Growatt Off Grid MPV Solar Inverter User Manual

Information on this Manual

Validity

This manual is valid for the following devices:

• SPF 4000T DVM-MPV
• SPF 5000T DNM-MPV
• SPF 6000T DVM-MPV
• SPF 8000T DVM-MPV
• SPF 10000T DVM-MPV
• SPF 12000T DVM-MPV

Scope

This manual describes the assembly, installation, operation, and troubleshooting of this unit. Please read this manual carefully before installations and operations.

Target Group

This document is intended for qualified persons and end users. Tasks that do not require any particular qualification can also be performed by end users. Qualified persons must have the following skills:

• Knowledge of how an inverter works and is operated.
• Training in how to deal with the dangers and risks associated with installing and using electrical devices and installations.
• Training in the installation and commissioning of electrical devices and installations.
• Knowledge of the applicable standards and directives.
• Knowledge of and compliance with this document and all safety information.

Safety Instructions

WARNING: This chapter contains important safety and operating instructions. Read and keep this manual for future reference.

1. CAUTION: Only qualified personnel can install this device with battery.
2. Before using the unit, read all instructions and caution marks on the unit, understand the batteries, and all appropriate sections of this manual.
3. CAUTION: To reduce risk of injury, charge only deep-cycle lead acid type rechargeable batteries. Other types of batteries may burst, causing personal injury and damage.
4. NEVER cause AC output and DC input short circuit. Do not connect to the mains when DC input short circuits.
5. NEVER charge a frozen battery.
6. Do not disassemble the unit. Take it to a qualified service center when service or repair is required. Incorrect re-assembly may result in a risk of electric shock or fire.
7. To reduce risk of electric shock, disconnect all wiring before attempting any maintenance or cleaning. Turning off the unit will not reduce this risk.
8. Be very cautious when working with metal tools on or around batteries. A potential risk, such as dropping a tool to spark or short circuit batteries or other electrical parts, could cause an explosion.
9. For optimum operation of this off-grid solar inverter, please follow required specifications to select appropriate cable size. It is very important to correctly operate this off-grid solar inverter.
10. Please strictly follow installation procedure when you want to disconnect AC or DC terminals. Please refer to the INSTALLATION section of this manual for the details.
11. GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS: This off-grid solar inverter should be connected to a permanent grounded wiring system. Be sure to comply with local requirements and regulations to install this inverter.
12. Warning!! Only qualified service persons are able to service this device. If errors still persist after following the troubleshooting table, please contact your local dealer or service center for maintenance.

Introduction

Hybrid Power System

This is a multifunctional split-phase output off-grid solar inverter, integrated with an MPPT solar charge controller, a low-frequency pure sine wave inverter, and a UPS function module in one machine, which is perfect for off-grid backup power and self-consumption applications.

The whole system also needs other devices to achieve complete running, such as PV modules, a generator, or a utility grid. Please consult with your system integrator for other possible system architectures depending on your requirements. The WiFi / GPRS module is a plug-and-play monitoring device to be installed on the inverter. With this device, users can monitor the status of the PV system from the mobile phone or from the website anytime, anywhere.

Diagram Description (Hybrid Power System): A diagram illustrates the Hybrid Power System. On the left, a Solar Panel, Utility Grid, and Generator are shown, each connected via lines labeled L1 and L2 to the central inverter unit. The inverter is also connected to a Battery. From the inverter, connections go to a WiFi/GPRS module, which links to the Internet and ShinePhone/ShineServer. The inverter also outputs power to Home Loads, with lines labeled 120V and 240V, and N (Neutral).

Features

• Rated power 4KW to 12KW
• MPPT solar charge controller
• Low-frequency inverter with large transformer
• Pure sine wave AC output
• Overload, short circuit, and deep discharge protection
• Configurable AC/solar input priority via LCD setting
• Compatible with mains voltage or generator power
• WiFi / GPRS remote monitoring

Product Overview

The product overview shows the front and rear panels of the inverter. The front panel features an ON/OFF power switch, LCD display, Status indicator, Charging indicator, Fault indicator, and Function buttons. The rear panel includes connections for Battery (+/-), Fan, Dry contact, Remote control port, WiFi/GPRS device port, USB port, BMS (optional), RS485 (optional), AC input switch, AC input, AC output switch, AC output, and PV input.

