using 15 300W panels in series. The VOC for the panels in series is 589 VDC and the Vmpp is 482 VDC.
I am planning to use 12/3 UF wire for the 80 ft run to the garage where the inverters will be located.
1. Any problem using that cable for DC current ?
2. The cable is rated 600V. With a VOC of 589 am I cutting it too close ?

 

[timselectric]

That's fine.
As long as the #12 is large enough to cover the expected amperage.
I'm guessing that those panels will be in the area of 9 amp. So, it would be fine.

 

[seneysolar]

10/3 UF usually isn't much more, maybe 0.30/ft difference. Then you have room to grow if you add more panels. Worth considering.

 

[Supervstech]

10/3 UF usually isn't much more, maybe 0.30/ft difference. Then you have room to grow if you add more panels. Worth considering.

Either you pay too much for 12/3 or you are getting a deal on 10/3...
Im seeing around .80/foot more for 10...
About double the price.

 

[Supervstech]

And 589VOC at what temps?
Winter temps raise the voltage, so calculate that into consideration.
On that much voltage i would stick to 1000V rated wire.

 

[seneysolar]

Either you pay too much for 12/3 or you are getting a deal on 10/3...
Im seeing around .80/foot more for 10...

Sorry i was looking at 10/2 not 10/3 .

Whats the extra wire for in a PV run?

 

[MisterSandals]

The VOC for the panels in series is 589 VDC and the Vmpp is 482 VDC.

What is your inverters max input voltage and MPPT (optimized) range?

 

[schuh8]

Max input voltage of the inverter is 550 vdc and mpp voltage range is 80 - 550 vdc. Does the VOC of 589 preclude the use of this inverter?

 

[Supervstech]

Max input voltage of the inverter is 550 vdc and mpp voltage range is 80 - 550 vdc. Does the VOC of 589 preclude the use of this inverter?

Yes

 

[schuh8]

Sorry i was looking at 10/2 not 10/3 .

Whats the extra wire for in a PV run?

Sorry so late replying. The 80 ft run is for a ground mounted system located 80 ft from the garage where i will mount the inverters.

 

[Supervstech]

Sorry so late replying. The 80 ft run is for a ground mounted system located 80 ft from the garage where i will mount the inverters.

You misunderstand the question.
He meant, why 12/3 and not 12/2