USE OF ANY SUCH INFORMATION WILL BE ENTIRELY AT THE USER’S RISK. Warranty Summary OutBack Power Systems Inc. warrants that the products it manufactures will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of five (5) years subject to the conditions set forth in the warranty detail found inside the back cover of this manual.
Important Safety Instructions READ AND SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS! This manual contains important safety instructions for the FLEXpower ONE. Read all instructions and cautionary markings on the FLEXpower ONE and on any accessories or additional equipment included in the installation. Failure to adhere to these instructions could result in severe shock or possible electrocution.
This equipment is NOT intended for use with life support equipment or other medical equipment or devices. CAUTION: Equipment Damage Only use components or accessories recommended or sold by OutBack Power Systems or its authorized agents. IMPORTANT: Do not attempt to install this equipment if it appears to be damaged in any way.
Important Safety Instructions Personal Safety WARNING: Personal Injury This equipment weighs approximately 98 lbs (44.5 kg). Use safe lifting techniques when lifting this equipment as prescribed by the Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) or other local codes. Use standard safety equipment such as safety glasses, ear protection, steel- toed safety boots, safety hard hats, etc.
Connecting the cables incorrectly can damage or destroy the equipment. Battery Safety WARNING: Electrocution Hazard Use the battery types recommended by OutBack Power Systems. Follow the battery manufacturer’s recommendations for installation and maintenance. Ensure clearance requirements are strictly enforced around batteries.
“how” and “where” to recycle batteries and other electronic equipment. OutBack Power Systems strongly encourages you to learn about recycling and to dispose of recyclable items accordingly. The Earth, and OutBack Power Systems, thanks you for that effort.
Important Safety Instructions Earth 911 Web site: www.Earth911.com Address: 14646 N. Kierland Blvd., Suite 100 Scottsdale, AZ 85254 Phone: +1.480.337.3025 (direct) Environmental Protection Agency, USA Web site: www.epa.gov/recyclecity/ Phone: +1.415.947.8000 (Monday –Friday 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM PST) Email: r9.recyclecity@epa.gov Keep America Beautiful, USA...
Table of Contents Important Safety Instructions ..............1 Symbols Used ..................................1 Audience ....................................1 Definitions....................................2 General Safety ..................................2 Personal Safety..................................3 FLEXpower ONE System Safety............................3 PV Safety....................................4 Battery Safety..................................4 Regulatory References................................5 Recycling Information ................................5 Earth 911 ......................................6 Environmental Protection Agency, USA...........................6 Keep America Beautiful, USA ...............................6 Office of Waste Management, Canada .............................6 National Institute of Recyclers, Mexico.............................6 EuroRecycle.net ....................................6...
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Table of Contents AC Connections ....................................31 Functional Test/Commissioning..........................33 Pre-startup Procedures ................................33 Energize/Startup ....................................33 Reassembling the Enclosures ............................35 Operation....................39 Setting Basic Parameters ..............................39 MATE2 Settings....................................39 Charger Settings.....................................39 Setting Time, Date & Display on the MATE2 .........................40 Selecting the AC Source and AC Input Limit on the Inverter ..................42 Accessing the Advanced Menu ..............................43 Setting Battery Amp-Hours and Return Amps using the FLEXnet DC Monitor ............44 Setting Charging Parameters..............................45...
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Table of Contents List of Tables Table 1 Acronyms....................................2 Table 2 Basic Components of a FLEXpower ONE System....................12 Table 3 Ground Conductor Size and Torque Requirements.....................26 Table 4 DC Conductor Size and Torque Requirements......................27 Table 5 AC Conductor Size and Torque Requirements ......................31 Table 6 Feature Matrix...................................49 Table 7...
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Table of Contents List of Figures Figure 1 FLEXpower ONE System Overview ..........................11 Figure 2 Basic Components of a FLEXpower ONE System....................12 Figure 3 On-Grid Applications (Example) ..........................13 Figure 4 Off-Grid Applications (Example)..........................14 Figure 5 Grid-Interactive Applications (Example)........................14 Figure 6 Clearance and Access Requirements ........................18 Figure 7 Dimensions ..................................19...
Introduction Thank you for choosing a FLEXpower ONE System from OutBack Power Systems. FLEXpower ONE is an integrated power system solution designed to be quick to install and easy to use. The FLEXpower ONE System is intended for off-grid and on-grid applications up to 3.6 kW. It is intended for use with photovoltaic (PV) modules for harvesting energy and a battery bank for energy storage.
