Fronius Symo 3 - 8.2 kW Installation Instructions

Safety Notices

DANGER! Indicates immediate danger. If not avoided, death or serious injury will result.

WARNING! Indicates a potentially hazardous situation. If not avoided, death or serious injury may result.

CAUTION! Indicates a situation where damage or injury could occur. If not avoided, minor injury and/or damage to property may result.

NOTE! Indicates a risk of flawed results and possible damage to the equipment.

WARNING! Danger due to incorrect operation and incorrectly performed work. This can result in serious injury and damage to property. Only qualified personnel are authorized to commission your inverter and only within the scope of the respective technical regulations. Read the Installation and Operating Instructions before installing and commissioning the equipment.

WARNING! Danger due to work that has been carried out incorrectly. This may result in serious injury and damage to property. Surge protective devices must only ever be installed and connected by a qualified electrical installation engineer! Follow the safety rules. Ensure that both the AC side and the DC side of the inverter are de-energised before carrying out any installation and connection work.

CAUTION! Danger due to poor or unprofessional installation. This may result in damage to inverters and other live photovoltaic system components. Poor or unprofessional installation can cause overheating of cables and terminal connections and result in arcs. These can cause heat damage, which in turn may lead to fires.

Observe the following when connecting AC and DC cables:

• Tighten all terminals to the torque specified in the operating instructions.
• Tighten all grounding terminals (PE / GND), including free ones, to the torque specified in the operating instructions.
• Do not overload cables.
• Check cables for damage and verify that they are laid correctly.
• Take note of the safety instructions, Operating Instructions and any local connection regulations.
• Using fastening screws, always screw the inverter firmly to the mounting bracket to the torque specified in the Operating Instructions.
• Ensure that the fastening screws are tight before starting the inverter!

Observe the manufacturer's connection, installation and operating instructions at all times. To reduce the hazard potential to a minimum, perform all installation and connection work carefully according to the instructions and regulations. Refer to the device Installation Instructions for the tightening torques to be used at the relevant terminal connections.

Proper Use / Intended Purpose

The inverter is intended exclusively to convert direct current from solar modules into alternating current and to feed this into the public grid. Utilisation not in accordance with the intended purpose comprises:

• Any use above and beyond this purpose.
• Making any modifications to the inverter that have not been expressly approved by Fronius.
• The installation of components that are not distributed or expressly approved by Fronius.

Fronius shall not be liable for any damage resulting from such action. No warranty claims will be entertained.

Proper use also includes:

• Carefully reading and obeying all the instructions and all the safety and danger notices in the Operating Instructions and Installation Instructions.
• Performing all stipulated maintenance work.
• Installation as specified in the Installation Instructions.

When designing the photovoltaic system, ensure that all components are operated within their permitted operating ranges at all times. Observe all the measures recommended by the solar module manufacturer to ensure that the solar module retains its properties in the long term. Obey the regulations of the power supply company regarding connection methods and energy fed into the grid.

Choosing the Location of the Inverter

The inverter is suitable for indoor installation.

The inverter is suitable for outdoor installation. Because of its IP 65 protection class, the inverter is resistant to water jets from any direction and can also be used in damp environments.

In order to minimise the heating up of the inverter, do not expose it to direct insolation. Install the inverter in a protected location, e.g. in the vicinity of the solar modules or beneath the eaves.

Maximum DC voltage (UDCmax) at altitude:

• 0 to 2000 m: 1000 V
• 2000 to 2500 m: 900 V
• 2500 to 3000 m: 815 V
• 3000 to 3400 m: 750 V

IMPORTANT! The inverter must not be installed or used at altitudes above 3400 m.

Do not install the inverter in:

• Areas where ammonia, corrosive vapours, acids or salts are present (e.g. fertiliser stores, ventilation openings from cattle sheds, chemical plants, tanneries, etc.).
• Greenhouses.
• Storage or processing areas for fruit, vegetables or viticulture products.
• Areas used in the preparation of grain, green fodder or animal feeds.

During certain operating phases the inverter may produce a slight noise. For this reason it should not be installed in an occupied living area.

Do not install the inverter in:

• Places where there is an increased risk of damage from farm animals (horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, etc.).
• Stables or adjoining areas.
• Storage areas for hay, straw, chaff, animal feed, fertilisers, etc.

All inverters are designed to be dust-tight. However, in areas with a heavy build-up of dust, the thermal efficiency may still be impaired by dust forming on the cooling surfaces. Regular cleaning is necessary in such situations. Fronius therefore recommends not installing the inverter in areas and environments with high dust accumulation.

