Hello,
The grid does not exist where we live so we have been producing our own power since 1990 with an early ES&D Delco alternator hydro system. I have just upgraded to a 2hp 3 phase induction motor, step down transformer, rectifiers and two C40 controllers in diversion mode, dumping into two separate 600 watt water heater elements. This 12 volt system currently produces 50 amps but I can increase it to 60 amps with different taps on the transformer. Until I have the controllers running properly I am keeping the current at 50 amps. The amperage is constant regardless of whether the voltage is at the float of 13.8 or absorption of 14.1 volts.
Initially I thought the two controllers should be set at the same Bulk and Float settings in order to operate together but quickly found this was not so. My best success was to try to balance the output currents of both controllers by adjusting the Bulk and Float settings on one controller. Part of the time both controllers will be in Absorption or Float mode together, the rest of the time only one controller will in Float mode. It is not always the same controller either.
Is it possible to get both controllers operating together all the time?
The other problem is the current going into the controllers is not the same for both controllers when they are both in Float mode. There may be a difference of 10 to 20 amps even though the controllers are fed from the same point.
Has anyone noticed this and is there an explanation why the difference?
For those who question whether it is recommended to operate two C40's in diversion mode, it is mentioned in the owner's manual on page 66 in the trouble shooting section.
All comments are welcome. My upgrade was made easier through the postings from this group. Thanks,
Warren