Sungrow SG500MX User manual

SG500MX-OEN-Ver11-201511
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SG500MX
PVGrid-ConnectedInverter
OperationManual

I
Contents
1About this Manual............................................................................1
1.1Foreword.......................................................................................................................................1
1.2Validity ...........................................................................................................................................1
1.3Contents........................................................................................................................................1
1.4Target Group................................................................................................................................1
1.5How to Use This Manual...........................................................................................................1
1.6Symbols Explanation ................................................................................................................2
1.7Symbols on the Inverter Body ...............................................................................................2
2Safety Instructions...........................................................................4
2.1Intended Usage ..........................................................................................................................4
2.2Important Safety Instructions................................................................................................4
2.3During Operation.......................................................................................................................5
2.3.1 Manual.................................................................................................................................5
2.3.2 Qualified Personnel.........................................................................................................5
2.3.3 Markings on the Inverter...............................................................................................5
2.3.4 Safety Warning Signs......................................................................................................6
2.3.5 Emergency Escape Route..............................................................................................6
2.3.6 PV Arrays Hazards............................................................................................................6
2.3.7 Live Line Measurement .................................................................................................6
2.3.8 Measuring Instrument ...................................................................................................6
2.3.9 LCD Parameter Setting...................................................................................................7
2.3.10 ESD Protection ...............................................................................................................7
2.3.11 Moisture protection .....................................................................................................7
2.3.12 Maintenance and Service...........................................................................................7
2.3.13 Disposal of Waste ..........................................................................................................7
2.3.14 Others ...............................................................................................................................8
3Product Description.........................................................................9
3.1Product Appearance .................................................................................................................9
3.1.1 Brief Introduction ............................................................................................................9
3.1.2 LED Indicators...................................................................................................................9
3.1.3 LCD Display..................................................................................................................... 10
3.1.4 Emergency Stop Button .............................................................................................10

II
3.1.5 Start/Stop Switch.......................................................................................................... 10
3.2Communication Solution..................................................................................................... 11
3.2.1 RS485 Communication Solution ............................................................................. 11
3.2.2 Ethernet Communication Solution ........................................................................ 12
4Inverter Start/Stop ........................................................................ 13
4.1Starting the Inverter............................................................................................................... 13
4.1.1 Inspection before starting the inverter................................................................. 13
4.1.2 Steps to Starting the Inverter................................................................................... 13
4.2Stopping the Inverter............................................................................................................ 13
4.2.1 Normal Stop ................................................................................................................... 14
4.2.2 Inverter Stops when a fault occurs......................................................................... 14
5Operation Mode............................................................................. 15
5.1Mode Change........................................................................................................................... 15
5.2Operation Modes.................................................................................................................... 15
6LCD Menu Operation..................................................................... 18
6.1LCD Touch Screen ................................................................................................................... 18
6.2Default Screen.......................................................................................................................... 18
6.2.1 Initialization.................................................................................................................... 18
6.2.2 Default Screen Introduction ..................................................................................... 19
6.2.3 Backlight and Screensaver ........................................................................................ 19
6.3Overview of LCD Menu and Icon....................................................................................... 19
6.3.1 Overview of Submenu and Icon.............................................................................. 19
6.3.2 Layout of the submenus ............................................................................................ 20
6.4Entering Password.................................................................................................................. 20
6.5Language Setting ................................................................................................................... 21
6.6Date and Time Setting........................................................................................................... 22
6.7Running Information Checking ......................................................................................... 22
6.8History Information Checking ............................................................................................ 23
6.8.1 History Event Checking.............................................................................................. 24
6.8.2 History Data Checking................................................................................................ 24
6.8.3 History Fault Checking ............................................................................................... 24
6.8.4 History Alarm Checking ............................................................................................. 25
6.9Present Fault Information Checking................................................................................. 25
6.10Starting/Stopping the Inverter.............................................................................. 26
6.10.1 Starting the Inverter ................................................................................................. 26
6.10.2 Stopping the Inverter............................................................................................... 26
6.11Energy Output Deviation Adjustment................................................................ 26

