Blog

  • Solar Inverter Installation and Maintenance

    18th Jun 2024

    Solar inverters play a critical role in converting DC power into grid-compliant AC electricity. Properly installing these devices ensures safe, reliable operation over their lifetime. Regular maintenance also keeps inverters running at peak productivity. Let’s go over proper solar inverter deployment and care. Inverters require adequate ventilation and protection from weather DC wiring must meet ampacity ratings and disconnect requirements Careful AC connections and grid compliance settings are crucial Periodic cleaning and checks preserve long-term performance As the brains of any photovoltaic system, solar inverters synchronize renewable energy flow with the utility grid. Their advanced internal circuitry warrants professional handling both during initial installation and ongoing service. Follow manufacturer guidelines and codes to avoid electrical hazards. Solar Inverter Installation – Step-by-Step Guide Wondering: how to install solar panel inverter? Properly installing solar inverters ensures they perform reliably for years of renewable energy production. Follow manufacturer guidance as well as relevant electrical codes to safely integrate these devices. Selecting Appropriate Locations Choose an indoor mounting area or outdoor enclosure with ample air circulation so the inverter stays cool. Leave clearance around ventilation openings to prevent overheating. Also, keep the unit away from flammable materials in case of unlikely electrical faults. Outdoor units need sufficient weather protection. Sizing and Connecting DC Wiring The DC cables from solar panels must be properly sized to the inverter’s amperage rating to avoid insulation deterioration or possible fire. Source circuit solar combiners and disconnect switches on each string allow isolation during maintenance. Use copper wiring with THHN or RHH insulation for […]

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  • Best 8 Automatic Transfer Switch Manufacturers of 2024

    16th Jun 2024

    Automatic transfer switches serve as the critical backbone for maintaining a continuous power supply when integrating backup generators or alternate feeders. Selecting a dependable ATS ensures seamless transitions to temporary power during outages – preventing disruptions that cost business operations time and money.  As threats to the grid intensify along with demand for always-on power, we spotlight eight manufacturers crafting the sturdiest automatic transfer solutions to keep facilities running in any conditions. Automatic Transfer Switch Manufacturers – Top 8 Picks Here are eight of the best automatic transfer switch manufacturers out there:  TOSUNlux As a renowned electrical equipment supplier, TOSUNlux produces premium-grade automatic transfer switches for mission-critical facilities across sectors. Their specialized ATS portfolio offers capacities from 100 to 1250 amperes, with innovative features like true double-throw switching and user-programmable controllers. TOSUNlux engineers best-in-class reliability into their ATS models, with reinforced insulation materials and high arc-quenching ratings exceeding 25kA. Precision components enable transfer times under 1/6th of a second to prevent disruption. Rigorous testing also ensures dependable operation from -5°C to +40°C. With robust construction, TOSUNlux automatic transfer switches provide long-lasting backup power security. ABB ABB is a trusted global leader in power technologies like automatic transfer equipment for maximizing supply reliability. Their high-performance ATS portfolio includes the ZTX, ZTS, and TruONE series, delivering capacities spanning 30 to 5000+ amps for diverse applications. Key innovations like dual-motor operators, arc-flash mitigating designs and ultra-durable housings make ABB switches run safely and efficiently for decades. Their TruONE line also enables software-based control and supply monitoring. With proven […]

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  • The Top 8 Solar PV Module Manufacturers In The World

