Installation Guide
Planning
900-0160-01-01 Rev B
11
Renewable Energy
The Radian inverter cannot connect directly to PV, wind turbines, or other unregulated DC sources.
The batteries are the inverter’s primary source of power.
A renewable energy source is always treated as a battery charger, even if all of its power is used
immediately by the inverter. The renewable source must have a charge controller, or some other
regulation method, to prevent overcharging. OutBack Power’s FLEXmax family of charge
controllers can be used for this purpose, as can other products.
The GSLC will receive the mechanical and electrical connections for up to two FLEXmax charge
controllers. It can receive the electrical connections for two FLEXmax 100 controllers.
Battery Bank
When planning a battery bank, consider the following:
Cables:
Recommendations for battery cable size and length are shown on page 26. The maximum
length will determine the placement of the battery bank. Local codes or regulations may apply and may
take priority over OutBack recommendations.
Battery Type: The Radian inverter/charger uses a three-stage charge cycle.
~ The default inverter/charger settings assume a deep-cycle stationary lead-acid battery, such as
OutBack’s EnergyCell RE or NC series batteries. The charging configuration is highly customizable
so that lithium-ion and other advanced chemistry charging cycles can be accommodated. Consult
the documentation for the specific batteries used in the system to ensure that the settings are
appropriate.
~ The Radian inverter/charger is designed to work with a 48-volt battery bank. Before constructing a
battery bank, confirm the nominal voltage of individual batteries.
Charger Settings and Maintenance:
A vented battery enclosure may be required by electric code
and is usually recommended for safety reasons.
It may be necessary to use a fan to ventilate the
battery enclosure.
Batteries must be regularly maintained according to the instructions of the battery manufacturer.
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.
CAUTION: Hazard to Equipment
Batteries can emit vapors which are flammable and 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.)