Pyranometers Pyrheliometers Albedometers & Net Radiometers
Solar radiation measurements can take many forms, depending on the requirements at your site.
If you wish to carry out solar prospecting, or solar farm performance monitoring, for a Static Solar Array you may wish to look for a pair of Pyranometers. These would typically be mounted to collect Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI) and Plane of Array Irradiance (POAI).
If your aim is to determine the likely gain from a single or dual axis tracking array, or even a focused sun energy tracking system, then you will need to be able to determine the Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI) and the Diffuse Irradiance. The most accurate and reliable way to do this is with an active solar tracker with a Pyrheliometer and a pair of Class B or Class A Pyranometers with a shading disc positioned exactly over one of the pyranometers.
Alternatively you may be looking to determine the albedo at your array site to determine the viability of bifacial Photovoltaic Panels, or be conducting UV or IR research. We can assist with this and more.
No matter your solar radiation monitoring application, we have the experience to provide a solution. As a proud Distributor of Middleton Solar - world class products made here in Australia, and also able to source from international manufacturers such as Kipp & Zonen, Skye Instruments or Hukseflux, we are sure to be able to match the right solution to your needs.
From basic monitoring to ISO 9060:2018 Class A monitoring or anything in between, we will be able to assist. Of course, pairing this world class solar radiation monitoring with our world class Data Logger such as the Weather Maestro, a weather station to record other relevant parameters & the data platform WeatherMation LIVE will complete your monitoring package!
Parameters Measured - Dependent on Pyranometer Type
- Global and Reflected Solar Radiation
- Downward / Incoming and Upward / Outgoing Radiation
- Diffuse or Scattered Solar Radiation
- Total or Global Solar Radiation
- Sunshine Status
- Beam / Direct (normal incidence) Solar Radiation
Industry Applications
- Photovoltaic (PV) Panel Design
- Efficiency Monitoring of Solar Panels
- Photovoltaic Power Plant Monitoring
- Baseline Data Capture – PV Site Suitability
- Agriculture
- Water Storage Monitoring
- Waste-Water Management
Compatible with
- Weather Maestro
Features In Detail
Details & Advantages
PYRHELIOMETER
A pyrheliometer is used to measure beam or direct solar radiation. Most often called Direct Normal Irradiance (DHI). Typically, the pyrheliometer is mounted on a tracking mechanism and is pointed directly at the sun. The motorised tracking system automatically tracks the sun as it moves across the sky. An Active Solar Tracker will lock to the sun's position and automatically follow every minute of the day throughout the year.
PYRANOMETER
A pyranometer is used to measure global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI) and can also be used to measure the total irradiance that would fall on the solar panels of a static Array, by positioning the sensor on this angle. Likewise, you can install the sensor on a single or dual axis tracking array to determine Array performance.
Commonly required in partnership with the DNI; Pyranometers are often called for to measure both diffuse irradiance in an active solar tracker with a shading disc & Total (global ) irradiance. By subtracting the diffuse from the total you can calculate the Direct Normal Irradiance, albeit not as accurately as with a dedicated tracking Pyrheliometer.
NET RADIOMETER / NET PYRRADIOMETER
Net radiation monitoring can be achieved for both global radiation (short and long wave incoming and outgoing (reflected) in the one instrument, or by separating out the short wave incoming and outgoing from the long wave incoming and outgoing, providing a 4 component net radiometer. The data derived is used in solar power plant design, solar panel design, and scientific research on materials testing & evaporation studies to name a few.
ALBEDOMETER
An Albedometer measures the ratio of global and reflected solar radiation (solar reflectance) on a plane surface. Different soil types and roof surfaces can reflect light; if sufficient light is reflected back towards the PV panel, it may be beneficial to utilise a Bifacial PV Panel to absorb this additional light.