[RE-wrenches] Metering
Does anyone have a recommendation for a high quality meter that can be installed near the Main 200 Amp Electric Service Panel at the Point Of Interconnection in the Main Service Panel for a Grid Tied System The client wants to be able to track the electricity the household is actually using And how much the solar electric system is producing In the net metering arrangement with Central Hudson in NY, all the client gets to see on their bill is the net result of the solar credits subtracted from the actual usage. In this case, the solar generated credits is consistently zero because the usage exceeds the production Thanks Larry Brown Sun Mountain ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Off Grid Battery Charging
Wrenches I have a client that we did an off grid system for about 4 years ago The system is performing well The client would like to keep charged her batteries in the winter with her stationary bicycle operating a small generator Right now she uses a grid connection that was available and she turns on a breaker if needed to charge the batteries in the winter through the inverter When the batteries are fully charged she turns the breaker back off No need for any back up other times of year That is the only use of the grid Her request was to be off grid This set up eliminated the need for her to have a generator for winter low light conditions So far all is working as designed But there is talk of adding a gas generator so that if the grid is down, there is a back up available The system has 16- AGM Concorde SunXtener Batteries configured in 2 strings of 8 batteries per string They are PVX 3050T 6 volt batteries operating at 48VDC They are charged from the PV Array by 2- Schneider Conext MPPT 80 600 Charge Controllers The system has a Schneider Conext XW+ 5548 Single Inverter Any thoughts or ideas of what equipment can be matched with a stationary bicycle that might give a trickle charge to the battery bank Anyone ever played with setting this up? She wants to try this out and see what is possible Get some winter exercise and perhaps keep the batteries as close to full without using the grid or a back up gas generator All suggestions welcome Thanks Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Burkina Faso Off Grid
Wrenches I had a call from someone looking for an installer to do some off grid installations in Burkina Faso, Africa They have a school project they are working on If anyone does work in that part of the world would you get in touch and I will hook you up with Pascal Thanks Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain 845-657-8096 sunmount...@netstep.net ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Ac Coupling
Kirpal Thanks for the recommendations If you have a diagram that would be most helpful and generous What Lithium Battery are you using with this configuration? Much Appreciated Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain 845-657-8096 sunmount...@netstep.net On Jul 19, 2018, at 11:15 AM, Kirpal wrote: Larry.Outback Radian would work fine but you would need 2 of the 8kW inverters for your ~11kW GT inverter. Outback recommends a maximum 75% loading ratio when AC coupling. We have used a simple solid state relay controlled by the Aux Out of the Radian to turn off one leg of the SolarEdge or any other GT inverter essentially shutting off the GT inverter when a desired battery voltage is reached. As an aside, in earlier days when lead acid batteries where the main battery technology I didn't like this set up because it didn't allow multistage charging of the batteries leading to batteries only reaching approximately 80% SOC (bad for batteries) because there was no ability to taper charge (aside from frequency shift compatible inverters). But nowadays with Lithium batteries, which don't require multistage charging becoming more common this method of AC coupling is pretty attractive because the batteries don't care if they only reach a partial state of chargeEven though you can charge them more than 80% before kicking off the GT inverter. We have used this method successfully in addition to having DC coupling present in the same system as well. Let me know if you need a diagram. Sunny Regards, Kirpal Khalsa Oregon LRT#25 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional Oregon Solarworks LLC www.oregonsolarworks.com <http://www.oregonsolarworks.com/> 541-299-0402 On Thu, Jul 19, 2018 at 7:07 AM, Larry Brown mailto:sunmount...