Solar Lattice

Component

AC cable

ID
comp:ac-cable
IRI
https://solarlattice.org/kb/comp/ac-cable
Status
active
Also known as
Main AC cable

The AC cable carries the inverter's AC output. On some inverters it lands in an AC junction box, where the tracking system power cable is also connected. The AC connection is one of three main electrical connections at the inverter. The other two are the additional grounding connection and the PV string connection. When choosing an AC cable, consider grid impedance, voltage drop, ambient temperature, how the cable is laid, UV resistance and cable resistance over its length. Also check that the cable's outer diameter fits the inverter's AC terminals. The conductor can be copper, copper-clad aluminum or aluminum alloy. Aluminum connections should get an anti-oxidation grease coating. Wire gauge is set by NEC calculations and by the size limits of the terminal lugs. Insulation failure is listed as a failure mode of cables and interconnectors. For a grounding cable fault, first check that the AC cable is connected correctly. Then check the insulation between the ground cable and the live wire. A field failure survey lists the main AC cable among the system components outside the module that it tracks.

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