
Solar street lamps are widely used in our lives, whether in cities or rural areas, along main roads or country paths, in scenic spots or courtyards. They bring great convenience to our nighttime activities. However, solar street lamps are often exposed to outdoor environments, making them susceptible to various issues, such as short circuit problems. So how do we detect short circuits in solar street lamps? Below is an introduction to the methods of detection.
1. DC Resistance Detection Method
In many cases, the failure of street lamps is caused by short circuits in the internal wiring. To address this issue, the commonly used method is the DC resistance method. The wiring of street lamps is evenly distributed, dividing the connections into segments of 40 meters. In a three-phase four-wire system, a single circuit generally contains no more than 20 street lamps, numbered from 1 to 20. Each phase averages 7 lamps. For example, phase A consists of lamps 1, 4, 7, 10, 13, 16, and 19, while phases B and C follow suit. Following the principle of “1/2 distance,” use a multimeter to test the cable at its midpoint, then test the midpoint of the abnormal segment, and continue to monitor the midpoints of the remaining abnormal segments, gradually narrowing down the range to locate the fault.
2. Capacitive Current Limiting Detection Method
Compared to the DC resistance detection method, the capacitive current limiting detection method has distinct advantages, particularly in terms of improved detection efficiency. This method is straightforward to use, and the materials needed are easily accessible. Among these materials, capacitors are essential. When using this method, first determine the exact route of the cable. Then, disconnect the shorted cable terminals from the distribution panel, isolate all the conductors, and connect a capacitor in series within a distribution cabinet, grounding the other segment to ensure safe operation of the entire circuit. After powering up, the resistance at the short circuit point will significantly decrease. The new circuit, treated with a capacitor, becomes a stable capacitive circuit. Throughout the powering process, the capacitor will limit the current. Starting from the power source, a clamp meter will measure according to its detection principles in the overall direction. By using this detection method, the range of faults will be gradually reduced, allowing for the eventual identification of the short circuit point. Overall, the capacitive current limiting detection method greatly reduces the maintenance time of the circuits, enhancing the overall repair efficiency.
The above methods for detecting short circuits in solar street lamps have been shared here. In our country, the methods employed for handling short circuits and open circuit faults in solar street lamp wiring include the DC resistance method and the capacitive current limiting method. Properly balancing the use of these two methods will significantly improve the maintenance levels of our street lamp wiring.