Voltsys has designed a range of intelligent interfaces to rectify the wild AC from a turbine for use with inverters, manage turbine speed with dump loads and provide data-logging and inverter over-voltage protection. The controller also stores the power curve for the turbine and takes control of the inverter output so that solar inverters can be used for wind and hydro turbines.

Wind turbines are usually designed to either be loaded and braked in the event of excess wind, or left open circuit (e.g. with pitch control) to protect the inverter. Depending on the configuration, our controller has a relay output to control either a disconnect contactor, or a 3 phase AC braking load. The Small Wind & Hydro Controller is typically used for systems up to 6kW but has available options for systems up to 12kW

Dump Load

A DC dump load can be switched either as a variable load using PWM or with on/off set points. Both options are fully configurable and can be used to manage turbine over-voltage, or to slow a turbine in gusts.

In a grid failure, the controller provides a load with on/off set points only.

Data Logging

When a fault has occurred, data logging can indicate the nature of the fault. The controller stores logs for 1 year on a micro-SD card. Logged information includes;

• Turbine RPM (as frequency), both average and peak
• Turbine DC Voltage
• Power Exported (based on data from the inverter)
• Wind Speed (if anemometer present)
• Controller brake, dump load and any fault status
• Turbine phase loss detection
• Inverter Status including;
  • AC Voltage & Current
  • DC Voltage & Current

Rectifier and Capacitors

The controllers come with a range of options for rectifier and capacitor sizes depending on power and working voltage.

AC Grid Detection

The controller can respond to grid failure or inverter failure and shut down the turbine accordingly.

LCD Screen

A panel LCD screen provides basic information on turbine status.

Datasheet and Manual

Please see the Datasheet for the Small Wind Interfaces by clicking HERE