SMA MULTICLUSTER BOX 36 User manual

MC-BOX-36-IA-IEN105010 | IMEN-MC-BOX-36 | Version 1.0
EN
Sunny Island Multicluster System
MULTICLUSTER BOX 36
Installation Guide

SMA Solar Technology AG Table of Contents
Installation Guide MC-BOX-36-IA-IEN105010 3
Table of Contents
1 Notes on this Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.1 Validity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.2 Target Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.3 Additional Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.4 Symbols Used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2 Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.1 Appropriate usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.2 Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.3 Explanation of Symbols on the Type Label. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3 Delivery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.1 Scope of delivery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.1.1 Multicluster Box. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.1.2 Multicluster Piggy-Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3.2 Identifying the Multicluster Box. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
4.1 Choosing the installation site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
4.2 Transport. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.2.1 Transport Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.2.2 Transporting the Multicluster Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.3 Mounting the Multicluster Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
5 Electrical Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5.1 Overview of the Connection Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5.1.1 Connection terminals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5.1.2 Cable entries in the floor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
5.1.3 Grounding bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
5.2 Inserting the cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Table of Contents SMA Solar Technology AG
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5.3 Connecting the cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
5.3.1 Connecting the generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
5.3.2 Connecting Consumer Loads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
5.3.3 Connecting the PV Plant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
5.3.4 Connecting the Sunny Island. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
5.3.5 Grounding the Sunny Island Multicluster System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
5.4 Communication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.4.1 Inserting the cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.4.2 Connecting the control and measurement cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.4.3 Connecting the communication cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
6 Commissioning the Multicluster Box. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
7 Opening and closing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
7.1 Opening the Multicluster Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
7.2 Removing Protection against Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
7.3 Mounting Protection against Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
7.4 Closing the Multicluster Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
8 Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
9 Decommissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
9.1 Dismantling the Multicluster Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
9.2 Storing the Multicluster Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
9.3 Disposing of the Multicluster Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
10 Technical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
11 Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

SMA Solar Technology AG Notes on this Guide
Installation Guide MC-BOX-36-IA-IEN105010 5
1 Notes on this Guide
This guide describes the assembly and installation of the Multicluster Box. Keep this guide in a
convenient place for future reference.
1.1 Validity
This guide is valid for the Multicluster Box of type MC-BOX-36.3.
1.2 Target Group
The tasks described in this guide may only be carried out by electrically qualified persons who have
been trained on off-grid systems by SMA Solar Technology AG.
1.3 Additional Information
The enclosed Technical Description "Multicluster Box 36" serves as an installation aid and contains
the following information:
• A detailed diagram of the wiring of the generator, loads, PV plant, Sunny Island and battery.
• A detailed diagram of the communications wiring
• A system overview of the Multicluster Box
• The layout of the fuses in the Multicluster Box
• Definitions of terms that describe SMA Multicluster technology
You can find more information on the SMA Multicluster technology and the configurable parameters
of the Sunny Island in the Sunny Island 5048 manual.

Notes on this Guide SMA Solar Technology AG
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1.4 Symbols Used
The following types of safety instructions and general information are used in this manual:
DANGER!
"DANGER" indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury!
WARNING!
"WARNING" indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury!
CAUTION!
"CAUTION" indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or
moderate injury!
NOTICE!
"NOTICE" indicates a situation that can result in property damage, if not avoided!
Information
Information provides tips that are valuable for the optimal installation and operation of
your product.

SMA Solar Technology AG Safety
Installation Guide MC-BOX-36-IA-IEN105010 7
2 Safety
2.1 Appropriate usage
The Multicluster Box is a component of the SMA Multicluster technology. It is used to set up stand-
alone grids with several Sunny Island 5048. The Multicluster Box is an AC main distributor. You can
connect the Sunny Island devices, the loads, the generator or the grid and a further generator to the
Multicluster Box, e.g. a PV plant or a small wind turbine system.
Connection requirements
The Multicluster Box is designed for connection to TN grids. The Multicluster Box must be
grounded before commissioning (see section 5.3.5”Grounding the Sunny Island
Multicluster System” (page27)).

Safety SMA Solar Technology AG
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Principle of the SMA Multicluster technology with an MC-BOX-36.3
You may operate the Multicluster Box only in conjunction with off-grid inverters of the type
Sunny Island 5048.
Do not exceed the maximum AC connection power of the Multicluster Box of 300 kW each at an
ambient temperature of 25 °C for PV plants, generator and loads.
The Multicluster Box is designed for use at altitudes of up to 2 000 m above sea level. If you wish to
use the Multicluster Box at altitudes above 2 000 m, contact SMA Solar Technology AG (see section
11”Contact” (page40)).

