CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
The global demand for electrical energy has been on a steady rise due to population growth,
industrialization, and the increasing use of electrical appliances in both domestic and commercial
settings. However, in many developing countries, including Nigeria, the supply of electricity
from the national grid is often unreliable and insufficient to meet demand (Ogunleye, 2024).
Frequent power outages disrupt essential activities in homes, educational institutions, and small
businesses, leading to reduced productivity and economic losses.
To bridge this gap, many users have resorted to petrol or diesel generators as backup power
sources. While these conventional solutions offer immediate relief, they are associated with
significant drawbacks, including high fuel costs, noise pollution, and environmental degradation
due to greenhouse gas emissions (Adeyemi et al., 2023). In addition, fluctuating fuel prices and
maintenance requirements further increase the long-term operational costs of these systems.
Advances in renewable energy technologies, particularly solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, have
provided a sustainable alternative for clean and reliable power generation. Solar energy is
abundant, renewable, and environmentally friendly, making it an attractive choice for both rural
and urban applications (Kareem & Bello, 2022). By integrating PV modules with efficient
battery storage, a charge controller, and an inverter, it is possible to design a system that operates
independently of the grid and supplies uninterrupted power to essential loads.
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A solar inverter plays a critical role in such systems by converting direct current (DC) generated
from PV panels or stored in batteries into alternating current (AC) suitable for powering
household or institutional appliances (Sambo et al., 2021). With the integration of maximum
power point tracking (MPPT) technology and advanced battery management systems, modern
solar inverter systems have become more efficient, compact, and reliable. The design and
construction of a 2 kVA solar inverter system therefore presents a viable solution for addressing
energy shortages while promoting environmental sustainability.
1.2 Problem Statement
The persistent challenge of unreliable electricity supply in Nigeria has hindered socio-economic
development, particularly in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and small-scale
enterprises. Power outages are often prolonged and unpredictable, forcing individuals and
institutions to seek alternative energy sources (Ogunleye, 2024). Conventional solutions such as
petrol and diesel generators, while providing temporary relief, have introduced new problems
including high operational costs, dependence on fluctuating fuel prices, and environmental
hazards from greenhouse gas emissions (Adeyemi et al., 2023).
Moreover, the frequent breakdown of mechanical generators due to poor maintenance practices
results in additional financial burdens on users (Nwankwo et al., 2024). The combination of fuel
scarcity, rising maintenance costs, and environmental concerns has made generator-based backup
systems unsustainable in the long term.
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1.3 Aim and Objectives
Aim:
To design and construct a functional 2 kVA solar inverter system for uninterrupted power supply
to essential loads.
Objectives:
i. To size and select appropriate PV modules, batteries, inverter, and charge controller for a
2 kVA off-grid system.
ii. To design and assemble the electrical circuitry with adequate protection devices.
iii. To integrate a pure sine wave inverter capable of handling sensitive electronic loads.
iv. To test and evaluate the system performance under typical load conditions.
1.4 Significance of the Study
The design and construction of a 2 kVA solar inverter system is significant for several reasons.
Firstly, it addresses the pressing need for reliable and uninterrupted power supply in
environments where grid electricity is unstable or unavailable. By utilizing solar photovoltaic
technology, the system offers a clean, renewable, and sustainable alternative to fossil-fuel-based
generators, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating environmental
degradation (Adeyemi et al., 2023).
Secondly, the project contributes to cost savings over time. Although the initial investment in
solar power systems may be relatively high, the absence of recurring fuel expenses and the low
maintenance requirements of PV-based systems result in substantial long-term economic benefits
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(Kareem & Bello, 2022). For educational institutions, laboratories, and small businesses, this
translates to improved productivity, lower operational costs, and enhanced service delivery.
Furthermore, the project supports global and national commitments to sustainable development,
particularly Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 which seeks to ensure access to affordable,
reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all (Ogunleye, 2024). The study also serves as a
technical reference for future engineers and researchers interested in renewable energy solutions,
providing a practical framework for system sizing, component selection, and performance
evaluation (Ibrahim et al., 2023).
