Solar AJB & ACDB
Solar Array Junction and AC Distribution Box An Array Junction Box, AJB, is used to connect the photovoltaic strings in parallel. The combined DC power is fed to the photovoltaic inverter. It includes photovoltaic string protection, overvoltage protection and a DC output switch isolator. The AJB can be customized for different configurations, based on the number of strings of solar panel modules used in the layout. AJB have the following component AC Distribution Box in Used on AC Side of Inverter to control the AC Supply
Components Used
- Enclosure: : The combiner box enclosures are usually made of thermoset (eg. GRP or polyester), or thermoplastic (polycarbonate) material, and come with IP65 protection. Enclosures come in various sizes, based on the number of input strings. The protection features required also contribute to the changes in the enclosure needed. Enclosure should be fire-resistant with self-extinguishing property. It should be UV-resistant and halogen-free and should also have a good mechanical impact resistance, preferably greater than IK 08.
- PV fuse ( DC Side): PV fuse or photovoltaic fuse, of the range 1A to 32A are easily available in market. The PV fuses are used for overcurrent protection. PV fuse selection:- Nsr = No. of PV modules in series per PV string Npl = No. of PV strings in parallel per PV sub-array Isc = Short-circuit current of one module at Standard Test Conditions (STC) Voc = Open circuit voltage of one PV module at STC
- Surge Protection Device ( Both AC/DC): : SPD or Surge Protection Device is used in the AJB/SCB. It protects electrical and electronic equipment from the power surges and voltage spikes. SPD diverts the excess voltage and current from transient or surge into ground through earthing system. Selection Of SPDs according to the voltage protection level Vp : Every SPD has a maximum voltage protection level specified for operation & diverts the excess energy in ground. The protection voltage level of SPD is usually kept at 20% less than dielectric strength & greater than operating voltage of PV system.
- DC/AC Disconnector /Isolator :: Disconnector/Isolator is a switch used to disconnect the power supply between PV string & inverter. It is recommended to be placed before the inverter, to disconnect the DC side of the system when required and AC Side Disconnector after the invrter.
- Cable Glands/Connectors : : Every solar system is outdoor type, so AJB component should be IP65 protected & UV protected. There are two options with cable entry in AJB.