SMA Solar Technology AG Safety
Installation Guide MC-BOX-36-IA-IEN105010 9
2.2 Safety Instructions
2.3 Explanation of Symbols on the Type Label
DANGER!
Danger to life due to high voltages in the Multicluster Box.
• Any work on the Multicluster Box must be carried out by a trained electrically skilled
person.
• Any work on the Multicluster Box must be carried out as described in this guide.
• All listed safety instructions must be observed.
Problems while performing the described activities
Should you encounter problems while performing the activities described in this guide,
contact SMA Solar Technology AG (see section 11”Contact” (page40)).
Icon Explanation
Do not dispose of the Multicluster Box or its components with domestic
waste. For more information on disposal, see section 9.3”Disposing of the
Multicluster Box” (page36).
CE mark.
The Multicluster Box complies with the requirements of the applicable EC
guidelines.
Protection rating IP54.
The Multicluster Box is protected against dust deposits in the interior and
splashes of water from all angles.

Delivery SMA Solar Technology AG
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3 Delivery
3.1 Scope of delivery
Check that the delivery is complete. Check the packaging and the Multicluster Box for visible external
damage. Contact your supplier in case of damage to the packaging. Contact your dealer if you find
any damage or if any parts are missing.
3.1.1 Multicluster Box
Object Number Description
A 1 Multicluster Box
B 1 Switch cabinet key
C 1 Communication cable: 10 m, black
D 3 Control and measurement cable: 10 m each, red
E 30 15 x cable clamp and 15 x opposite sleeve (26 mm … 30 mm)
F 1 Installation Guide
G 1 Technical Description
H 2 Set of adhesive web for labeling cables

SMA Solar Technology AG Delivery
Installation Guide MC-BOX-36-IA-IEN105010 11
3.1.2 Multicluster Piggy-Back
The number of Multicluster Piggy-Back, RJ45 cables and termination resistors delivered depends on
your order option.
3.2 Identifying the Multicluster Box
You can identify the Multicluster Box by means of the type label. The type label is to be found on the
right-hand side of the enclosure.
On the type label you will find the model (Type), the serial number (Serial No.) and the article number
(Art No.) of the Multicluster Box as well as device-specific characteristics.
Object Number Description
A 2 – 12 Multicluster Piggy-Back
B 1 – 11 RJ45 cable (5 m, yellow)
C 4 – 24 RJ45 cable (5 m, gray)
D2–12Grounding cable
E 4 – 24 Termination resistor
F 1 Technical Description

Installation SMA Solar Technology AG
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4 Installation
4.1 Choosing the installation site
Observe the following conditions for installation:
• Install the product on a solid surface, e.g. a concrete base
• The installation site must be accessible at all times
• Comply with requirements concerning minimum passage widths and escape routes
• Installation is vertical
Properties of the foundation
The foundation must ensure that the Multicluster Box sits firmly and securely. When selecting the
foundation, take the weight of the Multicluster Box (400 kg) into account. Install the Multicluster Box
on a level surface. Make sure you remove any unevenness or depressions before installation.
DANGER!
Danger to life due to fire or explosion.
Despite careful construction, electrical devices can cause fires.
• Do not install the Multicluster Box on flammable construction materials.
• Do not install the Multicluster Box in areas which contain flammable substances.
• Do not install the Multicluster Box in potentially explosive areas.

SMA Solar Technology AG Installation
Installation Guide MC-BOX-36-IA-IEN105010 13
4.2 Transport
4.2.1 Transport Options
The Multicluster Box is delivered on a pallet. You may use the following means of transport to lift the
Multicluster Box from the pallet:
• Forklift or pallet truck
• Crane with appropriate fork
WARNING!
Risk of injury due to the heavy weight of the Multicluster Box.
• The means of transportation must be adequate for the weight of the Multicluster Box.
• The Multicluster Box must only be transported standing.
• Pay attention to the center of gravity of the Multicluster Box.
The center of gravity of the Multicluster Box is located approximately in the center of
the cabinet.

Installation SMA Solar Technology AG
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4.2.2 Transporting the Multicluster Box
1. Remove all fastening screws from the base panels in the front and rear.
2. Place the screws aside. The screws will be needed later to reattach the base panels.
3. Remove the base panels and set them aside.
4. Slide the fork of the lift, pallet truck or crane underneath the Multicluster Box and transfer the
Multicluster Box to the installation site.

SMA Solar Technology AG Installation
Installation Guide MC-BOX-36-IA-IEN105010 15
4.3 Mounting the Multicluster Box
Fasten the Multicluster Box to the foundation by its base.
1. Mark the position of the drill holes for fastening the base.
2. Drill holes at the marked positions.
3. Insert the wall anchors.
4. Place the Multicluster Box on the foundation. To do this, use a fork-lift truck, crane or pallet truck.
5. Attach the Multicluster Box to the foundation with four suitable bolts.
☑ The Multicluster Box is mounted.