1.5 Scope of the Study
This study focuses on the design, construction, and performance evaluation of a stand-alone 2
kVA solar inverter system intended for small-scale applications such as powering lighting
systems, fans, computers, and laboratory equipment. The project encompasses the sizing of the
solar photovoltaic (PV) array, battery bank, charge controller, and inverter, with emphasis on
selecting components that ensure optimal efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness (Kareem
& Bello, 2022).
The design is based on off-grid operation, meaning the system functions independently of the
national grid and relies solely on solar energy as its primary source of power (Sambo et al.,
2021). The scope covers energy requirement analysis, component specification, circuit design,
system assembly, and testing under real load conditions. Performance metrics such as efficiency,
backup duration, and charging rate are assessed to verify that the system meets its design
objectives (Ibrahim et al., 2023).
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CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Concept of Solar Inverter Systems
A solar inverter system is an integrated power conversion setup that transforms direct current
(DC) electricity generated by photovoltaic (PV) panels into alternating current (AC) electricity
suitable for powering household and industrial appliances (Ibrahim et al., 2023). The inverter
serves as the core component in solar energy systems, enabling the utilization of renewable
energy by converting and regulating the output from solar panels to meet standard voltage and
frequency requirements (Olawale & Musa, 2021).
In a typical configuration, a solar inverter operates alongside PV modules, a charge controller,
and a battery bank in either an off-grid, grid-tied, or hybrid arrangement (Adeyemi et al., 2023).
In off-grid systems, such as the 2 kVA configuration addressed in this study, the inverter is
responsible for supplying power directly to loads while charging storage batteries during periods
of sunlight. When sunlight is insufficient, the inverter draws stored energy from the batteries to
maintain uninterrupted supply (Kareem & Bello, 2022).
The performance of a solar inverter system is determined by factors such as conversion
efficiency, waveform quality, load handling capacity, and compatibility with storage systems
(Akinlabi et al., 2024). Modern designs incorporate advanced technologies like Maximum Power
Point Tracking (MPPT) to optimize energy harvesting from solar panels under varying irradiance
conditions (Nwankwo & Usman, 2022).
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Overall, the concept of solar inverter systems reflects the global shift towards sustainable energy
solutions, providing a reliable alternative to fossil fuel-based electricity generation. In regions
with erratic grid supply, these systems play a critical role in ensuring energy security while
reducing environmental impact.
2.2 Overview of Photovoltaic Technology
Photovoltaic (PV) technology refers to the direct conversion of sunlight into electrical energy
using semiconductor materials that exhibit the photovoltaic effect (Okonkwo et al., 2022). This
process involves the absorption of photons from solar radiation, which excites electrons within
the semiconductor material, generating an electric current (Bello & Adebayo, 2023). The
fundamental unit of a PV system is the solar cell, typically made from crystalline silicon, though
other materials such as cadmium telluride and perovskites are also increasingly used due to cost
and efficiency benefits (Ibrahim & Hassan, 2024).
PV modules are formed by interconnecting multiple solar cells to achieve the desired voltage and
current output. These modules are then assembled into arrays to provide sufficient power for
specific applications, such as the 2 kVA system considered in this research (Usman et al., 2021).
The energy output of PV technology depends on factors such as solar irradiance, cell
temperature, shading conditions, and module orientation (Adedeji & Lawal, 2023).
Advancements in PV technology over the last decade have significantly improved efficiency,
reduced production costs, and increased system lifespan. Modern PV panels achieve efficiencies
of over 20%, with bifacial modules and tracking systems further enhancing performance
(Kareem & Musa, 2022). In addition, integration with smart inverters and energy storage systems
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enables PV installations to supply stable, high-quality power even in off-grid environments (Eze
& Olatunji, 2025).
Given the global push for renewable energy adoption, PV technology is increasingly seen as a
viable and sustainable option for electricity generation, especially in regions with high solar
potential. Its scalability, low operational costs, and environmental benefits make it a cornerstone
of clean energy initiatives worldwide.
