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[ { "title": "PRODUCT NEWS | Detect poor power factor with A-eberle\u0026#039;s PQI-DA Smart", "nid": "432", "body": "\u003Cp\u003EThink you may have poor power factor, or any other\u00A0power quality issue? Then inquire about a-eberle\u0027s PQI-DA Smart.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022a-eberle pqi-da smart\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00227c673a94-39fb-4d04-9599-59585f34aca4\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/pq_k_pqida_smart_0_0.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis robust power quality analyser and fault recorder detects issues such as transient activity, voltage dips and swells, harmonics and much more!\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EClick \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/download/magnet-model-pqi-da-smart.pdf\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehere\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to download a full product brochure now!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EClick \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehere\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to chat to one of our experts for an a-eberle solution for your facility now!\u200B\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Oct 2020", "terms": "Electrical, Products" }, { "title": "LEARN | Introduction to Power Quality part 4 - Power Factor", "nid": "431", "body": "\u003Cp\u003EWe\u2019re wrapping up our Power Quality series by giving an overview on power factor and the correction of poor power factor.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf\u00A0you missed our previous articles in the series, click below to catch up now!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0 \u00A0 1. \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-electrical/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=LEARN--An-introduction-to-Power-Quality-part-1\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAn Introduction to Power Quality\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0 \u00A0 2. Understanding Power Quality issues and what to do about them:\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u00A0 \u00A0 \u00A0 \u00A0 a) \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-electrical/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=LEARN--Introduction-to-Power-Quality-part-2---Voltage-Instability\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EVoltage instability\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u00A0 \u00A0 \u00A0 \u00A0 b) \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-electrical/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=LEARN--Introduction-to-Power-Quality-part-3---Harmonics\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHarmonics\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u00A0 \u00A0 \u00A0 \u00A0 c) Poor power factor\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYou\u2019ve probably realised by now that power factor correction saves you money.\u00A0We\u2019re taking a few steps back to give you a basic understanding on what power factor is, and what you can do to correct poor power factor.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat is Power Factor?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nPower Factor (PF) is a measurement of how effectively your facility uses electricity. It is a unit-less number used in alternating current circuits.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EPF is a ratio of the power used calculated by dividing true power in Kilowatts (kW) by apparent power in Kilovolt amperes (kVA).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBeer, anyone? \u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nTrue power and apparent power are not the same. The difference between true power and apparent power is called reactive power, and is measured in Kilovolt-Ampere Reactive (kVAr). Reactive power is the non-working power delivered to a facility.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe best way to explain the difference, is using a beer analogy\u2026\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-electrical/index.php\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Power Factor explained\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022eadf94d0-edcf-47a6-846f-be6f3925daea\u0022 height=\u0022481\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/power%20factor%202-01.jpg\u0022 style=\u0022max-width:900px !important\u0022 width=\u0022784\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe pay for beer by the glass. However, if there is a lot of foam and less beer, you\u2019re not getting value for money. The glass represents apparent power (kVA). The glass is filled with beer and foam. The beer represents true power (kW) \u2013 it\u2019s what we want and what we\u2019re happy to pay for. The foam represents the reactive power (kVAr). The reactive power is a waste in the sense that we get no use from it - but still have to pay for it, although we do need it to be able to do the work in the first place.\u003Cbr /\u003E\nThe sum of true power (kW) and reactive power (kVAr) is apparent power (kVA).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EPower Factor tells us how much value for our money we are getting for the power we consume.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EPower Factor is therefore the ratio of true power (useful power) in kW and apparent power in kVA (the power we are charged for).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EPower Factor = True Power (kW) divided by Apparent Power (kVA)\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat are the causes of reactive power?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nOversized motors are often the culprit of reactive power. Oversizing is a design precaution used to ensure power is adequate for the job at hand. For example, an idling motor isn\u2019t doing any work, but it still consumes power to keep the electrical field operating. This is reactive power. This is the cost on a utility bill that every business dreads\u2026\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReactive power charges\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nIn a typical residential electricity bill, you will generally see a fee for the amount of power used in kilowatt hours (kWh). As the power factor in residential electricity consumption is very low, it is not charged for. However, in a commercial or industrial electricity bill, for large buildings in particular, you may find reactive power charges.