Liguidcrystal73,

kindly give more details like capacity of epever controller, capacity of solar array, installation pics to ascertain ventilation, what time of the day did it fail etc?
this will enable troubleshooting and possible solution.

liquidcrystal73:
Dead controller 24 hours into test-run . . .

Please advise

CC: Pranil, bigrovar, zeestone99, pranil, DMerciful, Saipro, Kiekie1

All,

i have 2 units of 6months used 200AH sukam batteries. reason for sale is due to upgrade by a client to 48v. The batteries are like brand new.
price is 70k each.

cheers

STECA TAROM CHARGE CONTROLLER 48V 40A FOR SALE.

Fairly used but in excellent condition, made in Germany

liquidcrystal73:
Dead controller 24 hours into test-run . . .

Please advise

CC: Pranil, bigrovar, zeestone99, pranil, DMerciful, Saipro, Kiekie1

You have pushed more than 40amps into the controller...

You should have connected in series to reduce the current input to the CC...

Sorry for the loss

idsolar:
Hello house. I still have these 2 charge controllers for sale.

1.Roysolar charge controller 12/24v 60amp

2. Roysolar 12/24v 20amp

Interested? Call/sms/whasapp 08033735359.

Still available

Dam5reey:


You have pushed more than 40amps into the controller...

You should have connected in series to reduce the current input to the CC...

Sorry for the loss

No i didn't . . . as a matter of fact, the CC was connected to the same test-run array a PWM 30a was connected to
and the PWM served fine, and when this MPPT died, i had to fall back on the PWM which is still doing its work
check panel spec below, there is no way they can do 40A
and even if the do, the CC would momentarily disconnect the array . . .
unlike Voc, which would fry the CC instantly . .
my PWM maxes out at 30.0A and disconnects the array very quickly !

DMerciful:
Liguidcrystal73,

kindly give more details like capacity of epever controller, capacity of solar array, installation pics to ascertain ventilation, what time of the day did it fail etc?
this will enable troubleshooting and possible solution.

Epever iTracer 40a . . .4210A
connected to a 600W array . . 4 x 150W panels . . in parallel
maximum current per panel: ~8.3 amps, therefore, total max. for current: 8.3 x 4 = 33.2Amps
Maximum voltage per panel: ~18V, but I have seen 20V on some days.; therefore total max. for voltage= 20V

Battery was at about 14.2 V (boost phase), for about 2hrs and then it floated . . . I was happy

Turned on about 180W loads; and panel was delivering about 227W from the MT50 meter indication

I just decided to do a quick glance at the setup minutes later and alas! battery was at 16.0V and the CC was
showing a warning: Battery Over-Voltage... I turned off the Panel - CC breaker.

No burnt smell, no fire, no smoke, nothing!

Battery went back to 13.8 float voltage, disconnected the battery terminals from CC to reset the CC; and back again
it was rising 14, 15, 16, then the Over Voltage error again.

Take note, no power from phcn and panel was at about 17V,., so the panel naturally would try to raise the battery voltage to 17V
because controller charging has failed.

Disconnected once more, did a factory reset of CC, Same thing.
The meter was showing negative battery amps, and zero amps from the Panel . . as you can see in pictures attached.

I brought out the PWM, connected it and all was perfect, no issues, disconnected PWM, connected MPPT, same error . . .
So connected the PWM back and left it there to continue its job . . .

Decided to crosscheck the MPPT and as you can see, images are attached.

Called Mr K K, and he pasted me his Engineer's number, called him, he said he is at Ojo (Lagos State University environs)
Disconnected the call, called Mr K K, he asked me to speak and conclude with his Engineer, called Engineer and he said I have to bring it over . .Distance is a problem, texted Mr K K, i cannot do the distance, maybe he can help arrange a delivery; or I might have to return the unit.

No response yet. So no warranties 36 hours and internal failure of CC . . ?? No after-sales support?
No words of encouragement? Nothing . . .

