Hybrid inverter, what it is, how it works, selection criteria, connection, popular models – ElektrikExpert.ru

ГA hybrid inverter is a DC-to-AC converter that allows you to use solar panels and receive voltage from alternative sources.

It is a versatile tool in converting current and providing a reliable power supply.

Below we will consider what kind of device it is and how it works. We will analyze the differences from the BPP, equipment capabilities and popular models.

What is a hybrid inverter, principle of operation

Let’s start with the theoretical part and deal with the features of the equipment.

A hybrid inverter is a device that allows parallel use of voltage from sources of direct (DC) and alternating (AC) current. Priority is given to one source, and the second is “on the hook” and is connected in case of voltage loss.

The main function is to convert direct current into alternating current with further connection to the electrical network of the house for uninterrupted power supply.

The DC source can be a solar panel, a small hydroelectric power plant, a windmill, etc.

The principle of operation of hybrid equipment depends on the time of day:

1. Day. During this period, the sun’s energy enters the photocell, is converted into electricity and fed to the inverter for conversion. The output is a voltage that is most suitable for a household network. After that, the device feeds the electrical network of the house, charges the battery, and in case of excessive charge, it dumps the “excess” into the general network at the “green” tariff.
2. Evening night. Given the selected mode, the hybrid inverter supplies voltage to the house from the battery or from the household network.

Thanks to the switching of modes, round-the-clock supply of electricity to the household network without failures is ensured (even if one of the power sources is lost).

Depending on the model used, the hybrid inverter may have the following features:

• “mixing” energy from the battery;
• adding equipment capacity and power grid;
• adjustment of the frequency of the current at the output;
• connection of network photovoltaic inverters;
• automatic switching of the power supply circuit of consumers, etc.

Where applicable

The hybrid inverter is in demand in the household when it is necessary to reserve the main power source and ensure an uninterrupted supply of electricity.

More powerful equipment is used at power plants to supply electricity at a feed-in tariff.

Scope of application:

• green tariff;
• autonomous food at home;
• solar power plants with power up to 5000 W;
• responsible objects;
• small wind farms.

The scope of the hybrid inverter is constantly expanding, but it is limited by the high cost of equipment.

Hybrid type inverter

The peculiarity of the hybrid inverter is in the design features. A circuit is installed inside that allows you to convert a constant voltage and work in parallel with a source of electricity.

The device is connected in parallel to the voltage from the household network and the solar battery. Priority is given to the “green” tariff plan (direct current).

Features of hybrid inverter types:

1. Voltage supply. The device is a capacious battery with 100 percent efficiency. Excess electricity does not go anywhere, but is sold to the general network at a “green” tariff.
2. Continuity. In case of loss of power from any of the sources, the system is reconfigured to standalone mode. At the same time, consumers are reliably protected from voltage changes.
3. Increasing the network power limit at increased load. This can be achieved thanks to the timely connection of battery-inverter equipment.

In the event of a decrease in consumption, the device is transferred to a recharge so that after a while it will again give off voltage.

The principle of adding power is as follows:

1. If the power consumption is below the maximum limit, the battery is charged in parallel with the power supply to the house’s electrical receivers.
2. When power is lost, the voltage is taken from the battery, thanks to the conversion of the hybrid inverter.
3. If the load is higher than the maximum available power, the deficit is compensated by electricity from the solar panel.

Hybrid inverters support this principle of operation, which makes them one of the best solutions for uninterruptible power supply.

Differences from BBP

Beginning users, and even some consultants in stores, often confuse hybrid inverters and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).

Despite many similarities, these devices have many individual features.

The main differences:

1. BPP is an inverter with a built-in charger. Initially, the energy received from the photocells is consumed, and when it is deficient, the system is switched to mains power. In such a block there is no circuit that allows parallel use of electricity from the network and battery energy. They are designed for separate power supply and are transferred to another mode of operation in certain circumstances. The downside is that due to frequent switching, the battery wears out quickly. In addition, budget PSU models do not have the option of regulating the maximum voltage.
2. Hybrid inverters are more advanced equipment, devoid of such disadvantages. The device itself adjusts to the desired power and can work in parallel with different power sources. If desired, you can set the priority to AC or DC. In some models, you can limit the power from the household power supply.

Hybrid inverters compare favorably with BPP. They have a longer resource and are able to work in parallel from different sources, providing uninterrupted power.

