A Look at the Solar Electric Power Systems within FSC 6117

The pursuit of sustainable energy solutions has propelled solar electric power systems into the forefront of technological advancement. For industries reliant on this form of power, understanding all that Federal Supply Class (FSC) 6117 encompasses is crucial. This blog will analyze the range of components found in FSC 6117, providing clarity on its significance in procurement and organization for countless applications.

What Is the Role of FSC 6117?

FSC 6117 specifically designates items designed for the direct conversion of solar energy into electrical power. This classification is vital due to the unique engineering requirements of solar power systems, as they necessitate specialized components and engineering to efficiently harness and convert sunlight. As such, listing these items under FSC 6117 effectively separates them from standard electrical components or power generators, streamlining procurement and ensuring compatibility within complex energy infrastructure.

Part Types Listed Under FSC 6117

Solar Panels

Solar panels are the fundamental building blocks of any solar power system, serving to convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity through photovoltaic cells. They come in several types with distinct characteristics, such as:?

Monocrystalline Panels: Crafted from single-crystal silicon, the uniform structure of these panels allows for greater electron mobility. This results in higher energy conversion rates, making monocrystalline panels regarded for their high efficiency and longevity.
Polycrystalline Panels: Composed of multiple silicon crystals melted together, these panels are more cost-effective but offer slightly lower efficiency compared to monocrystalline panels. Their fragmented crystal structure can impede electron flow, affecting overall performance.?
Thin-Film Panels: These panels are produced by depositing thin layers of photovoltaic material onto substrates like glass, plastic, or metal. Their flexible and lightweight nature make them versatile for various applications, including integration into building materials. However, they generally have lower efficiency rates than crystalline-based panels.

Charge Controllers

Charge controllers regulate the voltage and current flowing from the solar panel to the batteries, preventing overcharging and extending battery life. Their two main types are:?

Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) Controllers: These controllers maintain battery health by gradually reducing the charging current as the battery approaches full charge, using a series of rapid on-off pulses. This method is straightforward and cost-effective, but it does not always fully utilize a solar panel's potential power output.?
Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) Controllers: These controllers constantly monitor solar panel voltage and current to find the optimal balance for maximum power output, even as sunlight intensity and temperature change. As such, they are more efficient than PWM controllers but are also more complex and costly.

Solar Battery Chargers

Solar battery chargers are designed with integrated photovoltaic panels that capture sunlight and convert it into DC electricity, which is then regulated before being supplied to batteries. They typically include built-in charge controllers, which prevent overcharging and deep discharging. Additionally, as they must be built to withstand outdoor conditions and prolonged exposure to sunlight, they are often constructed with tempered glass solar cells and corrosion-resistant aluminum or plastic casings. Beyond their role in maintaining battery health, solar battery chargers ensure that stored energy is available when sunlight alone is insufficient.

Inverters

Inverters convert the DC electricity generated by the solar panel into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is compatible with most electrical appliances and the power grid. They come in two primary types:?

Pure Sine Wave Inverters: These inverters produce a smooth, sinusoidal AC output, making them suitable for sensitive electronics and appliances. Their sophisticated design provides minimal harmonic distortion but comes at a higher cost.?
Modified Sine Wave Inverters: Generating a simplified, stepped approximation of a sine wave, these inverters are more affordable than pure sine wave variants but may cause issues like reduced efficiency or operational noise with certain devices.

Mounting Systems

Mounting systems keep solar panels securely attached and optimally oriented for maximum sunlight exposure. Some common configurations include:?

Roof-Mounted Systems: Ideal for residential and commercial buildings, these systems integrate panels onto existing rooftop structures, conserving space.
Ground-Mounted Systems: Suitable for large-scale installations, these systems are installed on open land, allowing for easy maintenance and optimal panel orientation.?
Tracking Systems: These advanced systems adjust a panel's position throughout the day to follow the sun's path, maximizing energy capture. They can come in the forms of single-axis (tilting along one axis) or dual-axis (adjusting both tilt and rotation).

Stacked Aviation: A Reliable Procurement Resource

Stacked Aviation offers a vast inventory of products from trusted manufacturers and suppliers, including components within FSC 6117. Our commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond our diverse selection, including competitive pricing, timely delivery, and solutions tailored to meet unique operational needs. We aim to provide a streamlined experience at every step of the procurement process, so be sure to reach out and see how we can connect you with the right components for your solar power requirements.