Introduction Components A complete FLEXpower ONE is composed of the following components. See page 49 for details on specific configurations. Table 2 Basic Components of a FLEXpower ONE System Components Documentation FX Series Inverter/Charger FLEXpower ONE Installation Manual (VFX or GVFX) (this book) Mounting Plate (with mounting bracket)
Planning Applications The FLEXpower ONE is intended for on-grid, off-grid, and grid-interactive applications. It is designed to use photovoltaic (PV) panels to harvest solar energy and a battery bank to store the harvested energy. On-Grid Applications In on-grid applications, the FLEXpower ONE can use the grid power as the primary power source or as the backup source of power.
Planning Off-Grid Applications In off-grid applications, the FLEXpower ONE can use the harvested energy from the battery bank as the primary power source. An AC generator can also be connected to support the system when required. Figure 4 Off-Grid Applications (Example) Grid-Interactive Applications In grid-interactive applications, grid power is used to run the loads.
FLEXpower ONE System uses Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology to maximize the PV harvest. A PV Combiner box (not included) may be required for multiple PV strings. PV Combiner Boxes are available from OutBack Power Systems for 8 to 12 PV strings.
The OutBack MATE can be used to program an inverter’s AUX output to start and stop a generator. This 12 V output can often control a two-wire-start generator directly. Three-wire-start generators require an interface such as an Atkinson module. For additional information, see… ~ OutBack Power Systems AGS Brochure: http://www.outbackpower.com/pdf/brochures/Automatic_Generator_Start.pdf ~ OutBack Power Systems MATE Manual: http://www.outbackpower.com/pdf/manuals/mate.pdf...
Planning Preparation Tools Required The following tools may be required for installing this equipment. Wire cutters/strippers Drill and drill-bits Torque wrenches Ratchet drives Assorted insulated screw-drivers Digital Voltmeter Materials Required The following materials may be required for installing this equipment. ...
Planning Clearance and Access Requirements WARNING: Fire/Explosion Hazard Do not place combustible or flammable materials within 12 feet (3.7 m) of the equipment. This unit employs mechanical relays and is not ignition- protected. Fumes or spills from flammable materials could be ignited by sparks. IMPORTANT: Clearance and access requirements may vary by location.
Planning Conduit and Knockout Preparation Knockouts (two 1”, one 2”) are provided on the ends of the AC and DC enclosures for routing cable into the enclosures. Conduit and bushings are recommended to prevent damage to conductors from sharp edges along knockout holes. 1.
Installation The FLEXpower ONE system is designed for flexibility and easy installation. The system comes attached to a mounting plate with the selected components pre-installed and wired. The Mounting Plate attaches to a mounting bracket that attaches to a wall. WARNING: Personal Injury ...
Installation Mounting the bracket to wall studs 16” apart. Mounting the bracket to wall studs 24” apart. Mounting the bracket to plywood. Figure 9 Installing the Mounting Bracket 900-0095-01-00 Rev A...
Installation Lift the Mounting Plate Slip the top of the above the wall bracket. Mounting Plate over the angled lip of the wall bracket. Secure the Mounting Plate to the wall at the 3 locations shown below. Secure the Mounting Plate to the wall at the 3 locations shown here.
Installation Removing the Covers Note: The AC Enclosure has two covers: the access cover and the front cover. Both covers need to be opened to make conductor connections. Once connections are Remove the screws on the made, the access cover can be used for visual inspection, Remove the screws in so that the wiring will not be disturbed when inspected AC Access Cover (x2).
Installation Accessing the Wiring Compartments Inverter Terminal Enlargement Internal components may vary from model to model. Factory wiring is not shown. FLEXnet DC Monitor (If installed) Terminal Bus Bar for Neutral Connections AC Input, Output, & Bypass Breakers (x3) (120-NA: 60 A) (230 EU : 30 A) Mechanical Interlock Breaker for AC Outlet (X1)
Installation Wiring IMPORTANT: All connections must comply with local electric code. Local code may require sizes other than those recommended in this manual. For all wiring, use copper conductors rated at 75°C minimum. If the installation involves grid-tie activities such as selling power back to the grid, per NEC 690, ensure the total value of the breakers installed in either the main AC distribution panel or the AC sub-panel does not exceed the total rating on the terminal distribution bus in the distribution panel.
