What is a pure sine wave inverter?
In a solar system, an inverter is responsible for converting the DC energy stored in batteries into AC power to supply AC consumers.
This conversion is achieved through the collaboration of multiple switches in a closed circuit to produce the AC output. The precision of these switches is crucial in determining the quality of the output waveform, which can be a square wave, sine wave, or modified sine wave.
While an inverter can produce different waveforms, a pure sine wave output is preferable because many electrical products are designed to work best with a sine wave AC power source.
A high-quality and well-designed inverter ensures that the output is purely in the form of a sine wave with minimal conversion losses in the system components.
How do pure sine wave inverters work?
In order to comprehend the functionality of an inverter, we can examine its simplified block diagram. Assuming that there is a battery, four switches, and an AC consumer at the output, we can further delve into its operation.
This simplified circuit uses a DC source to power an AC consumer, represented by a lamp. By pairing switches, we can generate AC pulses and alternate the current direction through the lamp.
By opening switches two and three, the current direction will be as follows:
If switches one and four are opened, the current will flow in the opposite direction through the lamp.
The lamp in this circuit is actually receiving an alternating current, which it experiences as a square wave. A high-quality inverter operates on a similar principle but includes several functions to improve output quality and conversion efficiency. Switching is performed using electrical switches like FETs and IGBTs, and control pulses are generated by a control circuit. Energy storage elements such as inductors and capacitors aid in filtering and smoothing. The smoother the wave, the higher the quality of the output will be.
Benefits of using pure sine wave inverter
Using a pure sine wave inverter offers many benefits. The quality of the waveform directly affects the efficiency and lifespan of appliances. Waveforms with harmonic distortions and sharp edges can cause electronics to overheat or become damaged. Certain devices, such as computers, are unable to function with non-sine wave energy forms.
Different types of inverters
• High-frequency inverters:
Use multiple smaller transformers and have over twice the number of components.
They are not suitable for long-term exposure to high surge loads like pumps, motors, and some high-torque tools due to decreased capacity.
• Low-frequency inverters
• Low-frequency invertersOn the other hand, have larger and more robust transistors that can operate cooler.
This enables them to tolerate higher amounts of surge power.
High-frequency inverters:
IPower series
The IPower series is a type of inverter that is capable of converting 12/24/48VDC to 110/120VAC or 220/230VAC and provides power ranging from 350VA to 2000VA. It is suitable for a variety of applications and can be utilized in numerous fields. The inverter’s broad input voltage range makes it particularly well-suited for solar system use.IPOWER series specification:
| IPower SERIES | (220/230VAC) 350~5000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter | |
| Continuous output power | Up to 1600W | Up to 1600w |
| Surge power | Up to 3200W | Up to 3200w |
| Output voltage | 110VAC(±5%)120VAC(-10%～+5%) 110VAC (±3%) 120VAC(-7%～+3%) 110VAC /120VAC (±3%) | 220VAC(±5%) 230VAC(-10%～+5%） 220VAC(±5%) 230VAC(-7%～+5%) 220VAC/230VAC (±5%) |
| Output frequency | 50/60±0.1Hz | 50/60±0.1Hz |
| Rated input voltage | 12VDC;24VDC;48VDC | 12VDC;24VDC;48VDC |
| RS485 com. port | 5VDC/200mA | 5VDC/200mA |
| Operating temperature range | -20℃~ +45℃ | -20℃~ +45℃ |
IPOWER-PLUS Series
IPOWER-PLUS Series is a high-quality, reliable, and safe pure sine wave inverter that can convert 12/24/48VDC to 220/230VAC and power AC loads. It is available in power ranges from 500W to 5000W and is designed to meet international standards. The inverter is suitable for a variety of situations where DC to AC conversion is required, including RVs, boats, residential properties, and places that require high-quality electrical power. The IPOWER-PLUS series is also compatible with lithium-ion batteries.
IPOWER-PLUS series specification:
| IPOWER-PLUS SERIES | (110/120VAC) 350~4000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter | (220/230VAC) 350~5000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter |
| Continuous output power | Up to 4000W | Up to 5000W |
| Surge power | 8000W@5S | Up to 8000W@5S |
| Output voltage | 110VAC(±3%) 120VAC(-7%~+3%) | 220VAC(±3%); 230VAC(-7%~+3%) |
| Output frequency | 50/60Hz±0.2% | 50/60Hz±0.2% |
| Rated input voltage | 12VDC;24VDC;48VDC | 12VDC;24VDC;48VDC |
| RS485 com. port | 5VDC/200mA | 5VDC/200mA |
| Operating temperature range | -20℃~+60℃ (Refer to the derating curve) | -20℃~+60℃ (Refer to the derating curve) |
IPT series
The IPT series is a high-frequency sine wave inverter that utilizes a fully digital intelligent design and voltage-current dual closed-loop control algorithm. With fast response, high conversion efficiency, low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), and reliable performance, this series is suitable for various off-grid DC-AC systems, including but not limited to vehicle systems, security monitoring systems, emergency lighting systems, household power systems, field power systems, and other systems that demand high-quality power.
