ABB string monitoring system set to boost productivity for solar plants
ABB is launching a new circuit monitoring device designed specifically for PV systems. In addition to monitoring key component performance, it also reduces the risk of significant financial loss and creates a safer working environment by providing early notification in the event of a power failure.
CMS-660 is a smart, space saving solution for solar plants. Featuring a new generation of open-core sensors, that simply push-on to new or existing installations, it can collect and integrate current levels of each string and critical information from components such as surge protection devices, circuit breakers, temperature.
The unit is available as a stand-alone product or as part of ABB's factory assembled solar string combiner box.
Alessandro Grieco, ABB Global Product Manager for circuit monitoring systems, said: "The new CMS-660 is the perfect solution for string monitoring in solar plants. It offers an ultra-compact, high performance measurement system specifically designed to increase the efficiency of photovoltaic systems.
"One of the CMS-660's key strengths is its ability to detect hazardous situations before they lead to service interruptions or load failures. This helps customers to not only increase productivity but also protect the people who work for them."
CMS-660 is simple to install and put into operation. Its space saving design includes a slim and sleek CMS sensor, enabling the unit to be installed directly on top of the fuse holder. Alternatively, it can be tied to the cable at the top of the fuse holder. The solar string monitoring system can be scaled up to 32 strings in 1000V and 1500V DC, with measurements per string reaching 20A, 40A or 80A based on requirement.
Using "plug & play" technology, it effortlessly detects obstacles and impairments, such as leaves from plants, dirt on the panels or broken cables, which could otherwise cause significant system failure and risk to life.
