Grounding - Victron energy SmartSolar MPPT 100/30 Manual

120 W 120 W
12 V 12 V
240 W
24 V
10 A
To help calculate the size of the PV array configuration use the
configurations:
PV array example 24V battery with 100V solar charger:
• Minimum number of cells in series: 72 (2x 12V panel in series or 1x 24V panel).
• Maximum: 144 cells (4x 12V panel in series).
• Provide a means to disconnect all current-carrying conductors of a photo-voltaic power source from all other
conductors in a building or other structure.
• Be aware that at low temperatures and depending on local conditions and cell specifications the open circuit
voltage of a solar array may exceed the array's rated maximum open circuit voltage. In that case the
number of cells in series must be reduced.
• A switch, circuit breaker, or other device, either AC or DC, shall not be installed in a grounded conductor if
operation of that switch, circuit breaker, or other device leaves the grounded conductor in an un-grounded
state while the system remains energized.
• Do not use solar panels with optimizers. In worst case, the use of optimizers will cause irreparable damage
to the solar charger.
• Use flexible multi stranded copper cable for the screw connections . See chapter
[1].
• For MC4 models: several of the solar charger's MC4 pairs may be needed to parallel solar panel strings. Be
aware that the maximum current through a MC4 connection cannot exceed 30A.

4.4. Grounding

Battery grounding
The solar charger can be installed in a positive or in a negative grounded system.
Apply a single ground connection, preferably close to the battery, to prevent system issues or ground loops.
Chassis grounding
A separate ground path for the chassis ground is permitted because the chassis is isolated from the positive and the negative
terminals.
PV array grounding
The positive and negative of the PV array should not be grounded.
Ground the frame of the PV panels to reduce the impact of lightning.
Do not connect the solar charger to a grounded PV array. Only on ground connection is allowed, and this should be near the
battery.
Ground fault detection
Page 10
MPPT solar charger manual
120 W 120 W
12 V 12 V
240 W
12 V
20 A
Examples of series, parallel and series/parallel solar arrays.
MPPT sizing
120 W 120 W 120 W
12 V 12 V 12 V
480 W
24 V
20 A
calculator. Alternatively, use one of these PV array
Wiring safety precautions
120 W
12 V
Installation