@netstep.net>> wrote: Does anyone have a recommendation on a battery based inverter to AC Couple with a Solar Edge 11400A-US Inverter that is already installed? I have been working a lot with the Schneider Conergy XW+ Inverters for off grid but have no experience AC Coupling them with a Solar Edge Inverter Any recommendations? Thanks Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain 845-657-8096 sunmount...@netstep.net <mailto:sunmount...@netstep.net> ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org <mailto:RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org <http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org> List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html <http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html> List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm <http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm> Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org <http://www.members.re-wrenches.org/> ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Ac Coupling
Does anyone have a recommendation on a battery based inverter to AC Couple with a Solar Edge 11400A-US Inverter that is already installed? I have been working a lot with the Schneider Conergy XW+ Inverters for off grid but have no experience AC Coupling them with a Solar Edge Inverter Any recommendations? Thanks Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain 845-657-8096 sunmount...@netstep.net ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Auger for ground mount
We have been using Techno Metal Posts Helical Piers with much success for many years Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain 845-657-8096 sunmount...@netstep.net Sent from my iPhone > On Feb 9, 2018, at 11:48 AM, Chris Schaefer <ch...@solarandwindfx.com> wrote: > > While I've been using the Zilla platform with an auger attachment for a mini > excavator with good luck. With that said I'm looking at Nuance Energy and > their Osprey mount which requires a hammer drill. Anyone tried this yet? > > Christopher > >> On Fri, Feb 9, 2018 at 11:35 AM, Jerry Shafer <jerrysgarag...@gmail.com> >> wrote: >> Chris >> Azk around for a fence contractor, they generally have what you need >> Jerry >> >>> On Feb 9, 2018 5:05 AM, "Chris Mason" <cometenergysyst...@gmail.com> wrote: >>> I'm taking on construction of a ground mount system of about 30KW. My >>> previous experience has entailed using a utility truck mounted auger for >>> the holes but that's expensive. The soil type here is fairly soft, not >>> rock. There's no contractor available with a skid steer mounted auger. I >>> need at least four inch holes, three foot deep. Siz inch would be better. >>> What are the options? Any novel ideas? >>> We have a service truck with a 2 ton hydraulic crane, anything I can mount >>> to that? I don't mind fabricating brackets and mounts, welding parts to it. >>> >>> -- >>> Chris Mason >>> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™ >>> Solar Design Engineer >>> Generac Generators Industrial technician >>> >>> www.cometsolar.com >>> 264.235.5670 >>> 869.662.5670 >>> Skype: netconcepts >>> >>> ___ >>> List sponsored by Redwood Alliance >>> >>> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org >>> >>> Change listserver email address & settings: >>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >>> >>> List-Archive: >>> http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html >>> >>> List rules & etiquette: >>> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm >>> >>> Check out or update participant bios: >>> www.members.re-wrenches.org >>> >>> >> >> ___ >> List sponsored by Redwood Alliance >> >> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org >> >> Change listserver email address & settings: >> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org >> >> List-Archive: >> http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html >> >> List rules & etiquette: >> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm >> >> Check out or update participant bios: >> www.members.re-wrenches.org >> >> > > > > -- > Chris Schaefer’s > > Tel/Fax 585-229-2083 or Cell 585-748-1870 > 5115 South Hill Road ~ Canandaigua New York 14424 > www.solarandwindfx.com ~ E-mail: ch...@solarandwindfx.com > > > > Thomas Jefferson, the author of our great Constitution, once said, > "democracy" will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing > to work and give to those who would not." > > ___ > List sponsored by Redwood Alliance > > List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org > > Change listserver email address & settings: > http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org > > List-Archive: > http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html > > List rules & etiquette: > www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm > > Check out or update participant bios: > www.members.re-wrenches.org > ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Sunny Island 5048
