Glossary

Inverter

A device that converts the direct current (DC) generated by photovoltaic modules or batteries into alternating current (AC) that can be used in the power grid or for household appliances.

 

MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking)

A technology for optimizing the energy yield of PV modules. MPPT systems continuously monitor the voltage and current of the PV modules to determine and adjust the maximum power point.

 

Efficiency

Ratio of output to input power, i.e. the proportion of incoming energy that is converted into usable alternating current by an inverter. High efficiency means lower losses when converting DC to AC.

 

Battery inverter

A special inverter developed to convert the energy from batteries into alternating current, which is then used to operate household appliances or to feed into the power grid.

 

Direct current

(DC) Direct current (DC) is a type of electric current that flows constantly in one direction. It is often used in batteries, solar cells and electronic devices.

 

Alternating current

(AC) Alternating current (AC) is a form of electrical energy in which the direction of current and voltage change periodically. It is often used in households and industrial applications.

 

Sine wave

A sine wave is the ideal form of an alternating current that shows a uniform and symmetrical change in voltage. Inverters strive to produce this form.

 

Harmonics

are frequencies that are integer multiples of the fundamental frequency of an alternating current. They can impair the efficiency of inverters and cause undesirable distortions.

 

Rated power

The rated power of an inverter is the maximum power that it can deliver continuously without being damaged. It is important for selecting the right inverter.

 

Overvoltage protection

This function protects inverters from sudden voltage peaks caused by lightning strikes or grid faults. It prevents damage to electrical components.

 

Transformer

A transformer is an electrical device that converts alternating current voltages between different levels. In inverters, a transformer is used to adapt the voltage to the required levels. The transformer enables the transmission of electrical energy with minimal losses by adapting the voltage to the specific requirements of the power grid. This optimizes the feed-in of solar or wind power.

 

PWM (pulse width modulation)

Pulse width modulation (PWM) is a technique for controlling the output voltage and power of an inverter. It works by varying the length of the pulses in a specific time frame to change the effective voltage. By adjusting the pulse widths, precise control of the output power is achieved, resulting in high efficiency and better maintenance of the sine wave. PWM is crucial for modern inverter designs.

 

Grid connection

The grid connection connects the inverter to the power grid. It enables the electricity generated, for example from solar systems, to be fed into the public grid.

 

Grid frequency

The grid frequency is the frequency of the alternating current in the power grid, typically 50 Hz or 60 Hz. Inverters must comply with this frequency in order to work correctly.

 

Actuator

An actuator is a component used in inverters to regulate the output power or voltage. It influences the power adjustment to the demand.

 

Load management

Load management includes strategies for optimizing energy consumption by adapting the power of the inverter to the actual demand in order to increase efficiency and costs.

 

Rectifier

A rectifier is an electronic component that generates direct current from alternating current. In inverters, the rectifier is used to convert PV or wind generator power into direct current before it is converted back into alternating current. Rectifiers play an essential role in the conversion process as they convert energy from renewable sources into a form suitable for connection to the grid. They are often part of inverter systems.

 

Capacitor

A capacitor is a passive component that stores electrical energy. Capacitors are used in inverters to ensure voltage uniformity and smoothing of the output voltage. They help to reduce voltage fluctuations and improve efficiency. The placement of capacitors in the circuit can help optimize the performance of inverters by contributing to the stability of the grid current and dampening transient responses.

 

Control unit

The control unit of an inverter is a microcontroller or a digital control unit for monitoring and controlling the operation of the system. It regulates the conversion between direct current and alternating current, optimizes load matching and ensures safe operating modes. It also enables communication with external systems for remote monitoring. An effective control unit increases efficiency and protects against faults and overloads.

 

Cooling system

A cooling system is crucial for the operation of inverters to prevent overheating that could affect performance. It consists of fans, cooling fins and sometimes liquid cooling. These systems dissipate waste heat and ensure that the inverter remains within its optimum operating temperature. An effective cooling system helps to extend the life of the components and maximize the efficiency of the inverter.

 

Protective circuit

Protective circuits are safety mechanisms in inverters that protect against overload, short circuit, overtemperature and overvoltage. They enable automatic shutdown and fault management to prevent damage to the electrical components. These circuits play an important role in ensuring the operational safety and reliability of the inverter. They continuously monitor the condition of the components and react quickly to unexpected conditions.