YASKAWA PVI 23 TL User manual

PVI 23TL
PVI 28TL
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL
Revision J
[Generation III (SN Prefixes 101301 and 101302)]
© 2017, Yaskawa –Solectria Solar

PVI 23-28TL Installation and Operation Manual (Rev J)
DOCR-070365-J Page 2 of 66
IMPORTANT REGISTRATION AND
WARRANTY INFORMATION
For warranty to become active, this inverter
must be registered. To activate warranty and
register inverter, please visit the link below.
www.solectria.com/registration

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
In this manual, “inverter” or “inverters” refers to the inverter models: PVI 23TL and PVI 28TL,
unless one of the specific models is noted.
This manual contains important instructions that shall be followed during installation and
maintenance of the inverter.
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, and to ensure the safe installation and operation of the
inverter, the following safety symbols are used to indicate dangerous conditions and important
safety instructions:
WARNING: This symbol, along with the word “WARNING”, indicates a fact or
feature important for the safety of the user and/or which can cause serious
hardware damage if not applied appropriately.
Use extreme caution when performing this task.
NOTE: This indicates a feature that is important either for optimal and efficient
use or system operation.
EXAMPLE: This indicates an example.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
All electrical installations shall be performed in accordance with all applicable local, American, or Canadian
electrical codes.
The inverter contains no user-serviceable parts. Please contact Solectria Renewables or a Solectria
Renewables authorized system installer for maintenance. See Appendix C for Solectria Renewables contact
information and Appendix D for information regarding authorized system installers.
Before installing or using the inverter, please read all instructions and caution markings in this manual as well
as those on the inverter and PV modules.
Connection of the inverter to the electric utility grid must be completed after receiving prior approval from the
utility company and must only be performed by qualified personnel.
Completely cover the surface of all PV arrays with an opaque material before wiring them. PV arrays produce
electrical energy when exposed to light and could create a hazardous condition.
DANGER!
Danger to life due to fire or explosion:
Despite careful construction, electrical devices can cause fires.
-Do not mount the inverter on flammable construction materials.
-Do not mount the inverter in areas where highly flammable materials are stored.
-Do not mount the inverters in areas with a risk of explosion
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
PRESCRIPTIONS DE SECURITE IMPORTANTES
Tous les travaux d’installation électrique doivent être exécutés en conformité aux normes électriques locales
ainsi qu’à la norme nationale américaine et canadienne.
Le PVI ne contient aucune pièce requérant un entretient effectué par l‘utilisateur. Pour toute maintenance,
veuillez consulter Solectria Renewables ou un installateur agrée par Solectria Renewables (les coordonnées de
Solectria Renewables et des installateurs agrées sont indiquées sur le site web de Solectria Renewables:
www.solren.com.
Avant d’installer ou d’utiliser le PVI veuillez lire toutes instructions et toutes les mises en garde présentes dans
ce manuel, sur le SGI et sur les modules PV.
Le raccordement du PVI au réseau électrique ne doit être effectuée qu’après avoir obtenu une entente
d’interconnexion auprès de la compagnie locale de distribution électrique et uniquement par du personnel
autorisé et qualifié.
La surface de tous les capteurs PV doivent être recouverte entièrement d’un matériel opaque

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(noir) avant de procéder au câblage. Les capteurs PV exposés a la lumière produisent du courant électrique
susceptible de créer une situation de risque.
CONSERVEZ CES INSTRUCTIONS

