2. DESCRIPTION
2.1 In general
The basis of the Quattro is an extremely powerful sine inverter, battery charger and automatic switch in a compact casing.
The Quattro features the following additional, often unique characteristics:
Two AC inputs; integrated switch-over system between shore voltage and generating set
The Quattro features two AC inputs (AC-in-1 and AC-in-2) for connecting two independent voltage sources. For example, two
generator sets, or a mains supply and a generator set. The Quattro automatically selects the input where voltage is present.
If voltage is present on both inputs, the Quattro selects the AC-in-1 input, to which normally the generating set is connected.
Two AC outputs
Besides the usual uninterruptable output(AC-out-1), an auxiliary output (AC-out-2) is available that disconnects its load in the
event of battery operation. Example: an electric boiler that is allowed to operate only if the genset is running or shore power is
available.
Automatic and uninterruptible switching
In the event of a supply failure or when the genset is switched off, the Quattro will switch over to inverter operation and take
over the supply of the connected devices. This is done so quickly that operation of computers and other electronic devices is
not disturbed (Uninterruptible Power Supply or UPS functionality). This makes the Quattro highly suitable as an emergency
power system in industrial and telecommunication applications.
Virtually unlimited power thanks to parallel operation
Up to 10 Quattro's can operate in parallel. Ten units 48/5000/70, for example, will provide 40kW / 50kVA output power and
700 Amps charging capacity.
Three phase capability
Three units can be configured for three-phase output. But that's not all: up to 10 sets of three units can be parallel connected to
provide 120kW / 150kVA inverter power and more than 2000A charging capacity.
PowerControl – maximum use of limited shore current
The Quattro can supply a huge charging current. This implies heavy loading of the shore connection or generating set. For both
AC inputs, therefore, a maximum current can be set. The Quattro then takes other power users into account, and only uses
'surplus' current for charging purposes.
- Input AC-in-1, to which usually a generating set is connected, can be set to a fixed maximum with DIP switches, with VE.Net
or with a PC, so that the generating set is never overloaded.
- Input AC-in-2 can also be set to a fixed maximum. In mobile applications (ships, vehicles), however, a variable setting by
means of a Multi Control Panel will usually be selected. In this way the maximum current can be adapted to the available shore
current in an extremely simple manner.
PowerAssist – Extended use of your generating set and shore current: the Quattro "co-supply" feature
The Quattro operates in parallel with the generating set or the shore connection. A current shortfall is automatically
compensated: the Quattro draws extra power from the battery and helps along. A current surplus is used to recharge the
battery.
Three programmable relays
The Quattro is equipped with 3 programmable relays. The relays can be programmed for all kinds of other applications
however, for example as a starter relay for a generating set.
Two analog ports
The Quattro is equipped with 2 analog ports.
These ports can be used for several purposes. One application is communication with the BMS of a lithium-ion battery.
Frequency shift
When solar inverters are connected to the output of a Multi or Quattro, the excess solar energy is used to recharge the
batteries. Once the absorption voltage is reached, the Multi or Quattro will shut down the solar inverter by shifting the output
frequency 1Hz (from 50Hz to 51Hz for example). Once battery voltage has dropped slightly, the frequency returns to normal
and the solar inverters will restart.
Built-in Battery Monitor
The ideal solution when Multi's or Quattro's are part of a hybrid system (diesel generator, inverter/chargers, storage battery,
and alternative energy). The built-in battery monitor can be set to start and stop the generator:
- Start at a preset % discharge level, and/or
- start (with a preset delay) at a preset battery voltage, and/or
- start (with a preset delay) at a preset load level.
- Stop at a preset battery voltage, or
- stop (with a preset delay) after the bulk charge phase has been completed, and/or
- stop (with a preset delay) at a preset load level.
2