Multi-functional, with intelligent shore and generator power management
The Multi gets its name from the multiple functions it can perform. It is a powerful true sine wave inverter, asophisticated battery charger that features adaptive charge technology, and a high-speed AC transfer switch in a single compact enclosure. Beside these primary functions, however, the Multi has several advanced features that provide a range of new applications as outlined below.
Uninterrupted AC power (UPS function)
In the event of a grid failure, or shore or generator power being disconnected, the inverter within the Multi is automatically activated and takes over the supply to the connected loads. This happens so fast (less than 20 milliseconds) that computers and other electronic equipment will continue to operate without disruption. The maximum current of the transfer switch is 16 A or 30 A per Multi.
Virtually unlimited power thanks to parallel operation
Up to 6 Multi's can operate in parallel to achieve higher power output. Six 24/3000/70 units, for example, provide 15 kW / 18 kVA output power with 420 Amps charging capacity.
Three phase capability
In addition to parallel connection, three units of the same model can be configured for three-phase output. But that's not all: up to 6 sets of three units can be parallel connected for a huge 45 kW / 54 kVA inverter and 1260 A charger! (Please request VE.Bus enabled units for best 3 phase performance)
PowerControl - Dealing with limited generator, shore side or grid power
The Multi is a very powerful battery charger. It will therefore draw a lot of current from the generator or shore side supply (nearly 10 A per Multi at 230 VAC). With the Phoenix Multi Control Panel a maximum generator or shore current can be set. The Multi will then take account of other AC loads and use whatever is extra for charging, thus preventing the generator or shore supply from being overloaded.
PowerAssist - Boosting the capacity of shore or generator power, an innovative feature of the MultiPlus
The feature that distinguishes the Phoenix MultiPlus from the standard Multi is PowerAssist. This feature takes the principle of PowerControl to a further dimension allowing the MultiPlus to supplement the capacity of the alternative source. Where peak power is so often required only for a limited period, the Phoenix MultiPlus will make sure that insufficient shore or generator power is immediately compensated for by power from the battery. When the load reduces, the spare power is used to recharge the battery. Note: shore / grid capacity should be at least 25 %, and generator capacity should be at least 75 % of installed MultiPlus capacity.
Four stage adaptive charger and dual bank battery charging
The main output provides a powerful charge to the battery system by means of advanced 'adaptive charge' software that fine-tunes the three stage automatic process to suit the condition of the battery, and ads a forth stage for long periods of float charging. The adaptive charge process is described in more detail on the Phoenix Charger datasheet and on our website, under Technical Information. In addition to this, the Multi will charge a second battery using an independent trickle charge output intended for a main engine or generator starter battery.
Energy Unlimited
The possibilities of paralleled high power Multi's are truly amazing. For ideas, examples and battery capacity calculations, please refer to our book 'Energy Unlimited' (available free of charge from Victron Energy and downloadable from www.victronenergy.com). Please also see our MultiPlus brochure, our Systems brochure, our white paper 'Achieving the Impossible' and 'A guide to VEConfigure'.
Victron Multiplus Manual