Outback Power Systems GFX International Series Installation Manual - Manual (Page 14)

Planning
12 900-0111-01-00 Rev B
Renewable Energy
The inverter cannot connect directly to PV, wind turbines, or other renewable sources. The batteries
are the inverter’s primary source of power. However, if these sources are used to charge the batteries,
the inverter can use their energy by drawing it from the batteries.
The renewable source is always treated as a battery charger, even if all of its power is used
immediately. The renewable source must have a charge controller or some way to prevent
overcharging. OutBack Power’s FLEXmax charge controllers can be used for this purpose, as can
other products.
Battery Bank
When planning a battery bank, consider the following:
¾ The GFX inverters work best with lead-chemistry batteries intended for deep discharge. These include
batteries for marine, golf-cart, and forklift applications. They also include gel-cell batteries and absorbed
glass-mat (AGM) batteries. OutBack Power recommends the use of batteries designed specifically for
renewable energy applications. Automotive batteries are strongly discouraged and will have a short life if
used in inverter applications. Nickel-based batteries are discouraged due to limitations in the GFX charger.
Lithium-based batteries and other advanced battery technologies may require special considerations.
Please contact OutBack Technical Support at +1.360.618.4363 before implementing advanced battery
technologies.
¾ These inverters are designed to work with 12-, 24-, or 48-volt battery banks, depending on inverter model.
Before constructing a battery bank, check the inverter model and confirm nominal battery voltage.
¾ A vented enclosure for the battery bank may be required by electric code and is recommended in most
cases for safety reasons.
CAUTION: Hazard to Equipment
Batteries can emit vapors which are corrosive over long periods of time. Installing the
inverter in the battery compartment may cause corrosion which is not covered by the
product warranty. (Sealed batteries may be an exception.)
Generator
The GFX inverters can work with any generator that delivers clean 230 Vac at 50 Hz. Inverters stacked
for three-phase output can work with three-phase generators.
¾ The inverter/charger can provide a start signal to control an automatic-start generator. If automatic
generator starting is required, the generator must be an electric-start model with automatic choke and
two-wire start capability. For other configurations, additional equipment may be required.
¾ In all cases, the inverter may need to be programmed according to the specifications of the generator and
the requirements of the system, using a remote system display. (See the International Series GFX Operator’s
Manual and the system display manual.) Parameters to be programmed may include generator size,
automatic starting requirements, and potential fluctuations in generator AC voltage.
IMPORTANT:
Battery charger settings need to be correct for a given battery type. Always follow
battery manufacturer recommendations. Making incorrect settings, or leaving them at
factory default settings, may cause the batteries to be undercharged or overcharged.