AMETEK highlights fully automated EN50530 test system

Solar Power International 2011, DALLAS, USA: AMETEK Programmable Power announced a fully automated EN50530 test solution that utilizes three core "Surround the Inverter" elements: the TerraSAS Solar Array Simulator, MX/RS Grid-Simulator and CTS Compliance Test System.

AMETEK is showcasing the TerraSAS Solar Array Simulator, which provides the DC emulation element of the EN50530 standard, at the Solar Power International Show, Dallas, TX, October 18, 2011, Booth #323, Hall A.

The automated test system is configured and controlled via AMETEK Windows-based software that enables users to select the EN50530 Test regime, connect the inverter under test, start the test, walk away and return to collect the report. Previously, testing to the EN50530 standard for efficiency of grid-connected PV inverters required an engineer or technician to be present to manually progress through each curve set. Main target groups are PV inverter manufacturers and test houses.

"Our goal is to provide a fully automated EN50530 test system that emphasizes precision MPP (Maximum Power Point) Tracking capabilities and control of AC Grid parameters to ensure reliable and accurate efficiency measurements. The key is to automate those tasks that can be automated, allowing the engineer to focus on inverter design," notes Dan Donati, VP, AMETEK Programmable Power Solutions.

AMETEK Programmable Power, through its Elgar brand of solutions, has supplied solar array simulators for more than 20 years for ground-based satellite test systems. Its "Surround the Inverter" programmable power products and systems simulate the output of solar arrays, the loads applied to the output of the inverter, and the interface with the grid, providing a comprehensive and energy efficient means of testing PV inverters.

TerraSAS Solar Array Simulators are available as single- or multi-channel systems from 5kW-1MW (80V-1500V). Single/Three-Phase MX/RS Series Grid Simulators are available from 15kVA-1MVA and offer an innovative Energy Regeneration mode that returns up to 85 percent of the electricity generated by the inverter back to the grid. Shipment of the EN50530 solution is expected to begin in early Q2 of 2012.