Establishment of a Pyranometer and Reference Cell Calibration Laboratory

In the solar energy sector, the accuracy of irradiance measurements is the foundation for sound decision-making. The more reliable the irradiance data provided by pyranometers and reference cells used in the field, the more reliable performance analysis, production monitoring, and investment evaluations become.

BallastCo provides direct calibration services in the field of reliable irradiance data. In addition to this service, it offers turnkey laboratory setup solutions to enable customers to conduct calibration processes in-house. The supported laboratory setups include pyranometer and reference cell calibration. In other words, BallastCo’s laboratory equipment solutions do not merely supply equipment; they establish a functional, sustainable, and training-supported laboratory. In this article, we will discuss the details of the world’s only turnkey calibration laboratory setup provided by BallastCo.

Why is Pyranometer and Reference Cell Calibration So Important?

Pyranometers and reference cells are the most critical sensors for accurately evaluating system performance in solar power plants. Data from these sensors are crucial for production analysis, performance ratio (PR) calculations, maintenance decisions, and overall system validation. If these sensors are not properly calibrated, the output of the data can be misleading. Even seemingly small measurement deviations can lead to misinterpretations, erroneous performance evaluations, and unnecessary costs over time.

For this very reason, establishing the right infrastructure for pyranometer and reference cell calibration has become a vital necessity for companies operating in the solar energy sector.

What Does a Turnkey Calibration Laboratory Setup Include?

The aim of the turnkey calibration laboratory setup approach is to establish a fully functional and ready-to-use laboratory infrastructure tailored to the customer's needs.

Depending on the needs of the setup projects, the necessary systems for both indoor calibration (calibration with Sun Simulator) and outdoor calibration are planned, installed, and commissioned. Moreover, this is not limited to the hardware side; it is supported by special training to enable the customer to maintain the system with their own team.

Indoor Calibration Laboratory Setup

Indoor calibration offers significant advantages in terms of being able to perform more stable and repeatable measurements in a controlled environment. It is a powerful solution, especially for companies that want to work according to specific standards and make their measurement processes more controlled.

The main components offered in indoor calibration laboratory setup are:

In addition, the provided datalogger software and data collection infrastructure ensure the secure recording and monitoring of measurements. Not only the acquisition of data, but also its accurate tracking and interpretation is a crucial part of this process. 

The training provided with the installation explains step-by-step how users will operate the system. The logic of the calibration process, the sequence of applications, points to consider, and data monitoring are covered within the scope of practical training. Thus, the system becomes not just installed, but truly usable. Practical training sessions are given either at the customer's laboratory or at the BallastCo laboratory.

Outdoor Calibration Laboratory Setup

In some applications, it is more meaningful to take measurements under real environmental conditions. This is where outdoor calibration infrastructure comes into play. Studies conducted under natural sunlight provide a significant advantage, especially for companies that take field conditions into account. The main components we offer in outdoor calibration laboratory setup are:

The data collection system ensures regular and reliable monitoring of measurements taken from the field. This allows users to systematically track and evaluate measurement results.

The mounting system is one of the most critical parts of an outdoor installation. Correct placement of sensors, positioning them at the correct angle, and the creation of healthy measurement conditions directly affect data quality. Therefore, the correct design of the mechanical installation is at least as important as the electronic infrastructure. 

The training process is also extremely important in outdoor installations. Users are given practical and detailed training on the installation, use, data monitoring, and application steps of the system. Practical training is provided either in the customer's laboratory or in the BallastCo laboratory.

Is it Difficult to Perform Standard-Compliant Calibration in a Calibration Laboratory?

One of the most common problems encountered in setting up a calibration laboratory is that, despite the physical installation of the system, the operational side remains incomplete. Equipment is installed, software is loaded, and connections are made; however, if the user team does not fully embrace the process, the expected efficiency cannot be achieved.

BallastCo differentiates itself precisely at this point. The goal is for users to be able to use their own laboratory with confidence. Therefore, in every project, knowledge transfer, application logic, and training are given utmost importance. These trainings can be provided either at BallastCo calibration laboratories or on-site at the installed system, according to the customer's request.

Laboratories are established in various ways. However, compliance with standards and the implementation phase are extremely critical. BallastCo is the only calibration laboratory builder that provides this knowledge transfer service.

Why Choose a Turnkey Laboratory Setup?

It's possible to build the necessary infrastructure for pyranometer and reference cell calibration piece by piece. However, this approach often leads to time loss, inconsistencies, and process complexity. Working separately with different suppliers can make equipment and software integration difficult. More importantly, time is of the essence. Calibration services are performed according to specific standards. Reading, testing, implementing, and procedurally codifying these standards is a lengthy process requiring years of accumulated knowledge and experience. Therefore, practical training is also crucial from the customer's perspective.

BallastCo's turnkey setup model makes the entire process more efficient. Equipment selection, system design, software infrastructure, assembly structure, and theoretical and practical training are all considered as a whole. Thus, the customer receives a ready-to-use laboratory infrastructure instead of a scattered setup.

For more detailed information, please contact us.

1. What does BallastCo offer in Indoor installations?

In indoor installations, we offer a sun simulator, sensor mounting bracket, datalogger software, data collection infrastructure, software for creating calibration certificates, a calibrated reference device, and hands-on training.

2. What is included in BallastCo Outdoor installations?

On the outdoor side, we provide a customized structure for mounting sensors, datalogger software, data collection infrastructure, software for creating calibration certificates, a calibrated reference device, and hands-on training.

3. Is training included in the service?

Yes. Training is an important part of both our indoor and outdoor installations. Our goal is not just for the customer to receive the system, but to be able to use it effectively.

4. Who is this solution suitable for?

It is suitable for companies working in the solar energy field that want to increase measurement accuracy and manage their calibration processes in-house.