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESo why is reactive power charged for?\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen large consumers have bad power factors, they are increasing the current flow through the electricity grid, which causes voltage drops. These subsequently reduce the utility\u2019s distribution capacity, which affects other users of electricity.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EMoreover, electricity cables are rated to handle only a specific amount of current flowing through them. If numerous large consumers with bad power factor connect, cables could overload.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen the power of a building falls below a certain level, reactive power charges occur. This level is defined by the utility supplier, and is typically around 0.95 or less. The very ideal, but highly unlikely, power factor is 1.0 (Unity).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow do you get rid of this cost?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nThis cost can be reduced and even removed by implementing Power Factor Correction capacitors. These temporary storage units provide reactive power to your motor instead of receiving it from the utility. Both true power (kW) and reactive power (kVAr) come from the utility. When a capacitor is installed in your facility, it replaces the reactive power supplied by the utility. Thus, reducing the apparent power (kVA) delivered to your facility. Reduced power from the utility results in reduced cost!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow do you calculate power factor?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Calculating PF\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00229c9f6ea4-dcfc-406f-b831-63e2fe3e312e\u0022 height=\u0022433\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Calculating%20PF.jpg\u0022 style=\u0022max-width:900px !important\u0022 width=\u0022706\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFor commercial buildings such as offices, you\u2019re likely to see a power factor of around 0.98 \u2013 0.92. However, this is far from the case for industrial buildings. Industrial buildings could experience a power factor as low as 0.7.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow can you correct poor power factor and reduce reactive power charges?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-electrical/index.php\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022PF Correction\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00229ca8a924-0fac-4fb4-a65d-7f8162e6c311\u0022 height=\u0022387\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Power%20Factor%20Correction_0.jpg\u0022 style=\u0022max-width:900px !important\u0022 width=\u0022639\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThere are two types of poor power factor \u2013 lagging and leading. In most cases we come across lagging power factor caused by inductive loads, but we can also come across leading power factor in a capacitive loading system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETo correct poor power factor, we can add capacitors or inductors to the circuit which will realign the current back into phase and bring the power factor closer to 1. If we have a lagging power factor caused by high inductive loads in the circuit then we add capacitors, this is most common. If we have a leading power factor caused by high capacitive loads then we add an inductive load to the circuit.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHave a power factor audit!\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nOptimise your power factor value by installing the right power factor correction equipment. For more information on what kind of capacitor you may need, and where it can go in your facility, contact us for an audit.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\nClick \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehere\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to enquire now!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETurn to a-eberle for a Smart solution to detecting poor power factor and other power quality issues. Click \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=A-eberle039s-PQI-DA-Smart--Detect-poor-power-factor-and-other-power-quality-issues\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehere\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to download the PQI-DA Smart brochure now!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ESource: theengineeringmindset.com\u003C/em\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Oct 2020", "terms": "Electrical, Education" }, { "title": "LEARN | Understanding Batteries pt 2 - Sizing and Selection", "nid": "429", "body": "\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/index.php\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Battery sizing and selection\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022ebcf98a5-6594-44c3-ac74-a7ec5e305ac0\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/energy-storage-system-blog-3.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn the \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=LEARN--Understanding-Batteries-pt-1\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Efirst article of this series\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E, we outlined the differences between the main types of batteries \u2013 Lead Acid and Lithium-ion:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Lead Acid\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nThis type of battery has been used for \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/index.php\u0022\u003Esolar\u003C/a\u003E energy storage since the very beginning, and it continues to be a popular choice. There is a flooded lead-acid option, and its counterpart, sealed lead-acid. In sum, lead acid batteries require regular maintenance and they have a longer charge time.