Wrenches Does anyone have an empty original cardboard box for a Sunny Island 5048 Inverter? Please contact me off list Thanks Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain sunmount...@netstep.net 845-657-8096 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Transverter Total Smart Grid Solution
Have any wrenches had any experience with Heart Transverters http://www.transverter.com/ I have a client who wants to use one to transition from a grid tied system to an off the the grid system Thanks Larry Brown Sun Mountain ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] These Wind Turbines Generate Energy Without any Blades | Digital Trends
Wrenches, Does anyone have any comments or knowledge on this new product about to enter the Renewable Energy world? Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain http://www.digitaltrends.com/cool-tech/vortex-bladeless-wind-turbine-indiegogo/ ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Tesla Powerwall battery paired with solar
Michael, How do i access the marketing list? Thanks Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain On May 2, 2015, at 8:07 PM, Michael Welch wrote: Hey gang. This has been interesting, but let's get the list back to wrenching. Let's move any further discussion to the RE-Marketing list, or the RE-Bitching list. Thanks. ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/maillist.html List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] On demand WH
I have had a Bosch/Aqua Star 125 HX LP On Demand Water Heater installed and working flawlessly in my home since February of 2007 with a hydro generator that ignites the pilot and main burner when there is a demand for hot water. With no demand for hot water, there is no standing pilot light and no propane usage. The only adjustment I needed to make is with a 20/40 psi pressure switch or a 30/50 psi pressure switch on the pressure tank, the hot water heater started to taper down the hot water output on the low end of the cycle before the points closed and the pump came on. I installed a 40/60 psi pressure switch and have had constant hot water when ever required. Larry Brown Sun Mountain Olivebridge, New York Nabcep Certified PV Installer On Oct 1, 2013, at 12:19 PM, toddc...@finestplanet.com wrote: i remember hearing there was one brand which had a tiny hydro generator, operated by the flowing water, which was used to light the burner... yet, no one mentioned them? todd On Tuesday, October 1, 2013 5:48am, Bill Loesch solar1onl...@charter.net said: Hi Dick, Following the Carter era oil embargo energy awareness, pilot lights were reduced from ~700 BTU/h to ~ half. In a tank, that heat is put to amazingly efficient use; not so with a tankless. In places where they take energy usage seriously, the pilot light is lit only when the tankless is going to be used. A piezo igniter is standard on the standing pilot natural draft heater identified earlier. For all those folks with a tank, using it as a batch heater with the circuit breaker or pilot gas selector also eliminates the majority of standby loss. My pet peeve is folks who unwittingly heat the water well past the using temp and temper it with cold at the faucet. Glad you are pleased with your tankless operation, Bill Loesch Solar 1 - Saint Louis Solar 314 631 1094 On 30-Sep-13 7:29 AM, Richard L Ratico wrote: As concerns standby loss, I can't speak to the others, but the Rinnai has a simple on/off button on the front of the unit. A remote controller is available which also provides the switch. It does take afew seconds for the unit to boot up. Up to three remotes may be installed, making the on /off operation and temperature adjustment fairly convenient. Been using a Rinnai here, on grid for 10 years or so. It works. We like it. I understand a pilot uses a significant amount of gas over the course of a year. Just sayin'. Dick Ratico Solarwind Electric --- You wrote: If its a Rinai, I measured one once that was 30 watts AC standby, and jumped a bit higher when firing. It also needed pure sine. The customer swapped it for a regular hot water tank. Some Bosches and old Palomas, etc. had either a piezo ignition or pilot, but took no power. I'm working on a system with one now that needs 12vdc at about 5 watts. R.Ray Walters CTO, Solarray, Inc Nabcep Certified PV Installer, Licensed Master Electrician Solar Design Engineer 303 505-8760 --- end of quote --- ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2014.0.4142 / Virus Database: 3604/6707 - Release Date: 09/28/13 - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2014.0.4142 / Virus Database: 3604/6707 - Release Date: 09/28/13 ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org Sent from Finest Planet WebMail. ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change email address settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power