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Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction ...........................................................................................................................7
1.1 PVI 23-28TL Inverter Enclosure...................................................................................................9
1.2 PVI 23-28TL Inverter Main Parts and Accessories ....................................................................10
2.0 Site Preparation and Inverter Placement ...............................................................................12
2.1 Criteria for Device Mounting ....................................................................................................12
3.0 Inverter Mounting ................................................................................................................14
3.1 Checking for Shipping Damage .................................................................................................14
3.2 Unpacking and Moving the Inverter into Place ........................................................................14
3.3 Inverter Positioning and Mounting...........................................................................................15
3.4 Installing the Mounting Bracket................................................................................................18
4.0 Grounding Connections.........................................................................................................21
4.1 Inverter Knockouts....................................................................................................................21
4.2 DC/AC Grounding......................................................................................................................22
5.0 DC Connections from the PV Array ........................................................................................23
5.1 DC Wiring ..................................................................................................................................24
5.2 Dual Maximum Power Point Tracking.......................................................................................26
5.3 Fuse Bypass OPT-FUSEBYPASS-PVI-23-28.................................................................................28
6.0 AC Connections at the Inverter..............................................................................................30
6.1 AC Interconnections to Grid......................................................................................................31
7.0 Communication Connections.................................................................................................32
7.1 Modbus (RS-485) Network Connections with External Monitoring Systems....................................34
7.2 Connecting TL Inverters using SolrenView Monitoring Option ................................................39
7.3 Dry Contact Communication .............................................................................................................40
8.0 Commissioning the Inverter PV System..................................................................................44
8.1 Turning On the Inverter ............................................................................................................44
8.2 Operation..................................................................................................................................44
8.3 Turning Off the Inverter............................................................................................................44
9.0 LCD and LED Indicators..........................................................................................................45
9.1 LCD ............................................................................................................................................45
9.2 Screen Descriptions...................................................................................................................47
10.0 Troubleshooting and Inverter Messages ...............................................................................51
11.0 Product Maintenance...........................................................................................................55

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11.1 Check the Electrical Connection ...............................................................................................55
11.2 Clean the Air Vent Filter............................................................................................................55
12.0 Product Warranty and RMA Policy.......................................................................................56
12.1 Warranty and Registration........................................................................................................56
13.0 Technical Data.....................................................................................................................56
13.1 Output AC Specifications ..........................................................................................................56
13.2 Input DC (PV) Specifications......................................................................................................57
13.3 Other Specifications..................................................................................................................57
13.4 Temperature Derating Curve ....................................................................................................58
13.5 Power Derating Curve Out of MPPT Zone ................................................................................58
13.6 Altitude Derating Curve ............................................................................................................59
13.7 Internal Circuit Diagram............................................................................................................59
14.0 Accessory Options...............................................................................................................60
14.1 Fuse Bypass...............................................................................................................................60
14.2 SolrenView Monitoring.............................................................................................................61
14.3 Shade Cover ..............................................................................................................................61
14.4 AC & DC Disconnect Covers ......................................................................................................63
15.0 Appendices .........................................................................................................................64
Appendix A –PVI 23-28TL Datasheet ......................................................................................................64
Appendix B –String Sizing Tool................................................................................................................64
Appendix C –Contact Information ..........................................................................................................64
Appendix D –Authorized Distributors.....................................................................................................64
Appendix E –UL 1741 / UL 1699B/ IEEE 1547 / CSA 22.2#107.1 Authorization to Mark........................65

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1.0 Introduction
The PVI 23TL and 28TL are commercial, dual MPPT, three-phase utility-interactive,
transformerless PV inverters designed to be interconnected to the electric utility grid. The
inverter is listed for use with ungrounded PV arrays only. By following this manual, the inverter
can be installed and operated safely. This installation guide is used as a reference for
commissioning and as a guideline on how to use the inverter most effectively.
This inverter is a transformerless type without galvanic isolation. Therefore, the inverter may only
be operated with ungrounded PV arrays. Furthermore, the PV array must be installed in
accordance with NEC 690.35 (Ungrounded Photovoltaic Power Systems) and local regulations for
ungrounded PV arrays. Additionally, the PV array (PV modules and cabling) must have protective
insulation and the PV modules used must be suitable for use with this inverter.
The PVI 23-28TL includes key product protection functions, such as:
Anti-Islanding Protection
DC Arc-fault Circuit Interruption
Protection Against Reverse Polarity
Short Circuit Protection
Monitoring DC Input Insulation Against Ground
Monitoring AC Output Voltage and Frequency
Monitoring Leakage Current Against Ground (GFCI)
Monitoring DC Injection from AC Output
DC Input and AC Output Over-voltage Protection
DC Input Over-current Protection
Monitoring Ambient Temperature
Monitoring IGBT Module Temperature
Wide-range Frequency and Voltage Support
The inverter is suitable for use indoors and outdoors. It meets the requirements of ANSI/NFPA
70, NEC690.5, UL 1741, IEEE 1547, and IEEE 1547.1 for the parallel operation of power generation
plants on low-voltage networks of regional electrical utility companies.
The function of the Anti-Islanding protection complies with UL 1741/IEEE 1547 specifications. The
Anti-Islanding function guarantees secure disconnection in the case of circuit isolation or
interruptions in power supply while also protecting against isolated operation.
A DC arc-fault circuit interruption is integrated into the PVI 23-28TL inverter and complies with
the requirement of a Type 1 device in the UL 1699B standard.