Component List:

1. ON/OFF power switch
2. LCD display
3. Status indicator
4. Charging indicator
5. Fault indicator
6. Function buttons
7. Battery "-"
8. Battery "+"
9. Fan
10. Dry contact
11. Remote control port
12. WiFi/GPRS device port
13. USB port
14. BMS (optional)
15. RS485 (optional)
16. AC input switch
17. AC input
18. AC output switch
19. AC output
20. PV input

Installation

Unpacking and Inspection

Before installation, please inspect the unit. Ensure nothing inside the package is damaged. The package should contain:

• The unit x 1
• User manual x 1
• Communication cable x 1
• Software CD x 1

Preparation

Before connecting all wiring, remove the bottom cover by unscrewing eight screws.

Mounting the Unit

Consider the following points before selecting an installation location:

• Do not mount the inverter on flammable construction materials.
• Mount on a solid surface.
• Install this inverter at eye level to ensure the LCD display is readable at all times.
• The ambient temperature should be between 0°C and 55°C to ensure optimal operation.
• The recommended installation position is vertically on the wall.
• Ensure sufficient clearance around the unit for heat dissipation and wire access, as shown in the diagram.

Diagram Description (Mounting): Diagrams show recommended mounting clearances (e.g., 80cm, 50cm) and dimensions for the inverter. The 4-6KW models require 400mm width and 180mm height clearance, while 8-12KW models require 420mm width and 240mm height clearance. The text "SUITABLE FOR MOUNTING ON CONCRETE OR OTHER NON-COMBUSTIBLE SURFACE ONLY" is prominently displayed.

Install the unit by screwing in the six setscrews.

Battery Connection

CAUTION: For safety and regulatory compliance, install a separate DC over-current protector or disconnect device between the battery and inverter. Over-current protection is always requested.

WARNING: All wiring must be performed by a qualified person. Using appropriate cable for battery connection is crucial for system safety and efficient operation.

Recommended battery cable and terminal size:

Steps for Battery Connection:

1. Assemble battery ring terminals based on the recommended cable and terminal size.
2. Connect all battery packs as required. It is suggested to use at least a 200Ah capacity battery for 4KW~6KW models and at least a 400Ah capacity battery for 8KW~12KW models.
3. Insert the ring terminal of the battery cable flatly into the battery connector of the inverter. Ensure the bolts are tightened with a torque of 2-3 Nm. Verify correct polarity at both the battery and the inverter/charge, and ensure ring terminals are tightly screwed to the battery terminals.

WARNING: Shock Hazard Installation must be performed with care due to high battery voltage in series.

CAUTION: Do not place anything between the flat part of the inverter terminal and the ring terminal, as this may cause overheating.

CAUTION: Do not apply anti-oxidant substance on the terminals before they are connected tightly.

CAUTION: Before making the final DC connection or closing the DC breaker/disconnector, ensure positive (+) is connected to positive (+) and negative (-) is connected to negative (-).

Lithium Battery Connection

If using a lithium battery with Growatt SPF series products, ensure it is a configured lithium battery. Lithium batteries typically have an RJ45 port for BMS communication and a power cable.

Steps for Lithium Battery Connection:

1. Assemble battery ring terminals based on recommended battery cable and terminal size (refer to Lead acid section 3.4.1 for details).
2. Insert the ring terminal of the battery cable flatly into the battery connector of the inverter and tighten bolts to 2-3 Nm. Ensure correct polarity and secure connections.
3. Connect the RJ45 end of the battery to the BMS communication port of the inverter.
4. Connect the other end of the RJ45 to the battery communication port.

Note: For lithium batteries, ensure the BMS communication cable is connected between the battery and the inverter. The battery type must be set to "lithium battery" in the inverter settings.

Lithium Battery Communication and Setting

To enable communication with the battery BMS, set the battery type to "LI" in Program 05. This will switch the LCD to Program 51 for protocol selection. The inverter supports four RS485 protocols; Basic Protocol 1 is defined by Growatt, while others are customized. Consult Growatt for questions regarding BMS communication.

BMS Port Pin Assignment:

Connect the RJ45 cable from the battery to the inverter's BMS communication port, ensuring a Pin-to-Pin connection. The inverter BMS port pin assignment is as follows:

Diagram Description (BMS Port): A diagram shows a standard 8-pin connector labeled "87654321", indicating the pin numbering for the BMS port.

LCD Setting (Battery Type)

To connect the battery BMS, set the battery type to "LI" in Program 05. After setting "LI", Program 51 will appear to choose the battery type.