    15th Jun 2024

    Solar power is growing rapidly worldwide, thanks to the efforts of the largest solar panel manufacturers and photovoltaic module manufacturers. These companies are constantly improving the performance of solar panels while reducing costs. China’s solar industry leads the charge, producing large quantities of high-efficiency monocrystalline and polycrystalline PV modules. Here, we highlight the top Chinese solar brands known for their quality and reliability, both domestically and internationally. What is a Solar PV Module? A solar PV module, commonly known as a solar panel, is a device that converts sunlight into electricity. These modules are made up of many solar cells, usually crafted from silicon, which is a semiconductor material. When sunlight hits these cells, it generates an electric current, which can be used to power homes, businesses, and even large-scale solar farms. Key Features: Function: Converts sunlight into usable electricity. Components: Composed of multiple solar cells, typically made from silicon. Usage: Powers everything from small gadgets to entire buildings. Module Power: Reflects the efficiency and capabilities of the solar PV module. List Top 15 Solar PV Module Manufacturers Rank Manufacturer Website 1 LONGi Green Energy Technology Co., Ltd. www.longi.com 2 JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. www.jinkosolar.com 3 Trina Solar Limited www.trinasolar.com 4 Canadian Solar Inc. www.canadiansolar.com 5 JA Solar Technology Co., Ltd. www.jasolar.com 6 First Solar, Inc. www.firstsolar.com 7 Hanwha Q CELLS Co., Ltd. www.q-cells.com 8 Risen Energy Co., Ltd. www.risenenergy.com 9 Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. www.suntech-power.com 10 GCL System Integration Technology Co., Ltd. www.gclsi.com 11 Seraphim Energy Group Co., Ltd. www.seraphim-energy.com 12 Talesun Solar […]

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  • What’s the Types of Solar Inverters?

    13th Jun 2024

    Solar panels produce direct current (DC) energy, while homes and grids utilize alternating current (AC) power. Connecting the two requires a critical conversion device – the solar inverter. But not all inverters are equal. Different design approaches suit various applications. Let’s compare four common solar inverter architectures. String inverters are the conventional centralized design Microinverters dedicate an inverter to each panel Optimizers boost panel-level performance before central conversion Hybrid inverters combine centralized and micro functions Solar panels output variable DC power levels based on conditions like weather and shading. Inverters convert this power to grid-standard AC electricity. Their configuration directly impacts system performance, monitoring, and reliability. Types of Solar Inverters – 4 Major Variations Here are some of the most common variations of solar inverters: Solar String Inverters The traditional approach utilizes a single centralized string inverter for an entire array. Multiple solar panels wire in series into long strings to match the inverter’s DC input voltage range[1]. The inverter synchronizes their combined power output to the AC grid. Central Inverters offer simplicity with just one conversion box. High voltage operation also minimizes conduction losses compared to microinverters. But shading impacts entire strings – one underperforming solar panel drags all others down. Microinverters  Microinverter systems feature a small inverter attached under each solar panel instead of stringing panels together. This gives panels independent control over their output. The grid ties each panel’s AC power together. By converting at the panel, microinverters avoid mismatch losses from shading and outages. You can also monitor each panel’s productivity. […]

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  • What Is The Difference Between Panelboard And Load Center?

    12th Jun 2024

    When discussing electrical distribution equipment, you’ll often hear the terms “panelboard” and “load center” used interchangeably. But while related in function, these technologies have distinct differences every electrical professional should understand. Load centers are made for 120/240V residential/light commercial settings Panelboards manage higher voltages and phase loads Load centers save money upfront with limited capacities Panelboards maximize performance, customization, and lifespans This overview explores what uniquely defines panelboards and load centers, along with realistic applications, limitations, and general cost considerations when selecting between options. What is a Panelboard? As a refresher, electrical panelboards provide two core functions: Reliably distribute power from the supply source to downstream circuits Protect connected equipment using built-in circuit breakers and fuses Panelboards utilize a metal enclosure housing multiple smaller branch circuit breakers rated up to about 100-200 amps each. By integrating both distribution and protection capacities, panelboards offer a convenient single solution for managing everyday loads. Common applications include commercial buildings, schools, hospitals, apartments, condos, and industrial facilities. Panelboards come in standard or custom configurations to tailor capacity and capabilities to specific needs. What is a Load Center? Load centers represent a specialized subset of electrical panelboards tailored to residential and light commercial settings. They perform the same dual functions of distributing and protecting power using built-in circuit breakers. However, load centers feature a slightly different form factor optimized for cost-sensitive applications with limited space. They utilize more lightweight enclosures and smaller breaker sizes suited for typical home/office equipment loads. In particular, load centers are exclusively designed for 120/240-volt single-phase […]