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Feeding power back to the grid involves the conversion of DC voltage from the PV array to grid
compatible AC voltage by inverting DC to AC. This unit feeds power into a standard, three-phase
commercial, industrial, institutional, or electrical utility facility’s electrical system which is
connected to the electrical grid.
If the PV system and inverter are providing the same amount of electrical power that the facility
is using, then no power is taken from or fed into the utility grid. If the facility is using more power
than the PV system is providing, then the utility grid provides the balance of power. If the facility
is using less power than the PV system is generating, then the excess is fed into the utility grid.
Be sure to follow local regulations regarding net metering and interconnection in your local area.
Note that some utilities need to change their kWh meter for proper net metering measurement
and billing.
Figure 1.1 –Grid-Tied Inverter Application
Photovoltaic
Array
PVI 23TL
PVI 28TL
Inverter
Electrical
Grid

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1.1 PVI 23-28TL Inverter Enclosure
Figure 1.2 –PVI 23TL Inverter Interface
1
3
4
4
9
2
5 6 7
8
①Inverter Main Housing
Does not contain any serviceable parts;
opening this section voids the inverter
warranty.
② Wiring Box
For customer’s AC and DC wire
connections.
③ Mounting Bracket
④Cooling Fans
⑤LED Indicators
There are four LED indicators used to
signal the operating status of the
inverter.
⑥LCD
The LCD displays all measured values
and parameters.
⑦Control Keys
There are 4 control keys, to switch
between display menus and to
configure the settings of the inverter.
⑧ DC Disconnect Switch
Built-in, lockable disconnect switch
used to disconnect the DC input to the
inverter.
⑨AC Disconnect Switch
Built-in, lockable disconnect switch
used to disconnect the AC output from
the PV inverter.

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1.2 PVI 23-28TL Inverter Main Parts and Accessories
Every PVI 23-28TL inverter comes equiped with the following:
Item
Quantity
Description
Inverter Main Housing
1
The upper section of the inverter. It contains no
serviceable parts and the opening of this section voids
the inverter warranty.
Wiring Box
1
The lower section of the inverter, intended for
customer’s AC and DC wire connections.
Mounting Bracket
1
Used to mount an inverter to the wall.
Installation and Operation
Manual
1
Please read carefully before attempting to install the
inverter.
M8 Expansion Tubes
8
Used for mounting bracket installation.
M8*25 Assembly Bolt
8
Used for mounting bracket installation.
M6*16 Screw
6
Four are used to connect the main housing of the
inverter to the wiring box (2 are spares).
M5*10 Screw
8
Six for mounting the inverter to the mounting bracket,
one for external ground connection (one spare).
M3*8 Screw
2
Secures the partition plate between the signal wires
and the AC power wires.
M5 Flange Nut
2
One for internal ground stud connection (one spare).
M10 Lifting Eye Nut
2
Used for lifting the main housing.
OT Type Terminal
2
Can be used for grounding connections.
Pre-insulated End Ferrule for DC
Connections
20
16 for DC input cables (4 are spares).
RJ45 Connector
4
For Ethernet communication (2 are spares).
5-Pin Connector
1
For RS-485 communication.
3-Pin Connector
1
For dry contact communication.
Partition Plate
1
The partition between the signal wire and AC power
cables.
Table 1.1 –Inverter Main Parts and Accessories

