IMO FireRaptor is first ever UL listed PV rapid shutdown system to achieve AFCI certification with Fronius PRIMO inverter range
Hertfordshire, U.K., October 22, 2020 /Solar Business Hub/ – IMO is extremely pleased to announce that the FireRaptor is the first ever NEC 2017 and 2020 module level rapid shutdown product to be tested and certified for AFCI interference under UL’s PVRSS certification with the Fronius PRIMO inverter range.
AFCI interference has long been a concern within the solar industry as the use of module-level power electronics (MLPE) devices, power line communications, or other similar technology has become more prevalent.
With those concerns in mind, UL began developing AFCI testing requirements for Rapid Shutdown PVRSS certified components and IMO has been the first company to submit and achieve certification in accordance with these new requirements as part of its PVRSS certification with the Fronius PRIMO inverter range.
Joe Covington, IMO’s General Manager of its North American operations commented:
“This new development allows us to ensure confidence to prospective consumers when selecting the IMO FireRaptor for a potential installation. No matter which inverter or charge controller is chosen, the FireRaptor truly is an agnostic device.”
The FireRaptor is designed to be installed at solar panel level and provides safety shutdown of the DC supply to ZERO volts in case of emergency. Shutdown is initiated in 3 ways – Manual Operation by way of an emergency shutdown switch (which can be conveniently located at ground level for easy access), AC Supply Cut-Off, or a Temperature Rise Trigger.
The FireRaptor operates in the same way as a disconnect switch, making the FireRaptor compatible with all string inverters, and does not affect their operation or performance in any way. Additionally, the FireRaptor has been designed for fail-safe operation ensuring that once operated, subsequent damage to the FireRaptor (e.g. by fire) will not compromise the solar panel isolation and shutdown status. Indeed, the FireRaptor has been tested to destruction by TÜV in Germany, maintaining full zero volt isolation throughout the test procedure.
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About IMO
Founded in 1972, IMO Precision Controls Ltd. (IMO) has grown from its UK base to become a global manufacturer and supplier of industrial control and electronic components and systems. With sales offices in the UK, France, Italy, Australia, Russia and North America and with logistics centres in Europe, North America, Australia and China, IMO now derive over 50% of our revenue from overseas markets.
Press Release provided by IMO Precision Controls Ltd. (IMO). Photo credit: © IMO.
