Detection and Localization of Disconnections in PV Strings Using Spread-Spectrum Time-Domain Reflectometry
This article describes the novel use of spread-spectrum time-domain reflectometry (SSTDR) for detecting and locating disconnection faults in photovoltaic (PV) power plants. We measure strings of cells and full-sized modules to understand how disconnections affect the reflectometry signature. PV modules correspond to reactive loads and disconnections in a PV string and cause distinguishable and measurable changes in SSTDR responses. Disconnection faults are manually introduced and correctly identified and localized applying the proposed technique. The SSTDR technique can detect and locate disconnects through at least eight 36-cell modules. Using the new technique described in this article, we can both detect and locate the disconnections within a 1-ft resolution, on average.
- Research Organization:
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Golden, CO (United States); Univ. of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Renewable Power Office. Solar Energy Technologies Office
- Grant/Contract Number:
- AC36-08GO28308; EE0008169
- OSTI ID:
- 1593088
- Alternate ID(s):
- OSTI ID: 2234287
- Report Number(s):
- NREL/JA-5K00-75087
- Journal Information:
- IEEE Journal of Photovoltaics, Vol. 10, Issue 1; ISSN 2156-3381
- Publisher:
- IEEECopyright Statement
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Web of Science
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