DC isolators and RC62

The RISC document RC62 asks installers to carefully consider the need for DC isolators. It is not unreasonable for insurers to insist that the additional risk associated with the devices is appropriately assessed. This is one of two 100Kw inverters. They are both housed in a purpose-built concrete block structure abutting a large door manufacturing plant so fire spread may be reasonably controlled. However, do we really need to have an isolator on each string. Likely done this way as it connects to the individual MPPT inputs?

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  • Does the inverter have a built in DC Isolator and pluggable connectors out to the strings. If yes, then I'd question the need to fit additional isolators.

  • Well the unit has two “DC Switches” as labelled in the product bumf. Whether they are “disconnectors” or “isolating switches” in 7671 speak, I am not sure. It might be advantageous for several reasons to have the DC isolators (in coal face speak), but that needs to be weighed against the desire to mitigate against fire as per insurance provider recommendations. Not something that can be dismissed lightly!


    By the way, it never ceases to amaze me how good some YouTube presenters are. Whilst top of my list is Joe Robinson, there is a fella called Gordon who also has a very special talent in presenting!

  • Thanks for the feedback.  I'll let Joe know! -  I have made a video on this topic https://youtu.be/2BBCclJuM4I?si=TbZdh106nul-7gvz.  In practice rarely see DC isolators on commercial solar projects. 

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