Installation Position

The inverter is suitable for vertical installation on a vertical wall or column.

The inverter is suitable for a horizontal installation position.

The inverter is suitable for installation on a sloping surface.

Do not install the inverter:

• On a sloping surface with its connection sockets at the top.
• At an angle on a vertical wall or column.
• Horizontally on a vertical wall or pillar.
• On a vertical wall or pillar with its connection sockets facing upwards.
• Overhanging with the connection sockets at the top.
• Overhanging with the connection sockets at the bottom.
• On the ceiling.

General Comments Regarding Inverter Installation Location

Please note the following criteria when choosing a location for the inverter:

• Install only on a solid, non-flammable surface.

Max. ambient temperatures: -25 °C / +60 °C

Relative humidity: 0-100%

The airflow within the inverter is from the left to the top (cold air taken in from the left, hot air dissipated out of the top). The exhaust air can reach a temperature of 70 °C.

If the inverter is installed in a switch cabinet or a similar sealed area, then forced-air ventilation must be provided to ensure adequate heat dissipation.

If the inverter is to be installed on the outer wall of a cattle shed, maintain a minimum all-round clearance of 2 m between the inverter and all ventilation and other openings in the building.

The installation location must not be exposed to ammonia, corrosive vapours, salts or acids.

Attaching the Mounting Bracket

Safety

WARNING! Danger due to residual voltage in capacitors. This may result in an electric shock. Wait for the capacitors to discharge. The discharge time is five minutes.

CAUTION! Danger due to dirt or water on the terminals and contacts of the inverter's connection area. This may result in damage to the inverter. When drilling, ensure that terminals and contacts in the connection area do not become dirty or wet. The mounting bracket without a power stage set does not conform to the protection class of the inverter as a whole, and therefore must not be installed without a power stage set. The mounting bracket should be protected from dirt and moisture during installation.

Note! Degree of protection IP 65 is only applicable if the inverter is placed in the mounting bracket and permanently attached using screws, and the cover for the data communication area is permanently attached to the inverter with screws. Degree of protection IP 20 applies to the mounting bracket with no inverter and the venting duct.

Selecting Wall Plugs and Screws

Important! Different fixings may be required to fit the mounting bracket depending on the type of underlying surface. Fixings are therefore not included in the scope of supply of the inverter. The installer is responsible for selecting the right type of fixing.

Recommended Screws

To install the inverter, Fronius recommends the use of steel or aluminum screws with a diameter of 6 - 8 mm.

Opening the Inverter

WARNING! Danger from inadequate ground conductor connection. This can result in serious injury and damage to property. The housing screws provide a suitable ground conductor connection for grounding the housing and must NOT be replaced by any other screws that do not provide a reliable ground conductor connection.

Fitting the Mounting Bracket to a Wall

Note! When mounting the mounting bracket on the wall, ensure that the mounting bracket does not become warped or deformed.

Tip: Install the inverter so that its display is at eye level.

Installing the Mounting Bracket on a Mast or Beam

When installing the inverter on a mast or support, Fronius recommends the "Pole Clamp" kit from Rittal GmbH (order no. SZ 2584.000). This kit enables the inverter to be installed on round or rectangular masts with the following diameters: Æ from 40 to 190 mm (round mast), ÿ from 50 to 150 mm (rectangular mast).

Fitting the Mounting Bracket to Metal Supports

NOTE! When mounted on metal supports, the inverter must not be exposed to rainwater or splashing water from the rear. Provide suitable rainwater protection or splash water protection.

The mounting bracket must be securely screwed to at least four points.

Do Not Warp or Deform the Mounting Bracket

Note! When fitting the mounting bracket to the wall, ensure that the mounting bracket does not become warped or deformed.

Connecting the Inverter to the Public Grid (AC Side)

Safety

WARNING! Danger due to incorrect operation and incorrectly performed work. This may result in serious injury and damage to property. Only qualified staff are authorized to commission your inverter and only within the scope of the respective technical regulations. Read the Installation and Operating Instructions before installing and commissioning the equipment.

WARNING! Danger due to grid voltage and DC voltage from solar modules that are exposed to light. This may result in an electric shock. Ensure that both the AC side and the DC side of the inverter are de-energised before carrying out any connection work. Only an authorized electrical engineer is permitted to connect this equipment to the public grid.

CAUTION! Danger due to incorrectly tightened terminals. This may result in heat damage to the inverter, which may lead to fire. When connecting AC and DC cables, ensure that all the terminals are tightened to the specified torque.