Types and features

Hybrid inverters conditionally differ in several criteria – the shape of the signal and the number of phases. Let’s take a closer look at the features of each direction.

output waveform

There are three types of inverter according to the waveform:

1. Pure sine wave. At the output, an almost ideal curve is produced, which differs little from the shape of the sinusoid of a conventional network. This is the best solution when it is necessary to power expensive equipment such as compressors, boilers, electric motors and more.
2. Quasi-sine. Here, the output curve is not ideal, which can adversely affect the operation of some devices. As a rule, noise and interference appear, which in difficult cases lead to equipment failure. If motors (synchronous or asynchronous) are fed through a hybrid inverter, the power is reduced by about a third, and there are signs of overheating.

Quasi-sine devices are small in size and affordable. They are recommended for appliances that do not have inductive loads, such as incandescent lamps, heaters, etc. When buying, you need to look at the harmonic coefficient, which should be less than eight percent.

As for the last form (meander), it is almost never used. Its disadvantage is a sharp change in polarity, which may cause malfunctions and equipment damage.

By number of phases

The next criterion for hybrid inverters is the number of phases.

There are two options available here:

1. Single-phase. The output is 210-240 V. Used for a household network. Frequency – from 47 to 55 Hz, power from 0,3 to 5 kW. Available for batteries with a voltage of 12, 24 and 48 V. For proper operation, it is important to match the power of the device and the voltage of the solar battery.
2. Three-phase. Are applied to food of electric 3-phase motors in shops, the industry. They have power from 3 to 30 kW. Voltage – 220 or 400 V.

If desired, you can buy a combined version. A feature of the model is the ability to power a single or three-phase load due to phase shift.

Criterias of choice

The main question for many buyers is how to choose the right hybrid inverter. In order not to make a mistake in the purchase, it is important to consider several criteria.

Manufacturer

The first thing you need to pay attention to is the manufacturer of special equipment. In order to avoid premature breakdowns, it is advisable to buy models from trusted manufacturers.

Most Popular Brands:

• ABi-Solar10 (Taiwan).
• A-electronics (Russia, Novosibirsk), produces PROGRESS inverters.
• Altek (Ukraine).
• Axioma Energy (Ukraine).
• EYEN (China).
• Growatt (China).
• INVT (China).
• Logic Power (Ukraine).
• If the.
• MUST Power and others.

It is easy to find models from other manufacturers on sale – Sila, Sofar Solar, OPTI-Solar, Q-Power, Stark Pro, etc.

Power

When choosing a hybrid inverter, it is important to consider the maximum load on the network and the potential battery life. It is important to consider that in the starting mode, many devices consume more current. This is typical for refrigerators, stylish cars and other equipment with engines.

Power range from 500 W to 60 kW. For domestic purposes, low-power devices of 3-5 kW are sufficient.

Battery voltage

At the disposal of buyers are four options for hybrid inverters that differ in battery voltage – 12, 24, 48 and 384V. The first two are the most widely used. As for 48-volt and 348-volt devices, they are used in the industrial field.

Degree of protection

A reliable hybrid inverter must have several stages to protect the equipment.

The following options are currently available:

• forced cooling;
• prevention of ingress of moisture and dust;
• other types of protection.

The protection rating of the equipment is based on the IES 952 standard. For outdoor use, devices with an IP 65 rating are suitable. They are sufficiently durable, reliable and resistant to moisture.

Number of outputs

Models are available with one, two, double, quadro or triple outlets.

Controller type

On sale are hybrid inverters with two types of controllers – MPPT and PWM. The latter type is considered obsolete and rarely used. In terms of functionality and capabilities, it is inferior to MPRT, has a greater accuracy of algorithms and high work efficiency.

Operating temperature, weight and dimensions

When buying, pay attention to the temperature range declared by the manufacturer. This is especially important if you plan to install the hybrid inverter outdoors.

Another important factor is the weight of the product. It is believed that the more it weighs, the higher its quality, and the greater the power. A large mass indicates the presence of a converter in the equipment.

In lighter units, a simple transformer is installed, which can cause premature failure when applying inrush current.

Another parameter is the dimensions that must be taken into account when choosing a mounting location. When installing the product in a cabinet, coordinate its length, width and depth in advance.

Performance

Experts recommend taking inverters with an efficiency of 90% or more. Only with this parameter you can count on high efficiency. Losses of 10% are quite acceptable for solar energy.