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  • Top 10 Panel Board Manufacturers in the USA

    10th Jun 2024

    As industrial automation grows more advanced and mission-critical, finding an experienced control panel producer becomes essential for tightly integrating components, safety, and monitoring. Specialized panel builders leverage extensive application expertise and responsive manufacturing to provide quality enclosures matching exact specifications. We spotlight ten custom control panel manufacturers delivering proven solutions for operations across sectors. Electrical Panel Board Manufacturers – Top 10 Picks Here are 10 of the best electrical panel board suppliers available out there: TOSUNlux Control Panel As a major low-voltage equipment supplier, TOSUNlux offers customized CB/CE-certified control panels for industrial automation applications[1]. Their comprehensive solutions include circuit protection, monitoring, control, and communication capabilities tailored for specialized systems. Leveraging extensive electrical engineering expertise and intelligent manufacturing, TOSUNlux delivers high-value custom panel boards matching quality with affordability. Responsive customer service and testing also ensure durable, efficient performance for facilities across sectors. OEM Panels With over 20 years of perfecting electrical control panels, Missouri-based OEM Panels leverages vast application experience to deliver specialized enclosures for smoothly operating automation systems. Their custom panels integrate components like PLCs, drives, relays, and HMIs using proven schematics. OEM Panels further simplifies deployments by handling panel programming along with clear documentation. Rigorous testing standards also assure long-term reliability. For turnkey custom panels merging quality engineering with rapid manufacturing, OEM Panels excel. Control Panels USA As a premier panel producer from Indiana, Control Panels USA meets exacting requirements for industrial control panels across industries. Their specialized experience includes hazardous areas, cleanrooms, and high-temperature sites. Customers can leverage their application insights or provide […]

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  • Electrical Panel Board Maintenance Checklist

    09th Jun 2024

    Panelboards serve as mission-critical junction points that distribute and protect electrical circuits. But like any equipment, they degrade over years of constantly supplying power to downstream systems in challenging environments. Dust, moisture, vibration, overheating, and other factors slowly take their toll over time. Visual inspections to catch external issues Insulation testing to verify protective integrity Breaker and relay confirmation ensuring fault response Infrared scans detecting hot spots early That’s why a regular electrical panel inspection and maintenance program pays major dividends. Consistent checks, tests, cleaning, and repairs catch issues early before they cascade into major faults. It also familiarizes technicians with panel conditions to facilitate quicker incident response while ensuring electrical panel safety. Electrical Panel Maintenance – Important Checklist Let’s walk through key items that a robust electrical panel inspection checklist plan must include: Visual Inspections The first line of defense is simple visual inspections of the full panelboard assembly and all accessible components behind closed doors. Technicians should scan for the following: Rust, corrosion, dirt accumulation Paint flaking, structural damage Signs of overheating and burn marks Any unusual smells suggesting hot insulation or arcing Vermin nests or infestation Visually checking bus connections, breakers, wiring, insulation materials, and components takes just minutes but can reveal many emerging issues early. Documenting these inspections also provides helpful baseline information to assess degradation over time. Any cracks, corrosion spots, discoloration, or anomalies get flagged for future monitoring or immediate correction if severe. Insulation Testing Insulation breakdown[1] is a major yet preventable cause of malfunctions and electrical fires. Panelboard […]

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  • What is Pushbutton Switch: Types, Uses, Applications, and Benefits