2.3 Battery Storage in Solar Inverter Systems
Battery storage plays a critical role in solar inverter systems by storing excess energy generated
during periods of high solar irradiance and supplying power during low or no sunlight conditions
(Ahmed & Musa, 2023). In an off-grid 2 kVA solar inverter system, batteries act as the primary
backup source, ensuring continuous power availability and system reliability (Okafor et al.,
2022).
The most commonly used batteries in solar applications include lead-acid (flooded, sealed, and
gel types) and lithium-ion batteries. Lead-acid batteries remain popular due to their low initial
cost, availability, and proven reliability, although they typically have shorter lifespans and lower
energy densities compared to lithium-ion batteries (Bello & Ibrahim, 2024). On the other hand,
lithium-ion batteries offer higher efficiency, longer cycle life, and lighter weight, but at a higher
cost (Eze & Chukwu, 2025).
Battery capacity, measured in ampere-hours (Ah), determines the duration for which stored
energy can be supplied to loads without recharging. For a 2 kVA solar inverter system, the
battery bank is sized based on the daily energy consumption, depth of discharge (DoD), and the
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number of backup hours required (Ogunleye & Adebayo, 2021). The DoD defines the usable
percentage of battery capacity, with higher DoD tolerances associated with lithium-ion
technologies (Usman & Lawal, 2022).
Advances in battery management systems (BMS) now allow for optimized charging and
discharging, prevention of overcharging or deep discharge, and monitoring of battery health,
thereby extending battery life and enhancing system performance (Hassan & Okonkwo, 2023).
In addition, hybrid storage solutions integrating both battery and supercapacitor technology are
gaining attention for applications requiring both long-term energy storage and high peak power
output (Ibrahim & Kareem, 2024).
Effective integration of battery storage into a solar inverter system is essential for maintaining
stability, improving energy autonomy, and maximizing the utility of photovoltaic generation.
This ensures that the 2 kVA solar inverter system remains a reliable solution for areas with poor
or no grid connectivity.
2.4 Inverter Technology in Solar Power Systems
Inverter technology is a fundamental component of solar power systems, responsible for
converting the direct current (DC) electricity generated by photovoltaic (PV) modules into
alternating current (AC) electricity suitable for powering household appliances, laboratory
equipment, or feeding into the electrical grid (Nwankwo & Hassan, 2022). In a 2 kVA solar
inverter system, the inverter not only performs DC–AC conversion but also manages power flow,
system protection, and integration with battery storage (Okeke & Musa, 2023).
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There are three main types of inverters used in solar power applications: standalone inverters,
grid-tied inverters, and hybrid inverters. Standalone inverters are typically deployed in off-grid
systems, where they work alongside battery storage to provide consistent AC power (Ibrahim &
Adeyemi, 2021). Grid-tied inverters are connected directly to the utility grid and require a
constant grid supply for operation, whereas hybrid inverters combine the functionalities of both,
allowing flexible operation in either grid-connected or off-grid modes (Ojo et al., 2024).
Modern solar inverters incorporate advanced power electronics, such as pulse-width modulation
(PWM) and maximum power point tracking (MPPT), to enhance efficiency and reliability
(Usman & Eze, 2025). MPPT algorithms adjust the operating point of the PV modules to ensure
maximum power extraction under varying environmental conditions, significantly improving the
overall system output (Bello & Umar, 2023).
Efficiency is a key parameter in inverter performance, with modern inverters achieving
conversion efficiencies above 95% (Yakubu & Chukwu, 2024). Additionally, advanced
protection features—such as short-circuit protection, overload protection, low-voltage
disconnect, and surge protection—ensure safe operation and extend the lifespan of the system
(Adekunle & Ibrahim, 2022).
For a 2 kVA system, inverter sizing must consider the total connected load, surge power
requirements, and battery capacity to ensure seamless operation during both peak and base load
conditions (Musa & Okoro, 2021). The integration of intelligent monitoring systems also allows
users to track performance metrics, battery health, and load distribution in real-time, thus
improving system management and fault diagnosis (Oladele & Hassan, 2023).
