ABB opens testing laboratory for higher power solar inverters

ABB has opened a new multimillion-dollar facility, designed to test high-power central photovoltaic (PV) inverters, in Helsinki. It features a unique, large climate chamber capable of full power electrical testing in conditions simulating the arctic tundra to an equatorial rainforest.

The laboratory supports testing and verification of inverters for safe operation, endurance in a wide range of climatic conditions, compatibility to the most demanding renewables-specific grid code requirements, and measurement and testing of harmonics and grid interactions.

Marc Gomez, global product group manager for solar inverters at ABB, stated: “Our customers are asking for more powerful central inverters. They want to maximise their return on investment and connect more incoming PV power to one inverter. With this lab, we are able to test new inverter concepts, under varying weather conditions, and that allows us to deliver new innovation to our customers and ensure we lead the market.”

Climate testing can last several weeks for the equipment under test. Powered by a DC supply, the inverters are run at varying power levels with different simulated weather conditions to test inverter reliability. The climate chamber allows for accelerated product testing, important when the inverters are typically expected to operate for over 20 years. The climate chamber can vary temperatures from as low as -40°C to as high as +100°C, and relative humidity levels up to 9%.

“The new testing facility will enable ABB to simulate the harsh Australian climate conditions, at any inverter power level, to guarantee the robust performance of our solar inverters for our local customers,” said Stefano Giommetti, business development manager for solar in Australia.

Originally published here.