170 Amp 600 Volt Blocking Diode

Comes in an industrial duty enclosure

• Prevents reverse current flow (discharge), in solar and DC wind turbines.
• Works with 12 volt through 600 volt systems.

A truly needed product for today's larger scale alternate energy systems. This unit incorporates two high amperage (85A), 600V diodes, resulting in a very capable 170 amp unit.

By using an insulated back plate, the diodes are fully insulated from the enclosure, preventing ground loops and lightning paths. This feature is not available in other units that we are aware of. The two installed diodes are capable of running at 170 amps for short intervals, or 120 amps continuous at nearly any voltage your energy system might produce making it perfect for large solar arrays with high wattage outputs, and high wattage DC turbines.

Please note, the diodes are rated at 85 amps each by the manufacturer (International Rectifier). Missouri Wind and Solar has not tested these diodes at this level as we have no method of producing such high current flow in our store; therefore, we are relying solely on the manufacturer's testing and rating of these diodes.

Why do you need a blocking diode? Solar panels require some form of reverse flow protection or they will discharge your batteries at night. DC wind turbines require a blocking diode or the batteries will actually attempt to turn the turbine backwards in light or no wind conditions. If you have a three phase AC output wind turbine, you do not need a blocking diode, instead you need a 3 phase rectifier, please see our store listings for three phase rectifiers.

Solid state solar charge controllers often have built in reverse current flow prevention and therefore you may not need a blocking diode. Most diversion controllers utilizing relays and/or solenoids do not prevent reverse current flow, and thus a blocking diode is required with many diversion controllers. This blocking diode is also useful for single phase AC hydro and wind turbines.

The enclosure is a heavy gauge, solid steel, raintight enclosure. Ready to mount. -- No plastic, no junk, simple and rugged. -- There are three punch outs on bottom side of the enclosure.