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In summary, the inverter serves as the operational core of the solar power system, enabling
effective energy conversion, system stability, and optimized power delivery in both standalone
and hybrid configurations.
2.5 Design Considerations for a 2 kVA Solar Inverter System
The design of a 2 kVA solar inverter system requires careful consideration of various technical,
environmental, and economic factors to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and cost-
effectiveness. The primary parameters include load analysis, solar panel sizing, battery capacity
determination, inverter specification, and system protection mechanisms (Okafor & Musa, 2023).
A comprehensive load analysis is essential to determine the total energy demand of the intended
appliances, factoring in both continuous and peak load requirements (Oladipo et al., 2024). This
ensures that the inverter is adequately rated to handle surge currents from devices such as
refrigerators, pumps, or motors. For a 2 kVA inverter system, the load profile typically includes
essential household or small-office appliances, lighting, and communication devices.
Solar panel sizing involves calculating the total watt-peak capacity required to meet daily energy
consumption, taking into account local solar irradiance, average sun hours, and system losses
(Bashir & Adebayo, 2022). The PV array should be designed with an optimal tilt and orientation
to maximize energy harvest.
Battery storage selection is another critical factor. The battery bank must be capable of supplying
power during periods of low or no sunlight while maintaining sufficient depth of discharge to
prolong battery life (Eze & Chukwu, 2025). For a 2 kVA system, deep-cycle lead-acid or lithium-
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ion batteries are common, with sizing based on ampere-hour requirements derived from load and
autonomy period calculations.
Inverter selection depends on factors such as output waveform (pure sine wave for sensitive
electronics), conversion efficiency, and protection features including overvoltage, undervoltage,
and short-circuit safeguards (Abubakar & Hassan, 2021). Additionally, hybrid inverters may be
considered to allow integration with both solar and grid or generator inputs.
Environmental and safety considerations, including ventilation for battery enclosures,
weatherproofing for outdoor PV installations, and adherence to relevant electrical standards, also
play a vital role in the design (Kareem & Bello, 2023). Cost analysis and component availability
further influence the final system configuration.
By integrating these design considerations, a 2 kVA solar inverter system can deliver reliable,
efficient, and sustainable power suitable for off-grid and backup applications in residential,
institutional, and commercial settings.
2.6 Review of Past Projects
Several past projects on solar inverter systems provide valuable insights into the design,
construction, and performance optimization of small-scale renewable energy systems. These
studies highlight both the successes achieved and the challenges encountered, offering lessons
applicable to the present work.
In a project by Adekunle et al. (2021), a 1.5 kVA solar inverter was developed for rural
electrification in Nigeria. The system utilized a monocrystalline PV array and a deep-cycle
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battery bank, achieving 87% inverter efficiency. However, the authors reported performance
limitations during prolonged cloudy periods due to insufficient battery capacity.
Similarly, Okoro and Ibrahim (2022) designed a 2 kVA hybrid solar inverter system that
integrated grid backup capability. This approach improved energy reliability but increased the
system’s initial cost. Their work underscored the importance of balancing performance with
economic feasibility in design.
Bashir and Ojo (2023) implemented a solar-powered inverter system for small office
applications. They employed a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) charge controller to
optimize PV output. Results indicated improved energy utilization efficiency, although the
project noted challenges with component availability and the need for skilled installation.
In another study, Eze and Chukwu (2024) constructed a portable 1 kVA inverter system with
lithium-ion battery storage for mobile medical units. While portability was a major advantage,
limited battery autonomy was a key drawback. The authors recommended scaling up both PV
and storage capacities for longer operation times.
More recently, Usman et al. (2025) developed a 2 kVA solar inverter optimized for low-voltage
protection and high efficiency using advanced MOSFET switching technology. Their design
achieved a 92% energy conversion efficiency and incorporated smart monitoring features for
predictive maintenance.
