APsystems QT2 3 Phase Microinverter Instruction Manual

**APsystems QT2 3 Phase Microinverter Instruction Manual

**

Important Safety Instructions

This manual contains important instructions to follow during installation and maintenanceofthe APsystems Photovoltaic Grid-connected Microinverter. To reduce the risk of electrical shock and ensure a safe installation and operation of the APsystems Microinverter, thefollowing symbols appear throughout this document to indicate dangerous conditionsandimportant safety instructions.

Specifications are subject to change without notice. Please ensure you are usingthemostrecent update found at https://global.apsystems.com/resources/library/

Warning

This indicates a situation where failure to follow instructions may cause aserioushardware failure or personnel danger if not applied appropriately. Use extremecaution when performing this task.

Notice

Safety Instructions

• Do NOT disconnect the PV module from the APsystems Microinverter without firstdisconnecting the AC power.

• Only qualified professionals should install and/or replace APsystems Microinverters.

• Perform all electrical installations in accordance with local electrical codes.

• Before installing or using the APsystems Microinverter, please read all instructionsandcautionary markings in the technical documents and on the A Psystems Microinvertersystem and the solar-array.

• Be aware that the body of the APsystems Microinverter is the heat sink andcanreachatemperature of 80°C. To reduce risk of burns, do not touch the body of the Microinverter.

• Do NOT attempt to repair the APsystems Microinverter. If it fails, contact APsystemsCustomer Support to obtain an RMA number and start the replacement process. Damaging or opening the APsystems Microinverter will void the warranty.

• Caution!
  The external protective earthing conductor is connected to the inverter protectiveearthing terminal through AC connector. When connecting, connect the A Cconnectorfirst to ensure the inverter earthing then do the DC connections. When disconnecting, disconnect the AC by opening the branch circuit breaker first but maintain theprotectiveearthing conductor in the branch circuit breaker connect to the inverter ,thendisconnectthe DC inputs.

• Please install AC breakers on the AC side of the inverter.

CAUTION – Hot surfaces – To reduce the risk of burns – Do not touch. Risk of electricshock-(a) both ac and dc voltage source are terminated inside this equipment. Eachcircuit must be individually disconnected before servicing, and (b) When the photovoltaicarray is exposed to light, it supplies a dc voltage to this equipment. Warranty voidif coverremoved. No user serviceable parts inside.Refer servicing to qualified servicepersonnel. This inverter has an integral ground-fault detector / interrupter (GFDI).ThisUtility- InteractiveInverter contains active anti-islanding protection(IEEE1547) andistested per FCC/IC.

Radio Interference Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class Bdigital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designedtoprovidereasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. Thisequipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installedandused in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference toradiocommunications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur inaparticular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference toradioortelevision reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off andon, theuser is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the followingmeasures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different fromthat to whichthereceiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help

Warning

RF exposure warning
This equipment must be installed and operated in accordance with providedinstructionsand the antenna(s) used for this transmitter must be installed to provide a separationdistance of at least 20 cm from all persons and must not be co located or operatinginconjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. End-users and installers mustbeprovide with antenna installation instructions and transmitter operating conditionsforsatisfying RF exposure compliance.

Symbols replace words on the equipment, on a display, or inmanuals

Trademark

Caution , risk of electric shock.

Caution, hot surfac

NOTICE , danger!This device directly connected with electricity generatorsandpublic grid.

Qualified personnel

Person adequately advised or supervised by an electrically skilledpersontoenable him or her to perceive risks and to avoid hazards whichelectricitycancreate. For the purpose of the safety information of this manual, a”qualifiedperson” is someone who is familiar with requirements for safety, electrical systemand EMC and is authorized to energize, ground, and tag equipment, systems, andcircuits in accordance with established safety procedures. Theinverterandphotovoltaic system may only be commissioned and operatedbyqualifiedpersonnel.

Warning

English Warning Statement:
This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operationissubject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and(2)this device must accept any interference, including interference that may causeundesiredoperation of the device.

Warning

French Warning Statement:
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d’Industrie Canada applicables auxappareilsradio exempts de licence. L’exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes: (1)l’appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2) l’utilisateur de l’appareil doit acceptertout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptibled’encompromettre le fonctionnement.