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Figure 1.3 –PVI 23-28TL Inverter Dimensions
DC DISCONNECT

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2.0 Site Preparation and Inverter Placement
The inverter is comprised of a NEMA 4 enclosure, containing electrical and electronic
components as well as AC and DC integrated disconnects.
NOTE: If the inverter is mounted outside, ensure that the wiring box remains
closed during the installation process until access to the box is needed. This
precaution will help to avoid damage due to rain, snow, or condensation. Damage
to the inverter caused during the installation process will void the warranty. The
inverter main housing cover must remain on at all times.
NOTE: It is recommended to store the inverter indoors before installation. If the
inverter is to be stored outdoors before being installed and commissioned, care
must be taken to avoid condensation inside the unit.
2.1 Criteria for Device Mounting
Because the power electronics are within the rainproof enclosure, the inverter can be
mounted outdoors.
The maximum life for the inverter is achieved by mounting the unit in a clean, dry, and cool
location.
For optimal electrical system efficiency, use the shortest possible AC and DC cables but use
the maximum allowable cable size.
Install the inverter in an accessible location following local electric codes for enclosure
proximity to other equipment.
Although the inverter is designed to function at full power continuously up to 45°C ambient
temperature, for optimal inverter life and performance do not mount the inverter in direct
sunlight, especially in hot climates. If the unit must be mounted in direct sunlight, a sun-shield
is recommended but not required. It is recommended that the inverter is mounted on the
north side of buildings or on the north side of a ground mount PV array.
WARNING: Be sure to verify load capacity of wall or mounting area where the
inverter will be mounted.
Table 2.1 –Inverter Weight
Inverter Model
Weight
PVI 23-28TL
122lbs (55kg)

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The ambient temperature must be between -25°C and +45°C for full power and continuous
operation. The inverter will automatically reduce power or may shut down to protect itself if
ambient air temperature is outside the normal operating range.
The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires the inverter to be connected to a dedicated circuit
with no other outlets or devices connected to this circuit (see NEC Articles 690 and 705). The
NEC also imposes limitations on the size of the inverter and the manner in which it is
connected to the utility grid (see NEC Articles 690 and 705 for guidance within the US).
The cooling air exhausts are at the right of the inverter. As the air intake is on the left side of
the inverter section of the unit, there should be at least 12 inches of clear space at the left of
the enclosure. Air should be able to flow all around the unit for proper ventilation.
It is also recommended to have at least 24 inches of clearance at the bottom side for the
Inverter LCD to be at eye level (see Figure 3.3 for details).
A minimum distance of 12 inches must be clear above the inverter for ventilation.
If you are installing the inverter in a utility vault or electrical closet, the air circulation must be
sufficient for heat dissipation. Provide external ventilation to maintain an ambient condition
of 45°C or less for full power. The ambient temperature should be kept as low as possible at
all times for optimal inverter operation and life.

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3.0 Inverter Mounting
WARNING: Any lifting or moving of the inverter requires at least two people.
Lifting of the crate/pallet requires at least three people.
3.1 Checking for Shipping Damage
The inverter is thoroughly checked and tested rigorously before it is shipped. Although the
shipping container is adequately designed to protect the inverter during shipment, the product
may be damaged by poor handling, trucking, or transfer station activity.
Please inspect the inverter thoroughly after it is delivered. If any damage is present, immediately
notify the shipping company to make a claim. If there is any question about potential shipping
damage, contact Solectria Renewables but do not remove the unit from pallet/packaging. Photos
of the damage would also be helpful in documenting potential shipping damage. If the unit is to
be returned, an RMA number must be obtained from Solectria Renewables prior to shipping the
unit back.
3.2 Unpacking and Moving the Inverter into Place
It is recommended to keep the inverter secured in its box and move it as close as possible to the
final location prior to removing it.
WARNING: Any lifting or moving of the inverter, without the aid of equipment,
should be performed by at least two people.
NOTE: Failure to follow these lifting guidelines may cause structural damage to the
inverter and void the warranty.
WARNING: Do not install the inverter over combustible surfaces or materials.
WARNING: Severe injury or death could occur if the mounting fails and the
inverter falls and lands on a person.
NOTE: The weight of the inverter will exert an added load to the wall or area
where it is to be mounted. Be sure to verify proper load capacity of mounting area.

