One tool for installing, testing, maintaining solar panels or photovoltaic systems
Fluke IRR1-SOL Solar Irradiance Meter
COMTEST, Fluke’s local channel partner, has their new IRR1-SOL Irradiance Meter, designed from the ground up to simplify the installation, commissioning, and trouble-shooting of photovoltaic arrays, measuring irradiance, temperature, inclination and direction of the solar array in a single handheld tool. With a rugged, compact design, a protective carrying case, and an easy-to-read, high-contrast LCD screen to read measurements in direct sunlight, the IRR1-SOL can go anywhere users go. The simple user interface, instantaneous solar irradiation measurements and built-in temperature sensor make it easy to meet the IEC 62446-1 requirements for testing, documenting, and maintaining photovoltaic systems. Additionally, the integrated compass and inclination sensor allow users to measure and document roof and site orientation, pitch, and panel tilt while surveying, installing, or adjusting an installation.
Fluke IRR1-SOL features:
- Irradiance measurement: the high precision mono-crystalline solar sensor allows for instantaneous irradiation measurements up to 1400 W/m2.
- Temperature measurement: using either the built-in temperature sensor or the external suction mount temperature probe to measure ambient and panel temperature.
- Integrated compass: measure and document roof or site orientation.
- Inclination sensor: measure roof and PV panel tilt when surveying, installing, or adjusting the installation.
- Carry it everywhere: equipped with a practical shoulder strapped case, to allow safe scaling of climbing equipment, keeping users’ hands free.
Whether working on a roof-mounted system or on a large field installation, the IRR1-SOL is the single-handed solution that every solar installer and technician needs in their tool bag.
Applications for the Fluke IRR1-SOL are:
Photovoltaic system design and surveying To find the expected production at a site, determine the solar resource while taking shading into account. The solar resource is measured in peak sun hours: the number of hours per day with 1,000 watts generated per square meter of solar array. Location, time of day, season, and weather conditions all influence peak sun hours. Use the Fluke IRR1-SOL to determine the actual solar irradiance (Watts/m2) and shading at the site to develop a baseline.
Measuring Once the system is installed, make sure it is operating as designed by measuring its electrical characteristics and the actual power output of the array. The performance of a photovoltaic array is based on its current-voltage (IV) curve. Use the IRR1-SOL to obtain the amount of solar irradiance necessary to calculate the IV curve of the power output.
Comparing and diagnosing Even when installed correctly, a photovoltaic system may not be producing the expected electrical output. In order to produce the expected out-put the system needs to receive the correct amount of irradiance energy to generate the DC voltage that is fed into the inverter.
Contact COMTEST on + 010 595 1821 or sales@comtest.co.za or www.comtest.co.za, for more information on Fluke’s new IRR1-SOL Irradiance Meter, or for technical or seminar information, demonstrations or to locate your nearest authorised dealer.
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