3S-SMS-MB-M

Manual Soiling Sensor with Modbus Output – 3S-SMS-MB-M

 

The SEVEN Soiling Sensor is designed to accurately measure energy losses caused by dust, dirt, and other environmental factors on photovoltaic (PV) panels. By monitoring the soiling level, operators can directly see how much production is being lost. For example, if the sensor reports a 10% soiling level, it means the PV system is experiencing a 10% energy loss (PV Soiling = Energy Loss).

The measured soiling data is transmitted to data loggers and receiver units via a 3-wire RS485 bus using the Modbus RTU protocol.

Description

Manual Soiling Sensor with Modbus Output – 3S-SMS-MB-M

The SEVEN Manual Soiling Sensor is designed to accurately measure energy losses caused by dust, dirt, and other environmental factors on photovoltaic (PV) panels. By monitoring the soiling level, operators can directly see how much energy production is being lost. For example, a reported 10% soiling level corresponds to a 10% energy loss in the PV system.

The measured soiling data is transmitted via a 3-wire RS485 bus using the Modbus RTU protocol to data loggers and monitoring units, making integration with SCADA, PLC, or other standard platforms seamless.

How It Works:

  • The system is based on reference solar cells that replicate your PV modules.

  • One reference cell is kept clean manually, while the other is exposed to natural soiling.

  • By comparing the irradiance between the clean and dirty cells, the sensor calculates the soiling ratio (%) in real-time.

  • The soiling ratio is transmitted over RS485 using the Modbus RTU protocol.

  • The device is SunSpec compliant, ensuring compatibility with industry-standard monitoring systems.

Key Benefits:

  • Financial transparency: Provides clear insight into actual energy and revenue loss due to soiling.

  • Data-driven operations: Helps optimize cleaning schedules and avoid unnecessary costs.

  • Flexibility: Suitable for utility-scale, commercial rooftop, and industrial PV installations.

  • Durability: Weather-resistant IP65 housing, UV-protected PUR cabling, and wide operating temperature range (-40°C to +85°C).

  • Proven accuracy: Each sensor is calibrated under Class AAA Sun Simulator conditions with reference cells certified by ISFH and Fraunhofer ISE in Germany.

Technical Specifications:

  • Item Code: 3S-SMS-MB-M

  • Soiling Ratio: 0–100% with 0.1% resolution and ≤1% uncertainty

  • Irradiance Range: 0–1600 W/m²

  • Output Rate: 1 measurement per second via RS485 Modbus RTU

  • Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C

  • Operating Humidity: 0–100% RH

  • Power Supply: 12–30 V DC, 20 mA @ 24 V DC

  • Electrical Connection: 3 m LIYYC11Y PUR Cable, UV and weather resistant

  • Galvanic Isolation: 1000 V between power supply and RS485 bus

  • IP Rating: IP65

  • Dimensions: 244 mm × 108 mm × 42 mm (W × L × H)

  • Weight: 500 g

  • Calibration: Each sensor is calibrated under Class AAA Sun Simulator using a reference cell certified by ISFH, Germany. The dirty cell is normalized against the clean cell after calibration.

  • Testing: Each sensor is tested under natural sunlight with a calibrated reference cell from Fraunhofer ISE, Germany.

  • Standards Compliance: IEC 61724-1 (Annex C)

Maintenance & Operation:

  • The clean reference cell must be manually cleaned daily with a wet cloth, while the dirty cell accumulates soiling naturally.

  • Routine checks include inspecting cables, connectors, and verifying calibration annually.

  • The device operates reliably in extreme climates, including high heat, high humidity, and freezing conditions.

Applications & Advantages:

  • Provides real-time, quantitative insight into PV system energy losses.

  • Helps operators avoid over-cleaning (wasting water, labor, and costs) or under-cleaning (losing energy production).

  • Ideal for projects where manual site visits are already scheduled or cost efficiency is prioritized.

  • Compatible with RS485 Modbus RTU monitoring systems and SunSpec compliant for plug-and-play integration.

Delivery & Warranty:

  • Delivery Times: Small orders take 2–3 weeks; bulk orders (100 pcs) take 8–10 weeks.

  • Warranty: 2-year warranty against manufacturer defects.