I have an expensive brick in my hands, CC still lights up and displays all info correctly, but will not receive any Amps from Panel
and will overcharge my battery bank; no matter how many times I tried.

So I am back to the PWM ( the stone that was rejected, now became the chief cornerstone)

That is the story.

Thank you.


P.S. Installation is wall-mounted; more than enough ventilation; and failure occurred this afternoon, around 1.30pm thereabouts

Seems the powertube has failed and as such shunted to directly connect panels to battery. Replace the power mosfets through a qualified electrician and you are good.

liquidcrystal73:


Epever iTracer 40a . . .4210A
connected to a 600W array . . 4 x 150W panels . . in parallel
maximum current per panel: ~8.3 amps, therefore, total max. for current: 8.3 x 4 = 33.2Amps
Maximum voltage per panel: ~18V, but I have seen 20V on some days.; therefore total max. for voltage= 20V

Battery was at about 14.2 V (boost phase), for about 2hrs and then it floated . . . I was happy

Turned on about 180W loads; and panel was delivering about 227W from the MT50 meter indication

I just decided to do a quick glance at the setup minutes later and alas! battery was at 16.0V and the CC was
showing a warning: Battery Over-Voltage... I turned off the Panel - CC breaker.

No burnt smell, no fire, no smoke, nothing!

Battery went back to 13.8 float voltage, disconnected the battery terminals from CC to reset the CC; and back again
it was rising 14, 15, 16, then the Over Voltage error again.

Take note, no power from phcn and panel was at about 17V,., so the panel naturally would try to raise the battery voltage to 17V
because controller charging has failed.

Disconnected once more, did a factory reset of CC, Same thing.
The meter was showing negative battery amps, and zero amps from the Panel . . as you can see in pictures attached.

I brought out the PWM, connected it and all was perfect, no issues, disconnected PWM, connected MPPT, same error . . .
So connected the PWM back and left it there to continue its job . . .

Decided to crosscheck the MPPT and as you can see, images are attached.

Called Mr K K, and he pasted me his Engineer's number, called him, he said he is at Ojo (Lagos State University environs)
Disconnected the call, called Mr K K, he asked me to speak and conclude with his Engineer, called Engineer and he said I have to bring it over . .Distance is a problem, texted Mr K K, i cannot do the distance, maybe he can help arrange a delivery; or I might have to return the unit.

No response yet. So no warranties 36 hours and internal failure of CC . . ?? No after-sales support?
No words of encouragement? Nothing . . .

I have an expensive brick in my hands, CC still lights up and displays all info correctly, but will not receive any Amps from Panel
and will overcharge my battery bank; no matter how many times I tried.

So I am back to the PWM ( the stone that was rejected, now became the chief cornerstone)

That is the story.

Thank you.


P.S. Installation is wall-mounted; more than enough ventilation; and failure occurred this afternoon, around 1.30pm thereabouts

liquidcrystal73:


No i didn't . . . as a matter of fact, the CC was connected to the same test-run array a PWM 30a was connected to
and the PWM served fine, and when this MPPT died, i had to fall back on the PWM which is still doing its work
check panel spec below, there is no way they can do 40A
and even if the do, the CC would momentarily disconnect the array . . .
unlike Voc, which would fry the CC instantly . .
my PWM maxes out at 30.0A and disconnects the array very quickly !

Thanks for the clarification...
I hope Dmerciful suggestion work out... You may give that a try....
Make I dey manage my PWM for now..

DMerciful:
Seems the powertube has failed and as such shunted to directly connect panels to battery. Replace the power mosfets through a qualified electrician and you are good.

Can you recommend any .. in Lagos .. preferably on the Island or close to . . .
What causes this failure...
Also, what is that white creamish gel inside ; as attached in previous pictures>?
And why is Mr K K not saying anything, just viewing silently . .
until "the violent starts to take it by force" ?
is that when he will comment?

Dam5reey:


Thanks for the clarification...
I hope Dmerciful suggestion work out... You may give that a try....
Make I dey manage my PWM for now..

