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amartins avatar image
amartins asked

Solar panels input protection

Hi,

Following a setup, I am building for a campervan I have a question regarding the selection of the input protection for the dc connection coming from the solar panels. [1]

What is a good choice for input protection, fuse and fuse box or circuit breaker? In either case, I would also like to have the options to be able to easily disconnect the solar panel for serviceability and safety.

Thank you.

[1] https://community.victronenergy.com/questions/3143/complete-system-architecture-for-campervan-640w-so.html

Solar Panelfuses
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3 Answers
wkirby avatar image
wkirby answered ·

The way that I like to do it is with 2x 15A DC rated circuit breakers, one in + and the other one in - where the solar comes in. You can use there to disconnect the PV for safety also.

THOSE CIRCUIT BREAKERS MUST BE FOR DC, DO NOT USE AC ONES.

Also, it is nice to install lightning protection at that point, I use Dehn SPD in my system:

https://www.dehn.co.uk/sites/default/files/uploads/dehn/DEHN-UK/pdf/Press/lightning_surge_protection_for_pv_systems_november_2014.pdf

Install SPD and Circuit breakers in a metal box.

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amartins avatar image amartins commented ·

Thank you. Can you give a reference part number for these 15A DC circuit breakers? I find them not easy to find in all those AC circuit breakers that each manufacturer provide.

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amartins avatar image amartins commented ·

Hi,

I am right now trying to select a lightning protection device. What part number do you use and how do you apply it to the solar panels output?

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JohnC avatar image
JohnC answered ·

I use one of these: https://energyconnections.net.au/product/victron-shop/482/1281/46794/noark-dual-pole-dc-circuit-breaker-20a-500v

Various sizes & work well. Can add suitable covers to them too for a swish install. Very handy to be able to isolate your pv at will.

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robbo avatar image
robbo answered ·

A circuit breaker from PV panels to controller isn't needed (as it will never break!), a isolation switch is useful. Note on large solar installs a fuse between parallel panels is usually wise.

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