APsystems Microinverter System Introduction

The APsystems Microinverter is used in utility-interactive grid-tied applications, comprisedofthree key elements:

• APsystems Microinverter
• APsystems Energy Communication Unit (ECU)
• APsystems Energy Monitor and Analysis (EMA) web-based monitoring andanalysissystem
  

This integrated system improves safety; maximizes solar energy harvest; increases system reliability, and simplifies solar system design, installation, maintenance, and management.

Safety with APsystems Microinverters

In a typical string inverter installation, PV modules are connected in series. Thevoltageadds-up to reach high voltage value (from 600Vdc up to 1000Vdc) at the end of thePVstring. This extreme high DC voltage brings a risk of electrical shocks or electrical arcs whichcouldcause fire.

When using an APsystems microinverter, PV modules are connected in parallel. Voltageattheback of each PV module never exceeds PV modules Voc, which is lower than 60Vdcfor mostof PV modules used with APsystems microinverters. This low voltage is considered“safetotouch” by fire departments and negates the risk of electrical shock, electrical arcs andfirehazards.

More reliable than centralized or string inverters
The distributed APsystems Microinverter system ensures that no single point of systemfailureexists across the PV system. APsystems Microinverters are designed to operate at full powerat ambient outdoor temperatures of up to 65 deg C (or 149 F). The inverter case is designedfor outdoor installation and complies with the Type 6 environmental enclosure rating.

Simple to install
APsystems Microinvertes are compatible with most of 60 and 72 cell PV modules or 120and144 half-cut cells PV modules. (In order to confirm compatibility of PVmodulewithAPsystems microinverter, feel free to check our online “E-decider” module compatibilitytool or contact your local APsystems Technical Support). Installation requires a minimum number of accessories and microinverters offer alotofversatility to the installer: microinverters can indeed be installed on different roofswithdifferent orientation or with modules having different orientation.

In the same way, end-users can extend their system whenever they want with microinverters.

Smart system performance monitoring and analysis
The APsystems Energy Communication Unit (ECU) is installed by simply pluggingit intoanywall outlet and providing an Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection to a broadband router or modem. After installing and setting the ECU (see ECU Instruction Manual), the full networkofAPsystems Microinverters automatically reports to the APsystems Energy Monitor andAnalysis (EMA) web server

APsystems Microinverter QT2 Introduction

APsystems introduces its 2nd generation of native 3-phase quad microinverters, reachingunprecedented power outputs of 1728VA (for QT2-208) and 1800VA(for QT2-480)toharness the power of today’s high-output PV modules. The QT2 microinverter givescommercial installers a powerful plug-and-play MLPE inverter that installs faster thancompeting solutions and is inherently compliant to rapid shutdown requirements

With balancing 3-phase output, 4 DC inputs and encrypted ZigBee wireless, installersandsystem owners alike benefit from new QT2 architecture platform. The innovativedesignfacilitates thermal dissipation while maximizing power production. The componentsareencapsulated with silicone to reduce stress on the electronics, dissipate heat, enhancewaterproof properties, and ensure maximum reliability of the system. 24/7accesstoperformance data through apps or APsystems EMA web-based portal facilitate remote diagnosis and troubleshooting

The new QT2 is grid interactive through its Reactive Power Control (RPC) feature, designedto better manage photovoltaic power spikes in the grid. At 96.5% peak effici encyan dimproved reliability, the QT2 is a game changer for commercial solar.

Key Product Feature:

• Designed for 3-phase grid connection(208V, 480V)
• Single unit connects to 4 modules, 2 MPPTs, module-level DC voltage
• Maximum continuous AC output power 1728VA @ 208V, 1800VA @480V
• Engineered to harness today’s high-capacity PV modules (Maximuminput current20A)
• Integrated safety protection relay
• Adjustable power factor
• Balancing 3-phase output
• Compatible with both △ and Y 3-phase grid

APsystems Microinverter System Installation

A PV system using APsystems Microinverters is simple to install. Each Microinverter easilymounts on the PV racking, directly beneath the PV module(s). Low voltage DCwires connectfrom the PV module directly to the Microinverter, eliminating the risk of high DCvoltage. Installation MUST comply with local regulations and technical rules. Special Statement: we advise installation of an RCD breaker only if requiredbythelocal electrical code.