[RE-wrenches] damaged in Hurricane Sandy
Wrenches, I am looking for 8- Sanyo HIP200BA19 modules that were damaged in Hurricane Sandy and need to be replaced. Please contact me off list if you know of any Thanks Larry Brown Sun Mountain 845-657-8096 sunmount...@netstep.net ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Community says farewell to solar pioneer Gottlieb - Brattleboro Reformer
Richard was one of the early pioneers who brought Renewable Energy awareness and installations into the public mind I would call him my friend, one of my early mentors and a constant source of inspiration and guidance whenever I had some design questions that I needed feedback with. He knew how to play and be resourceful and innovative. He was a natural teacher and we co-taught together many Solar Design and Installation courses for Solar Energy International. Richard has left behind a rich legacy of installs and many talented installers and designers who gained their beginnings in this field under Richards mentoring. He will be much missed by those who knew him, worked with him and got their start under his guidance. Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain sunmount...@netstep.net NAPCEP Certified PV Installer On Feb 24, 2012, at 10:05 AM, d...@foxfire-energy.com wrote: For those of you who knew Richard http://www.reformer.com/localnews/ci_20024575#.T0enKNp5zOw.email --- This message was sent by d...@foxfire-energy.com via http://addthis.com. Please note that AddThis does not verify email addresses. Make sharing easier with the AddThis Toolbar: http://www.addthis.com/go/toolbar-em To stop receiving any emails from AddThis please visit: http://www.addthis.com/privacy/email-opt-out?e=mAPxS4550WvNbctr0E7PZ9B60CDRa4550WvNbctr0CDMfMQ in your web browser. ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Fwd: AC Coupled
Wrenches, I have a client with a 4.6 kw grid tied system using a Sunny Boy 6000 inverter. We have AC Coupled to that system with 2 Sunny Island 5048's and 8-Concorde SunXtender 3050T 6 volt batteries in series feeding an essential load/critical load sub panel. The wiring to the sub panel from the Sunny Islands is #6, the max wire size that can be used in the AC 1 and AC 2, in and out, of the Sunny Islands. The 2 pole breaker at the sub panel is 70 amps ( 56 amps feed through current x 1.25 = 70 amps ). This allow the 4.6 kw solar system and the Sunny Boy 6000 to act as a micro grid and charge the batteries and support the loads in the SubPanel when the grid is down and still be isolated from the main service panel and the grid. We have moved several loads from the main 200 amp service panel into the essential load/critical load panel, the well pump, the refrigerator, the circulator/boiler controls for the propane fired radiant heating system and some lights and communication circuits. The main 200 amp main service panel has an integrated manual transfer switch that has allowed them to fire up the gas powered Honda generator and run all of the loads when the grid was down before we installed any systems to their home. They would like to be able to continue to do this in an extended power outage. So here is the question? In a power outage, if they fire up the generator and move the manual transfer switch in the Main Service Panel to generator, the Sunny Islands will see this generator power coming from the Main Service Panel and switch from Back Up Mode to Pass Through Mode. The Sunny Boy 6000 will send any excess power not used by the loads to the the generator (as if it was a net metering arrangement ) believing it is the grid. This would probably destroy the generator or some other disasterous scenario. So how can the generator feeding the Main Service panel be isolated from the Sunny Islands and Sunny Boy feeding the SubPanel as a micro grid in a power outage and still provide power to the loads that are in the Main Service Panel? Thank you for the collective wisdom and knowledge that this group has acquired from years in the trenches making it all happen. Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain NABCEP Certified PV Installer ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Invert first?