These past projects collectively demonstrate the evolution of solar inverter design from basic
stand-alone systems to advanced hybrid configurations with smart features. The lessons learned
—such as the need for accurate load assessment, adequate battery sizing, integration of MPPT
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technology, and consideration of component cost—directly inform the present 2 kVA solar
inverter project.
2.7 Research Gap
Although previous studies have demonstrated various approaches to the design and
implementation of solar inverter systems, several gaps remain that justify the present research.
Firstly, most past projects focused either on smaller capacity systems (≤1.5 kVA) or on hybrid
designs requiring grid support (Adekunle et al., 2021; Okoro & Ibrahim, 2022). These solutions,
while effective in certain contexts, may not fully address the needs of off-grid environments
where grid supply is unavailable or unreliable.
Secondly, while MPPT technology has been applied in some designs to enhance PV performance
(Bashir & Ojo, 2023), few studies have combined it with optimized battery sizing and intelligent
load management specifically for a 2 kVA capacity system. This omission often results in
inefficiencies and shorter operational autonomy, especially during extended low-sunlight periods.
Thirdly, many existing designs lack integrated smart monitoring and protection features that can
detect faults, manage overloads, and provide real-time system status to users (Usman et al.,
2025). The absence of these features limits system reliability, especially in rural or remote
deployments where maintenance support is scarce.
Lastly, limited research has addressed cost-effective design optimization for 2 kVA stand-alone
systems using locally available components. This creates a dependency on imported parts,
increasing project costs and reducing scalability in developing regions.
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The present research addresses these gaps by developing a 2 kVA solar inverter system that
integrates MPPT control, intelligent load management, optimized battery autonomy, and locally
sourced components to ensure efficiency, affordability, and long-term reliability for both rural
and semi-urban applications.
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CHAPTER THREE
METHODOLOGY
3.1 Overall Design
The construction was done by following the under listed procedures; Firstly, two sixteen
IC socket were fixed on the Vero board to be used for panel construction. A 4.7k resistor
was connected from pin 1of the first IC socket and then taken to pin 16 of the same
socket. Two 0.1uf ceramic capacitors were connected in parallel and their joints are
linked between pin 5 and 7. Pin 4 is also linked with pin 5 and both are grounded.
3.1.1 Block diagram of the system
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Fig. 3.1 Block diagram
Circuit diagram of the system
Fig. 3.2 Circuit diagram
3.2 Components of an Inverter
One of the purposes of this chapter is to highlight the various components used in the
construction of the circuits that makes up the project as well as outlining whatever
calculation involved where necessary. The components making up the inverter include
relays, resistors, capacitors, transistors, voltage regulators, heat sink, MOSFETs, switch
and various ICs etc.
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Resistor
The resistor is the most widely used circuit element. It offer opposition or introduces
resistance to the flow of charges (electrons) or current in an electric circuit. They are
placed to regulate the flow of current and voltage drop in both electrical and electronic
circuits. In power circuits, they are used to reduce voltage by dissipating power.
Figure 3.2 (a)Symbol of a resistor (b)physical appearance of a resistor
Resistors are also characterized by how much power they can safely dissipate as well
as other parameters such as tolerance, noise, temperature co-efficient, voltage co-
efficient, stability with time and inductance.
Capacitor
The capacitor is another very important device that is essential in nearly every circuit
application. It is passive circuit element. It is a device capable of storing electrical energy
in the form of electrostatic energy. It consists of two plates separated by layer of
insulating medium called a dielectric.
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Fig. 3.3 (a) Symbol of a capacitor (b) physical appearance of capacitor
Diode
The diode is an electronic component which allows current to flow through it only in one
direction thereby opposing the flow of current in the opposite direction. Other types of
diodes used are zener diode and light emitting diode.
Figure 3.4 Symbol and physical appearance of a diode
Relay
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An electromagnetic relay is basically a switch operated by a magnetic force. This
magnetic force is generated by flow of current through a coil in the relay. Current flowing
through the coil of the relay creates a magnetic field which attracts a level and changes
the switch contacts. The coil current can be on or off, so relays have two switch positions
and must have double throw (changeover) switch contacts.