III
6.12Load Default................................................................................................................. 27
6.13Firmware Version Checking ....................................................................................27
7Parameters of LCD..........................................................................28
7.1Communication Parameters................................................................................................28
7.1.1 Serial Port Parameter Setting....................................................................................28
7.1.2 Ethernet Parameter Setting.......................................................................................29
7.2Running Parameters............................................................................................................... 29
7.2.1 Setting Running Parameters.....................................................................................29
7.2.2 Description of Running Parameters .......................................................................29
7.3Protection Parameter.............................................................................................................30
7.3.1 Setting Protection Parameter................................................................................... 30
7.3.2 Description of Protection Parameters ...................................................................31
8Inverter Functions..........................................................................34
8.1Perfect Control Strategy........................................................................................................34
8.2Active Power Limitation........................................................................................................34
8.2.1 Active Power Limitation Introduction ...................................................................34
8.2.2 How to Realize Power Limitation ............................................................................35
8.3Reactive Power Adjustment ................................................................................................35
8.4LVRT .............................................................................................................................................36
8.5High Voltage Ride Through (HVRT)................................................................................... 36
8.6Temperature Derating........................................................................................................... 37
8.7MPPT............................................................................................................................................ 38
8.8Intelligent Temperature-Control Technology................................................................ 38
8.9Anti-PID Effect Function (Optional) ..................................................................................38
8.9.1 Introduction to PID Effect .......................................................................................... 38
8.9.2 Anti-PID Function Setting.......................................................................................... 39
8.9.3 PID Repair........................................................................................................................ 39
8.10Insulation Monitoring Function ............................................................................39
8.10.1 Introduction................................................................................................................. 39
8.10.2 Simple Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................40
8.11Protection Function...................................................................................................40
9Routine Maintenance.....................................................................42
9.1Safety Instructions ..................................................................................................................42
9.1.1 Safety Rules..................................................................................................................... 42
9.1.2 Five Safety Rules............................................................................................................ 42
9.2Maintenance and Interval .................................................................................................... 42
9.3Filter checking and cleaning ...............................................................................................44

IV
9.4Replacement of the electrical components................................................................... 45
10Troubleshooting ............................................................................ 46
10.1Fault Checking ............................................................................................................ 46
10.2Fault and Troubleshooting of LED........................................................................ 46
10.3Fault and Troubleshooting on the LCD screen................................................. 47
10.4LCD Display Alarm Information and Troubleshooting .................................. 49
10.5Other Faults.................................................................................................................. 50
11Appendix........................................................................................ 52
11.1Technical Data............................................................................................................. 52
11.1.1 Electrical Parameters ................................................................................................ 52
11.1.2 Mechanical Parameters............................................................................................ 52
11.1.3 System Parameters.................................................................................................... 52
11.1.4 Display and Communication ................................................................................. 53
11.2Exclusion of Liability.................................................................................................. 53
11.3About Us ....................................................................................................................... 53
11.4Contact Information.................................................................................................. 54

1
1 About this Manual
1.1 Foreword
Thank you for purchasing the SG500MX PV grid-connected central inverter from Sungrow Power
Supply Co., Ltd.. We hope that the device will meet with your satisfaction when you use it with
your PV system. Your commands and feedbacks on the performance and function of the device
are very important for our further improvement.
1.2 Validity
This Installation Manual is valid for the following inverter types:
Central Inverter SG500MX
The Central InverterSG500MX is referred to as “inverter”hereinafter unless otherwise specified.
1.3 Contents
This manual contains the following information:
Safety instructions
Safety instructions for the operation and maintenance of the inverter.
Product description
Basic information about the inverter is described, including its structure, function,
classification and so on.
Use
Introduce the inverter operation and use of HMI.
Routine maintenance
Introduce the daily maintenance of the inverter and the replacement of the accessories.
Troubleshooting
Introduce the potential faults and troubleshooting of the inverter.
Others
Technical data of the inverter, exclusion of liability and the way to contact Sungrow.
1.4 Target Group
This manual is aimed at technical personnel who are responsible and qualified for the inverter
installation and commissioning in the PV power system.
1.5 How to Use This Manual
Read this manual and other related documents carefully before any work on the inverter.