Eric, We have had excellent results doing these with Sunny Boys and Sunny Islands. It is more pricey but if you have a high end customer and want a a reliable, trouble free (?) system, we have had no wrinkles or call backs with this approach. We have inverted at the array in the past and sent AC to the critical loads sub panel at the house and from there to the Sunny Islands and then either the main service panel or done a tap between the main service panel and the utility meter. If you do a tap then you need an AC fused disconnect before the tap. But you could also run DC from the array to the house, if it is a new system, and then invert to AC. This is also a good approach if a customer wants to add battery back up to an existing grid tie system. There is some rewiring but it is not at the array. The output of the grid tie inverter in an AC coupled system needs to land in the critical loads sub panel rather than the main service panel where it probably now lands. Magnum has a good schematic on their website showing how this is done using a MS-PAE battery based inverter and a grid tie inverter Larry Brown Sun Mountain Nabcep Certified PV Installer On Oct 2, 2011, at 12:15 PM, Eric Thomas wrote: Wrenches, We are designing a super high end grid-tied w/ battery backup system for a customer. Array will be ~15kW; pole or stand alone structure mounted; 250' from home/batteries. My question is: does it make any sense to invert the power at the array and use this ac to make the long run to the batteries THEN connect to a typical battery charger rather than a dc charge controller? Im mostly concerned with huge dc conductors making this run across the property. Havent delved into the specific design enough to size said conductors yet, or specify any equipment, but wanted to know if im barking up the wrong tree ir not. Thanks for the insight. Eric Thomas Founder Solar Epiphany LLC NABCEP Certified PV Installer WA Electrical Contractor # SOLAREL911NR ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] AC Coupling
Wrenches, After Hurricane Irene left a lot of people without power here in the Northeast, customers who have grid-tied systems are asking about some battery backup to power some essential loads. We have used Sunny Islands but they require either 2 Sunny Islands or a step up transformer to get 240 volts for the well pump. Schneider Electric (Xantrex XW) inverters look like they would work for this application and do 120/240 volt output as well and we have used these in off grid applications but not as AC coupled. I have considered Magnum because they also do 120/240 volts but they need battery diversion to ensure the batteries are not over charged. None of these systems are going to be rewired as a DC system so I am looking for any feed back on what others are using to AC couple to existing grid-tied systems to provide some battery backup. Thanks Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] community solar
wrenches. I have had several inquires into this possible scenario. anybody have any experience doing this with their local utility? several families in a neighborhood or community invest together to put up a solar array either on an existing building that has excellent solar access or a ground mount that also has a wide solar window. the system is set up so that it is configured into sub arrays with each sub array having an inverter and a kwh meter that records the output of that sub array. each of the sub arrays is designated (by agreement and the proper paper work) to a particular family based on how much they invested into the system. the output of the whole system is then grid tied and all of the kwh go directly to the utility. it is then just a matter of accounting in that each of the sub arrays kwh's produced is deducted from the kwh's used by that particular customer on their home or business utility bill. So the customer either has a credit that is carried over or has a balance owed that appears on the next utility bill. The design and installation is straight forward and in one centralized local location. It is only a matter of paper work and accounting. And it builds community and neighbors get to know each other Much like Community Supported Agriculture Larry Brown Sun Mountain ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Inverter causing migraine?
Ron, Many people are becoming sensitive to all of the environmental assaults that we are subjected to on a daily basis. This staff member may be sensitized even though no one else appears outwardly affected. If you know anyone who does kinesiology, you can have them test this person for this. Larry Brown Sun Mountain On Feb 3, 2010, at 8:38 PM, Ron Young wrote: I have a staff member that has begun complaining recently of feeling like a rubber band was tightening around my head and of migraines when we turn on an inverter. We have set up an Outback 3524 inverter in our store and it is charging a set of batteries. Whenever she complained we shut it off. It is creating a complicated situation and I'm wondering if anyone has any experience with this? We have customers that live in one room cabins with these inverters and have never had a complaint of this nature. No one else on staff has any problem with this. Her work area is situated 25' away from the inverter. Ron Young earthRight Solar ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re- wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] generator
