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Solar power automatic gate

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  • 17-10-2013 10:19pm
    #1
    outfox
    Registered Users Posts: 942 ✭✭✭


    I'm not sure whether to post in this forum or in home DIY.
    I'm looking at installing an electric gate motor on a farm gate, with GSM control. The problem is that there is no mains power available, so am thinking of solar. Has anyone done this? I use a solar kit with some electronic equipment at work, and I find it suffers badly in cloudy and wet weather. Also, cold weather seems to mess with the battery. Maybe the new panels are better.
    Any advice would be appreciated.


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    #2
    freddyuk
    Registered Users Posts: 1,111 ✭✭✭freddyuk


    Electric powered gates are excellent for solar as there is a short duty cycle and this can be measured as an average time per day. The battery can then be sized to give X amount of reserve time. Providing the solar is sized correctly to be able to charge the battery when the sun does shine you should be fine. You just need someone to do the calculations and take responsibility.;)


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    #3
    outfox
    Registered Users Posts: 942 ✭✭✭outfox


    Didn't see your reply till now. I'd given up hope of getting any reply.
    Many thanks. I've decided to go ahead with it.


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    #4
    freddyuk
    Registered Users Posts: 1,111 ✭✭✭freddyuk


    Don't go for cheap batteries as you will regret it. Use AGM. Also use an MPPT controller and a big enough panel.


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