1 About this Manual Operation Manual
2
Documents must be stored carefully and available at all times. Additional documents are also
available to the users:
Installation Manual (in the scope of delivery)
Connection Requirements for Medium-voltage Transformers for Central Inverters without
Transformer
All rights reserved including the pictures, markings and symbols used. Any reproduction or
disclosure, even partially, of the contents of this manual is strictly forbidden without prior
written authorization of Sungrow.
For user’s convenience, there are a large number of pictures in this manual. These
pictures are indicative only. For details about the device, please refer to the actual
product you receive.
1.6 Symbols Explanation
This manual contains important safety and operational instructions that must be accurately
understood and followed during the installation and maintenance of the equipment.
To ensure optimum use of this manual, note the following explanations of symbols used.
DANGER indicates a hazard with a high level of risk which, if not avoided, will result in
death or serious injury.
WARNING indicates a hazard with a medium level of risk which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION indicates a hazard with a low level of risk which, if not avoided, could result in
minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE indicates a situation which, if not avoided, could result in equipment or
property damage.
NOTE indicates additional information, emphasized contents or tips to help you
solve problems or save time.
1.7 Symbols on the Inverter Body
The symbols below may be pasted on the electrical parts of the inverter. Make sure to read the
following symbols and fully understand them before installing the equipment.

Operation Manual 1 About this Manual
3
Symbols Explanations
Risk of electric shock!
Hot surface!
Connection point for earth conductor
Protective conductor terminal

4
2 Safety Instructions
2.1 Intended Usage
The MX-series inverter (It will be referred to as inverter hereinafter unless otherwise specified), a
central inverter without transformer, is a crucial unit in a grid-connected PV power system.
Inverter is dedicated to converting direct current (DC) generated by the PV modules into
alternating current (AC), which conforms to parameters of local utility grid, and feeds the
alternating current into the utility grid.
With IP21 protection degree, the inverter must be installed indoors.
An example about intended usage of the inverter is shown below.
ACBDE
Fig. 2-1 Application of Inverter to the PV Power System
No. Name
A PV arrays
B PV array combiner box
C Inverter
D Medium-voltage Transformer
E Utility grid
The intended usage described in this section must be strictly observed. Any other or
additional usage other than the intended usage is not permitted.
Wiring and connections other than the contents described in this section may lead to
device damages and void warranty claims.
2.2 Important Safety Instructions
This section introduces the safety precautions during inverter installation and commissioning.
Read this manual carefully especially the safety instructions. For the detailed safety notices,
please refer to the corresponding installation and commissioning chapter.
Shock Hazard!
Death resulting from burns and electric shock upon touching the inverter live
components.
Do not touch the live components of the inverter or the utility grid.
Observe all safety regulations.

Operation Manual 2 Safety Instructions
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Lethal voltage inside the device!
Respect all warning labels on the product
Respect all safety instructions in this manual and other related documents.
Lethal Voltage!
Damage to the inverter or system fault may result in death by electric shock or fire!
Visual check if there is device damage or other dangers before operation.
Check if other external devices and circuit connection are safe.
Only operate the device when it is safe to do so.

