What does arc fault detection mean on Solis inverters?

Solis arc fault detection

What does arc fault detection mean on Solis inverters? Solis has found a very smart way to implement AFCI in their inverters. Using advanced algorithms, they can detect an arc fault and act accordingly. Compared to traditional solutions, these inverters are more reliable because no additional hardware is required.

In the United States, more than 40,000 systems are already running with the Solis AFCI solution. Since this is a software-based feature, Solis can continuously learn from all these systems and easily improve the algorithm. Currently, across these 40,000 systems, there are fewer than 0.1% false alarms.

Q: Does the AFCI work per string or only on the entire inverter?

A: The AFCI works per MPPT and can monitor at string level. The inverter can shut down the specific string if a fault is detected.

Q: What is the maximum distance where the AFCI still works reliably?

A: Solis specifies a maximum cable length of 80 meters for single-phase systems and 200 meters for three-phase systems to ensure a reliable setup.

Q: How reliable is the AFCI solution?

A: The reliability of the Solis AFCI solution is higher than traditional AFCI systems because there is no extra hardware that could be damaged over time.

Q: How quickly does the inverter shut down when a fault is detected?

A: Less than 0.5 seconds.

Q: Are there any extra costs?

A: There are no extra costs. All newer inverters are automatically equipped with AFCI. You can recognize this by a sticker on the box.