Warning

1. Perform all electrical installations in accordance with local electrical codes.
2. Be aware that only qualified professionals should install and/or replace APsystemsMicroinverters.
3. Before installing or using an APsystems Microinverter, please read all instructionsand warnings in the technical documents and on the APsystems Microinvertersystem itself as well as on the PV array.
4. Be aware that installation of this equipment includes the risk of electric shock.
5. Do not touch any live parts in the system, including the PV array, when thesystemhas been connected to the electrical grid.

Notice

Even if not required by local electrical code, we strongly recommend to install surge protection devices in the dedicated AC box

Additional accessories supplied by APsystems

• AC Y3 Bus cable
• AC Y3 Bus Cable End Cap
• AC Y3 Bus Cable Y-CONN Cap
• AC Y3 Bus Cable Unlock Tool  ECU
• AC connectors male/female

Other required accessories not supplied by APsystems

In addition to your PV array and its associated hardware, you may need the followingitems:

• An AC connection junction box
• Mounting hardware suitable for module racking
• Sockets and wrenches for mounting hardware

PV Rapid Shut Down Equipment

This product is PV Rapid Shut Down Equipment and conforms with NEC-2014 andNEC-2017section 690.12, for AC and DC conductors, when installed according to the following requirements:

• Microinverters and all DC connections must be installed inside the array boundary.
• The array boundary is defined as 305 mm (1 ft.) from the array in all directions, or1 m (3 ft.) from the point of entry inside a building.

This rapid shutdown system must be provided with an initiating device and (or with) statusindicator which must be installed in a location accessible to first responders, or beconnectedto an automatic system which initiates rapid shutdown upon the activation of asystemdisconnect or activation of another type of emergency system.

The initiator shall be listed and identified as a disconnecting means that plainly indicates whether it is in the “off” or “on” position. Examples are:

• Service disconnecting means
• PV system disconnecting means
• Readily accessible switch or circuit breaker

The handle position of a switch or circuit breaker is suitable for use as an indicator. RefertoNEC for more information.

Additionally, in a prominent location near the initiator device, a placard or label mustbe provided with a permanent marking including the following w

’PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM EQUIPPED WITH RAPID SHUTDOWN’ The term‘PHOTOVOLTAIC’ may be replaced with ‘PV

The label requires reference NEC 690.65 to meet the audit requirements

Installation Procedures

Step 1 – Verify that grid voltage matches microinverter rating

Step 2 – Y3 AC Bus Cable distribution

Warning

Wiring color code can be different according to the local regulation. Check all thewiresof the installation before connecting to the AC bus to be sure they match. Wrongcabling can damage irreparably the micro inverters: such damage is not covered by the warranty

Warning

Do NOT carry the microinverter by the AC cable. This may cause the AC cable to partially or fully disconnect from the unit, resulting in no or poor operation

Step 3 – Attach the APsystems Microinverters to the Racking

a. Mark the location of the microinverter on the rack, with respect to the PV module junction box or any other obstructions.
b. Mount one microinverter at each of these locations using hardware recommended by your module racking vendor.

Warning

Install the microinverters (including DC and AC connectors) under the PVmodulestoavoid direct exposure to rain, UV or other harmful weather events. Allowa minimumof1.5 cm (3/4’’) below and above the casing of the microinverter to allowproper air flow. The racking must be properly grounded as per local electrical code.

Step 4 – Ground the system

There’re 2 ways to ground the QT2 series microinverters

1. By grounding washer attached
   After the microinverters and racking are reliably installed, the microinverter’s groundingwasher can connect to the racking to ensure proper earthing
   

2. By grounding copper wire.
   Fix the grounding copper wire by the grounding lug
   

Step 5 – Connect the APsystems microinverter to AC bus cable

Insert the microinverter AC connector into the trunk cable connector. Make sure to hear the“click” as a proof of robust connection

Best Practice: Use the Bus Cable Unlock Tool of AC Bus to disconnect the connectors.

Notice

Check the microinverter technical data page 21 to confirm maximum allowable number of microinverters on each AC branch of the circuit.

AC connector interface as from left to right

Cover any unused connectors with Bus Cable Y-CONN Cap to protect the unused connectors.