Dave, The original setup was an 1800 watt Homelite generator with two non GFI receptacles, no twist lock receptacle The client had the generator from building their house It was wired through a fused disconnect to the VFX3524 All worked fine They tried the same set up with the new Generac 8000 watt inverter They plugged into a 20 amp GFI receptacle on the generator and it kept popping the GFI breaker I did lower the Battery charger AC amps and the AC amps in but it seemed to make no difference Larry On Nov 10, 2009, at 8:22 PM, David Palumbo wrote: Larry, Are you sure it is not a simple overload situation? Have you tried reprogramming the VFX with a Mate to lower critical values (AC Amps In, and Battery charger AC amps)? Seems strange a 8kW generator to have a 20A breaker protect a load like a generator (unless you were plugged into that outlet). How do you have the output wired? Dave -Original Message- From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Larry Brown Sent: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 7:11 PM To: RE-wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] generator Fellow Wrenches, On an off the grid system we did for a client a year or two back, we installed an Outback VFX3524 mounted on a Midnight Solar E Panel. They had a manual pull Homelight generator as back up. All worked well. Recently the client upgraded to an electric start 8000 watt Generac generator. Now every time they start the new generator, the GFI 20 amp receptacle on the generator pops. There is probably a redundant neutral to ground bond that is causing this but I am uncertain on the best approach to remedy this condition Any recommendations or experience on how to get the generator to interface with the system? Thanks Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re- wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] generator
Allan, Using a T-240 fed from the 30 amp twist lock, non GFI, outlet with 240 volts and then taking the stepped down 120 volts into the Outback looks like it would solve the problem of having two neutral to ground bounds. It is a little pricey for the extra T-240 needed but it means not altering the new generator and possibly voiding the warrantee. It also leaves the 2-20 amp GFI receptacles on the generator in their proper working order for future use. Thanks for the helpful fix Larry On Nov 10, 2009, at 8:10 PM, Allan Sindelar wrote: Larry, The single VFX3524 takes 19A plus loads from one leg, way overloading that 120V leg. Your best bet would be to add a T240 or PSX240 to balance both legs. Then use the 30A 240V receptacle on the Genereck. The twist-loc receptacle doesn't run through a GFI, so the tripping will go away. Plus your VFX can overload and trip the 20A breaker when charging at the full 19A and a surge load comes on. This would likely solve that. Contact me off-list if you'd like a pdf copy of the off-grid gennies article in Home Power; it will help explain a bit about wiring with the !)$%@ bonded-chassis neutral and a few other issues. Allan Sindelar al...@positiveenergysolar.com NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic Installer EE98J Journeyman Electrician Positive Energy, Inc. 3201 Calle Marie Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507 505 424-1112 www.PositiveEnergySolar.com -Original Message- From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Larry Brown Sent: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 5:11 PM To: RE-wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] generator Fellow Wrenches, On an off the grid system we did for a client a year or two back, we installed an Outback VFX3524 mounted on a Midnight Solar E Panel. They had a manual pull Homelight generator as back up. All worked well. Recently the client upgraded to an electric start 8000 watt Generac generator. Now every time they start the new generator, the GFI 20 amp receptacle on the generator pops. There is probably a redundant neutral to ground bond that is causing this but I am uncertain on the best approach to remedy this condition Any recommendations or experience on how to get the generator to interface with the system? Thanks Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re- wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] generator
Fellow Wrenches, On an off the grid system we did for a client a year or two back, we installed an Outback VFX3524 mounted on a Midnight Solar E Panel. They had a manual pull Homelight generator as back up. All worked well. Recently the client upgraded to an electric start 8000 watt Generac generator. Now every time they start the new generator, the GFI 20 amp receptacle on the generator pops. There is probably a redundant neutral to ground bond that is causing this but I am uncertain on the best approach to remedy this condition Any recommendations or experience on how to get the generator to interface with the system? Thanks Larry Larry Brown Sun Mountain ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] hydro
