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vovanenok asked

Connecting a generator to 2 x 5kw quattros (wired in parallel)

Hi all. I'm planning to connect 2 x 5kw quattros in parallel as I need both 120v and 240v.


I have a 6kw 240v generator. Can I connect it to both inverters? I would really appreciate any guidance or a wiring diagram example

Thanks

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snoobler answered ·
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vovanenok avatar image vovanenok commented ·

Man I can't thank you enough. The diagram is brilliant.

A small question, do I need a MK3-USB cable to configure a split phase for quattros? Or can I connect the two quattros and then one to my cerbo GX and then configure split phase using the app? Will I be able to update quattros firmware without mk3-usb cable?

Thanks again!

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snoobler avatar image snoobler vovanenok commented ·

Unfortunately, the only way I know to do it is with VE.Bus and VE.Config on PC via MK3-USB.


Try this:

https://www.victronenergy.com/media/pg/VE.Bus_Configuration_Guide/en/parallel,-three,-split-phase-systems.html


Appears you need a MK3-USB or smart-dongle.

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vovanenok avatar image vovanenok snoobler commented ·

Thanks again for all your info.

I found also this discussion, where someone says you could use VRM portal to modify the inverter settings:

https://diysolarforum.com/threads/accessing-victron-multiplus-settings.27611/

That would be awesome if it works, will give it a try.

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snoobler avatar image
snoobler answered ·

Yes, you can change the configuration of ONE inverter via that method. I do it regularly; however, that requires a GX device for VRM operation, and VEConfigure doesn't configure inverters for parallel operations - only single inverter settings.


You are going to need a MK3-USB with VEBus/VEConfig or a smart dongle and Victron Connect to configure them in parallel.


Is your system already in parallel?


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vovanenok avatar image
vovanenok answered ·

Thanks @snoobler , no I haven't configured it yet. I have everything ready to disconnect my old inverter and connect 2 new quattros. In the victron app I found a demo mode where you can actually simulate viewing/changing device settings and I didn't see the split phase configuration there. Is it what you meant? I can modify a single inverter settings but for advanced stuff (like a split phase configuration) I need a mk3-usb cable


And also wanted to ask. I will be wiring inverters to my AC breaker panel. Do I need breakers between the inverters and the AC panel? If yes what kind of breaker would I need? I assume 5kw quattros with a theoretical 10kw peak, 80amp breaker?


Thanks again so much for all your help





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snoobler avatar image snoobler commented ·

Yep. You'll definitely need a MK3-USB

Recommend you create an account here:

https://professional.victronenergy.com/

Watch the Online Training: 9.2 - Three-phase & Parallel installation

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snoobler avatar image snoobler commented ·

Yes. You will need a dual pole breaker to break L1 and L2. I have one of these between my Quattro output and AC panel:

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Eaton-BR-125-Amp-2-Space-4-Circuit-Indoor-Main-Lug-Loadcenter-with-Cover-BR24L125SP/100559337

and this 50A breaker:

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Eaton-BR-50-Amp-2-Pole-Circuit-Breaker-BR250/100125397

While it's listed as a 5kW unit, it's really a 4kW unit with a 30 minute 5kW limit, so I sized for 4000W each. 8000W/250V = 33.3A. 1.25 * 33.3 = 41.7A, so I sized up to 50A. The 6-3 Romex is rated for 55A, so I'm good.



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