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Lithium-ion\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nLithium-ion batteries are considered to be the most efficient battery type. However, they are not cheap \u2013 these batteries generally carry the highest cost, depending on the brand. Advantages of these batteries are that they are completely maintenance-free, and generally more compact than lead acid. Moreover, lithium-ion batteries require a much shorter\u00A0charge time than lead acid.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EClick \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=LEARN--Understanding-Batteries-pt-1\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehere\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to learn more about the types of batteries.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn this\u00A0article, we\u2019re giving you a basic understanding of battery sizing and selection...\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow do you size batteries for your specific application? \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EBattery sizing is one of the most important considerations when choosing the specifics of your \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/index.php\u0022\u003Esolar or back-up power system.\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe main objective when sizing a battery bank is to get one that can handle the load coming from the municipal grid or your PV panel array. Moreover, your battery bank needs to provide enough stored power for your needs, without having to regularly discharge to an unhealthy point.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EHere are a few considerations when sizing batteries:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECalculating your load\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tFiguring out how much battery storage you may need in amp hours (AH), isn\u2019t quite as challenging as you may think. In order to size your battery correctly, it is vital that you know what loads (lights, appliances, power supplies, etc.) you would like to back up on the system, and the duration the load needs to operate during an outage or none-sunshine periods.\u00A0\n\u003Cp\u003E\t\u003Cstrong\u003EWe have a Power Profile tool to help you out with this! Click \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=DOWNLOAD--Size-your-System-with-our-Power-Profile-Tool\u0022\u003Ehere\u003C/a\u003E to download now!\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 value=\u00222\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery autonomy\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tTake into account the number of hours or days you want to be able to go before needing to recharge your batteries. If you need to power certain appliances for a specific number of hours (or even days) at a time, without interruption, you\u2019ll need more batteries to carry a bigger load.\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHybrid Solar Systems\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tA solution for load shedding is a Hybrid system. Like Grid-tied systems, hybrid systems are also interconnected to the local electrical authority, however, these systems have batteries as a back-up.\n\u003Cp\u003E\t\u003Cstrong\u003EClick \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=Grid-Tied-Off-Grid-and-Hybrid-Solar-Systems---what039s-the-difference-\u0022\u003Ehere\u003C/a\u003E to learn more about the different types of solar systems.\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\t\u003Cstrong\u003EWhen sizing a battery bank for a solar system, the following should be considered:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t- cloud coverage\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t- voltage drop\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t- ambient temperature of the area where the batteries will be stored\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t- method of installation\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t- power fluctuations\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t- energy loss due to wear on the system\u003C/p\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery selection\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nNow that you\u2019ve sized your battery, how do you go about selecting the right battery for your application? Here are a few considerations to bear in mind:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECost\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tAre you prepared to spend less now, and much more later. Or is it feasible for you to spend more now, and significantly less later? In the end, as with most things in life, you get what you pay for. Bear this in mind when considering brands of batteries and the maintenance they require.\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EApplication\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tKnowing how often the batteries will be cycled is important for battery selection. Consider this from the aspect of application \u2013 what do you require battery storage for e.g.: to mitigate the impact of an unreliable grid (load shedding) or to reduce your dependence on the grid (energy-saving); or do you want to go completely off-grid? The latter usually always requires cycling of the batteries.\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUsable Depth of Discharge \u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tDepth of Discharge (DoD) refers to the percentage of the battery that has been discharged, relative to the overall capacity of the battery. For example, if you have a battery that holds 5 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity, and you discharge 4kWh, the DoD is approximately 80%. The DoD depends on the type of battery you choose. A typical Lead-Acid battery option has a DoD of around 50%. A typical Lithium-ion solar battery option has a DoD of between 80%. This comes into play when calculating your solar battery needs.\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery charging\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tTo charge a battery, a battery charger must be included in your solar or back-up power system.