After maintenance and service work to the inverter, power on the inverter following the
procedures described in this manual.
2.3 During Operation
2.3.1 Manual
Product manuals are indispensable part of the product.
Very important information about operation of the inverter is included in this manual. All the
descriptions in this manual, especially those safety-related items, must be complied with.
Please read all the instructions thoroughly prior to any operation work on the inverter.
This manual and relevant documents should be available for relevant persons at all times.
After maintenance or troubleshooting, no manual or paper should be left inside the inverter
cabinet.
2.3.2 Qualified Personnel
Only qualified electricians or personnel with professional knowledge can transport or install
the device.
Operators must be familiar with the whole power generation system and its working
principle.
Operators must be familiar with the Installation Manual and Operation Manual.
Operators must be familiar with country-specific standards and regulations.
2.3.3 Markings on the Inverter
Inverter enclosure and interior contains important warning and safety information. Do not
tear or damage it.
Nameplates located in the back panel and inside of the front door contain very important
parameter information. Do not tear or damage them.

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All safety instructions, warning labels and nameplate on the inverter body must be
clearly visible;
Replace the markings once they are damaged or unclear.
2.3.4 Safety Warning Signs
Please respect the followings during installation, daily maintenance or troubleshooting of the
inverter:
An obvious marking should be placed in the inverter upstream and downstream to keep the
switch from accidental reconnection;
A temporary warning sign or barrier must be posted around the installation area;
Remove the door keys and keep them appropriately after installation or maintenance work
is finished.
2.3.5 Emergency Escape Route
The emergency escape route is critical during an emergency situation.
Keep the escape route clear and unblocked at all times.
Never block or lock the emergency escape route
2.3.6 PV Arrays Hazards
High Voltages will exist between positive and negative polarities immediately when the PV
arrays are exposed to light. Electrical shock or arc may occur by accidental touch.
High voltage exists between the positive and negative polarity of the PV array.
Ensure complete disconnection between the inverter and the PV array
Avoid any accidental reconnections.
2.3.7 Live Line Measurement
High voltages are present in the device. Death resulting from burning and electric
shock upon touching the live components of the inverter. During live line
measurement,
use suitable protective equipment , for example dielectric gloves, and
accompany by other persons.
2.3.8 Measuring Instrument
Instrument for measurement of the electrical parameters should meet the requirements listed
below:

Operation Manual 2 Safety Instructions
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Instrument for measurement of the electrical parameters should be high quality
instrument with sufficient measuring range.
Make sure the connection and use of the instrument are correct to avoid arc and
other dangerous situations.
2.3.9 LCD Parameter Setting
Certain LCD settable parameters are closely related to the inverter operation, therefore these
parameters can only be set after reliable evaluation of the system and inverter.
Improper parameter setting may affect the functionality of the inverter.
Only qualified personnel can set the inverter parameter.
2.3.10 ESD Protection
The inverter may be damaged irreversibly by electrostatic discharge (ESD) at its
components.
During the operation of the inverter, please observe all the ESD-related safety
regulations!
Discharge electrostatic charge by touching the grounded conductor before
contacting any electronic components!
2.3.11 Moisture protection
Penetrating moisture may damage the inverter!
Don’t open inverter doors when relative humidity is above 95%.
Don’t install the inverter in rainy days.
2.3.12 Maintenance and Service
Wait at least 5 minutes for inner capacitors to discharge completely after stopping the
inverter before opening the inverter front door to maintain or service.
Before any service work, observe the following procedures.
Avoid any accidental re-connections.
Verify that no voltage or current is present with appropriate testing devices.
Ground and short-circuit whenever necessary.
Cover possible live parts to avoid accidental contact.
Ensure sufficient escape room.
2.3.13 Disposal of Waste
When the inverter is end of life, it cannot be disposed of together with household wastes. Please
contact the local authorized collection point.

2SafetyInstructions OperationManual
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2.3.14 Others
Please observe country-specific standards and regulations.
Only service the device when it is voltage-free.
Never work alone when servicing this equipment. Two persons are required until the
inverter is properly shut down, de-energized and verified with a meter.
Other protective measures:
Use suitable protective equipment (for example safety goggles, earplugs, dielectric gloves,
insulating shoes) when maintaining or servicing the device.
Emergency aid should be prepared beforehand since the inverter is always installed far away
from the downtown area.
Every possible auxiliary method should be taken to ensure the safety of personnel and
device.
All the pictures and descriptions in this manual apply to the standard configuration
of the inverter. The actual product you receive may differ. Should you have any
specific requirements, please inform us.
This manual may not cover all possible situations. Should a specific problem occur
that is not explained in this manual, please contact Sungrow.