Monitoring the Grid

To provide the best possible grid monitoring, the resistance in the leads to the AC-side terminals should be as low as possible.

Type of AC Cable

The following types of AC cable can be connected to the AC terminals of the inverter:

• Copper or aluminum: solid round conductor
• Copper: fine-stranded round conductor, up to conductor class 4

Preparing the Aluminum Cables for Connection

The AC-side terminals are suitable for connecting single-wire, round aluminum cables. Because of the formation of a non-conductive oxide layer due to the reaction of aluminum with air, the following points must be considered when connecting aluminum cables:

• The reduced rated currents for aluminum cables.
• The connection conditions listed below.

Always follow the cable manufacturer instructions when using aluminum cables.

When designing cable cross-sections, take local regulations into account.

Connection Conditions:

1. Carefully clean the oxide layer from the bare end of the cable by scraping it, e.g. with a knife. IMPORTANT! Do not use brushes, files or emery paper, as the aluminum particles get trapped and can be transferred to other conductors.
2. Once the oxide layer is removed, rub the end of the cable with a neutral grease, such as non-acidic and non-alkaline Vaseline.
3. Immediately connect the cable end to the terminal. IMPORTANT! Repeat the procedure if the cable has been disconnected and is to be re-connected.

AC Terminals

PE: Ground conductor / earthing

L1-L3: Phase conductor

N: Neutral conductor

Max. cross-section of each conductor cable: 16 mm²

Min. cross-section of each conductor cable: in accordance with the fuse rating on the AC side, but at least 2.5 mm²

The AC cables can be connected to the AC terminals without ferrules.

IMPORTANT! When using ferrules for AC cables with a cross-section of 16 mm², the ferrules must be crimped with a right-angled cross-section. The use of ferrules with insulating collars is only permitted up to a max. cable cross-section of 10 mm².

Cross Section of the AC Cable

For a standard M32 metric screw joint with a reducer: Cable diameter from 7-15 mm.

When using an M32 metric screw joint (reducer removed): cable diameter from 11-21 mm (with a cable diameter of less than 11 mm, the strain-relief force is reduced from 100 N to a maximum of 80 N).

With cable diameters greater than 21 mm, the M32 screw joint must be replaced by an M32 screw joint with a larger clamping area (item number: 42,0407,0780 strain-relief device M32 x 1.5 KB 18–25).

Connecting the Inverter to the Public Grid (AC)

Maximum Fuse Rating on Alternating Current Side

Max. C 25A

Note! Local regulations, the electricity retailer or other factors may require a residual-current protective device in the AC connection lead. A type A residual-current circuit breaker with a trip current of at least 100 mA is generally sufficient in this case. In particular cases, and depending on local factors, however, the type A residual-current circuit breaker may trip at the wrong time. For this reason, Fronius recommends that a residual-current circuit breaker that is suitable for frequency converters should be used.

Notes Regarding Inverters with Single and Multiple MPP Trackers

Inverter with Single MPP Tracker

Fronius Symo 3.0-3-S / 3.7-3-S / 4.5-3-S

In these inverters, there are 3 terminals available for each DC+ and DC-. The terminals are internally connected and are not fused. This means that a maximum of three strings can be connected directly to the inverter in parallel. In this case, the solar modules must be able to carry at least the single reverse current (for 2 strings) or twice the reverse current (for 3 strings) (see data safety sheet for solar module).

Where there are more than three strings, an external combiner box with string fuses must be used. In this case, the strings must contain the same number of solar modules.

Inverter with Multiple MPP Trackers

Fronius Symo 3.0-3-M - 8.2-3-M

In the case of inverters with multiple MPP trackers, there are 2 independent DC inputs (MPP trackers) available. These can be connected to an unequal number of solar modules. There are two terminals for DC+ available per MPP tracker. In total there are four terminals for DC-.

Connecting two to four strings in multiple MPP tracker mode: divide the strings between the two MPP tracker inputs (DC+1/DC+2). The DC- terminals can be used however you wish, as they are internally connected.

When starting for the first time, set MPP TRACKER 2 to "ON" (this can also be done later in the Basic menu).

Single MPP tracker mode on an inverter with multiple MPP trackers: If the strings are connected using a string combiner box and only one bus is used for connection to the inverter, the connection DC+1 (pin 2) and DC+2 (pin 1) must be jumpered. The wire diameter of the DC connection lead and the jumpering must be the same. Jumpering of the DC terminal is not necessary, as these terminals are jumpered internally.

When starting for the first time, set MPP TRACKER 2 to "OFF" (this can also be done later in the Basic menu).