Installation To make the battery connections in a system with the FLEXnet DC Monitor: 1. Remove all hardware from the side of Shunt A that is not connected to the Inverter. 2. Place the Inverter Negative (–) cable lug and Charge Controller Negative (–) cable lug onto Shunt A.
Installation To make the battery connections in a system without the FLEXnet DC Monitor: 1. Remove all hardware from the inverter’s battery negative (–) terminal post. 2. Place the Inverter Negative (–) cable lug and Charge Controller Negative (–) lug onto the terminal post.
Installation To make the PV connections: 1. Ensure the PV array is properly grounded. 2. Route the PV (–) through the bottom of the DC enclosure and into the wiring compartment of the FM80 charge controller. Connect the PV (–) conductor to the PV (–) terminal in the FM80 charge controller.
Installation AC Connections WARNING: Fire Hazard Multi-wire branch circuits in residential installations can create a potential fire hazard with inverter installations. Be sure to check for multi-wire branch circuits before making any AC connections and make any changes required to remove the hazard.
Installation WARNING: Shock Hazard Ensure there is only one Neutral-to-Ground Bond in the system. The FLEXpower ONE comes with a Neutral-to-Ground Bond installed. If a Neutral- to-Ground bond exists elsewhere in the system (e.g., in the main panel, or a generator), the Neutral-to-Ground Bond in the FLEXpower ONE AC Enclosure will need to be removed.
Installation Functional Test/Commissioning Pre-startup Procedures 1. Double-check all wiring connections. 2. Inspect the enclosure to ensure no tools or debris has been left inside. Energize/Startup Using a digital volt-meter (DVM), verify 24 or 48 Vdc on the Battery terminals (i.e., place DVM leads on in Figure 20).
Installation 4– 6– 1– Note: The shunt may or may not be installed on your model. Use the same test point in all cases. 8– Figure 20 Functional Test Points for Energizing Systems 900-0095-01-00 Rev A...
Installation Reassembling the Enclosures To Replace the Raceway: Slip the lip on the Raceway into the slot on the mounting panel. Align the holes on the bottom of the Raceway with the holes provided on the mounting panel. Secure the Raceway in place with the screws provided.
Installation The Front Cover of the AC Enclosure will not be completely removed due to the surge protector cabling. Work with care not to damage the surge protector or dislodge the cabling as you replace the Front Cover. To Replace the Front of AC Enclosure: Align the holes (x4) in the enclosure front cover with the holes in the chassis.
Installation To Replace the DC Enclosure Front Cover: Align the holes in the DC Enclosure Front cover with the holes in the chassis. Ensure that the “lip” fits into the notch in the chassis. Replace the screws removed in the beginning. DC Enclosure Front Cover Notch...
Operation Setting Basic Parameters IMPORTANT: This section assumes that the operator is familiar with the basic operation and navigation of the installed components. Detailed information about component settings is provided in each of the components respective manuals. Although some of the programming will be pre-set at the factory (i.e., grid-tie features for grid- interactive units, charging for 24 or 48 Vdc battery banks), the following parameters may need to be adjusted on-site depending on the configuration of the system.
Operation Setting Time, Date & Display on the MATE2 IMPORTANT: The following information assumes the installer is familiar with the basic operation of a MATE2 System Controller and Display. If the installer is not familiar with basic operation, please refer to the MATE Installation and User Manual for general information.
Operation Selecting the AC Source and AC Input Limit on the Inverter AC1 GRID Menu: Adjusts the maximum current the inverter will draw from the grid for either supporting loads or battery charging (between 5.0 Aac and 60.0 Aac). AC2 GEN Menu: Adjusts the maximum current the inverter will draw from the generator for either supporting loads or battery charging (between 2.0 Aac and...
Operation Accessing the Advanced Menu In most cases, the charging parameters set at the factory will work for most systems. However, if changes are required, these parameters are set using the Advanced Menu system. This includes the charging input current limit and the voltage and time limit for each stage of charging. IMPORTANT: ...
Operation Setting Battery Amp-Hours and Return Amps using the FLEXnet DC Monitor If a FLEXnet DC Monitor is installed in the configuration, the following parameters will need to be set. Battery Amp-Hours refers to the total amp-hour capacity of the battery bank (not just amp-hour rating of the individual batteries within the battery bank).
