A Forum run by Enthusiasts of MidNite Solar

Charge Controllers and Clippers => The "Classic" charge controller => Topic started by: timbo on December 07, 2016, 01:06:25 PM

Title: Kestrel E300i and Midnite Classic
Post by: timbo on December 07, 2016, 01:06:25 PM
Hi there,
I am new to the forum having just discovered it. Thanks for having me....
I have recently acquired a 48v Kestrel and am interested in running it through a Classic controller to charge a 24v fla battery of approx. 700ah. According to the information sheet for the clipper this combination does not require the clipper at all and suggests using a Classic 200. I assume this is because the Kestrel is listed as having a maximum voltage of 165v. However, the 48v turbine I have has a maximum voltage of 250v according to its manual. I assume this is an improved model. So the question is:
   can I safely run this turbine into a classic 250 without using a clipper and relying on hyperVOC to keep it all under control.
   and I would plan on using aux 1 or 2 to switch on a dumpload via a solid state relay. Will this work as a method of preventing overcharging?

Thanks in advance, Tim
Title: Re: Kestrel E300i and Midnite Classic
Post by: timbo on December 14, 2016, 06:32:46 PM
Well I guess I'll just try it - I'll let you know what happens! Thanks
Title: Re: Kestrel E300i and Midnite Classic
Post by: Halfcrazy on December 15, 2016, 09:55:00 AM
Tim
So there are a few models of the Kestrel turbine, it sounds like you have the higher voltage one, My guess is it "May" go high enough to be a problem but the only sure way to know is try. Because the kestrel has active blade pitch you could find a VERY windy day and let it go open circuit for a short period and measure it. If you see more than 298 vdc then damage will be done to the classic and a clipper will become mandatory.

Basically in a nutshell worst case trying it without a clipper could damage the classic, but only you can decide if the savings of a clipper is worth the chance