If the inverter with multiple MPP trackers is operated in single MPP tracker mode, the currents from the connected DC leads are divided evenly across both inputs.

Connecting Solar Module Strings to the Inverter

General Comments Regarding Solar Modules

To enable suitable solar modules to be chosen and to use the inverter as efficiently as possible, it is important to bear the following points in mind:

• If insolation is constant and the temperature is falling, the open circuit voltage of the solar modules will increase. The open circuit voltage must not exceed the maximum permissible system voltage. If the open circuit voltage exceeds the specified values, the inverter will be destroyed and no warranty claims will be entertained.
• The temperature coefficients on the solar modules data sheet must be observed.
• More exact values for dimensioning the solar modules can be provided by suitable calculation programs, like the Fronius Solar.creator (creator.fronius.com).

Note! Before connecting up the solar modules, check that the voltage for the solar modules specified by the manufacturer corresponds to the actual measured voltage.

DC Terminals

Cable cross section per DC cable: minimum 2.5 mm² - maximum 16 mm².

The DC cables can be connected to the DC terminals without ferrules.

Note! To ensure effective strain relief of the solar module strings, only use cables with identical cross-sections.

IMPORTANT! When using ferrules for DC cables with a cross-section of 16 mm², the ferrules must be crimped with a right-angled cross-section. The use of ferrules with insulating collars is only permitted up to a max. cable cross-section of 10 mm².

Connecting Aluminum Cables

The DC-side terminals are suitable for connecting single-wire, round aluminum cables. Because of the formation of a non-conductive oxide layer due to the reaction of aluminum with air, the following points must be considered when connecting aluminum cables:

• The reduced rated currents for aluminum cables.
• The connection conditions listed below.

Note! Always follow the cable manufacturer instructions when using aluminum cables.

Note! When designing cable cross-sections, take local regulations into account.

Connection Conditions:

1. Carefully clean the oxide layer from the bare end of the cable by scraping it, e.g. with a knife. IMPORTANT! Do not use brushes, files or emery paper, as the aluminum particles get trapped and can be transferred to other conductors.
2. Once the oxide layer is removed, rub the end of the cable with a neutral grease, such as non-acidic and non-alkaline Vaseline.
3. Immediately connect the cable end to the terminal. IMPORTANT! Repeat the procedure if the cable has been disconnected and is to be re-connected.

Solar Module Strings - Checking the Polarity and Voltage

CAUTION! Danger due to incorrect polarity and voltage. This may result in damage to the inverter. Check the polarity and voltage of the solar module strings before making the connection. The voltage must not exceed the following values:

• When installed between 0 and 2000 m above sea level: 1000 V
• When installed between 2001 and 2500 m above sea level: 900 V
• When installed between 2501 and 3000 m above sea level: 815 V
• When installed between 3001 and 3400 m above sea level: 750 V

Connecting Solar Module Strings to the Inverter (DC)

Note! Only break out as many target break points as there are cables.

IMPORTANT! Do not lay DC cables over the shaft of the DC main switch or across the connection block of the DC main switch.

If overlength AC or DC cables are to be laid in loops in the connection area, attach the cables with cable ties to the eyelets provided on the top and bottom of the connection block.

Data Communication

Routing Data Communication Cables

IMPORTANT! Operating the inverter with one option card and two broken-out option card slots is not permitted. To cater for this eventuality, a suitable blanking cover (42,0405,2020) is available from Fronius as an option.

IMPORTANT! If data communication cables are wired into the inverter, observe the following points:

• Depending on the number and cross-section of the data communication cables that are being introduced, take the relevant blanking plugs out of the sealing insert and insert the data communication cables.
• The relevant blanking plugs must be inserted into the free openings on the sealing insert.

Installing the Datamanager in the Inverter

WARNING! Danger of residual voltage from capacitors. This may result in an electric shock. Wait for the capacitors to discharge. The discharge time is five minutes.

WARNING! Danger from inadequate ground conductor connection. This can result in serious injury and damage to property. The housing screws provide a suitable ground conductor connection for earthing the housing and must NOT be replaced by any other screws that do not provide a reliable ground conductor connection.

IMPORTANT! Observe the ESD guidelines when handling option cards.

IMPORTANT! Only one Fronius Datamanager in master mode is permitted per Fronius Solar Net ring. Switch any other Fronius Datamanagers to slave mode or remove them. Seal off the unoccupied option card slot by replacing the cover (item number 42,0405,2094); alternatively, use an inverter without a Fronius Datamanager (light version).