9
3 Product Description
3.1 Product Appearance
3.1.1 Brief Introduction
The front view and main external components of the inverter are shown below.
Fig. 3-1 Appearance of the Inverter
Item Name Description
A LED Indicators 3 indicators: Power, Operation and Fault
B LCD Touch Screen Display data and perform control functions
C Emergency Stop Button Press down the button in emergency occasions and inverter
AC side power supply will be stopped immediately
D Start/Stop Switch Start/Stop the inverter
E Door Lock Three door locks, to lock/unlock front doors
3.1.2 LED Indicators
There are three LEDs at the upper left side of the front panel: POWER indicates the power is on;
OPERATION indicates the proper operation of the inverter; FAULT indicates a fault condition.
LED Color Description
POWER Green Control circuit power supply
OPERATION Green Inverter operates in the grid-connection mode.
FAULT Red
A fault occurs and has not been removed.
The LED will be off when the fault is cleared.

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Possible LED combinations and the meaning are listed in the following table:
LED status Description
All three LEDs are on
System self-checking upon energization
(only POWER LED is on after the
self-checking)
“POWER” LED is on Normal power supply, inverter not connect
to the grid
“POWER” is on
“OPERATION” is on
AC and DC side parameters meet
grid-connection requirements. Inverter is
powering the grid.
“POWER” is on
“FAULT” is on A fault occurs and not removed yet.
All LEDs are off Inverter is disconnected from the power
supply.
3.1.3 LCD Display
LCD screen displays the operational information of the inverter and performs many functions as
follows:
Start or stop the inverter
Display real-time operating data
Display current faults and fault records
Adjust the running parameters
View history records
3.1.4 Emergency Stop Button
The inverter will be disconnected from the internal power supply immediately when pressing
down the emergency stop button.
Electrical shock hazards!
The pressing of the emergency stop button in no way implies that no voltage is
present in the electrical connection terminals inside the inverter.
Lethal voltages are present inside the inverter.
Use the emergency stop button to stop the inverter only in a time of crisis.
Improper or frequent use of the emergency stop button may lead to inverter damages.
Pressing the button with current carrying will lay great stress to the pertinent parts of
the inverter.
When you push this button, the inverter will disconnect immediately from the grid and the
button will be locked. You can restart the inverter by rotating the button clockwise to unlock it.
Open the AC switch first and then close it. Connect to the grid and the inverter will restart by the
LCD panel.
3.1.5 Start/Stop Switch
The Start/Stop Switch controls the start and stop of the inverter. Only when the start/stop switch
is put in the “start” position can user send effective start instruction through the LCD panel.
Otherwise, inverter will stay in Stop state.

OperationManual 3ProductDescription
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When you put the switch in the “stop” position, the inverter will stop through a stop command
sent to the control DSP.
3.2 Communication Solution
3.2.1 RS485 Communication Solution
SolarInfo Logger
Inverter can communicate with SolarInfo Logger via the RS485 standard serial port. SolarInfo
Logger can monitor the communication of single or multiple inverters.
Fig. 3-2 SolarInfo Logger Collects Data through RS485
PC
Inverter communicates with PC via RS485/RS232 converter. SolarInfo Insight is used to monitor
the communication of single or multiple inverters.
Fig. 3-3 PC collects data through RS485 Bus
SolarInfo Logger + PC
One or more inverters communicate with PC via SolarInfo Logger. SolarInfo Insight is used to
monitor the communication.
Fig. 3-4 SolarInfo Logger & PC Collect Data through RS485 Bus

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3.2.2 Ethernet Communication Solution
Besides the standard RS485 communication, inverter also provides the optional Ethernet
communication solution. Please specify in your order if you need this communication solution.
Single inverter communication
If there is only one inverter, you can connect the RJ45 port of the inverter to the RJ45 port of
the PC directly. SolarInfo Insight is used to monitor the communication.
Fig. 3-5 Ethernet communication of one inverter
Multiple inverters communication
If there is more than one inverter, the Ethernet switch is required for communication.
SolarInfo Insight is used to monitor the communication.
Fig. 3-6 Ethernet communication of multiple inverters
The details of SolarInfo Logger and SolarInfo Insight are available on Sungrow’s
website. Please download the latest product materials when necessary.