    04th Jun 2024

    It’s often the simplest components that wield the greatest power. Take the pushbutton switch. This tactile interface, found everywhere from your coffee maker to spacecraft cockpits, is the discreet champion of electrical control. They are those simple buttons you press to turn things on and off, start machines, or trigger specific actions. But their simplicity belies a surprising versatility. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss pushbutton switch types, uses, benefits, and the considerations you need to make when buying one. What is a Pushbutton Switch? What’s a pushbutton switch? A pushbutton switch, at its core, is a mechanical switch activated by pressing a button. It controls the flow of electricity within a circuit.  When you press the button, it actuates an internal mechanism that either closes or opens the circuit, completing or interrupting the electrical path. This seemingly simple action enables a wide range of functions, from turning on your bedside lamp to controlling complex industrial processes. 5 Common Pushbutton Switch Types  What are some of the types of pushbutton switches?  Some of the types of pushbutton switches are: momentary, maintained, illuminated, emergency stop, and selector pushbutton switch. Let’s briefly discuss each. Momentary Pushbutton Switches  A momentary pushbutton switch only remains active as long as the button is held down. Release the button and the switch returns to its original state. They’re commonly found in doorbells, flashlights, car horns, and laser pointers. Maintained Pushbutton Switches (Latching) Also known as latching switches, these maintain their state after the button is released. One press turns the circuit […]

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  • How to Connect a Push Button Switch

    03rd Jun 2024

    Pushbutton switches are essential components in countless electrical devices and systems. They control circuits with a single press, making them user-friendly and adaptable to various applications.  Let’s explore the basics of pushbutton switches, how to wire them, address common FAQs, and delve into their diverse uses and benefits. Pushbutton Switch Basics There are two primary types of pushbutton switches: momentary and latching. A momentary pushbutton switch completes the circuit while being pressed. When released, the circuit opens, and the action stops. Latching or maintained pushbutton switches toggle between two states. The first press closes the circuit, and the second press opens it. They “remember” the last state. There are also two common pushbutton switch configurations: Normally Open (NO) and Normally Closed (NC). Normal open is when the circuit is open when the button is at rest and closes when pressed. Normally closed (is when the circuit is closed when the button is at rest and opens when pressed. How to Wire a Pushbutton Switch: 5 Steps Wiring a pushbutton switch is relatively simple, but it’s essential to follow safety precautions and consult a qualified electrician for complex installations.  Here’s a basic overview of wiring a normally open momentary pushbutton switch to control light: Turn off the power Always disconnect the power source before working with electrical wiring. Identify the terminals The switch will have two or more terminals. Typically, one terminal connects to the power source, and the other connects to the load (e.g., the light). Connect the wires Connect the wire from the power […]

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  • How Does Push Button Switch Work?

    02nd Jun 2024

    Pushbutton switches control everything in the electronic world—from our appliances to complex industrial machinery. These simple yet indispensable devices offer a user-friendly and reliable way to interact with electrical circuits.  Let’s delve into the structure of a pushbutton switch, and understand its working principle. The Structure of a Pushbutton Switch  What are the components of a typical pushbutton switch? The components of pushbutton switches are: the actuator, housing, contacts, spring mechanism, and terminals. Actuator The external button or knob that the user presses to activate the switch. It can be made of various materials like plastic, metal, or rubber, and designed in different shapes and sizes to suit the application. Housing The protective casing encloses the internal components of the switch. It provides mechanical support, insulation, and protection against environmental factors. Contacts The conductive elements within the switch that make or break the electrical connection. They are usually made of metals like copper or silver, chosen for their excellent conductivity and resistance to corrosion. Spring Mechanism A spring is often incorporated to return the actuator to its original position after it is released, ensuring a consistent feel and operation. Terminals The connection points where external wires are attached to the switch, allowing it to be integrated into the electrical circuit. Pushbutton Switch: Working Principle The working principle of a pushbutton switch relies on the simple concept of closing or opening an electrical circuit.  When the actuator is pressed, it exerts force on the internal pushbutton mechanism, which moves the contacts. This mechanism can vary depending […]

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