Wrenches, Any recommendations for a small scale hydro manufacturer for a grid- tied system with about 80 feet of head and 1200 gallon per minute flow and the dam already in place. The load at this Center is to high for an affordable battery bank and the grid is close at hand, they already have a backup generator and transfer switch Thanks for any advice Larry Brown Sun Mountain ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Ground Mount
Keith, We have had good success with TechnoMetalPosts for ground mounts No excavation, no concrete work and almost no disturbance to the site They have been running about $225-250 per post installed and a stamped engineering report for the local Building Department Larry Brown Sun Mountain On Jun 30, 2009, at 8:14 PM, Keith Cronin wrote: Hi I have a solar friend who is looking for some feedback on cost per footing for a small residential ground mount system in Northern CA. Do any of you have a cost estimate/assumption for each sonotube and concrete mix? What have been the general requirements for diameter and depth of the footings? Does anyone have a concrete person they know up in the Santa Rosa area? Thanks Keith ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re- wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Staber washing machines
Wrenches, Has anyone had a problem with the control boards on Staber washing machines? We have had 3 control boards fail in a relatively short time frame on the same machine Staber has replaced the boards each time The last one was after completing a load of laundry and then starting a second load twenty minutes later and having the brand new, just installed replacement control board fail again This is a dedicated washing machine outlet with additional surge protection No other motors or electronics have experienced any problems This house has a grid-tied system with a Xantrex 2.8 kw inverter All failures have been in the morning around 9-10 am Any ideas or recommendations? Thanks Larry Brown Sun Mountain ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] helical screw piers
Wrenches, We used a company called techno Metal Post ( www.technometalpost.com ) I believe it is a franchise arrangement with the main company in Canada. Here is a business opportunity if a franchise does not exist in your community. They are screwed into the ground while hydraulic pressure is applied. We received a stamped engineering report after completion that identified how many posts were set, to what depth and how much hydraulic pressure had been applied for load bearing capacity It requires a special unit designed for this purpose We set 8 posts in 2 rows of 4 and then attached a UniRac U-LA Ground Mount racking system for 28 Sanyo 200's The posts in this case were 2 schedule 40 galvanized steel pipe ready for the UniRac mounting system They also shot the elevation and cut each pipe to the proper height so that the relationship between the front row of pipes and the back row of pipes was set to receive the racking system and then the mounting rails would be at latitude for this site. We supplied the heights that were required. Many other uses for these screw piers. Pictures on their website Larry On Jan 26, 2009, at 1:48 AM, ASAP POWER! 2 wrote: Sounds like we gots to have it. Larry, any pics? If I assume correctly, these are literally screwing into the ground in place of a concrete footing. such that you can place/attach a structural or pipe column or its part of the screw. I can call some local rental yards and do some internet searching, but is there a brand name to the screw, driver, or a specialized 4WD unit? How many did you drive for 5.6kW? I had contacted the outfit that advertised on TV/web for a while a couple of years ago, but wasn't impressed, however, thought maybe with the right soil it could be exceptional tool for quick guy wire anchoring purposes for wind towers. This sounds like something more substantial. Thanks, Peter D. From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches- boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Larry Brown Sent: Sunday, January 25, 2009 5:58 PM To: RE-wrenches Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] helical screw piers Eric, We just used helical screw piers on a 5.6kw ground mount The site was difficult due to its slope and soft because the frost had come back out after some warm days There was an excellent chance that a concrete truck would have gotten stuck and a back hoe would have made a mess The 4 wheel drive unit that drives the helical screw piers had no trouble navigating the terrain, did no damage to the site, was in and out in less than a day. The piers were in two parallel rows and all were within 1/2 of our string, though that is in the skill of the operator In very rocky soil it might be more problematic Larry Brown Sun Mountain On Jan 25, 2009, at 8:05 PM, Eric Andrews wrote: Does anyone have any experience using Helical screw pier footing for ground mount racks? Eric ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches- re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re- wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] helical screw piers