Electrical Connection SMA Solar Technology AG
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5 Electrical Connection
5.1 Overview of the Connection Area
5.1.1 Connection terminals

SMA Solar Technology AG Electrical Connection
Installation Guide MC-BOX-36-IA-IEN105010 17
5.1.2 Cable entries in the floor
Object Description
A Fuse-switch-disconnector "=MC-F1 Generator" for connecting the generator
(L1, L2, L3)
B Connection terminal "=MC-X1" for connecting the generator (N)
C Connection terminal "=MC-X2" for connecting the loads (N)
D Fuse-switch-disconnector "=MC-F2 Loads" for connecting the loads (L1, L2, L3)
E Connection terminals "MC-X3 PV System" for connecting the PV plant
F Line circuit breakers for the Sunny Island devices
G Connection terminals PE, N and L for connecting the Sunny Island
H Grounding bar for PE connection of generator, loads, PV plant and
Sunny Island
I RJ45 sockets for connecting the control, measurement and communication
cables
Object Number Description
A 5 Double membrane seal for entry of the generator connection
cables
B 5 Double membrane seal for entry of the connection cables for the
loads
C 5 Double membrane seal for entry of PV plant connection cables
D 2 Cable sleeve for control, measurement and communications
cables
E 36 Double membrane seal for entry of Sunny Island connection
cables

Electrical Connection SMA Solar Technology AG
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5.1.3 Grounding bar
5.2 Inserting the cables
Insert the AC cables in the Multicluster Box according to the following instructions. Insert the control,
measurement and communications cables as described in section 5.4”Communication” (page28).
1. Open the Multicluster Box (see section 7.1”Opening the Multicluster Box” (page32)).
2. Remove the front and center sliding panels from the Multicluster Box.
3. Select the corresponding double membrane seal for introducing the cable and remove it from
the floor.
4. Pierce the double membrane seal with a sharp object. The opening must not be too large.
5. Insert the cable in the Multicluster Box.
6. Slide the double membrane seal over the cable.
7. Strip the cable to suit the terminal lug.
8. Fit a terminal lug to the stripped cable. This does not apply to the Sunny Island cables.
9. Label the Sunny Island cables using the adhesive web included in the delivery.
☑ The cable is now ready for connection.
10. Place the double membrane seal in the floor panel again.
11. Mount the cable in the cable support rail. Use the cable clamps and opposite sleeves provided
for this purpose.
Mounting the cable in the support rail serves to reduce the strain from pulling on the cable at
the connection point.
Object Description
APE connection of generator
BPE connection of loads
CPE connection of PV plant

SMA Solar Technology AG Electrical Connection
Installation Guide MC-BOX-36-IA-IEN105010 19
5.3 Connecting the cables
5.3.1 Connecting the generator
You can connect a 3-phase generator to the Multicluster Box. However, you also have the option of
connecting it to the power distribution grid.
The phases L1, L2, and L3 are routed through fuse-switch-disconnectors in the Multicluster Box. The
fuse links are designed for a nominal current of 435 A.
Establish the necessary fuse rating based on the wiring on the cable and the installation conditions,
and then use the appropriate fuse links. The maximum size of fuse links permissible in each case are
factory-installed in the fuse-switch-disconnector.
Cable Requirements
• The insulated conductor diameter must be selected based on the rated output power of the
generator.
• If the generator is not equipped with an output fuse, the cable is grounded and secured against
short-circuits.
• For longer cables, an additional fuse box is installed close to the generator.
Wiring overview
You will find a wiring overview of the entire Multicluster System in the Technical Description
included in the scope of delivery.
Torques of the connection terminals
When connecting the cables, you must observe the torque of each connecting terminal as
specified in section 10”Technical Data” (page37).
Plexiglas cover as protection against contact
The Multicluster Box is designed with protection against accidental contact. A Plexiglas
cover over the terminals serves as protection against contact.
• Remove the Plexiglas cover before performing any work on the Multicluster Box (see
section 7.2”Removing Protection against Contact” (page33)).
• After performing work on the Multicluster Box, mount the Plexiglas cover again (see
section 7.3”Mounting Protection against Contact” (page33)).
Output fuse of the generator has an impact on the design of the cable in the PV
plant.
Note that the output fuse of the generator influences the design of the cable in the PV plant
(see section 5.3.3”Connecting the PV Plant” (page23)).

Electrical Connection SMA Solar Technology AG
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Connection procedure
1. Insert the cables in the Multicluster Box (see section 5.2”Inserting the cables” (page18)).
2. Turn the handle on the fuse holder downwards.
3. With both hands, lift the fuse holder up at the
anchorage and pull it out.
4. Loosen screws on the cover of the connection
terminals L1, L2 and L3, and remove the cover.
5. Connect PE to the grounding bar (see section 5.1.3”Grounding bar” (page18)).
6. Carefully raise the cover of connection terminal "MC-X1".
7. Connect N to the "MC-X1" connection terminal according to the label.
8. Carefully lower the connection terminal "MC-X1".