Planning
900-0021-01-00 Rev B
15
~
Typical grid loss is 30 minutes or less, or
~
The loads are less than 2 kW.
NOTE:
If support time or load size are disproportionate to the bank size, they will cause inverter shutdown
due to low battery voltage after a short time. These conditions could be detrimental to the life of a small
battery bank. If this is true, the recommendations from the previous page apply instead.
Charger Settings and Maintenance:
A vented enclosure for the battery bank may be required by electric
code and is recommended in most cases for safety reasons. It may be necessary to use a fan to ventilate the
battery enclosure. (See the
Operator’s Manual
for vent fan applications.)
Batteries must be regularly maintained according to the instructions of the battery manufacturer.
Generator
The Radian inverter/charger has specific connections for a “split-phase” generator. It can work with
any generator that delivers clean 120/240 Vac at 60 Hz. This product cannot work with a single-phase
or three-phase generator.
The Radian inverter/charger can provide a start signal to control an automatic start generator. If automatic
generator starting is required, the generator must be an electric-start model with automatic choke and
two-wire start capability. (See page 30.) For other configurations, additional equipment may be required.
In all cases, the inverter may need to be programmed using the MATE3 according to the specifications of the
generator and the requirements of the system. (See the
Radian Series Inverter/Charger Operator’s Manual
and the
MATE3 Owner’s Manual
.) Parameters to be programmed may include generator size, automatic
starting requirements, and potential fluctuations in generator AC voltage.
Generator Sizing
A generator should be sized to provide enough power for all the loads and the battery charger.
Available generator power may be limited by ratings for circuit breakers and/or generator connectors. The
maximum allowed AC circuit breaker size is 50 Aac per Radian inverter/charger.
The generator must be able to provide current to all inverters. Minimum generator wattage
1
is usually
recommended to be twice the wattage of the inverter system. Many generators may not be able to
maintain AC voltage or frequency for long periods of time if they are loaded more than 80% of rated
capacity.
A generator that is to be installed in a building should not have a bond between the neutral and ground
connections. Installations in North America are expected to bond the neutral and ground at the main
electrical panel.
1
This is the wattage value
after de-ratings for peak versus continuous power, for load power factor considerations, for fuel
type, for altitude, and for ambient temperature.
IMPORTANT:
Battery charger settings need to be correct for a given battery type. Always follow
battery manufacturer recommendations. Making incorrect settings, or leaving them at
factory default settings, may cause the batteries to be undercharged or overcharged.
CAUTION: Hazard to Equipment
Batteries can emit vapors which are corrosive over long periods of time. Installing the
inverter in the battery compartment may cause corrosion which is not covered by the
product warranty. (Sealed batteries may be an exception.)
