Some time ago we reported about the Imperial Valley, where a large photovoltaic power plant is operated and maintained. This is done with the help of Lufft WS503-UMB sensors equipped with a Kipp&Zonen pyranometer (global radiation sensor) CMP3 of the Second Class standard. Second Class represents the third highest quality level for pyranometers. Often, however, this standard is not enough for the high demands of the solar industry…
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The assessment of a potential site as well as the monitoring of already installed large solar systems (Utility Scale) require the highest precision. Therefore, Lufft decided to expand the Weather Sensor family (WS) with the WS510-UMB. Equipped with a Secondary Standard pyranometer, which is the highest quality standard, it meets all the requirements of the solar industry and even the ones of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). These requirements are covered by the active valving of the air temperature measurement and the inertia-free as well as maintenance-free measurement of wind speed and wind direction on the ultrasonic principle. The CMP10 pyranometer works not only highly precise but also very low-maintenance. A lifetime of ten years is made possible by a special desiccant inside preventing condensation extremely long.
By combining several meteorological sensors in a single all-in-one device, as is the case with all types of Lufft WS family, installation and maintenance is a child’s play. In addition to global radiation, the WS510-UMB measures many other important factors: wind direction and velocity, air temperature, relative humidity and air pressure. Nevertheless it requires only a single cable connection and one data interface. The WS510-UMB is equipped with a RS485 interface and transmits the data in various open communication protocols (UMB, SDI-12, Modbus and other analog outputs in combination with the DACON converter), just like the other Lufft weather sensors. It can be easily connected to supplementary sensors such as module temperature or precipitation probes. Thus, the implementation of the monitoring systems which are available on the market is very easy.
The Lufft WS510-UMB creates a perfectly suitable meteorological instrument for large solar and photovoltaic systems. It joins the the modular and growing Lufft WS family as a strong member. On Lufft.com you can find the complete portfolio.