Price

An important criterion is cost. Depending on the type and characteristics, this parameter is in the range from 10 to 300 thousand rubles or from 3700 to 125 thousand hryvnias. In order not to overpay for the goods, it is important to make a choice based on current needs.

Modern capabilities

In addition to the basic functions, hybrid inverters can perform a number of additional features.

Let’s highlight the main ones:

1. Mixing battery energy to power from a household network with priority selection.
2. Regulation of the frequency of the current at the output, taking into account the voltage of the battery.
3. Connecting a photovoltaic inverter to the network at the output.
4. Adding power to an existing network parameter.
5. Automatic transfer of power from the battery to the external network, taking into account the voltage on the DC source.
6. Combined interaction with a network converter.
7. Automatic addition of inverter power.
8. Selection of the most attractive current source.
9. Support for different types of batteries.
10. Battery charging time regulation.
11. Setting the voltage parameter.
12. Software update, etc. Many modern models can be connected to a computer for monitoring and programming.

Note that the presence of additional options affects the cost of the product.

Advantages and disadvantages

When choosing inverter equipment, you need to know its positive and negative qualities. For convenience, we summarize them in a table.

Popular Models

The modern market offers a large selection of hybrid inverters.

Let’s highlight some popular models:

1. Progress 48-6000-Hybrid is a reliable inverter for alternative power sources. It works autonomously with the ability to connect in parallel to a household network. It has a powerful charger up to 80 A. The manufacturer is A-electronics. Battery operating voltage from 38 to 67 V. Output U 200 – 240V. Efficiency 92%. Output overload protection and short circuit benefit are provided. There is a fuse in the battery circuit. There is a galvanic isolation. Weight – 4,6 kg. Power (long-term / starting) – 5 kW.
2. Progress 24-6000-Hybrid is another new generation model that can work in parallel with the network and offline. It is completed with a charger up to 100 A. The power of the device (long-term and starting) is 4 and 6 kW, respectively. The input and output voltage is 100-270 V and 19-33 V. The current consumption in sleep mode is 20 mA. The device operates with an efficiency of 92%. Dimensions are 11,5×14,5×42,5 cm, and weight – 4,6 kg. Output protection against short circuit and overload is provided. There is a fuse in the battery circuit for 160 A. There is a galvanic isolation.
3. Progress 12-5000-Hybrid is a high-quality hybrid-type inverter with the possibility of autonomous operation, including in parallel with the network. It has a power of 3 and 6 kW for long-term and starting characteristics. Connects to 100 to 270 VAC. Operating U from 9,5 to 16 V. Current consumption 20 mA. The device operates with an efficiency of 92%. Able to withstand temperatures from -40 to +40 degrees Celsius. There is protection of the output from overload and short circuit, as well as from overcharging the battery. Dimensions – 11,5×14,5×42,6 cm, weight – 4,2 kg.
4. IS2-24-300 is a product of SibKontakt. Not related to hybrid, but it is worth mentioning. The product is designed for input voltage from 21 to 30 V with the output of 220 V (50 Hz). The working power is 300W, and the maximum is 60W. Operating temperature from -40 to +40 degrees Celsius. Efficiency – 92%. Any equipment that can be powered from a household network can be connected to the device. There is protection against overvoltage, short circuit, overload and overheating. There is a power saving mode and from a full charge.
5. SILA PV 4000P is a solar hybrid inverter with a power of 4000 W, combining the options of a battery charge controller, an inverter and a charger for a 220 V battery. It operates in the voltage range from 180 to 270 V. Rated U is 48 V. Temperature range is from 0 up to +55 degrees Celsius. Dimensions – 46,8×29,75×12,5 cm.

If desired, you can choose other models – Solax X3-Hybrid-6.0-DE, Solax X1-1.1, Solax X3 20KW, Solax X1-Hybrid-3.7-DE, IS2-12-300, Sibvolt 4024 and others. The main thing is to carefully approach the study of characteristics.

What does AliExpress offer?

Those who like to save money can order a hybrid inverter on the AliExpress website. Here you can find devices in a wide price range from $40 to $400. When choosing, pay attention to the number of stars that are assigned to the equipment.

The following models received the highest mark:

1. EASUN POWE is a 3kVA 24V/220V hybrid solar inverter with 50A built-in charger.
2. 5KVA 4000W is a 220VAC pure sine wave product. Built-in PWM 48V, 50A.
3. EASUN – for 24 VDC up to 230Vac, 24 volts. Equipped with MPPT 3.2kV, 24V. Hybrid, 80A.
4. EASUN MPPT – 2,4kW, 3kVA, 24V/220V, pure sine wave, built-in 60A MPPT.
5. EASUN 5000 W – hybrid solar inverter 48 V, 230 V.