The problem is to see a qualified technician (one closeby at that)

Dam5reey:


You have pushed more than 40amps into the controller...

You should have connected in series to reduce the current input to the CC...

Sorry for the loss

No he didn't, infact before the upgrade was a 30amp pwm cc, the fault is from the controller,

zeestone99:


No he didn't, infact before the upgrade was a 30amp pwm cc, the fault is from the controller,

In fact that same 30amp pwm is now standing gallantly on duty; revolutionary soldier on the hourly !

....

Mr K K; i will come and drop your "expensive brick" for you.
it is such a shame that it failed barely 36 hours into use and by the pictures and description;
an internal circuitry problem which should be covered by your warranty.
I know you are money-oriented and you smirk of shadiness but I am not even asking for my money back (which i have a right to)
but I only ask that you accept it, and fix it and we move on, like nothing happened.
Remember, I posted about the SOC data not displaying . . . which has now dawned on me
as an internal circuit issue; but can be ignored
But total charge failure will not be ignored.
You should work on your after sales support, money is not everything my friend . . .
Reputation and honesty should be!
1st impression lasts longer !

BlackBaron:
Hi guys.
I read this section from time to time. Was wondering on how to go about starting off with solar power. What is(are) the best company(ies) out there in terms of reliability, plus what are the costs involved for a mid level to elaborate installation.

Electrical items such as fridge, freezer, tv, washing machine (?), light and so.

Call /whatapp 08117398294

dapsyra:


Yes, it amount to the same power at the point of generation, that is, Panel end but different at the CC end due to cable loss.

Parallel connections will result in higher current, lower voltage. The higher the current, the more the power lost in the cables

Series connection will result in lower current, higher voltage thereby minimising the power lost in the cable.

If you are not using appropriately rated cables for the installation, the cable loss can be very significant.

And saves money on cabling too.

pranil:
Epever users I need tips and tricks

I just Got EPEVER Tracer 4210 A , SHI 1000 Pure inverter, Wifi Box , USB cable and temp sensor - all 24 Volts. In preparation for my wind turbine experiment, 12 V 150 AH AGM . The idea is to use my excess equipment to power BQ independently and feedback excess power to main house using Ac coupled grid-tied micro inverter

Two 300 watt wind turbines on their way

On first look, I am disappointed on multiple fronts

The Wifi box does not work with inverter but works with charge controller ( both have RS485 com ports)
The USB cable works with Inverter but not with charge controller ( explanation next point)
For PC there is no software for setting monitoring for charge controller ( only android - not even in play store )
For inverter, there is android software but since the wifi box does not work ( not even powers on) no way of checking
No back light on CC at all ! not even with a button

The whole software experience is clunky at best. The hardware looks nicely built through with proper heatsinks and terminals etc.
Managed to make 1.5 KWH from my old 600 watts Chinese no brand panels ( rebuilt junction box, corroded tracks etc.)

The lack of integration between inverter and controller is because the former is actually a clone of popular tier 1 inverter brand (name escapes me as at time of typing) Xantrex. what ever you want to achieve or know about the inverter your finds should be directed towards Xantrex, chances the clone would work as the original including plugin devices and software. Fangpusun makes similar clone, and you can read a detailed review for that here http://www.quan-diy.com/misc/inverters/fangpusun.htm I have written all I knew from the tracer A in by blog in my signature below. Hope it helps

liquidcrystal73:
Mr K K; i will come and drop your "expensive brick" for you.
it is such a shame that it failed barely 36 hours into use and by the pictures and description;
an internal circuitry problem which should be covered by your warranty.
I know you are money-oriented and you smirk of shadiness but I am not even asking for my money back (which i have a right to)
but I only ask that you accept it, and fix it and we move on, like nothing happened.
Remember, I posted about the SOC data not displaying . . . which has now dawned on me
as an internal circuit issue; but can be ignored
But total charge failure will not be ignored.
You should work on your after sales support, money is not everything my friend . . .
Reputation and honesty should be!
1st impression lasts longer !

the Nigerian culture of treating warranty issues like a big nuisance/inconvenience is quite annoying.
hhope kiekie mans up and rises up to the challaenge - though I doubt, Nigerian business and warranty issues na very long thing.
only a&e dunamis has ever wowed me on warranty issues, even prag ,the mother company is no way close

Hello House,

I have being following this thread for quite a while now. Finally decided to do my solar project. Intend to hit above 6kwh from start. I need a trusted vendor to do this with. After seen a lot of guys here. I intend to pitch with zeestone99 based on your recommendation on his work quality and after sale support.