\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESystem monitoring\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tMetering assists you in reading the status of the system. Most charge-controllers have features such as indicator lights and readouts already built-in. Consider including devices that monitor voltage and current, record amp-hours, and accurately display the state-of-charge of the battery bank. More detailed information is also captured, which can be useful for troubleshooting. The monitor may be mounted in another room or building, for easy access.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAre you interested in a solar or back-up power solution? Click \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehere\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to chat to our experts now!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://shop.magnetgroup.co.za/#!category/batteries\u0026amp;id=CDB41F78-B637-429F-8065-B743E913C828#group=back-up-power\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Solar array on roof\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00229d60fdc6-389e-4bdf-9a3a-b7a4fae724cf\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/56%20resized_0.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://shop.magnetgroup.co.za/#!category/batteries\u0026amp;id=CDB41F78-B637-429F-8065-B743E913C828#group=back-up-power\u0022\u003ESHOP\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E batteries on the Magnet Store now!\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Sep 2020", "terms": "Solar, Back-Up Power, Education" }, { "title": "LEARN | Understanding Batteries pt 1", "nid": "423", "body": "\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Batteries\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022bd1d5ea3-5812-4769-a6dd-11965d1cf434\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/energy-storage-system-blog-3_0.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you\u2019re considering a \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/index.html\u0022\u003Esolar or back-up power solution\u003C/a\u003E for your home or facility, important factors to bear in mind are battery types and selection thereof.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn this new series, we\u2019ll be giving you a basic understanding of the various types of batteries which could be used in solar and back-up power systems. We\u0027ll also be\u00A0sharing some advice on how to choose the right battery for your system, and much more. Don\u0027t miss out, \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Esubscribe\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to our newsletters now!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETypes of batteries\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EBatteries enable you to store energy, to use on demand. Solar and back-up power systems use batteries, and this is how it\u2019s done:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E1. Battery is charged when the sun is out during the day (solar energy)\u003Cbr /\u003E\n2. The\u00A0above is accomplished via a charger, which can either be linked to solar panels or, in some cases, the charger is built into the inverter\u003Cbr /\u003E\n3. Stored power in the battery can then be used when there is no sun (in the evenings)\u003Cbr /\u003E\n4. Batteries are then recharged the next day, and so forth\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen it comes to electricity storage from solar power systems, there are basically two main types of battery to consider. Here\u2019s our overview of these batteries:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022understanding batteries\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022f626dc10-d9cb-474c-9681-06bd0e2f886d\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/understanding%20batteries-02_0.jpg\u0022 style=\u0022max-width:900px !important\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELead-Acid Batteries\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nThis type of battery has been used for solar energy storage since the very beginning. There is a flooded lead-acid option, and its counterpart, sealed lead-acid.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFlooded Lead-Acid Batteries\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nFlooded lead-acid batteries comprise of cells that are submerged in a sulphuric acid solution. As such, they are also referred to as wet-cell batteries. The plates of every cell in these battery banks must be submerged at all times, so maintaining them involves the adding of distilled water every 6 to 12 months, or even as often as every month, depending on the type of lead-acid battery.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIt is important to note that you should never add any fluid to these batteries other than distilled, deionized water. Batteries must be filled only to the level as recommended by the manufacturer, or else they could possibly overflow during finish-charging.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn sum, flooded lead-acid batteries are, however, the cheaper of the two options, but require regular maintenance.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESealed Lead-Acid Batteries\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nAn upgraded version of the flooded lead-acid battery is the sealed lead-acid. They are typically used in instances when a larger storage capacity is required.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAlthough sealed lead-acid batteries involve virtually no maintenance compared to its predecessor, they are not without drawbacks either. To help you understand these batteries, here\u2019s a snapshot of their advantages and disadvantages\u2026\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAdvantages of Sealed-Lead Acid Batteries:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ERequire virtually no maintenance\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECharge quicker with a lower voltage\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDo not have to be mounted upright\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EReduced risk of acid leaks as they are completely sealed\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDisadvantages of Sealed-Lead Acid Batteries:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHigher in price (brand-dependent)\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ETypically have a shorter lifespan.