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Solar Inverters are electronic products, limited by the internal electronic components, inevitably have a certain lifespan. The lifespan of an inverter is determined by the quality of the product, the installation and usage environment, and subsequent operation and maintenance. So how can one extend the lifespan of an inverter throughcorrect installation, usage, and later operation and maintenance?
Solar Inverters' internal temperature is the most important factor affecting the lifespan of an inverter. High temperatures can degrade the performance and lifespan of components, with internal capacitors being a key factor. There is a simple principle: the ten-degree rule, which states that for every 10 degrees decrease in ambient temperature, the lifespan of the capacitor doubles; for every 10 degrees increase, the lifespan halves.
Improper matching of the inverter's input voltage and current parameters can also affect the Solar Inverter's lifespan. The higher the voltage or current internal components are subjected to, the shorter their lifespan. Taking the MAX 100-125KTL3-X series inverter as an example, this series operates within an input voltage range of 200-1000V. Within this range, the inverter can function, but with the same input power from panels, too low input voltage will result in too high current, nearing a critical state, and too high voltage will result in lower current but nearing a critical voltage state. This condition not only affects the inverter's power generation efficiency but also its lifespan. Therefore, it's generally recommended to set the string input operational voltage around the rated voltage of 600V, considering the electrical characteristics under NOCT conditions, to balance the inverter's efficiency and lifespan at about 650V.
The external operating environment of the inverter is also an important factor affecting its lifespan. Currently, the protection level of market-available string inverters can reach IP65, even IP66, which are dustproof, rainproof, and capable of resisting salt fog corrosion, suitable for harsh external environments. However, in places with severe pollution or high amounts of dust, dirty deposits on the radiator can affect its function, and dust, leaves, sand, and other fine particles can enter the inverter's airway, affecting cooling and thereby lifespan. In such cases, periodically cleaning theSolar Inverters or radiator fans of dirt is particularly important to maintain good cooling conditions.
Once solar inverters are shipped in large quantities, after numerous quality inspections, their design lifespan is nearly the same, hence system design, installation, and later operation and maintenance are the key factors. To extend the actual lifespan of inverters, on one hand, a good operating environment should be created to protect them from wind, sun exposure, and rain; on the other hand, regular inspection should be carried out to keep the cooling airways clear to avoid de-rating due to overheating and other faults.