Model: PVGFP     

PHOTOVOLTAIC ARRAY GROUND FAULT PROTECTION (PVGFP)

UL Listed Ground Fault Protection (GFP) for Roof Mounted Residential Photovoltaic (PV) Arrays.

Trace Engineering is again leading the way with the first low cost solution for residential roof top mounted photovoltaic array installations. Finally, a simple approach to meeting the National Electric Code (NEC) ground fault protection (GFP) requirements with the familiar UL marking that inspectors trust and respect.

Overview of Operation:
When a ground fault is detected, the PVGFP disconnects the PV sub-arrays and switches the grounding systems from a low impedance, negative-ground bonding to high impedance bonding. This limits fault currents to a safe level, even when AC faults occur on the DC side of the system. For example, fault current will be held below 5 milliamps even for a 240VAC fault across the DC side of the system.

Features of the PVGFP:

• Meets the 1999 NEC article 690-5 sections a, b & c for ground fault protection required on residential roof top PV arrays.
• Lowest cost UL-approved photovoltaic ground fault protection system for residential installation on the market today.
• Can be used with 12, 24, or 48 VDC nominal voltage systems with a maximum PV array open circuit rating of 125 VAC
• Available in four capacities to match our system design: 100, 200, 300, or 400 amps DC. Don't buy more GFP than you need.

Products Available:

• PVGFP1(-4) models are designed to be field installed into a photovoltaic power system in a user supplied enclosure next to the power components (inverter / controllers / disconnects). Some system modifications and additional hardware may be needed for the PVGFP to operate correctly.
• UTO(K) - PVGFP(-4) is used for SWODE SineWave outdoor enclosures, like those used in utility line tie systems. ("O" designates factory installed and must be ordered with the Utility System. "K" signifies field installable kit that includes all hardware to be installed in an existing SWODE.)
• PMO(K) - PVGFP(-4) is used with the Power Module system. ("O" designates factory installed and must be ordered with the Power Module system. "K" signifies field installable kit that includes all hardware to be installed in an existing Power Module system.)

Note 1: You cannot field expand an existing PVGFP. Therefore make sure that if there is any possibility of your system expanding, plan for the additional capacity by purchasing a larger PVGFP. It will be cheaper in the long run.

Note 2: PVGFP does not replace the need for branch circuit protection. Each PV sub array still needs a fuse / breaker / disconnect to protect wiring.

Specifications and Features:

TRACE PART NUMBER	MAX. NUMBER OF SUB-ARRAYS	MAX. PV ARRAY OPEN CIRCUIT RATING	MAX. PV ARRAY CURRENT RATING	NOMINAL SYSTEM VOLTAGE RATING	WEIGHT LBS.	DIMENSIONS W x H x D
PVGFP1 UTO(K) -PVGFP1 PMO(K)-PVGFP1	1	125VDC	100 amps	12, 24, 48 VDC	3.5	6.5" x 4"
PVGFP2 UTO(K)-PVGFP2 PMO(K)-PVGFP2	2		200 amps (100 amps x 2 sub arrays)		4.5
PVGFP3 UTO(K)-PVGFP3 PMO(K)-PVGFP3	3		300 amps (100 amps x 3 sub arrays)		5.5
PVGFP4 UTO(K)-PVGFP4 PMO(K)-PVGFP4	4		400 amps (100 amps x 4 sub arrays)		6.5
NOTE: When using charge controllers, a separate pole is needed for each charger, regardless of power rating of charger.

• PVGFP: For field installation, user must provide UL listed enclosure. (Some system modifications and additional hardware may be needed.)
• UTO: Factory installed in SWODE enclosure with customer order of a Utility System.
• UTK: Field installation in existing SWODE / Utility enclosure. (Some modifications needed.)
• PMO: Factory installed in Power Module.
• PMK: Field installation in existing Power Module. (Some modifications needed.)

Note 3: In all installations it is required that the DC negative be isolated from the grounding system for connection of the PVGFP.

Note 4: When installing residential rooftop PV systems in the US, building codes require a GFP device.