Ken, We have done a lot of ground mounts We usually do an excavation at least to frost depth, 4 feet here, and then use either sonotubes or big foot tubes if the ground is wet, set on a couple of inches of gravel. We then set a 2 schedule 40 galvanized steel pipe, that has been drilled near the bottom and a 6 piece of rebar fastened to prevent twisting and pull out, in each form and build a wooden frame around the steel to keep them plumb, square and in alignment. Then we pour concrete and often get charged extra for a small load of concrete. We come back and strip the wooden framework and hand grade what the back hoe was not able to finish. With the screw piers it was just myself and the equipment operator. No damage to the site. Ready to go the next day with the mounting racks They charged us $250 per post, labor and material and engineering. If we had 20 or 30 posts to set it would either be a negotiated price for the whole job or a careful calculation as to the least expensive option Larry On Jan 26, 2009, at 7:40 AM, Ken Schaal wrote: Would you be able to show the cost for those 8 piers?? Did you do some estimates for pole mounts or concrete pier mounts?? Thanks Ken - Original Message - From: Larry Brown To: i...@asappower.com ; RE-wrenches Sent: Monday, January 26, 2009 7:24 AM Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] helical screw piers Wrenches, We used a company called techno Metal Post ( www.technometalpost.com ) I believe it is a franchise arrangement with the main company in Canada. Here is a business opportunity if a franchise does not exist in your community. They are screwed into the ground while hydraulic pressure is applied. We received a stamped engineering report after completion that identified how many posts were set, to what depth and how much hydraulic pressure had been applied for load bearing capacity It requires a special unit designed for this purpose We set 8 posts in 2 rows of 4 and then attached a UniRac U-LA Ground Mount racking system for 28 Sanyo 200's The posts in this case were 2 schedule 40 galvanized steel pipe ready for the UniRac mounting system They also shot the elevation and cut each pipe to the proper height so that the relationship between the front row of pipes and the back row of pipes was set to receive the racking system and then the mounting rails would be at latitude for this site. We supplied the heights that were required. Many other uses for these screw piers. Pictures on their website Larry On Jan 26, 2009, at 1:48 AM, ASAP POWER! 2 wrote: Sounds like we gots to have it. Larry, any pics? If I assume correctly, these are literally screwing into the ground in place of a concrete footing. such that you can place/attach a structural or pipe column or its part of the screw. I can call some local rental yards and do some internet searching, but is there a brand name to the screw, driver, or a specialized 4WD unit? How many did you drive for 5.6kW? I had contacted the outfit that advertised on TV/web for a while a couple of years ago, but wasn't impressed, however, thought maybe with the right soil it could be exceptional tool for quick guy wire anchoring purposes for wind towers. This sounds like something more substantial. Thanks, Peter D. From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re- wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Larry Brown Sent: Sunday, January 25, 2009 5:58 PM To: RE-wrenches Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] helical screw piers Eric, We just used helical screw piers on a 5.6kw ground mount The site was difficult due to its slope and soft because the frost had come back out after some warm days There was an excellent chance that a concrete truck would have gotten stuck and a back hoe would have made a mess The 4 wheel drive unit that drives the helical screw piers had no trouble navigating the terrain, did no damage to the site, was in and out in less than a day. The piers were in two parallel rows and all were within 1/2 of our string, though that is in the skill of the operator In very rocky soil it might be more problematic Larry Brown Sun Mountain On Jan 25, 2009, at 8:05 PM, Eric Andrews wrote: Does anyone have any experience using Helical screw pier footing for ground mount racks? Eric ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches- re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] helical screw piers
Eric, We just used helical screw piers on a 5.6kw ground mount The site was difficult due to its slope and soft because the frost had come back out after some warm days There was an excellent chance that a concrete truck would have gotten stuck and a back hoe would have made a mess The 4 wheel drive unit that drives the helical screw piers had no trouble navigating the terrain, did no damage to the site, was in and out in less than a day. The piers were in two parallel rows and all were within 1/2 of our string, though that is in the skill of the operator In very rocky soil it might be more problematic Larry Brown Sun Mountain On Jan 25, 2009, at 8:05 PM, Eric Andrews wrote: Does anyone have any experience using Helical screw pier footing for ground mount racks? Eric ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re- wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Options settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
