Power inverters convert Direct Current (DC) into Alternating Current (AC), a task that is required for the operation of equipment that draws power from a DC source, but must receive AC to operate efficiently. Buildings that receive power from a DC battery source or solar panels are common examples of environments that need a power inverter placed on the line between the DC power source and equipment that requires AC. Common examples of equipment that requires AC are fluorescent lighting ballasts, computers and, high-tech sound equipment.
Types of Inverters
The most common types of inverters used today are sine wave inverters, which produce a sinusoidal current whose waveform is expressed as an undulating line; modified sine wave inverters, which deliver a modified sinusoidal current whose waveform is expressed as a vaguely undulating line characterized by angularities; and square wave inverters, which deliver a non-sinusoidal current whose waveform is even further characterized by angularities.
Which type of inverter should a company use?
First, the answer depends on the type of equipment that must be powered. Fluorescent lighting ballasts, computers, and high-tech sound equipment, for example, must receive pure sinusoidal current to operate efficiently, whereas some types of equipment that don’t have high-tech operating systems are compatible with modified sine wave inverters and square wave inverters. Essentially, if equipment requires the kind of power supplied by the utility line, you will need to use a sine wave inverter. Otherwise, the equipment will operate inefficiently.
Additional Considerations
After you identify the right model of inverter, you must choose a product that is designed to support the load of the equipment that receives power. You must also choose a product that is designed to withstand the operating conditions of the environment where it is placed. For example, power inverters that are placed in an environment that has airborne contaminants, moisture, or vibration should ideally have a level 3 Network Equipment-Building System (NEBS) certification. A provider of industrial grade electricity conduction equipment will help you choose the right type of inverter for the needs of your building and its specific environment.
Contact Exeltech Today
If you need help choosing the right power inverter, contact Exeltech. We have over a decade of experience designing, producing, and selling high-quality power inverters for commercial, industrial, and military applications. For more information about our products, call us today at (800) 886-4683, or click here to use our contact form.