Step 6 – Install a Bus Cable End Cap at the endof AC bus cable

a. Strip cable jacket.

b. Insert the cable end into the seal.

c. Insert the wires into the cable clamps.

d. Rotate the nut with 3.3N·m until the latching mechanism meets the base.

Step 7 – Connect APsystems Microinverters to the PV Modules

Notice

• No neutral wire output from inverter.
• Compatible with both Delta and Wye 3-phase grid.

Notice

When plugging in the DC cables, the microinverter should immediately blink greententimes. This will happen as soon as the DC cables are plugged in and will show that themicro inverter is functioning correctly. This entire check function will start andendwithin 10 seconds of plugging in the unit, so pay careful attention to these lights when connecting the DC cables.

Warning

Double check to make sure all of the AC and DC wiring has been correctlyinstalled. Ensure that none of the AC and/or DC wires are pinched or damaged. Make surethatall of the junction boxes are properly closed.

Step 8 – Complete the APsystems installation map

a. Each APsystems Microinverter has 2 removable serial number labels.
b. Complete installation map by sticking ID label of each microinverter at therightlocation.
c. The second serial number label, could be stuck on the solar module frame, whichcould help later to confirm the position of the microinverter without dismantling the PV module

Notice

1. The layout of the microinverters’ serial numbers installation map is only suitablefortypical installation
2. Installation Map is available in the last page appendix of this manual.
3. Use ECU_APP (available in the EMA Manager) to scan the serial numbers onthemapwhen setting up the ECU (see ECU instruction manual for more info).

APsystems microinverter system operating instructions

To operate the APsystems microinverter PV system:

1. Turn ON the AC circuit breaker on each microinverter AC branch circuit.
2. Turn ON the main utility-grid AC circuit breaker. Your system will start producingpowerafter approximately one minute of waiting time.
3. Microinverter data will be available in the EMA Manager APP or in the EMAwebportal.

Alternatively, LED sequences could be an indicator of microinverters status (seesection6.1)

Notice

Once the ECU has been commissioned properly, the APsystems Microinverters will startto send performance data to the ECU. The time required for all of the Microinvertersin the system to report to the ECU will vary depending on the number of Microinverters in the system.

Troubleshooting

Qualified personnel can use the following troubleshooting steps if the PVsystemdoesnotoperate correctly:

Status Indications and Error Reporting

Assuming they are easily accessible and visible, Operation LEDs can give a good indication of the microinverters status

Start up LED

Ten short green blinks when DC power is first applied to the Microinverter indicatesa successful Microinverter startup.

Operation LED

Flashing Slow Green (5 sec. gap) – Producing power and communicating withECU Flashing Slow Red (5 sec. gap) – Not producing power
Flashing
Fast Green (2 sec. gap) – Not communicating with ECU over 60mins, butstill
producing power.
Flashing Fast Red (2 sec. gap) – Not communicating with ECU over 60mins andnotproducing power.
Steady Red – default, DC side ground fault protection, see 6.1.3

GFDI Erro

A solid red LED indicates the Microinverter has detected a Ground Fault DetectorInterrupter (GFDI) error in the PV system. Unless the GFDI error has been cleared, theLEDwill remain red and the ECU will keep reporting the fault. Please contact your local APsystems Technical Support.

ECU_APP

APsystems ECU_APP (available in the EMA Manager APP) is the recommendedtool to do on-site troubleshooting. When connecting the ECU_APP to the ECU hotspot (pleasecheckECU User Manual for more detailed information), installer can check every microinverterstatus (production, communication) but also ZigBee signal strength, grid profileandotherinsightful data helping the troubleshooting.

Installer EMA (web portal or EMA Manager APP)

Before going on site for troubleshooting, installer can also check all informat ionremotely using his installer account, either on the web or using the EMA Manager APP(seeEMAManager APP User Manual for more detailed information). Having access to moduledata(DC, AC, voltages and currents) gives the first indication on potential issues.

Trouble Shooting Guid

Professional installers can also refer to our Troubleshooting Guide (https://global.apsystems.com/resources/library/) for more in depth guidelines onhowtotroubleshoot and fix PV installations powered by APsystems microinverters.