IPT series specification:
| IPT SERIES | (110/120VAC) 350~4000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter | (220/230VAC) 350~5000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter |
| Continuous output power | Up to 4000W | Up to 5000W |
| Surge power | Up to 8000W@5S | Up to 8000W@5S |
| Output voltage | 110VAC(±3%) 120VAC(-7%~+3%) | 220VAC(±3%); 230VAC(-7%~+3%) |
| Output frequency | 50/60Hz±0.2% | 50/60Hz±0.2% |
| Rated input voltage | 12VDC;24VDC;48VDC | 12VDC;24VDC;48VDC |
| RS485 com. port | 5VDC/200mA | 5VDC/200mA |
| Working temperature | -20℃~+60℃ (Refer to the derating curve) | -20℃~+60℃ (Refer to the derating curve) |
Low-Frequency Inverters:
NPOWER series
NPower series is a low-frequency pure sine wave inverter that can convert 12/24/48VDC to 220/230V AC and power the AC loads. It has an excessive capacity to work with surge loads. Ranging from 260W to 5000W, Npower is compatible with lithium-ion batteries perfectly and suits the system which requires high reliability.
NPOWER series specification:
| NPOWER SERIES | (110/120VAC) 600~2500W Pure Sine Wave Inverter | Pure Sine Wave Inverter |
| Continuous output power | Up to2500W@25℃, 2500W@45℃ | Up to 5000W@25℃ 5000W@45℃ |
| Surge power | Up to 5000W | Up to 10000w |
| Output voltage | 110/120VAC(±5%) | 220/230VAC(±3%) 220/230VAC(-5%~+3%) 220/230VAC(-6%~+3%) 220/230VAC(-8%~+3%) |
| Output frequency | 50/60Hz±0.2% | 50/60Hz±0.2% |
| Rated input voltage | 12VDC;24VDC;48VDC | 12VDC;24VDC;48VDC |
| RS485 com. port | 5VDC/200mA(Isolation) 5VDC/300mA(Non-isolated) | 5VDC/200mA(Isolation) 5VDC/300mA(Non-isolated) |
| Operating temperature range | -20℃~+45℃ (Full load) | -20℃~+45℃ (Full load) |
TPower Series
The TPower series is a pure sine wave power frequency inverter that can convert DC 110/120V to 220/230V AC power. It’s designed with a fully intelligent digital system and includes both a DC-AC module and AC-AC bypass module in parallel. The inverter is known for its high reliability, efficiency, and electronic protection. It’s easy to install and operate, making it the top pick for anyone looking for a quality inverter.
TPOWER series specification:
| TPOWER SERIES | (10000~30000VA) Pure Sine Wave Inverter |
| Rated input voltage | 110Vdc；220Vdc |
| Surge power | |
| Output voltage | 220/230Vac±3%(Battery powe mode) |
| Output frequency | 50Hz/60Hz±3%(Battery powe mode) |
| Rated input voltage | 12VDC;24VDC;48VDC |
| RS485 com. port | |
| Operating temperature range | -25℃～50℃(Derating above 45℃) |
FAQ
What appliances need a pure sine wave inverter?
A pure sine wave inverter can power most appliances that use AC power, such as refrigerators, microwaves, TVs, and lights. However, some sensitive electronics or motors require a pure sine wave inverter to function properly. These include variable speed power tools, laser printers, and certain medical equipment. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications or consult a qualified electrician to determine if a pure sine wave inverter is needed for a specific appliance.
What is the advantage of a pure sine wave inverter?
When it comes to powering electronic devices and appliances, a pure sine wave inverter holds an advantage over a modified sine wave inverter by producing a cleaner and more stable waveform. This is particularly crucial for appliances that require a high-quality power source. Pure sine wave inverters offer superior power quality that can prolong the longevity of delicate electronics and appliances. Furthermore, they are quieter and produce less electromagnetic interference, making them the perfect option for sensitive equipment.