IMPORTANT! Only break out one opening for the PC board when installing a Datamanager in the inverter.

Attaching the Inverter to the Mounting Bracket

Attaching the Inverter to the Mounting Bracket

WARNING! Danger from inadequate ground conductor connection. This can result in serious injury and damage to property. The housing screws provide a suitable ground conductor connection for grounding the housing and must NOT be replaced by any other screws that do not provide a reliable ground conductor connection.

The side sections of the housing lid are designed to function as holding and carrying handles.

Note! For safety reasons, the inverter is fitted with a latch that prevents the inverter from being swung into the mounting bracket unless the DC main switch is switched off. Never attach the inverter to the mounting bracket or swing it in unless the DC main switch is switched off. Never use force to attach the inverter or swing it in. The fastening screws in the data communication area of the inverter are used for securing the inverter to the mounting bracket. Correctly tightened fastening screws are a prerequisite if proper contact is to be established between the inverter and mounting bracket.

CAUTION! Danger due to incorrectly tightened fastening screws. This may result in arcs occurring when the inverter is in operation, which may lead to fire. Always use the specified torque when tightening the fastening screws.

Starting for the First Time

Starting the Inverter for the First Time

WARNING! Danger due to incorrect operation and incorrectly performed work. This can result in serious injury and damage to property. Only qualified personnel are authorized to commission your inverter and only within the scope of the respective technical regulations. Read the Installation and Operating Instructions before installing and commissioning the equipment.

When starting the inverter for the first time, it is necessary to select various setup settings.

If setup is interrupted before it is complete, it can be restarted by means of an AC reset. An AC reset can be carried out by switching the automatic circuit breaker off and on again.

The country setup can only be set when using the inverter for the first time. If the country setup needs to be changed at a later date, please contact your Technical Support team.

Country Setup Examples: The available country setups may change during a software update. Therefore, the following list may not exactly match the display on the inverter.

50Hz International 50 Hz, 60Hz International 60 Hz, AT1E Österreich cosphi = 1, AT2E Österreich cosphi P 0,9, AT3E Österreich: Q(U), AUS1 Australia AUS1 - AS/NZS4777.2, AUS2 Australia AUS2 - VIC, AUS3 Australia AUS3 - NSW Ausgrid, AUS4 Australia AUS4 - QLD, AUS5 Australia AUS5 - SA, AUS6 Australia AUS6 - WA - WP, AUS7 Australia AUS7 - WA - HP, AUA Australia Region A 2020, AUB Australia Region B 2020, AUC Australia Region C 2020, BE Belgique / België, BR2 Brasil: ≤ 6 KVA, BR3 Brasil: > 6 KVA, CH Schweiz / Suisse / Svizzera / Svizra, CL Chile, CY Κύπρος / Kıbrıs / Cyprus, CZ Česko, DE1F Deutschland (≤ 4,6 kVA) konst. cosPhi(1), DE1P Deutschland (≤ 4,6 kVA) cosPhi(P) 0,95, DE2F Deutschland (> 4,6 kVA) - konst. cosPhi(1), DE2P Deutschland (> 4,6 kVA) cosPhi(P) 0,9, DE2U Deutschland (> 4,6 kVA) - Q(U), DKA1 West Denmark - 125kW, DKA2 East Denmark - 125kW, DU1 Dubai < 10 kW, DU2 Dubai 10 kW - 400 kW, EE Estonia, ES España, ESOS Territorios españoles en el extranjero (Spanish Oversea Islands), EULV EU - low voltage, EUMV EU - medium voltage, FI Finland, FR France, FROS Territoire d'Outre-Mer (French Oversea Islands), G98 Great Britain GB - G98, GB Great Britain, GR Ελλάδα, HU Magyarország, HR Hrvatska, IE Éire / Ireland, IL x / Israel / إسرائيل, IN India, IT6 Italia ≤ 11,08 kVA 2019, IT7 Italia > 11,08 kVA 2019, JO98 Jordan G98, JO99 Jordan G99, LK Sri Lanka, MG50 Microgrid 50 Hz, MG60 Microgrid 60 Hz, NI98 Northern Ireland G98, N199 Northern Ireland G99, NL Nederland, NO Norge, NZ New Zealand, PF1 Polynésie française (French Polynesia), PL Poland, PT Portugal, RO România, SA Saudi Arabia, SE Sverige, SI Slovenija, SK Slovensko, THM Thailand MEA, THP Thailand PEA, TR Türkiye, UA Україна, ZA South Africa / Suid-Afrika.