Operation Setting Charging Parameters If changes need to be made to charging parameters, follow the menu map below. IMPORTANT: Access the Advanced Menu as instructed on page 43. To Set Charging Limits: Press the <CHGR> Soft Key. Press the <INC> or <DEC> Soft Key to change the parameter.
Operation De-energize/Shutdown WARNING: Lethal Voltage Review the system configuration to identify all possible sources of energy. Ensure ALL sources of power are disconnected before performing any installation or maintenance on this equipment. Confirm that the terminals are de-energized using a validated voltmeter (rated for a minimum 1000 Vac and 1000 Vdc) to verify the de-energized condition.
Operation 6– Note: The shunt may or may not be installed on your model. Use the same test point in all cases. 4– 5– Figure 34 Functional Test Points for De-Energizing Systems 900-0095-01-00 Rev A...
Specifications Feature Matrix The following Matrix shows the FLEXpower ONE models that are described in this manual. Table 6 Feature Matrix FLEXnet DC Monitor AC Enclosure DC Enclosure INVERTER Surge MODEL FM80 MATE GFDI FN-DC FN-DC MODEL Protector SHUNT A SHUNT B 175A 250A...
Specifications Surge Protector The FLEXware Surge Protector is designed to protect the FLEXpower ONE’s sensitive components from excessively high voltages (e.g., electrical storms). Thermally-fused metal oxide varistors (MOVs) limit (“clamp”) these voltages and transfer the resulting current to a lower-voltage port.
Specifications Renewable Energy Input & Storage PV Sizing Single charge control systems can support photovoltaic arrays with the following specifications. Dual charge controller systems can handle 2 arrays with the following specifications. Maximum Array Size 4,000 W on 48 Vdc system, 2,000 W on 24dc system ...
Specifications Discharge Rate Deep cycle batteries express the amp-hour rating as "at the x-hour rate". This is an average rate of current flow that would take x number of hours to discharge the batteries. Common amp-hour figures are at the 6-hour rate, the 20-hour rate, and the 100-hour rate. A battery is classified as having fewer amp hours if it is discharged at a faster rate, such as the 6-hour rate.
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Specifications Refrigerators and ice-makers typically run only about 1/3 of the time, therefore, the running wattage is 1/3 of the total wattage of the appliance. Divide the total wattage of the appliance by 3 when determining the battery requirements. Calculating Amp-Hours To determine the amp-hours that will be consumed, list the anticipated loads and the length of time they will operate.
Specifications Worksheet for Calculating Amp-hour Requirements Use the following worksheet to calculate the amp-hour requirements. Table 7 Worksheet for Determining Average Daily Load in Amp-hours Weekly Days per watt- Load Watts Hours per Day week used hours Total weekly watt-hours of AC load Divided by days per week 7 Average total watt-hours per day Divided by DC nominal voltage (48)
Specifications Worksheet for Calculating Battery Bank Size Use the following worksheet to calculate the battery bank size. Table 8 Worksheet for Determining Battery Bank Size Average amp-hours per day (from Table 7) Divided by inverter efficiency Divided by battery efficiency (usually 0.75) Adjusted amp-hours per day Divided by Depth-of-Discharge (usually 60%) Multiplied by days of autonomy...
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Wiring Configurations The following wiring configurations are provided as examples only. Actual wiring requirements may vary depending on local electric code. All installations must comply with local electric code. FLEXpower ONE with FLEXnet DC Monitor and GFDI FLEXpower ONE with FLEXnet DC Monitor Only (No GFDI) ...
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Warranty 5-Year Limited Warranty for FLEXpower ONE Products OutBack Power Systems, Inc. (“OutBack”) provides a five-year (5) limited warranty (“Warranty”) against defects in materials and workmanship for its FLEXpower ONE products (“Product”) if installed in fixed location applications within the United States and Canada.
During the warranty period beginning on the invoice date, OutBack Power Systems will repair or replace products covered under this limited warranty that are returned to OutBack Power Systems’ facility or to an OutBack Power Systems authorized repair facility, or that are repaired on site by an OutBack Power Systems authorized repair technician.
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Thank you for supporting OutBack Power Systems by installing this product. Your patronage is greatly appreciated. This product was proudly assembled in the United States of America and demonstrates the quality and pride of this great team of employees. We sincerely hope your experience has been pleasant, positive, and professional and hope that you’ll consider OutBack Power Systems for future purchases.
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North America European Office: 19009 62nd Avenue NE Arlington, WA USA Barcelona, España 1.360.435.6030 34.93.654.9568...