Battery Type Options (Program 05):

• AGM (Default): Standard AGM battery setting.
• Flood: For flooded lead-acid batteries.
• User-Defined: Allows manual setting of battery charge voltage and low DC cut-off voltage in programs 19, 20, and 21.
• User-Defined 2: Suitable for lithium batteries without BMS communication. Allows manual setting of charge voltage and low DC cut-off voltage in programs 19, 20, and 21.
• Lithium (Only suitable when communicate with BMS): For lithium batteries communicating via BMS.

Lithium Battery BMS Communication Protocol Options (Program 51): L01, L02, L03, L04.

Note: When the battery type is set to "LI", settings for options 12, 13, and 21 will display percentages. The Maximum charge current cannot be modified by the user when the battery type is "LI". If communication fails, the inverter will cut off output.

Related Programs for Lithium Batteries:

• Program 12 (Setting SOC point back to utility source): Displays percentage. Default 40%, settable 30%~50%.
• Program 13 (Setting SOC point back to battery mode): Displays percentage. Default 80%, settable 60%~100%.
• Program 21 (Low DC cut-off voltage): If self-defined, this program can be set up. Displays percentage. Default 20%, settable 5%~50%.

AC Input/Output Connection

CAUTION: Before connecting to the AC input power source, install a separate AC breaker between the inverter and the power source. This ensures secure disconnection during maintenance and protection from over-current. Recommended AC breaker specs: 40A for 4KW~6KW, 80A for 8KW~12KW.

CAUTION: There are two terminal blocks marked "IN" and "OUT". Do NOT mis-connect input and output connectors.

WARNING: All wiring must be performed by a qualified personnel. Using the proper recommended cable size for AC input connection is very important for system safety and efficient operation.

Suggested cable requirement for AC wires:

AC Wiring Diagrams:

Single phase with 240V output:

• Input: HOT1 + HOT2 + Ground
• Output: HOT1 + HOT2

Single phase with 120V output:

• Input: HOT1 + HOT2 + Ground
• Output: HOT1 + N or HOT2 + N

Diagram Description (AC Wiring): Diagrams illustrate AC input and output connections for 4-6KW and 8-12KW models, showing terminal blocks for AC INPUT (HOT1, HOT2), AC OUTPUT (HOT1, N, HOT2), and PV INPUT (+/-). Wire colors are indicated: Ground (yellow-green), L (brown or black), N (blue).

Steps for AC Input/Output Connection:

1. Before making AC input/output connections, ensure the DC protector or disconnector is open.
2. Remove insulation sleeve 10mm for six conductors. Shorten phase L and neutral conductor N by 3 mm.
3. Insert AC input wires according to polarities indicated on the terminal block and tighten terminal screws. Connect the PE protective conductor first.

WARNING: Be sure that the AC power source is disconnected before attempting to hardwire it to the unit.

4. Insert AC output wires according to polarities indicated on the terminal block and tighten terminal screws. Connect the PE protective conductor first.
5. Make sure the wires are securely connected.

CAUTION: Important Ensure AC wires are connected with correct polarity. Reversing L and N wires may cause utility short-circuiting during parallel operation.

CAUTION: Appliances like air conditioners require 2-3 minutes to restart to balance refrigerant gas. If a power shortage occurs and recovers quickly, it can damage connected appliances. Check if the appliance has a time-delay function before installation. Otherwise, this inverter may trigger an overload fault and cut off output to protect the appliance, but sometimes internal damage may still occur.

PV Connection

CAUTION: Before connecting PV modules, install a separate DC circuit breaker between the inverter and PV modules.

WARNING: All wiring must be performed by a qualified personnel. Using the proper recommended cable size for PV module connection is very important for system safety and efficient operation.

Recommended PV cable size and torque:

PV Module Selection:

When selecting PV modules, consider the following parameters:

1. The open-circuit voltage (Voc) of PV modules must not exceed the max. PV array open-circuit voltage of the inverter.
2. The open-circuit voltage (Voc) of PV modules should be higher than the min. battery voltage.

Solar Charging Mode Parameters:

Steps for PV Module Connection:

1. Remove insulation sleeve 10 mm for positive and negative conductors.
2. Check the correct polarity of the connection cable from PV modules and PV input connectors. Connect the positive pole (+) of the connection cable to the positive pole (+) of the PV input connector. Connect the negative pole (-) of the connection cable to the negative pole (-) of the PV input connector.
3. Make sure the wires are securely connected.

