Why use Bidirectional and Regenerative Sources and Loads
Many types of modern electrical devices recycle power back to the grid or must sink and source current for a variety of applications. Using regenerative AC & DC sources and loads allows for realistic test scenarios and a more efficient testing process. For example, Electric Vehicle bidirectional dc-dc converters and on-board chargers (OBC) sink and source current to the battery when charging/discharging or for regenerative breaking . Bidirectional sources allow these devices to be tested without the need for cumbersome test setups, batteries or multiple conventional sources. And with advanced software these test setups can be converted to closed-loop hardware-in-the-loop simulations which produce real-time test results.
So why adopt this technology? Both Bidirectional and regenerative AC and DC sources and loads can more closely simulate real-word operating environments, reduce the number of instruments needed in your test lab, and reduce energy usage over traditional test equipment which can only discharge power in the form of heat. When used widely in high power applications, this testing equipment will save electricity costs and reduce carbon footprints around the globe.
Regenerative and Bidirectional Sources and Loads
Chroma 62000D bidirectional DC power supplies provide both programmable DC power and regenerative loading in a single high density 3U package. This two quadrant design allows the power generated from the device under test to be fed back to the grid with high efficiency – making them the best choice for testing renewable energy and bidirectional power conversion systems such as on-board chargers for electric vehicles, bidirectional DC to DC converters and motor drivers. This instrument can also preform charge/discharge testing on batteries as well as optional battery simulation.
New Chroma 61800 models include power ratings of 9kVA, 12kVA, and 15kVA, selectable single phase or 3-phase touch screen operation in a 3U package. Chroma 61809/61812/61815 models are regenerative providing a complete energysavings solution. The power generated by the DUT during the test can be easily fed back to the grid, rather than dissipated as heat, which lowers the cost of operation and protects the environment.
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Regenerative Automated Test Systems
Battery Reliability Test System
Chroma 17010
Up to ±0.015% of full scale
Up to 100µS
Up to 10mS
Chroma’s Battery & Reliability Test System is a high-precision system designed specifically for testing lithium-ion battery (LIB) cells, electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs), and lithium-ion capacitors (LICs).
Regenerative Battery Test Solutions
High precision, integrated battery and energy storage test equipment designed for lithium ion and other battery chemistries. From cell to battery pack, we provide advanced battery test features including regenerative discharge systems that recycle energy sourced by the battery back to the channels in the system or back to the grid.