High-Frequency Interleaved Booster
Ask an Electrical Engineer this…
Q: Can I run a 3-phase (180v AC) motor/pump with a single 36v (300w) DC solar panel?
A: Unless they are using an SMS controller and motor/pump the answer is; No! – because this is the ONLY pump system on the planet that can run a 0.5HP AC motor with ONLY one 300w panel!
How can a single panel producing 36volts run a 180volt motor?
It's not magic, it's advanced algorithms! Solar Motor Controllers include our proprietary High Frequency Interleaved Booster technology that increase the voltage that is fed to the motor – enabling fewer panels (as few as one 300w) to simulate the output of many more (compare with other systems requiring up to 10 panels!).
The primary challenge with all solar powered devices is managing the fluctuations of input power (dawn, dusk and shadowing). In low light conditions, when other systems fail to start or simply shut down – an SMC controlled motor keeps running.
SMS systems do this by dynamically monitoring the available light and recalculating for the compensated run sequence. SMS controllers automatically adjust the motor to a revised speed and torque based on the available light. When sunlight falls below the critical minimum (nighttime) the motor shuts down and automatically restarts when the minimal required light is again available (dawn). The system's closed-loop controls operate automatically and with more precision to maximize motor operation and performance.
Other controllers run 3-phase motors using solar power, but SMS controlled systems are the ONLY ones that merge the performance and durability of 3-phase motors with ease and cost effectiveness of fewer panels!
Is this technology only in the controller?
Both. The Solar Motor Controller is the brains of the system – maximizing solar DC input and delivering clean AC power for 3-phase devices. SMS controllers can run practically any off-the-shelf 3-phase (AC) motor. SMS DC-to-AC controllers run motors and pumps up to 10HP. Larger sizes coming in Q3 2015.
Our 0.5HP motor and 0.5HP surface water pumps are the first release in a product line specifically designed to run on solar power. Larger sizes and other pump configurations (ex: well pumps) available later in 2015. These units are design for commercial/industrial-grade applications and are tailored to maximize the unique efficiencies of SMS controllers.
Why is this advanced technology necessary?
Solar power is a variable energy source. When shadowing occurs a solar panel's voltage output fluctuates. These variations in current are bad for motors – they can cause them to run hotter, which reduces their efficiency and shortens their lifespan. It also forces the motor into more stop/start cycles and the reduces performance, ie; the volume of water pump
We eliminate these issues with advanced features including; soft-start technology, speed and torque control, overheat protection, overload protection, over-voltage protection, and the ability to reverse the motor (useful with fans, not recommended with pumps). And by stabilizing the voltage (conditioning the output) the unit produces clean, safe AC power for quieter, smoother, low-heat operation. Not only do motors/pumps run better and last longer, they do more work each day because they keep running – even with partial shadowing!
The breakthrough game changer however is the High Frequency Interleaved Booster technology because it enables you to do the same job with SIGNIFICANTLY fewer panels. Our SMS 0.5HP Surface Water Pump System (up to 660GPH) runs with ONLY 2 panels vs. as many as 10 panels with other systems. This reduces the footprint and saves money in two ways; Less upfront cost (fewer panels) and more production over time since high-efficiency 3-phase motors typically last longer than DC or single phase options.
Our scientific breakthrough = a lower cost solution for you
The convenience of anywhere solar power just got better:
- Saves money – Lower upfront cost, longer life and increased performance
- More convenience – Smaller footprint, using standard connections assembles in minutes*
- Saves time – Automatic management monitors the system
- Lasts longer – Motors/pumps run quieter, smoother and with less heat
- Get more work done – Motors/pumps start earlier in the day and run later
*Always use a Certified Electrician for electrical work! Follow US National Electric Codes (NEC2011) for installation guidelines and restrictions to conform to local electrical codes. For a certified professional it's an easy setup.
Learn more about these components…
Solar Motor Controllers
Solar Motor Systems SMC-Series motor controllers run high-efficiency 3-phase motors with fewer panels – even in low light conditions. The units are compact and durable and connect to any standard PV solar panels. The system accepts a variety of panel formats – 100w and up. A Certified SMS installer can assist you to identify the panels that will work best for your situation. Read more
SMS Solar Pump
This specially designed AC motor/pump is compact, durable and easy to set up. When combined with an SMS controller and a few panels it provides commercial/industrial-grade performance – up to 660GPH – in several configuration options. And it costs less than comparable pumps! Read more