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELithium-ion Batteries\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nLithium-ion batteries are considered to be the most efficient battery type. Examine their advantages and disadvantages below to draw your own conclusion:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAdvantages of Lithium-ion Batteries:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ELongevity - they typically have a life spanning from around 10-20 years\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECompact \u2013 these batteries are generally smaller and much lighter\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ENo maintenance \u2013 these batteries are completely maintenance free\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ENo need to mount upright\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHigher Depth of Discharge \u2013 typically more than 95%\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EProduce up to 100% of the stored energy\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDisadvantage of Lithium-ion Batteries:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ENot cheap \u2013 depending on the brand, these batteries typically carry the highest cost\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat is the main difference between Lead-Acid and Lithium Ion batteries?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nDepth of Discharge (DoD) refers to the percentage of the battery that has been discharged, relative to the overall capacity of the battery. For example, if you have a battery that holds 5 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity, and you discharge 4kWh, the DoD is approximately 80%. The DoD depends on the type of battery you choose. A typical Lead-Acid battery option has a DoD of around 50%. A typical Lithium-ion solar battery option has a DoD of between 80%. This comes into play when calculating your solar battery needs.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EBe sure to catch our next articles in the series, click \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehere\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to subscribe to our newsletters!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://shop.magnetgroup.co.za/#!category/batteries\u0026amp;id=CDB41F78-B637-429F-8065-B743E913C828#group=back-up-power\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESHOP\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E batteries on the Magnet Store!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ENeed a solar or back-up power solution for your facility? Click \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehere\u003C/strong\u003E \u003C/a\u003Eto contact us now!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EHave you seen our Solar \u0026amp; Back-Up power catalogue? Simply click \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/download/magnet-solar-catalogue.pdf\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehere\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to download your copy!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/download/magnet-back-up-power-catalogue.pdf\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022BUP Catalogue\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022ed2f36fc-9c18-45ea-87ba-dd1fbdf211f2\u0022 height=\u0022519\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Back%20Up%20Power.emf__0.jpg\u0022 width=\u0022360\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Sep 2020", "terms": "Solar, Back-Up Power, Education" }, { "title": "PRODUCT NEWS | Brady\u0026#039;s M211 Label Printer", "nid": "632", "body": "\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDesign. Preview. Print. All from your phone, with Brady\u0027s M211 Label Printer...\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Brady M211\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022942a1920-2029-455b-883c-81d0f89ea00f\u0022 height=\u0022144\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Picture1_8.png\u0022 width=\u0022164\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u2022 Built for the job site:\u003C/strong\u003E\u00A0\u003Cbr /\u003E\nRunning all day on a powerful battery while resisting drops, shocks and crushes, all in a lightweight and wearable printer\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u2022 Easy to use:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nSeamlessly design, preview, print, save and share labels from your familiar smartphone using the Express Labels Mobile App\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u2022 Quick:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nEasier and faster with the enhanced communication between the Brady Authentic cartridges and the printer\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u2022 Innovative:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nNow with both pre-sized and continuous labels in the familiar M21-catridge format, filled with reliable, tested and dedicated label materials\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u00A0 \u00A0 \u00A0 - \u003Cstrong\u003EWhy do pre-sized labels change the game?\u00A0\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u00A0 \u00A0 \u00A0\u00A0\u003C/strong\u003ERounded corners versus cutting a continuous strip\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u00A0 \u00A0 \u00A0\u00A0Edge-to-edge printing minimizes wasted label space\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u00A0 \u00A0 \u00A0 Consistent sizing from one label to the next\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnet.co.za?subject=Brady Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003Eto us about a Brady solution for your facility!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022m211\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022f5303bd7-76b1-4ba9-8ea3-456f1726e026\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Picture2_0.png\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Nov 2022", "terms": "Electrical, Products, Brady" } ]