Interconnection
A connector for modular energy storage
Supplying power from renewable energy requires electrical storage capability to balance out peaks and troughs in the mains voltage caused by fluctuations in wind and solar generation. Kevin Canham, product and applications manager, HARTING Ltd, tells us more
T
hese storage systems provide flexibility by absorbing surplus generated power, and relieve the load on the mains network. The charge they hold also helps to cover short-term peaks in demand. As a result, the capacity of decentralised generation systems is used more efficiently and the network is more reliable. The storage systems are integrated into intelligent network management systems via a powerful communications structure (the “smart grid”). They are of a modular construction so that:
• they can adjust flexibly to different generation capacities • they can be configured redundantly so that, when individual modules fail, they can be replaced without interrupting the operation of the system as a whole. Efficient storage systems generally consist of several storage cabinets which are grouped as modules into containers and which hold storage units in a drawer- like arrangement. HARTING connectors provide the interfaces required for this modular structure: they are easy to assemble and facilitate servicing, thus making a contribution to keeping downtime within limits. The heart of this approach is the Han- Modular Docking Frame in combination with the Han-Modular connector series (Fig.1). The docking frame ensures that the push-in contact of the storage units is precise and offers high
process reliability. The solution manufactured by Rittal is a good example (Fig.2). The drawers of the storage cabinets are fitted with two Han 200 A modules for power transmission, supplemented by two Han Megabit modules for data exchange. The Han-Modular Docking Frame “floats” between the drawer and the busbar. It offers sufficient tolerance compensation to allow accurate and frictionless guided insertion of the pins on the drawers into the sockets of the Han 200 A module. The sockets are screwed directly to the busbar on the back wall of the cabinet, which reduces the amount of cabling required.
The Han-Modular Docking Frame qualifies as a standard for energy storage systems. In addition to the heavy current module, more than 50 other useful interfaces are available in the Han-Modular range. The different versions of the docking frame offer space for two to six modules (Fig.3 shows a Han 16B, four mixed module arrangement). Grouped in a Han- Modular hinged frame the modules can be integrated in the storage unit’s drawer system to meet the requirements of an application. The modular range includes modules for up to 200 A, high density signal modules, every commonly known Ethernet interface and other robust communications interfaces.
Thanks to their modular design, the size
of battery storage systems can easily be scaled up or down. Using the Han- Modular Docking Frame standardises the construction of the battery storage cabinet. Pre-assembled storage modules can quickly be combined into storage cabinets and much less cabling is required. There are also benefits for installation in the field. Fixed cabling is still a frequently deployed alternative to a docking frame, but it can be time-consuming and costly, particularly for large numbers of cabinets.
As a rule, modular battery storage delivers from 1 to 3 MW. Each megawatt-hour of storage capacity requires around 80 drawers. The “plug & play” approach provided by the Han- Modular Docking Frame cuts the amount of effort required. The frame also helps to save time after installation by making it easier to replace and maintain the storage units. Staff without electrical expertise can replace the storage elements easily as there is no special installation knowledge required. Energy storage units of this type are a key element in any strategy for reducing or avoiding greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, they complement the trend towards modularisation and
Figure 3 Figure 1
decentralisation in all the sectors involved in energy generation. The feasibility of these storage systems in both technical and financial terms will be a decisive factor in their general acceptance in the marketplace, and their scalability along with the availability of suitable interfaces will be key elements in their commercialisation.
Conclusion Figure 2 16 October 2016 Components in Electronics
Battery storage systems are increasingly being linked with energy generation
systems. To be as efficient as possible, they must be able to communicate freely with the other key operational constituent components and with the distribution systems. HARTING now offers a portfolio of other components which can play a part in an integrated solution: • Switches used with pre-assembled patch cables provide the energy management system with the means to communicate externally. • Current sensors allow the quality of
the current to be monitored, at the inverters for example.
• PCBs which guarantee communication with other components are used to manage inverters and storage. Reliable options for connecting the internal controller of a battery storage system in this way are offered by PCB connectors from the har-flexicon and har-flex range.
www.harting.co.uk www.cieonline.co.uk
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