13
4 Inverter Start/Stop
4.1 Starting the Inverter
4.1.1 Inspection before starting the inverter
After the maintenance or service work, you may start the inverter. Inspect the following
requirement before starting the inverter:
All connections are done by strictly following the installation manual and circuit diagram.
The coverings of the internal devices are fixed and secured.
The cabinet door is closed and the key is removed and stored by appointed personnel.
The emergency stop button is released and the Start/Stop switch is in the“Stop”position.
Turn the AC (Grid) Main Switch and the DC Main Switch to the“OFF” position.
Make sure, via suitable instruments, that there is no ground fault of the PV modules.
Measure the DC and AC current with multimeter to check if they fulfill the inverter startup
conditions and there is no overvoltage hazard.
After longtime storage, a thorough and professional test is necessary before starting
the inverter.
4.1.2 Steps to Starting the Inverter
When the abovementioned conditions are fulfilled, proceed as follows to start the inverter:
Step 1 Open the inverter AC cabinet door; Turn the AC switches to “ON” position; and lock the AC
cabinet door.
Step 2 Close the switches of inverter upstream combiner box;
Step 3 Open the DC cabinet door; Turn the DC switches to “ON”position; lock the DC cabinet door and
wait 1 minute.
Step 4 Turn the Start/Stop switch to the “START” position to start the inverter;
After startup, the inverter will automatically check if parameters of the DC and AC side meet the
grid-connection requirements. If so and the set time have been reached, the inverter will turn to
the OPERATION mode and feed the generated AC current to the grid.
Inverter needs no manual control in daily operation. Open the cabinet door only for
maintenance or troubleshooting and by qualified personnel only.
Keep the door closed and locked and store the keys of the door by appointed
personnel during normal operation.
4.2 Stopping the Inverter
Inverter stops during normal maintenance and service work or when a fault occurs.

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4.2.1 Normal Stop
Proceed as follows to stop the inverter during normal maintenance and service work as follows:
Step 1 Stop the inverter through the stop operation on the LCD panel
Step 2 Turn the inverter Start/Stop switch to the “STOP” position
Step 3 Open the inverter AC cabinet door and disconnect the AC switch
Step 4 Disconnect the inverter downstream switches
Step 5 Open the inverter DC cabinet door and disconnect the DC switch
Step 6 Disconnect the inverter upstream switches
Step 7 Disconnect external power supply source if the inverter is in external power supply mode
Step 8 Inverter stops
During normal operation, disconnection of AC or DC switch is strictly forbidden.
Otherwise, the switch can be damaged and the inverter may also be damaged.
4.2.2 Inverter Stops when a fault occurs
Proceed as follows to stop the inverter when a fault or emergency occurs as follows:
Step 1 Push the emergency stop button or turn the start/stop switch to the“STOP” position
Step 2 Open the inverter AC cabinet door and disconnect the AC switch
Step 3 Disconnect the inverter downstream switches
Step 4 Open the inverter AC cabinet door and disconnect the AC switch
Step 5 Disconnect the inverter downstream switches
Step 6 Disconnect external power supply source if the inverter is in external power supply mode
Step 7 Inverter stops
Use the Start/Stop switch or emergency stop button only when emergency or a fault
occurs. Under normal conditions, stop the inverter by perform the stop command in the
LCD panel.
Push the emergency stop button directly in times of crisis to ensure timely response.