When choosing, pay attention to the characteristics and user reviews about the seller.

There are models that are controlled via the Internet via Wi-Fi.

connection

Depending on the configuration and equipment, the following connection schemes can be selected.

With DC charge controller

The essence of the scheme is to recharge the battery through the MPPT controller. Here, a converter is used that supports the transfer of energy to the network or load if Uacb is greater than the set parameter.

The advantage of the solution lies in the efficiency of using alternative energy with frequent on / off.

The second point is the ability to connect a solar battery after the battery is discharged.

With mains or hybrid converter

Here, a network-type converter is mounted on the terminals of the inverter battery. In this case, both converters are connected to different solar power sources.

The hybrid converter is connected to the photovoltaic cell to charge the battery, and the network is combined with the main solar battery module.

Features:

• the need to adjust the network inverter;
• uninterrupted power supply regardless of mains voltage;
• battery charge from the terminals;
• battery operation on the buffer principle, which prolongs their life.

The total power of the network device must be less than the power of the hybrid device. In this case, it is easier to recycle electricity from solar panels when the battery is discharged and the power is turned off.

General points:

1. The length of the wires for direct current should not exceed three meters. If necessary, it is better to increase the AC connection.
2. The optimal installation of the inverter is at eye level. This makes the data on the screen easier to see.
3. The device must not be installed in a box made of combustible materials.

If the inverter has a power greater than 0,5kW, it is important to ensure the rigidity of the connection between the product and the wires.

So what to choose

The range of converters is wide enough to make the right decision.

In addition to the popular models already listed above, we will give a few more options for different purposes.

House:

1. AXIOMA energy IS-800 is a single-phase hybrid with an efficiency of 98%, voltage range 140 – 275V, output U 220V ± 3% and frequency 50/60 ± 0,3 Hz, rated power 0.5 kW. Battery voltage 12V. China.
2. Solis RHI-5K-48ES – input U 330V, output 220V, battery voltage 48V, power 0.5 kW, operating range 90-520V. China.
3. Stark InfiniSolar 3kW – input range U 250-450/170-280V, output 208/220/230/240V. Power 3 kW, battery voltage 48V. China.
4. Imeon Energy IMEON6 – efficiency 95.5%, input range U 120-450V, output 220V, battery voltage 48V. France.
5. Fronius Symo GEN24 3.6 plus – Power 3.6 kW, efficiency 97,6%, nominal input voltage 400V, supported range from 80 to 1000V, output – 220V. The country of origin is Austria.
6. FSP Library MKS 2000VA – power 1.6 kW, input U 170 – 280V, interfaces DB9 / RS-232 (COM), USB, output signal form “Sinusoid”. Country of origin China (Taiwan).

Country house:

1. IR 5048 5 kW – single-phase, power 5 kW, input U 155 – 272 V, output 220V, weight 43 kg. Country of origin – China.
2. GROWATT HYBRID 10000 HYP – power 10 kW, charging current 2000A, battery voltage 48V, efficiency 96%.
3. SILA V 1000P (PF0) – charge current 50A, settings and monitoring from a PC, output power 1 kW (2 kW for a short time), input voltage 90 – 280V, output 230 ± 5%.

Business:

• FSP Xpert Solar 3000VA PWM – power 2.4 kW, starting – 4.8 kW, charge current 50A, input U 170 – 280V, efficiency 93%, battery voltage 24V.
• VL MPPT BF 5000 W – output power 5 kW (maximum short-term – 10 kW), efficiency 98.5%, U battery 48V, charge current 80A, U no-load solar panels 5000V, output U 230V. China.
• Victron Energy Quattro 48/8000/110 – power 6.5 kW (peak 16 kW), input U from 187 to 265V, output – 230 ± 2% V. Battery voltage 48V. The country of origin is the Netherlands.

If you have difficulty finding a suitable model, you can contact an expert in an online store or a regular outlet.

Results

A hybrid inverter is a reliable equipment that allows you to organize uninterrupted power at home, in a country house or in a business using alternative power sources.

The main thing is to be careful when choosing a device so as not to make a mistake with the characteristics, and study the recommendations for connecting equipment.