Diagram Description (PV Wiring): Diagrams show PV input terminals for 4-6KW (MPPT 80A) and 8-10KW/12KW (MPPT 120A) models. Each model shows PV1 INPUT and PV2 INPUT terminals with '+' and '-' markings, indicating polarity. A 3mm maximum insulation strip length is indicated.

Communication Connection

Use the supplied communication cable to connect the inverter to a PC. Insert the bundled CD into a computer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the monitoring software. For detailed software operation, refer to the software's user manual on the CD.

Dry Contact Signal

There is one dry contact (3A/250VAC) available on the rear panel. It can be used to send a signal to a generator when the battery voltage reaches a warning level.

Dry Contact Port States:

Electrical Performance

AC Charger

The inverter is equipped with an active PFC (Power Factor Correction) multistage battery charger. The PFC feature controls the power used to charge batteries to achieve a power factor close to 1. When AC voltage is in the range of 154~260VAC, the charging current is 100%. The inverter offers strong charging current, up to 100A for the 12KW model, adjustable from 10A~100A, which is beneficial for small capacity battery banks.

Charging Stages:

• Bulk Charging: Initial stage with controlled constant current until absorption charge voltage is achieved.
• Absorb Charging: Second stage after absorption voltage is reached. Provides constant voltage and reduces DC charging current. Features a T1 time; the charger maintains Boost CV mode until T1 expires or charging current drops below 0.01C or time exceeds 12 hours, then it drops to float voltage.
• Float Charging: Third stage at the end of absorb charging. Charge voltage is reduced to the float charge voltage to keep the battery fully charged and ready.

Diagram Description (Charging Stages): A graph shows three stages: Bulk (Constant Current), Absorption (Constant Voltage), and Maintenance (Floating). It plots Battery Voltage (per cell) and Charging Current (%) against Time, illustrating the transitions between stages.

AC Charging Current:

Operation

Power ON/OFF

Once the unit is properly installed and batteries are connected, press the On/Off switch (located on the case) to turn the unit on.

Operation and Display Panel

The operation and display panel is on the front of the inverter and includes a LCD display, three indicators, and four function keys to show operating status and input/output power information.

Panel Components:

1. LCD display
2. Status indicator
3. Charging indicator
4. Fault indicator
5. Function buttons

Diagram Description (Operation Panel): A diagram shows the front panel with indicators labeled AC/INV, CHG, and FAULT, and a LCD display area. Below the display are four function buttons: ESC, UP, DOWN, ENTER.

LED Indicator Status:

Function Buttons:

LCD Display Icons

The LCD display shows various information icons. The display can be switched by pressing the "UP" or "DOWN" keys.

Input Source Information:

• AC: Indicates the AC input.
• PV: Indicates the PV input.
• INPUT [value]: Displays input voltage, input frequency, PV voltage, battery voltage, and charger current.

Configuration Program and Fault Information:

• [value]: Indicates the setting programs.
• [value] (flashing): Indicates warning codes.
• [value] (solid): Indicates fault codes.

Output Information:

• OUTPUT [value]: Indicates output voltage, output frequency, load percent, load in VA, load in Watt, and discharging current.

Battery Information:

• Battery Level: Indicated by bars (0-24%, 25-49%, 50-74%, 75-100%) and charging status.
• Charge Priority Icons: SOLAR (solar first), UTILITY (utility first). SOLAR blinking indicates solar only; SOLAR and UTILITY both on indicate combined charging.

Battery Status vs. LCD Display:

Load Percentage:

In battery mode, battery capacity is presented. The load level is indicated by 0-24%, 25-49%, 50-74%, and 75-100%.

Load Information:

• OVER LOAD: Indicates overload.
• Load Level: Indicated by percentage (0-24%, 25-49%, 50-74%, 75-100%).

Mode Operation Information:

• [Icon: Mains connection]: Indicates unit connects to the mains.
• [Icon: PV panel connection]: Indicates unit connects to the PV panel.
• [Icon: Load supplied by utility]: Indicates load is supplied by utility power.
• [Icon: Utility charger working]: Indicates the utility charger circuit is working.
• [Icon: DC/AC inverter working]: Indicates the DC/AC inverter circuit is working.
• Output Priority: SOL.FIRST (solar first), BAT.FIRST (battery first), UTI.FIRST (utility first).

