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In the current era of technological advancement, many experts are developing renewable energy systems that have cleaner and environmentally friendly outputs. In the world of renewable energy, inverters are one of the important components that can make renewable energy systems run optimally. However, what is a power inverter? An inverter is a device that can convert direct current (DC) from solar panels into alternating current (AC), where the AC generated by the inverter will be delivered to power various electronic devices in user-specific applications.
On the other hand, inverter types are divided into low frequency and high frequency where both have their respective differences. However, in this article, we will only discuss more about low frequency inverter, working principles, advantages & disadvantages, and specific applications of low frequency inverters.
What is Low Frequency Inverter?
Low frequency inverter is one type of transformer-based inverter and is useful for converting DC power into AC in low voltage and low frequency. This inverter is designed to be able to handle large power spikes when powering devices with high enough power for a longer period of time than high-frequency inverters. The transformer consisted on the inverter itself is designed to make the inverter operate well for applications that require high power or extra stability.
In addition, usually, the frequency level produced by the low frequency inverter is at 50Hz or 60Hz, this is adjusted to the electricity standards in certain areas. Where inverters with 50Hz are usually used most in the Americas and surrounding areas, and 60Hz is used in Asia, Europe, Africa, and others.
Working Principal of Low Frequency Inverter
The following is a low frequency work process that starts from the process of receiving DC power from an energy source until the distribution of AC power to various electronic devices.
- Direct current (DC) generated by energy sources such as solar panels or batteries will be converted into DC current with a higher voltage.
- Then, the DC current with high voltage will be converted into initial AC power using electronic switches such as MOSFET or inverter IGBT.
- Next, the initial AC wave will flow through a low frequency transformer that helps adjust the voltage as needed and provides electrical isolation that is useful for protecting the device from power surges and various electrical disturbances that arise.
- Finally, the outgoing AC wave that has gone through the transformer will be distributed to various electronic devices. The output wave will be adjusted according to the inverter design, whether pure sine wave or modified sine wave.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Low Frequency Inverter
Low frequency inverter has its own advantages and disadvantages in its application. The following are the advantages and disadvantages of low frequency inverters.
The Advantages of Low Frequency Inverter
Here are some of the advantages of low frequency inverters in their application.
- The structure of the low frequency inverter is simpler.
- Better electrical isolation, where the transformer will provide isolation to the inverter input and output, which serves as protection against various electrical disturbances.
- More stable and reliable in applications that require continuous high power.
- Able to cope with large power surges efficiently, making it suitable for devices that require large power.
- Suitable for environments with extreme stability.
- Has a smart control system (microcontroller or DPS) that allows the inverter to adjust the frequency and voltage output to the required power and environmental conditions.
- Has a longer service life, where the transformer makes the inverter more resistant to heat and stress.
- Can operate properly for a long time without the risk of overheating.
The Disadvantages of Low Frequency Inverter
Here are some of the disadvantages that low frequency inverters have in their application.
- Usually the price is higher than the high-frequency inverter because it is equipped with a large transformer in the inverter.
- Has a much larger size and weight compared to the high-frequency inverter.
- Less suitable for portable applications as the installation is a bit complicated to move.
- Less efficient for use at low loads as they are designed to handle large loads.
- Can produce noise, where the transformer can buzz if the inverter is in an overwork position or the connected load is unbalanced.
- Maintenance or repair costs can be greater if the transformer is damaged.
Specific Application of Low Frequency Inverter
Because it can handle large loads and power surges, the application of low frequency inverters is suitable in a variety of places.
- Solar power systems: which can be used to better handle power surges, providing high power efficiency and stability in managing heavy loads.
- Industry: it can also be used in an industry where it can operate a variety of industrial electronic equipment such as electric motors, compressors, or pumps.
- Vehicle: This type of inverter can also be used to help operate several vehicles like boats, RV, truck and various electric vehicles owned by users.
- Remote area: As an electricity supply system in rural area, such as off-grid inverter for cabins in remote areas or an off-grid inverter for mobile clinics that operate in remote areas in providing health services.
- Residential: Suitable for residential applications or household systems that require stable and large power stability.
Conclusion
Low frequency inverters have various advantages in their use, which can handle various heavy loads and large power surges. In addition, the use of this inverter is much more stable and reliable making it suitable for various environmental conditions. Because they can handle a variety of heavy loads, the application of this inverters can be used in various applications, ranging from medium to large systems.
If you are looking for a quality low frequency inverter you can visit the JOEYOUNG home page, because, this manufacturer also provides various types of inverters to suit your various needs. JOEYOUNG is a solar inverter manufacturer that provides the best solution in renewable energy systems, where JOEYOUNG is one of the largest inverter manufacturers supported by experienced experts in inverter manufacturing. If you want to understand and ask more about inverters, you can contact our experts here.
Frequently asked questions
Basically, the most important difference between these two types of inverters is that low frequency inverters are usually used for large-scale electricity systems because they are more stable and can handle power surges, while high-frequency inverters are usually used for small-scale electricity systems. If you want to understand more about the difference between the two you can read the article low frequency vs high frequency inverter.
If the inverter is well maintained and used properly, its lifespan can reach more than 15 years. However, if the inverter is poorly maintained and used for heavy loads continuously, the life of the inverter will be further reduced to 5-8 years.
Basically, how to maintain a low frequency inverter is the same as an inverter in general, that is, by ensuring that the inverter cable is still installed properly and does not experience looseness, besides ensuring that the ventilation or inverter cooling fan is not blocked by dust and other particles that can make the cooling fan experience functional obstacles. Moreover, use the inverter according to its capacity to prevent overloading and avoid the device from malfunctioning.
With the growing public awareness of renewable energy today, we invite you to learn more about various inverter applications and their advantages in daily life.
Here is an inverter purchase guide for you who are interested in starting to use a clean and environmentally friendly electricity system.
Here, you will find relevant information about inverter cables, factors to consider when choosing the right inverter, practical installation, common mistakes to avoid, and how to maintain the inverter cables.
