Installation manual

5.5.2. MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controllers

MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controllers work with higher voltage turbines, and

convert this voltage down to charge the battery. The MPPT function is especially useful for

optimising the turbine speed automatically. They control battery charge by restricting the

current that reaches the battery but often allow you to harvest surplus energy via an auxiliary

relay.

Pros:

 MPPT adjusts voltage automatically for maximum Watts output. This has two

advantages: you tend to get more power, and you don't have to manually tinker with the

alternator to optimise it. (You will still need to adjust the flow to suit available water.)

 Higher transmission voltage often results in significant cable cost savings

 Generally fail-safe – in the event of controller failure generation stops, so the batteries

are not damaged by over-charging.

 The controller will display (and log) production data and battery charge settings, which

helps with trouble-shooting and with battery warranty claims.

Cons:

 Higher cost (though the New Classic KID is not that costly)

 Internal losses are normally 3-7%

 must be able to withstand Voc as the turbine may become disconnected

5.6. Diversion (PWM) load battery-charge controllers in detail

The following are common PWM controllers for use with hydro turbines and dump loads.

Use internal settings to configure the controller for diversion. Do not use 'solar charge

control' mode with these controllers. See 6.5 for details of how to wire the system.

Power Master PM60 Morningstar TS60 Xantrex C40