1. Installation
Preliminary preparation
Site survey: Before installing the DC solar power generation system, a detailed survey of the installation site is required. If it is a rooftop installation, it is necessary to understand the structure and load-bearing capacity of the roof to ensure that the roof can bear the weight of the solar cell array. For example, for the roofs of some old buildings, a structural reinforcement assessment may be required. At the same time, the orientation and shading of the roof should be examined. The orientation should be as south as possible (in the northern hemisphere) to obtain more solar energy and avoid surrounding buildings, trees, etc. blocking the sun. If it is a ground installation, factors such as the flatness of the land and whether there are natural disaster risks such as floods should be considered.
Load assessment: Determine the type, power, and power consumption time of the DC load. Design the capacity of the solar cell array and the capacity of the battery pack according to the load requirements. For example, if the load is a small DC base station that runs 24 hours a day, it is necessary to calculate its power consumption throughout the day, and then determine the specifications of the solar cell array and battery pack according to the local sunshine conditions.
Equipment selection: According to the results of site survey and load assessment, select appropriate solar cell arrays, battery packs, charge and discharge controllers and other equipment. For solar cell arrays, factors such as photoelectric conversion efficiency, power, and size should be considered; for battery packs, appropriate battery types (such as lead-acid batteries or lithium batteries, etc.) should be selected according to the required energy storage capacity, charge and discharge characteristics, and operating temperature range; the charge and discharge controller should be selected according to the voltage and capacity of the battery pack and the output characteristics of the solar cell array.
2. Installation process
Bracket installation: First install the bracket of the solar cell array. The bracket should be firmly installed on the roof or the ground to ensure that it can withstand the weight of the battery array and resist external forces such as wind. For roof brackets, use appropriate mounting accessories to connect to the roof structure; for ground brackets, ensure that the foundation is stable, and concrete foundations can be used.
Battery array installation: Install the solar panels on the bracket according to the design requirements, and pay attention to the connection method and firmness of the connection between the panels. The connecting cable should use wires of appropriate specifications, and take protective measures to avoid cable damage.
Battery pack installation: The installation location of the battery pack should be selected in a well-ventilated, dry, and temperature-appropriate place. If it is a lead-acid battery, avoid working in a high temperature environment, because high temperature will affect its service life and performance. The battery connection should be carried out according to the correct polarity, and appropriate fuses and other protective devices should be installed.
Charge and discharge controller installation: The charge and discharge controller should be installed in a location that is convenient for operation and maintenance. Its input end is connected to the output end of the solar cell array, and the output end is connected to the battery pack. Make sure that the connection is correct.
3. Maintenance
Daily inspection
Appearance inspection: Regularly check whether the surface of the solar cell array is dusty, dirty, damaged, etc. Dust and dirt will affect the efficiency of the solar panel to absorb sunlight, and can be wiped with a clean rag. Check whether the solar panel has physical damage such as cracks and breakage. If damaged, it should be replaced in time.
Connection inspection: Check whether the connecting cables between the battery array, battery pack, and charge and discharge controller are loose or damaged. Loose connections may cause poor contact, increase resistance, generate heat, and affect system performance; damaged cables may cause safety problems such as leakage.
Battery inspection: For battery packs, check the electrolyte level (if it is a maintainable battery) and whether the shell is leaking. Regularly measure the voltage and internal resistance of the battery to determine the health of the battery. If the battery performance is found to be degraded, it should be maintained or replaced in time.
Regular maintenance
Cleaning and maintenance: Clean the solar cell array thoroughly at regular intervals (such as one month or according to local environmental conditions). Mild detergent and clean water can be used for cleaning. Make sure the panels are dry after cleaning.
Performance test: Regularly perform performance tests on the entire DC solar power generation system, including measuring the output power of the solar cell array, the charge and discharge performance of the battery pack, and the control function of the charge and discharge controller. Performance testing can promptly identify problems in the system and repair them.
Equipment replacement: Replace aging or damaged equipment in a timely manner according to the service life and performance of the equipment. For example, the electronic components in the charge and discharge controller may age over time, affecting its control function. At this time, a new charge and discharge controller needs to be replaced.