The Elite Series variable speed drives are ideal for pumping applications. As a standard feature the drive's software contains a PID controller, which allows for a stand-alone constant pressure pump controller.
In remote applications, where the pump location is a long way from a power source, and there is ample sunlight, solar panels can be used as a power supply to the Elite. With the correct design of the solar panel installation, an appropriate DC level compatible with the Elite can be implemented. Constant pressure pump control may not be totally suitable for this type of application, where the main requirement is to maximise the solar energy output, which will vary dependant on sunlight levels.
This application was successfully undertaken recently in an Olive Plantation in Spain, by PDL Electronics application engineers and PDL's Spanish Distributor, Power Electronics. The pump fills a reservoir and the control system uses the solar energy panel most efficiently. The pump speed operates at a maximum level, dependant on the power output of the solar panel at all times.
A VISTA program controls the Elite which constantly monitors the drive's DC bus voltage and hence the solar panel output power. The program runs the drive at a maximum output frequency to maintain adequate DC supply voltage. Hence the VISTA configuration has provided a stand alone, fully automated pump control system that will self-initialise and operate the pump at maximum flow, to utilise the full capacity of the solar panels and the sun's energy.
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