ESET 211

Digital and Power Electronics

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Section:

Lab # 8 (FINAL PROJECT)
Inverters
Objectives:
To study the fundamentals of basic inverter
To become familiar with the construction of a 12 V DC to 120 VAC inverter
To implement the building and testing of such inverter.
Introduction
In this laboratory we will build on concepts that we examined in the previous laboratory
Inverters convert power from a DC source to AC output. The input can be from a 12 volt, 24
volt, or 48 volt battery bank and output can be 110-120 VAC, or 220-240 VAC. There are
modified sine and pure sine (true sine) versions in various wattages. A modified sine unit
approximates the smooth wave form of household AC (alternating current) with a stepped form.
This works for a lot of applications, though lower efficiency or higher heat generation may
result. Modified sine inverters are widely available, and considerably less expensive than pure
sine units of the same wattage. Pure sine units produce a precise output wave, which can
even be more ideal than utility grid power, since grid power can fluctuate in frequency and
voltage, sometimes considerably. Pure sine units operate equipment more efficiently, motors
run cooler, etc. Electronic applications, computers, and particularly video applications are
prime applications for pure sine inverters.
Sizing the Inverter
Inverters are rated by running wattage, and surge wattage. Surge wattage is rated
for a given time period (in seconds), and the inverter will shut down, if this is
exceeded. A realistic assessment must be made of the total running wattage, as
well as surge wattage of those devices which may affect the total. Motors, for
example, can have an amp surge up to 3 or 4 times their rated running load upon
startup. See the chart that follows. Most devices have an amp draw or wattage on
the name plate or in the owner's manual. The inefficiency of inverters (about 10 to
20%) must also be considered, both in the sizing of the inverter, and the battery
bank.



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Energy System Engineering
Type of Device Surge Factor for Determining the
Or Appliance Continuous *Wattage of the Inverter
(No. of times the running power rating
of the device/appliance)

Refrigerator / Freezer 5
Air Compressors 4
Dishwashers 3
Automatic Washer 3
Sump Pump 3
Furnace Fan 3
Industrial Motors 3
Kerosene/diesel fuel heater 2
Circular Saw 3

Equipment
The equipment you require is as follows:
Your lab notebook
Your own lab kit (bought from the technicians).
lab set, including Digital voltmeter (available at the desks)
Collect hook-up wire and ICs from demonstrator.

The Laboratory:
Section 1.Construct the circuit shown in figure 1:
.
Figure 1


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Energy System Engineering
Section 2
In your opinion why is there a Q and Q output? In your opinion how does this circuit work?

Section 3: Conclusions
(a) State briefly, but clearly, what you have gained from this laboratory. Outline aspects that you have
noted within the experiment outside of the questions asked. Make comments on the procedure of the lab
- Is there anything that you could have done differently? How did you split the work between group
members? Did you have a plan of action? What else would you suggest that should be added to this lab
session? What are inverters useful for (in your opinion)?
(b) Comments: Please write any comments that you may have here. Did you enjoy the lab?
State one thing you would change? State one thing that you liked? Were there any problems
during the laboratory session?














Date.. Instructor Signature


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Energy System Engineering