Mute Operation:

• [Icon: Mute]: Indicates unit alarm is disabled.

LCD Setting Programs

To enter setting mode, press and hold the ENTER button for 3 seconds. Use "UP" or "DOWN" to select programs, and "ENTER" to confirm or "ESC" to exit.

Setting Programs:

Display Setting

The LCD display information switches in turns by pressing the "UP" or "DOWN" key. The selectable information order is: input voltage, input frequency, PV voltage, MPPT charging current, MPPT charging power, battery voltage, output voltage, output frequency, load percentage, load in VA, load in Watt, DC discharging current, main CPU Version, and second CPU Version.

LCD Display Examples:

• Input/Output Voltage: Shows Input Voltage and Output Voltage values (e.g., Input Voltage=230V, Output Voltage=230V).
• Input Frequency: Shows Input Frequency (e.g., Input frequency=50Hz).
• AC Charging Current: Shows AC charging current (e.g., AC charging current=30A).
• PV Voltage: Shows PV voltage (e.g., PV voltage=110V).
• PV Charging Current: Shows PV charging current (e.g., PV charging current=80A).
• PV Charging Power: Shows MPPT charging power (e.g., MPPT charging power=1.68KW).
• PV and Utility Charging Current: Shows current values for PV and Utility charging (e.g., Current =60A, Current=140A).
• Output Frequency: Shows output frequency (e.g., Output frequency=50Hz).
• Load Percentage: Shows load percentage (e.g., Load percent=92%).
• Load in VA: Displays load in VA. For loads lower than 1kVA, it shows xxx VA. For loads larger than or equal to 1kVA, it shows x.x kVA.
• Load in Watt: Displays load in Watts. For loads lower than 1kW, it shows xxx W. For loads larger than or equal to 1kW, it shows x.x kW.
• DC Discharging Current: Shows DC discharging current (e.g., DC discharging current=128A).
• Main CPU Version Checking: Displays the main CPU version (e.g., 028-00-505).
• Secondary CPU Version Checking: Displays the secondary CPU version (e.g., 029-00-409).
• Inverter Rated Power: Displays the rated power (e.g., 6.0 KW).
• Battery Level: Shows Battery SOC (e.g., Battery SOC=50%).
• Battery Equalization: Displays status related to battery equalization.

Operating Mode Description

This section describes the different operating modes of the inverter and their corresponding LCD displays.

Fault Reference Code

This section lists fault codes, their corresponding events, and the icon displayed on the unit.

Warning Indicator

This section lists warning codes, their corresponding events, audible alarms, and flashing icons.

Battery Equalization

The equalization function is added to the charge controller to reverse the buildup of negative chemical effects like stratification (where acid concentration is greater at the bottom than the top) and to remove sulfate crystals from battery plates. If unchecked, sulfation reduces battery capacity. Periodic equalization is recommended.

How to Apply Equalization Function:

Enable the battery equalization function in monitoring LCD setting Program 43 first. Then, apply the function using one of the following methods:

1. Setting equalization interval in Program 47.
2. Activating equalization immediately in Program 48.

When to Equalize:

In the float stage, when the set equalization interval (battery equalization cycle) is reached, or when equalization is activated immediately, the controller enters the Equalize stage.

Diagram Description (Equalize Stage): A graph shows the voltage profile over time during charging stages: BULK, ABSORPTION, FLOAT, and EQUALIZE. The Equalize voltage is shown to be higher than the Float voltage.

Equalize Charging Time and Timeout:

In the Equalize stage, the controller supplies maximum power to charge the battery until it reaches the battery equalization voltage. Constant-voltage regulation then maintains this voltage. The battery remains in the Equalize stage until the set battery equalized time is reached.

If the battery voltage does not reach the equalization voltage point by the time the battery equalized time expires, the charge controller will extend the equalization time. If the battery voltage is still lower than the equalization voltage when the battery equalized timeout setting is exceeded, the charge controller will stop equalization and return to the float stage.

Diagram Description (Equalize Charging Time/Timeout): Graphs illustrate the Equalize stage, showing how "Equalize Charging Time" and "Equalize Charging Timeout" affect the duration and completion of the equalization process based on battery voltage reaching the target equalization voltage.

Trouble Shooting

This section provides solutions for common problems encountered with the inverter.

Specifications

Detailed specifications for the Growatt Off Grid MPV Solar Inverter series are provided below.