MPPT and series solar panels
Is there any mechanism that would get series panels to operate at their optimum voltage? For example, if one panel has a Vmppt of 17 volts and one at 18 volts and they are connected in series, is ...
Forum Discussion
Today mid-day I noticed the Trimetric was at 26.5 amps instead of more like 19. I thought I must have MPPT! :) But it was just cloud effect.
Do all MPPT controllers hold amps to their rated amps "size" even with cloud effect? I have had two types of PWM and they just let the amps through above their "size." I was told that if they persist at over amperage, they will heat up, but cloud effect doesn't last that long. But you are told to observe the 20% margin rule for expected amps (Isc) so, EG, a "20 amp" PWM controller with a 20 amp battery-controller fuse should be maxed at 250w worth of 12v panels (16a Isc)
If the MPPT clips the amps, then you could go to full rating, and just worry about the Voc (temp adjusted higher for cold weather) intake limit.
Makes it interesting about that 20a Eco MPPT for 300w limit what that really means in limit for array Voc at cold temps up the mountain and whether you need to limit your expected max amps to 16a.
You might need two and split your array into two arrays if you go over 250w of 24v panels. Must know the specs for sure or be sorry!
Do all MPPT controllers hold amps to their rated amps "size" even with cloud effect? I have had two types of PWM and they just let the amps through above their "size." I was told that if they persist at over amperage, they will heat up, but cloud effect doesn't last that long. But you are told to observe the 20% margin rule for expected amps (Isc) so, EG, a "20 amp" PWM controller with a 20 amp battery-controller fuse should be maxed at 250w worth of 12v panels (16a Isc)
If the MPPT clips the amps, then you could go to full rating, and just worry about the Voc (temp adjusted higher for cold weather) intake limit.
Makes it interesting about that 20a Eco MPPT for 300w limit what that really means in limit for array Voc at cold temps up the mountain and whether you need to limit your expected max amps to 16a.
You might need two and split your array into two arrays if you go over 250w of 24v panels. Must know the specs for sure or be sorry!
