INVESTIGATION OF THE PERFORMANCE INDEX OF 3.5KVA/48V POWER INVERTER
ABSTRACT
The initial cost of the power inverter system is significantly higher compared to the conventional source of power. As a result, there is a need for the performance evaluation of various power inverters in order to determine the cost-efficiency of the power inverter as an alternative source of power. The aim of the present study is to investigate the performance index of 3.5KVA/48V inverters for domestic sources of electric power supply. Four types of inverters (Mercury, Safer Power, Sinergy, and Su-Kam) commonly available in the market were considered. And three performance indices (resistive load test, inductive load test, and output waveform) were used to determine the cost-effectiveness of one inverter over the other. Results showed that the Sinergy Power Inverter has the best performance. In terms of the battery discharge current, Sinergy is 35% (for the resistive) and 61% (for the inductive test) more efficient compared to Mercury at an output load of 1 kW.
CHAPTER ONEINTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Electric power interruptions are quite common in every place, especially after a heavy downpour or a severe storm. To counter this power outage, a search has been to find a reliable and economical alternative source of electricity. Although this kind of project has been dealt with quite a number of times the fact still remains that an improvement needs to be done. This in essence makes the project topic “Investigation of the performance index of 3.5KVA/48V inverter” purposeful and resourceful. An inverter is a device or an electronic that converts or inverts a direct current into a conventional alternating current. A power inverter is a great tool used to run household/office appliances, where there is no electricity. The input voltage and frequency of the inverter may be fixed or it may vary depending on its application. Inverters find several applications of which are valuable speed, alternating current motors, uninterrupted power supply, etc. They can be used as the front stage of dc to dc converter. Standby inverters are mostly used to provide emergency supply to the main frequency (50Hz). In the event of the main failure, the inverter immediately operates with no loss of waveform. This unique ability makes it related to an automatic change over switch but it differs in a way in that it has a battery, which stores energy when the mains is on and gives out energy when the mains is off while the automatic change over switch operates on contactor (open and close). There are many types of the inverter as described in chapter 2, but they all have the same principle of operations and it all depends on the component used, whether with a thyristor or a bipolar junction transistor for switching the current ON/OFF. The need for man to prevent his activities from being interrupted in order not to render it incomplete which may subsequently become an unfinished job (loss of files in the computer when there is a sudden power outage) has motivated engineers across the globe to design a device which will be more economical, durable and efficient.It is pertinent to note that in a well-organized company in a developing country like Nigeria, where a lot of transactions are made, if there is an epileptic power supply, the flow of transaction will greatly be hindered and there will be no open ground for the infant companies to spring up and wax great. Power should not be an obstruction between companies and their maximum profits, this, in essence, makes the use of a power inverter relevant and recommended to all and sundry. Hence, the need for the investigation of the performance index of various inverters comes to play. And this helps to determine which inverter is more efficient, portable, durable, and cost-effective.1.2 Statement of the ProblemThe primary aim of engineers in society is to solve the problems militating against technological growth, provide solutions to challenges facing humanities, and bringing about an efficient flow of ideas and innovators in the world of technology throughout society and all nations of the earth. The inverter is that device that is being employed by the engineers to tackle and support the power supplies. This support comes to play when there is a power outage. Immediately, the power inverter begins to act in place of the main power. The inverter is used in the conversion of direct current to a conventional alternating current, but the need for reliable and more efficient, stable power supplies make the inverter indispensable especially in developing countries like Nigeria where there is an epileptic power supply. Hence the need for investigation of the performance index of 3.5kVA/48V inverter in relation to other inverters becomes vital. Although the electric power in an alternating current form is very difficult to store due to power loss which is associated with the alternating current and when converted, it can be stored in the battery of which can be recharged.1.3 Aim of the StudyThe aim of the study is to evaluate the performance index of 3.5KVA/48V inverters for domestic electric power supply.1.4 Objectives of the Study The objectives of the study are stated as follows. To determine the output waveform of the inverter To determine the battery discharging current/voltage on load and the effect of load on the inverter The determine the power efficiency (real-time output power ratings)1.5 Methodology` The methods adopted to achieve the set objectives are as follows. The Cathode ray oscilloscope was used to measure the output waveform. The resistive and inductive load tests were applied to determine the battery discharging current/voltage on load and the effect of loads on the selected inverter Clamp meter, amp meter, and voltmeter were utilized.1.6 Scope of the StudyIn this study, the capacity of power inverters considered is 3.5KVA/48V with an output of 220-230V, frequency of 50Hz. And four different inverters vendors selected are Mercury, Safer power, Sinergy, and Su-Kam. The choice of selection is based on the availability, portability, customer patronage, and assessment of parts or repair.1.7 Significance of the Study The study can enable: the individual to have basic knowledge about inverter; the energy consumer decide on the most economic inverter to install create more awareness on the use of an inverter.1.8 Arrangement of the WorkThe study is divided into five chapters. Chapter one has been discussed. Chapter two gives a description of power inverters and battery, and what to look out for before buying an inverter.Chapter three discussed the experimental setup of the 3.5KVA/48V inverters for various inverters, and how it was analyzed. The arrangement is based on the selected load specification of 1000VA.In chapter four, the results of the performance of various inverters used as a case study were presented and discussed.Chapter five gives the conclusion and recommendation of the study.
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