Engineering topics
Quintana, Michael A.
Publications and source records attributed to Quintana, Michael A..
Thermal Study of Inverter Components: Preprint
Thermal histories of inverter components were collected from operating inverters from several manufacturers and three locations. The data were analyzed to determine thermal profiles, the dependence on local conditions, and to assess the effect on inverter reliability. Inverter temperatures were shown to increase with the power dissipation of the inverters, follow diurnal and annual cycles, andhave a dependence on wind speed. An accumulated damage model was applied to the temperature profiles and an example of using these data to predict reliability was explored.
Electrical and Thermal Finite Element Modeling of Arc Faults in Photovoltaic Bypass Diodes
Arc faults in photovoltaic (PV) modules have caused multiple rooftop fires. The arc generates a high-temperature plasma that ignites surrounding materials and subsequently spreads the fire to the building structure. While there are many possible locations in PV systems and PV modules where arcs could initiate, bypass diodes have been suspected of triggering arc faults in some modules. In order to understand the electrical and thermal phenomena associated with these events, a finite element model of a busbar and diode was created. Thermoelectrical simulations found Joule and internal diode heating from normal operation would not normally cause bypass diode or solder failures. However, if corrosion increased the contact resistance in the solder connection between the busbar and the diode leads, enough voltage potentially would be established to arc across micron-scale electrode gaps. Lastly, an analytical arc radiation model based on observed data was employed to predicted polymer ignition times. The model predicted polymer materials in the adjacent area of the diode and junction box ignite in less than 0.1 seconds.
Photovoltaics Technology in the Federal Marketplace Part I: Understanding the Basics.
Abstract not provided.
PV Inverter Performance and Reliability: What is the Role of the IGBT?.
Abstract not provided.
PV INVERTER PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY: WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THE IGBT?.
Abstract not provided.
Simulation of time-varying throughput by combining availability and solar irradiance models.
Abstract not provided.
PV Performance and Reliability Validation Capabilities at Sandia National Laboratories and The National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
Abstract not provided.
PV Systems Reliability: Developing Integrated Tools Through Industry Partnerships.
Abstract not provided.