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enclosure, which is separated from the drive, gives the installer flexibility when designing a cabinet that is suitable to run a pump in different layouts.

Condensation

In conventional solar-powered pumping installations, intermittent operation during the day and internal temperatures changes between night and day, promote cyclical condensation-evaporation processes inside of the drive. IP 20/21 drives installed inside a cabinet are sensitive to internal condensation and require temperature-controlled heaters. This can be a problem in solar-powered pumping systems because an AC grid is not normally available on remote sites. For this reason, anti-condensation solutions that do not require an energy supply, should be considered.

An advantage of BMG’s Vacon IP66 IP 66/ NEMA 4X drives for outdoor installations is they are well protected against the ingress of water and dust and a specially designed GORE® vent effectively prevents condensation, without the need for a heater.

Temperature range

Solar-powered pumping systems are normally installed in areas where high temperatures can be a problem for the PV system. For this reason, it is critical to consider the maximum ambient temperature on site when selecting the appropriate drive model. This maximum temperature should be contained in the operating temperature range for the drive – preferably in the range without derating, to avoid power losses and to extend the service life of the drive.

Users should take into account that the temperature inside a cabinet where an IP 20/21 drive is installed is always higher than the ambient temperature. It is important to consider the overheating effect due to direct sunlight if the cabinet is not mounted in the shade.

BMG supports its extensive range of electromechanical products with a technical advisory and support service, tailored to meet the precise specifications of contractors, designers and the end-user.