Current transformers direction issue troubleshooting

Introduction

This article describes how to verify and solve the problem of improper installation of current transformers. Wrong current transformer installation may lead to improper system operation in limited export modes or in the system with ESS. Also, consumption data may be wrongly displayed on the monitoring platform.

Issue description

Consumption data on the Energy management diagram is wrongly displayed or not displayed at all. Sometimes it looks like consumption data has exactly the same profile as the generation curve. In the Meter's historical data Active power by phases is reversed.

Diagnostic tools

• Fusion Solar WEB platform

• Local connection to the inverter or Smart Logger is preferable

Troubleshooting steps

Step 1: Log in to Fusion Solar WEB platform > select your plant > go to Device Management > click on the Inverter's name > turn OFF

Step 2: If there are more inverters in installation, production must be stopped completely (switch off all inverters)

Step 3: Go to Device Management > click on the Meter's name

Step 4: Go to the Historical information tab > select a Signal point as Active power Pa(W), Active power Pb(W), Active power Pc(W) > click Search and check readings.

If the meter shows positive power values on one or two phases when the inverter is not producing - change the direction of current transformers accordingly. Values on the Fusion Solar WEB platform should be negative when inverters switched off.

In case all three phases have positive readings, you can try Reversing the measurement direction of current transformers remotely.

This method of reversing direction only works for all CTs at the same time.

Step 5: Go to Plants > Device management > Search the Meter > click on Modify > click Switch direction > OK

Conclusion

The direction of current transformers is vital for normal system operation. In case one or two current transformers were wrongly installed - an on-site visit is necessary. In case if all three current transformers have the wrong direction - you can try to change their direction using Fusion Solar WEB remotely. 

Contact us

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