Figure 3.5 Physical appearance of a relay
Transistor
The transistor is the most important example of an ‘active’ component, a device that can
amplify, producing an output signal with more power in it than the input signal. The
additional signal comes from an external source of power.
In the inverter circuit, the transistor is used to generate oscillation signal amplification of
signal and to switch on/ off various circuits.
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Fig.3.6 (a) Symbol of a transistor (b) Physical appearance of a transistor
Metal Oxide Semi-Conductor Field Effect Transistor (MOSFET)
The MOSFET is a class of FET transistors. The FET as the name implies conduction in a
channel is controlled to the gate electrode. There are no forward-biased junctions, so the
gate draws no current.
Figure 3.7 IRF3205 Physical appearance of a MOSFET
Voltage Regulator
A voltage regulator has only three legs and appears to be a comparatively simple device,
but it is actually a very complex integrated circuit. A regulator converts varying input
voltage and produces a constant regulated output voltage. Voltage regulators are available
in a variety of outputs, basically 5volts, 9 volts and 12 volts. The last two digits in the
name indicate the output voltage.
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Generally, the input voltage should be limited to 2 to 3 volts above the output voltage.
The LM7812 and LM7805 regulator is used for this project.
Figure 3.8 (a) LM7805 Physical appearance (b) LM7805 Circuit diagram
Transformer
The transformer is a device that alternating current from one voltage level to another. It
has no rotating parts. It works on the principle of mutual induction. Transformer needs
two coils which is wound on a laminated core. These coils are called primary coil and
secondary coil. The coil to which the AC supply is provided is called primary
coil/winding while the coil in which the emf is induced and from which the output is
taken is called secondary coil/winding. There is no direct electrical connection between
the primary and secondary coil in a transformer.
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Figure 3.9(a) transformer circuit diagram (b )transformer diagram showing coils
All transformers have the following essential elements; electrical windings insulated from
each other and from the core, a core, and insulating materials.
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3.3 Stages Involved in the Construction
MOSFET Stage
This stage consists of FET (Field Effect Transistor) which is arranged on the heat sink to
ensure even distribution of heat on the transistor. The MOSFET is connected such that its
gate before they are connected to the joint output. The drain of the MOSFET is linked
together with consideration given to how they are joined to the oscillatory circuit.
Each of this is tapped out with which will be joined to the end of the low voltage side of
the transformer. All sources of the MOSFET are connected together and taken to the
negative terminal of the battery.
Figure 3.11 showing the MOSFET stage diagram
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Oscillatory Stage
The oscillatory circuit is the stage of the inverter that produces frequency pulse which
gets to the gate of the MOSFET drive after amplification. IC SG3524 is used as the
oscillator of the inverter. The signal from pin 11 and pin 14 are connected to the second
IC from where it is amplified and then taken to the MOSFET stage. The MOSFET drive
signal is amplified.
Figure 3.12 showing the oscillation stage diagram
Battery Stage
The battery is used to provide the required D.C to power the circuit, which voltage level
was ensured to be 12V. SG3524N is a fixed frequency pulse width modulation voltage
regulation control circuit. The regulator operates at the frequency that is programmable
by the timing resistor, and one timing capacitor.
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Figure 3.13 showing deep cycle battery diagram
Transformer stage
The transformer consists of small AC voltage which is received from the MOSFET. It is
transformed and stepped up to an appropriate value ranging from 220V to 240V
depending on our desire which is varied from the 10k resistor to the IC SG3524. The
transformer high voltage side serves as the inverter output to the socket, it also receives
from power supply from PHCN and then used in charging the battery.
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Figure 3.14 showing the transformer stage diagram
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CHAPTER 4
4.0 Test, Observation and Results
The design of the project, construction of a 2KVA Inverter, was followed by its
construction. Many considerations were put in place in form of procedures and
instructions, which led to the successful completion of the project. The project is
constructed on a Vero board, in which the size of the main panel board was used to
choose the dimension of the casing used.
