One of the biggest industries in the world at the moment is solar energy. As people flock to join the clean, green revolution and slash their energy bills, solar installations are more popular than ever. However, being a complex system with electrical components, there are various points at which things can go wrong. Hioki recognises the significance of testing and assessing these components, understanding the critical role they play in ensuring optimal functionality.
You’ll find plenty of applications for residential PV solar systems in the wide range of Hioki testing and measuring instruments. From testing batteries to measuring insulation, Hioki supports the solar industry in many ways.
Measuring solar panel temperature
It’s a strange concept to think that too much heat would be bad for solar panels. After all, they generate power from the sun, so they’re bound to get hot. But solar panels are also electronic, and in most cases, heat isn’t good for electronics.
Solar panels can withstand a great degree of heat, but they must sometimes be checked. If a solar panel overheats, it can cause issues, and in the case of a string inverter system, one damaged panel can affect others. Fortunately, for those who regularly need to test the heat of solar panels, Hioki’s infrared thermometer and temperature loggers are the perfect tools.
Testing voltage and currents
At various points in a solar system, it is necessary to test voltage and currents. After all, a solar system’s main role is to produce energy, so voltage and currents will always be part of it. Depending on the components you need to test, there are multiple tools available.
A digital multimeter is the ideal tool for testing AC and DC voltages. Alternatively, AC/DC clamp meters are useful in measuring AC/DC load, voltage, power and string current. A DC high-voltage probe can also be used for certain applications.
Checking power generation and efficiency
One of the main things you will probably need to check with your solar system is performance. While monitoring apps can give you some information about performance, they don’t give you the details that an electrician would need to know. Solar technicians may often need to test inverter efficiency, power quality and power generation levels.
Hioki offers a series of power quality analysers that can be used in the solar industry. Some analysers offer precision testing, while others include features such as the ability to test two circuits at once. Ultimately, your choice depends on your personal needs.
Battery deterioration
Technicians may also need to regularly check battery performance for solar systems that include battery storage. All batteries deteriorate over time, but it’s important to keep this deterioration to an acceptable level.
With a huge range of battery testers available, Hioki delivers options for all solar applications. Test the internal resistance, voltage and much more with Hioki’s impressive range.
Need assistance with solar testing equipment?
If you work in the solar industry or simply want to check your solar system’s performance, we’re here to help. Hioki has a wide range of electrical testing tools, many of them being extremely useful for maintaining solar performance. NWI Is your first choice supplier of Hioki equipment, as well as all your other instrument testing and calibration needs. Contact us today to find out how we can help.
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