Can anyone kindly advise on his commitment especially those he has worked for?

gen2ty:
Hello House,

I have being following this thread for quite a while now. Finally decided to do my solar project. Intend to hit above 6kwh from start. I need a trusted vendor to do this with. After seen a lot of guys here. I intend to pitch with zeestone99 based on your recommendation on his work quality and after sale support.

Can anyone kindly advise on his commitment especially those he has worked for?

I think I can recommend Zeestone.
Even though we've never met in person, we do chat a lot and can attest to his expertise.
A lot other members here have equally patronised him and I am sure with no regrets.
You will not regret this too.
Cheers

Harmattan is here my people. I hv washed my panels twice this oct especially if u face/near untared road. Chai d sun power must be harvested by force by fire

gen2ty:
Hello House,

I have being following this thread for quite a while now. Finally decided to do my solar project. Intend to hit above 6kwh from start. I need a trusted vendor to do this with. After seen a lot of guys here. I intend to pitch with zeestone99 based on your recommendation on his work quality and after sale support.

Can anyone kindly advise on his commitment especially those he has worked for?

I recommend zeestone99 anytime; anyday. I transferred money to him without meeting him and he did come.
Did my installation and I was enjoying it perfectly until I decided to try Kiekie1 and his refurbished unit; that landed me in serious trouble.
Zeestone99 has finished his installation a long time ago; but we still chat everyday on different solar topics and discussions
That's one thing about him; his post-installation support is top-notch.
Unlike Kiekie that will collect money and that's the end.

abunafiu:


I think I can recommend Zeestone.
Even though we've never met in person, we do chat a lot and can attest to his expertise.
A lot other members here have equally patronised him and I am sure with no regrets.
You will not regret this too.
Cheers

Please help me tell Kiekie to find a solution to this problem, sir.
How does he expect me to drive all the way to Lagos State University n fix this bad unit
with my own money just 36 hours after it failed?

Zeestone99 is your best bet... . The guy is very reliable and highly recommended.. I got an inverter and battery from him. Sent him cash and got it delivered to me in benin the next day.... Good business man

gen2ty:
Hello House,

I have being following this thread for quite a while now. Finally decided to do my solar project. Intend to hit above 6kwh from start. I need a trusted vendor to do this with. After seen a lot of guys here. I intend to pitch with zeestone99 based on your recommendation on his work quality and after sale support.

Can anyone kindly advise on his commitment especially those he has worked for?

Go with Zeestone99. He is highly commited to his work and is reliable

gen2ty:
Hello House,

I have being following this thread for quite a while now. Finally decided to do my solar project. Intend to hit above 6kwh from start. I need a trusted vendor to do this with. After seen a lot of guys here. I intend to pitch with zeestone99 based on your recommendation on his work quality and after sale support.

Can anyone kindly advise on his commitment especially those he has worked for?

You will not regret doing business with him and I do believe I can say same for you? No pun intended sir, it can go either ways.

DMerciful:
Seems the powertube has failed and as such shunted to directly connect panels to battery. Replace the power mosfets through a qualified electrician and you are good.

Good morning , I just came online now and want to say thanks for your contribution as most of my clients havnt met with me in person but few people like you has & must say thanks for contributions here on this interracial forum. .. God bless !

Dam5reey:


Thanks for the clarification...
I hope Dmerciful suggestion work out... You may give that a try....
Make I dey manage my PWM for now..

