Installing pyranometers - AWS810

AWS810 Installation Guide
Document code
M212418EN
Revision
G
Language
English
Product
AWS810
Document type
User guide

These instructions apply to SMP series sensors and SUV5.

  • 5‑mm Allen key
  • Flat head screwdriver

For the most reliable measurements:

  • Make sure that nothing obstructs the sensor during the day. Check the height of the nearest obstruction, and leave at least 10 times that distance between the obstruction and the pyranometer. For example, if the nearest obstruction is a 5-meter (16 ft 5 in) tree, leave at least 50 meters (164 ft) between the tree and the pyranometer.
  • Avoid reflective surfaces near the sensor. These include the radiation shield of the weather transmitter.
  • Install the pyranometer on a mounting plate. Temperature fluctuations of the pyranometer body can produce offset signals. The non-conducting materials of the mounting plate thermally isolate the sensor from its fixtures.
  • Make sure that the sensor is level.
WARNING Do not perform installation or maintenance procedures when there is a risk of thunderstorm or lightning activity in the area.
To prevent corrosion, oxidation, and seizing, use a non‑conductive, non‑water‑soluble, non‑silicone‑based grease, such as ceramic or Teflon paste, between different kinds of metal.

These instructions provide general instructions for installing pyranometers. All steps may not apply to a particular sensor.

Figure 1. Installing pyranometer
1
Support arm
2
Screw M5 (2 pcs), included in the pyranometer package
3
Nylon insulators (2 pcs), included in the pyranometer package
4
SMP series pyranometer (radiation shield removed)
5
Leveling screw
6
Mounting plate KZFIXPLATE
7
Hex screw M6×16 DIN912 A4 (2 pcs)
8
Spring washer B6 DIN127 A4 (2 pcs)
  1. Install the mounting bracket on the support arm.
  2. Prepare the pyranometer:
    1. Carefully remove the plastic cover of the pyranometer by pressing the clips on the cover.
    2. Attach the cable to the pyranometer and push the plastic cover back into place.
    Be careful not to drop the pyranometer when you remove the cover. The cover is tight.
  3. Attach the pyranometer to the mounting plate.

    To minimize heating of the electrical connections, when mounting the pyranometer horizontally, point the cable connector to the nearest pole.

  4. Place the pyranometer on the mounting plate. Insert the leveling screws and the leg in the small drillings on the mounting plate.
  5. To enable leveling the pyranometer, first secure it lightly with the screws and nylon insulators.
  6. Use the leveling screws to level the pyranometer to the mounting plate.

    When the sensor is level, the thermopile is horizontal within 0.05°. This causes a maximum azimuthal variation of ±0.5 % at a solar elevation of 10°.

  7. Secure the pyranometer tightly with the screws. Make sure that the pyranometer remains level.
  8. Attach the sensor cable to the cable connector. Make sure that the cable is firmly connected.
  9. Attach the radiation shield on the pyranometer.
  10. Route the sensor cable along the support arm and secure it with cable ties.