DIY DC combiner box

Joined
Feb 12, 2017
Messages
57
On request of some people a more indepth post of my DIY solarcombinerbox.
This box is designed for my solar array which is still in abuilding phase.
Finally I will have 12 panels in a 3S - 4P combination.
The DC combinerbox will combine all the DC currents and add some extra safety features.

It all starts with a box...

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Drill 14mm holes to fit the MC4 connectors.


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Installing the MC4 connector with 10 gauge wire/2.5mm.


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Preparing the schottky diodes and drill holes 3.5mm and taper 4mm thread into the heat sink.



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Use some coolpaste before installing them on the heat sink.


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A test layout...


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Wire it all up, the terminal blocks are awesome, I found it by coincidence whilebrowsing onAE.
I used Solar cable (6mm)between terminal block and DC breaker & terminal block and surge protection device.


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Terminal block, 6 in - 2 out.


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Don't forget to install the fuses....


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Diagram....sorry I'm not that good at it, if not clear don't hesitate to ask me a question.


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Data sheet schottky diode.

These are the links to all hardware I used to build this unit. Except the enclosure & heatsink which I had lying around from previous projects.

Cap fuse holder
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32695643760.html

I use 10A fuses
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32946610764.html

DC breaker:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32940325595.html

Surge protection
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32890590691.html

Terminal block
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32946942889.html

High power zener diodes
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1412597935.html

MC4 connector
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32835142335.html

Cupper lugs between fuse holders/zener & zener/terminal block
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32846486368.html

Used tools:
MC4 crimptool
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32882304975.html

Wire stripper:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32955348322.html

Good luck building your own, and again, don't hesitate to ask questions. Feedback appreciated too.

Frank
 
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