Pyranometers differ from other solar radiation sensors, such as reference cell solar irradiance sensors, in several key aspects:
Differences Between Pyranometers and Other Sensors
1. Spectral Range
- Pyranometers: These sensors measure the entire spectral range of solar radiation, typically from 0.285 to 2.800 µm, capturing the global solar radiation including direct, diffuse, and reflected radiation.
- Reference Cell Solar Irradiance Sensors: They only measure the spectral part that solar cells can convert to electricity, limiting their range to the photovoltaic effect’s spectral response.
2. Sensing Mechanism
- Pyranometers: Can be based on thermopile or silicon photodiode technologies. Thermopile pyranometers use the Seebeck effect to convert heat generated by solar radiation into a voltage signal, offering high accuracy and wide spectral response. Silicon photodiode pyranometers generate a current proportional to the incident radiation, which is then converted to a voltage.
- Reference Cell Solar Irradiance Sensors: Typically use a reference solar cell to measure the irradiance that the cell can convert into electricity.
3. Cost and Accuracy
- Pyranometers: Thermopile versions are more expensive but offer higher accuracy and broader applicability. Silicon photodiode versions are less expensive and suitable for lower-accuracy requirements.
- Reference Cell Solar Irradiance Sensors: These are generally more economical but limited in their spectral response.
4. Calibration Standards
- Pyranometers: Calibrated according to ISO 9060 for thermopile types.
- Reference Cell Solar Irradiance Sensors: Follow standards related to PV monitoring, like IEC 904 and IEC 61724-1.
5. Applications
- Pyranometers: Widely used in meteorology, agriculture, and solar energy monitoring due to their ability to measure total solar radiation.
- Reference Cell Solar Irradiance Sensors: Primarily used in photovoltaic system monitoring to measure irradiance relevant to solar panel efficiency.
In summary, pyranometers are versatile and accurate solar radiation sensors used in various applications, while reference cell solar irradiance sensors are more specialized for PV efficiency monitoring.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-do-pyranometers-differ-from-other-solar-radiation-sensors/