Thanks we appreciate !

Reprobate:



the Nigerian culture of treating warranty issues like a big nuisance/inconvenience is quite annoying.
hhope kiekie mans up and rises up to the challaenge - though I doubt, Nigerian business and warranty issues na very long thing.
only a&e dunamis has ever wowed me on warranty issues, even prag ,the mother company is no way close

Hello Reprobate , yes you are right to an extent . Abinitio, fairly new items is like a game of luck, I personally limit my fairly new dealings for some reasons .. I have dealt with many within & outside lagos state and warranty issues on our brand-new items has never been problematic .. Yes A&E & Prag are part of my dealership companies and must say you are quite observant .. I have spoken to the client who complained on his fairly new mppt as I was engaged at a serious church programme yesterday ! Cheers

liquidcrystal73:


I recommend zeestone99 anytime; anyday. I transferred money to him without meeting him and he did come.
Did my installation and I was enjoying it perfectly until I decided to try Kiekie1 and his refurbished unit; that landed me in serious trouble.
Zeestone99 has finished his installation a long time ago; but we still chat everyday on different solar topics and discussions
That's one thing about him; his post-installation support is top-notch.
Unlike Kiekie that will collect money and that's the end.

Hello dear Client , never be too quick to judge i must advice you .. We met on a very good ground still based on good deeds & recommendations .. I don't feel you have any personal issues here in less than 3 days as I am always steadfast in my business and very dedicated incase you never noticed when you drove down by 6am to pick up a sampled & working - tested ok fairly new device .. I limit fairly new dealings as Abunafiu will always tell you same and am mostly into brand new devices .. I have met with few here , Saipro, Abunafiu. Dmerciful, Richmond, Dam5reey Zeestone et al will attest to this .. I don't ridicule people for no reason as personal issues are meant to be resolved when they arise .. I had a 1 on 1 phone communication with you few minutes ago and I feel we discussed at length pertaining all .. We mostly have observers here as majority rarely type and I must say I am relentless on my past & futuristic transactions and will never turn any client down at any point in time .. I believe in a good business-coporate image even to the extent ot procuring & trading above 70 units of fairly new fullriver batteries few months ago across several states with no issues whatsoever & still receive consistent calls if same batteries are still available till today..... Remain blessed ...

and nigeria is busy doing rubbish..ordinary road construction..we are yet to get a handle on

https://www.google.com.ng/amp/s/www.bloomberg.com/amp/news/articles/2017-10-26/record-wind-will-force-germany-to-pay-power-users-this-weekend


[b]Germany Set To Pay Customers For Electricity Usage As Renewable Energy Generation Creates Huge Power Surplus


German power producers are poised to pay customers to use electricity this weekend. 

Wind generation is forecast to climb to a record on Sunday, creating more output than needed and driving electricity prices below zero, broker data compiled by Bloomberg show. It would be the first time this year that the average price for a whole day is negative, not just for specific hours.

Germany’s grid operators can struggle to keep the balance between how much energy people are using and how much is being produced when there are high amounts of wind generation. Negative prices mean that producers must either shut down power stations to reduce supply or pay consumers to take the electricity off the grid.


Wind output is forecast to peak at 39,190 megawatts at 7 am on Sunday, equivalent to the output of about 40 nuclear reactors and enough to meet more than half of Germany’s total demand. Onshore wind turbines accounted for almost a third of Germany’s installed power capacity at the end of June and the nation is poised to increase new installations by 9 percent this year, according to industry federation BWE.

Wind power currently supplies about 10 percent of Europe’s electricity and is expected to continue to grow as the technology becomes cheaper. The cost of electricity from offshore wind farms, once one of the most expensive forms of green energy, is expected to slide by 71 percent over the next two decades, according to Bloomberg New Energy Finance. 

Earlier this year, Germany shocked the renewable energy industry by handing out contracts to developers willing to build offshore farms without subsidy.

German wind generation reached a record 38,370 megawatts on 18 March.[/b]