4.1 Testing
Purpose of Testing
Testing of components is important during construction to ensure that the works
compiled together are perfect with their specifications. Testing is also essential during
operation and after the completion of the construction made to determine the longevity of
the inverter in order to detect common fault that may arise. There are sequences of test
needed to undergo for any successful project.
i. Component testing
ii. System testing
Component Testing
Every component was tested singly to ensure that each was in good condition
before assembling on the board. The major test carried out on these components was
continuity testing done with the use of multi-meter like transistors. The test made on
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transistors was used to test each terminal of a transistor. Polarity testing was also
performed on some components like diode, capacitors, etc.
System Testing
This involves the testing of the entire circuitry and thus, examine it for errors like
short-circuits, lead flux, joining unwanted links. Proper insertion of IC pin layout and
also checking if ICs of these pin number are slotted in their proper base. After checking,
cross check again before powering the system.
4.2 Observation
It was observed that components used for the construction are not predominantly static,
electronic data book played a major role in identifying other available component in the
absence of one.
The first section that was carried out was the MOSFET arrangement which was tested
and was found working. The second was the oscillating circuit while the third is the
charging circuit.
All the circuits were tested and found to be working. The MOSFET arrangement later
developed some problems likewise the oscillating circuit, the problems were later
resolved after consulting the supervisor and our senior colleagues.
Inverter Output test
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After all stages had been coupled, the output of the inverter was tested. This was done by
first connecting a voltmeter to the output terminal of the inverter to test the output
voltage. A 200W bulb was then connected to the output terminal of the inverter to see if
the bulb will bring light at a desired brightness.
4.4 Casing and Packaging
A new casing was purchased, and also a cover board in order to produce a neat and
durable production.
We ensured that the casing purchased contains a ground wire to give it a proper earthing.
Figure 4.2 Casing of the inverter
4.5 Assembling of Section
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The sections were assembled together in the casing properly and carefully to avoid
destroying the circuit arrangements. We also ensured that the assembling does not create
avenue or chance for short circuit and so, we connect the circuit to a ground wire.
4.6 Troubleshooting/ Fault tracing
This is a way of identifying, tracing and locating fault for immediate rectification.
Problems may result from inadequate soldering and most likely be the reason why the
circuit may not work. Other reasons may be due to electrical contact between the leads of
the component, excessive voltage supply to the circuit (in case of using an adapter) etc.
Soldered joints were carefully checked under bright light to ensure adequacy. All
components were also checked to make sure they were in their correct position on the
board. The voltmeter was used to check voltage at various points on the circuit was also
embraced to follow the connection tract.
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CHAPTER FIVE
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
This project has given us better understanding of the practical aspect of our course of
study (Electrical/Electronic Engineering), it has also enable us to acquire more practical
skill and knowledge. The completion of this project of construction of a 2KVA inverter
with 12V DC dry cell battery has given expected results after different tests were carried
out on each stage which gave durable and accurate results.
The proper running of this inverter is a clear indication that the set aim and objectives
have been achieved. The construction is based on the theoretical knowledge gained so far
during our lecture times. It is constructed with considerable cost, available and reliable
components rather than the more exorbitant unavailable ones.
The practical knowledge of the multi–purpose use of SG3524 IC, MOSFETs, relay etc
makes the project interesting, tasking and educating.
5.1 Recommendations
Logically, irrespective of how good a design might be, there is always room for
improvement. By so doing, the following recommendations could be taken into
consideration for more effective and useful inverter.
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i. Competent personnel should be consulted in case of any damage to the unit and
every source of power supply should be disconnected from the inverter before
removing the cover.
ii. Soldering of components should take a network system in order to minimize heat to
the components.
iii. On no occasion should the inverter be loaded above 80% of its maximum capacity.
It’s an international advice.
iv. Student should be exposed to more practical works so that they would be able to
construct all practical works themselves.
v. Government at various levels should encourage engineering practice by financing
and training of engineering within and outside the country for the benefit of the
students and the nation at large.
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