Wenzhou Longqi New Energy Technology Co., Ltd. Emphasizes the Crucial Role of DC Combiner Boxes in Solar Photovoltaic Systems

【Wenzhou, December 13, 2023】— As advancements in renewable energy continue to progress, the demand for reliable and secure components in photovoltaic (PV) systems is on the rise. One of the key components in this regard is the DC combiner box used for solar energy. However, what role does the DC combiner box play in solar energy systems, and why is it so essential?

Photovoltaic power generation involves the process of converting solar energy into electricity using semiconductor materials with the photovoltaic effect. A photovoltaic array, also known as a solar panel array, consists of multiple solar panels connected together to generate sufficient power to meet the electricity needs of homes or businesses. In large and medium-sized commercial PV systems, solar panels are often connected in series to form extensive arrays. The DC combiner box (also known as the string box) is a wiring device designed specifically for PV systems. It is primarily responsible for orderly connecting and integrating the output currents from multiple photovoltaic arrays. With the coordination of controllers, DC distribution cabinets, inverters, AC distribution cabinets, and other auxiliary equipment, the DC combiner box helps build a complete photovoltaic power generation system that can be connected to the grid.

As a crucial component of solar PV systems, the DC combiner box is responsible for collecting the output currents from multiple solar panels, consolidating them, and then uniformly transmitting them to the inverter. This not only simplifies the wiring but also significantly reduces the maintenance complexity and costs of the system. Additionally, these combiner boxes are equipped with circuit breakers and surge protection functions, further enhancing the safety of the system. In the event of a failure or the need for maintenance, the combiner box can quickly disconnect the connection between the solar panels and the rest of the system, protecting maintenance personnel from electric shock.

The design and configuration of solar DC combiner boxes may vary based on environmental conditions and user requirements, but they all focus on providing safe, durable, and efficient power management. Typical DC combiner boxes consist of several key components, including:

Photovoltaic fuses: a combination of fuse bases and fuse cores, usually located at the input end. In emergency situations such as overcurrent or short circuits, photovoltaic fuses disconnect the relevant circuits. If the fuse is blown or melted, it needs to be replaced based on the specific situation.

DC isolation switch/circuit breaker: Used to manually disconnect or isolate circuits, it is typically located at the output end.

DC surge protector: Overvoltage can shorten the lifespan or even damage equipment, making DC surge protectors (SPDs) crucial, protecting sensitive electrical equipment from the harm of overvoltage.

Busbar: A multi-point conductive metal strip or rail connecting various current branch circuits in the PV system, used for collecting, distributing, and transmitting electrical energy.

Input terminals: These terminals are used to connect the DC outputs of various solar panel arrays to the combiner box.

Enclosure: The enclosure of the DC combiner box is typically made of materials such as polycarbonate (PC) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), as well as metal cold-rolled steel plate. It is designed to meet IP65 standards, withstand harsh environments, and provide waterproof, dustproof, and UV-resistant features.

Monitoring system: Monitoring modules can be configured to track real-time performance data of each photovoltaic array, including current, voltage, etc.

CNLonQcom offers customized DC combiner box services, allowing customers to choose single or multiple current inputs and outputs based on their needs and system installation requirements. We provide options for UV-resistant plastic enclosures and iron enclosures, and diodes can be selected to prevent current backflow. These enclosures comply with IP65 protection ratings and IK10 explosion-proof standards, able to withstand adverse conditions and operate normally in temperature ranges from -25°C to +60°C.

As solar technology continues to advance, Wenzhou Longqi New Energy Technology Co., Ltd. is committed to enhancing the performance and reliability of its DC combiner boxes through innovative design and technological improvements. The company firmly believes that through continuous technological innovation, it can make a greater contribution to global sustainable energy solutions.