APsystems Technical Support

APsystems local Technical Support team is available to support professional installers to get familiar with our products and to troubleshoot installations when nee

Warning

Do not attempt to repair APsystems Microinverters. Please contact your local APsystems Technical Suppo

Warning

1. Never disconnect the DC wire connectors under load. Ensure that nocurrentis flowing in the DC wires prior to disconnecting.
2. Always disconnect AC power before disconnecting the PV module wires fromtheAPsystems Microinverter.
3. The APsystems Microinverter is powered by PV module DC power. AFTER disconnecting the DC power, when reconnecting the PV modules to the Microinverter, be sure to watch for the quick red light followed by ten short green LED flashes.

Maintenance

APsystems microinverters do not require any specific regular maintenance.

Replace a microinverter

Follow the procedure to replace a failed APsystems Microinverter

A. Disconnect the APsystems Microinverter from the PV Module, in the order shown below:

1. Disconnect the AC by turning off the branch circuit breaker.
2. Disconnect the inverter AC connector from the AC Bus.
3. Disconnect the PV module DC wire connectors from the microinverter.
4. Remove the Microinverter from the PV array racking.

B. Install a replacement Microinverter to the rack. Remember to observe the flashing green LED light as soon as the new Microinverter is plugged into the DC cables

C. Connect the AC cable of the replacement Microinverter to the AC bus

D. Close the branch circuit breaker, and verify proper operation of the replacement Microinverter.

E. Update the microinverter in EMA Manage through “Replace” function andupdatethesystem’s map with new serial number labels

Technical Data

Warning

1. Be sure to verify that the voltage and current specifications of your PV module are compatible with the range allowed on APsystems Microinverter. Please check themicro inverter datasheet.
2. DC operating voltage range of the PV module must be within allowable input voltagerange of the APsystems Microinverter.
3. The maximum open circuit voltage of the PV module must not exceed the specified maximum input voltage of the APsystems.

QT2 3-Phase Microinverter Datasheet

Region|
---|---
Model| Philippines etc
Input Data (DC)| QT2-208| QT2-480
Recommended PV Module Power (STC) Rang| 315Wp-670Wp+
Peak Power Tracking Voltage| 30V-45V
Operating Voltage Range| 26V-60
Maximum Input Voltage| 60V
Maximum Input Current| 20A x

Output Data (AC)

Efficiency
Peak Efficiency| 96.5%
Nominal MPPT Efficiency| 99.5%
Night Power Consumption| 40mW
Mechanical Data
Operating Ambient Temperature Range (3)| -40 °C to +65 °
Storage Temperature Rang| -40 °C to +85
Dimensions (W x H x D)| 359mm X 242mmX 46mm
Weight| 6kg
DC Connector Type| Stäubli MC4 PV-ADBP4-S2&ADSP4-S2
Cooling| Natural Convection – No Fans
Enclosure Environmental Rating| Type 6
Features
Features Communication (Inverter To ECU| Encrypted ZigBee
Isolation De| High Frequency Transformers, GalvanicallyIsolated
Energy Management| Energy Management Analysis (EMA) system
Warranty (5)| 10 Years Standard ; Extended WarrantyOptional
Compliance
Compliance| UL1741; CA Rule 21 (UL 1741 SA); IEEE1547

1. Nominal voltage/frequency range can be extended beyond nominal if required by the utility.
2. Limits may vary. Refer to local requirements to define the number of microinverters per branch in your area.
3. The inverter may enter to power de-grade mode under poor ventilation and heat dissipation installation environment.
4. Recommend no more than 80 inverters register to one ECU for stable communication.
5. To be eligible for the warranty, APsystems microinverters need to be monitored via the EMA portal. Please refer to our warranty T&Cs available on global.APsystems.com.

QT2 – Wiring Diagram

Notice

• No neutral wire output from inverter.
• Compatible with both Delta and Wye 3-phase grid.

APsystems Microinverter Installation Map

The APsystems Installation Map is a diagram of the physical location of each microinverter in your PV installation. Each APsystems microinverterhastwo serial number labels. Peel the one label and affix it to the respective location on the APsystems installation map. Installation Map Template

References

• APsystems Global | The global leader in multi-platform MLPE technology
• Documents Library – APsystems Global | The global leader in multi-platform MLPE technology

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)  >>

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>