Hey Jason,
I've installed a few systems now using Fortress eVaults. I like them as
they are a nice 18.5 KW increment and the BMS seems hardy - nice
interface screen showing SOC on each battery.
However, call Fortress and discuss the status of their closed loop
communications (and talk to Sol-Ark about it too). The tech at Fortress
told me that less than 4 eVaults the closed loop communication is more
trouble than it's worth between batteries. That appears to be because
they simply have not employed a soft-start resistor and the batteries
shut down when exposed to cap loading during inverter start-up. They
said relying on the individual battery BMSs works fine. I've found that
to be true so far - no drift in SOC from battery and Sol-Ark.
Their eFlex system is supposed to be totally closed loop communication
between batts and with a Sol-Ark. It's a bit of a small increment for
large systems but may be worth it.
I imagine they will offer an upgrade for eVaults or a new model soon
with full closed loop. Sol-Ark tech said they were still working with
them on that.
Hope that helps!
Best,
Jeff
Jason Szumlanski <mailto:[email protected]>
January 31, 2021 at 11:27 AM
I'm seeing a lot of pictures of LiPO battery systems and people are
mounting equipment above them like load centers, inverters with
disconnects, and other serviceable enclosures. Some of these battery
systems are 24 inches deep or more. This seems to violate NEC 110.26
requirements for the other serviceable equipment, but the pictures are
proudly displayed as models of success. Even slender Tesla Powerwalls
stick out significantly when stacked 2 or 3 deep and would be more
than 6 inches deeper than a standard load center. Sure, the battery
cabinets make great places to rest tools while working, but does
anyone else see this as problematic?
Jason Szumlanski
Florida Solar Design Group
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