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3.3 Inverter Positioning and Mounting
The Inverter can be mounted vertically or with a 15°-90°horizontal angle, as shown in Figure 3.1a
and 31 b below.
The shade cover option must be purchased and installed for any installation angles of
75° or less.
Figure 3.1a –Allowable Inverter Mounting
WARNING: Do not install the inverter tilted forward, lying on its back, or upside
down as shown in Figure 3.1 c, d and e.
WARNING: Shade covers are required for inverters installed at angles 75° or less.

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3.3.1 Wall Mounting
The minimum distances that should be met for wall mounting are shown in Figure 3.2 below.
For adequate cooling, there should be a minimum of ≥ 20 inches of space available between
two adjacently mounted inverters.
A minimum of 12 inches from the left side and 12 inches from the top are needed for
adequate access and cooling.
A distance of 24 inches from the bottom is recommended for the inverter’s LCD to be at eye
level. If needed, this distance can be lowered to 10 inches.
Figure 3.2 –Wall Mounting Clearance Requirements
12.0in
(305mm)
12.0in
(305mm)
20.0in
(508mm)
24.0in
(610mm)

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3.3.2 Wall Mounting/Mounting Bracket Clearance
Figure 3.3 –Wall Mounting Clearance Requirements of Mounting Bracket
3.3.3 Pillar Mounting
The minimum inverter mounting dimensions on a pillar are shown in Figure 3.4 below.
Figure 3.4 –Inverter Pillar Mounting Dimensions
7.9in
¡ Ý200mm
11.8in
¡ Ý300mm
23.6in
¡ Ý600mm
11.8in
¡ Ý300mm
11.8in
¡ Ý300mm

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3.4 Installing the Mounting Bracket
Figure 3.5 –Inverter Wall Bracket Mounting
NOTE: Always use all (8)
mounting plate fasteners.
1. Mark the 8 holes on the load-bearing
surface using the available mounting
bracket as a template (see Figure 3.5).
2. Drill 8 holes with a 13/32-inch drill bit
and install eight “M8 expansion tubes”
(available in accessory box).
3. Secure the bracket to the wall using
eight M8X25 bolts (available in accessory
box). See Figure 3.5.
Figure 3.6 –Inverter Main Housing Mounting
4. (Option 1) Lift mounting: Attach both
lifting eye bolts (available in accessory
box) to the inverter housing box. Use a
sling rope or bar passed through both eye
bolts to mount the inverter to the
bracket.
(Option 2) Manual lift: Two people lift the
inverter from the bottom and manually
mount the inverter to the bracket.
5. Carefully secure the main housing of
the inverter onto the bracket.
1
2
3
9.84in. 9.84in.
20.55in.
5.51in.
(140mm) (522mm)
(250mm) (250mm)

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Figure 3.7 –Remove Cover Plate of Main Housing
6. Using a #2 Philips screw driver, remove
cover plate on the bottom of main
housing.
Figure 3.8 –Remove Cover of Wiring Box
7. Using a #2 Philips screw driver, remove
cover of wiring box and keep the cover (it
can be re-secured later onto the
enclosure).
Figure 3.9 –Connecting the Wire Box to the Main
Housing
8. Connect the wiring box to the main
housing using four M6*16 screws
(available in accessory box).
Torque = 25in-lbs