1.1 Introduction
An inverter is an electrical device that converts direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC), enabling the operation of AC-powered devices in environments where only DC power is available or where grid electricity is unstable (Sahu and Panda, 2020). Inverters are widely used in homes, offices, and industries to provide a reliable source of power during interruptions, ensuring continuity of electrical supply for essential equipment and appliances. The need for efficient and high-capacity inverters has grown significantly due to increasing reliance on electronic devices that require stable and uninterrupted power for proper operation (Kumar et al., 2021). The design and construction of a 2.5Kw inverter is significant because it targets medium-scale power requirements, making it suitable for small industries, workshops, and large households. Traditional inverters often face challenges such as inefficiency, overheating, limited load handling capacity, and poor waveform output, which is affecting both performance and longevity of connected devices (Adewumi and Okoye, 2021).
This chapter will address the background information that motivated this study, the challenges that prompted it, its aim, and its objectives as a preface to subsequent sections of the study. Additional factors include the study's significance, scope, limitations, research questions and hypotheses, and the definition of technical terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Historically, inverter dates back to the early 20th century when electrical engineers sought methods to convert direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC) to meet the growing demand for electrical power in homes and industries (Klein, 2018). Initially, inverters were mechanical and bulky, relying on motor-generator sets to achieve conversion, which limited their efficiency and practical use. According to Sahu and Panda (2020), advancements in semiconductor technology, particularly the development of transistors and thyristors, revolutionized inverter design, allowing for smaller, more reliable, and efficient electronic inverters (Sahu and Panda, 2020). The evolution of inverters continued with the increasing integration of microcontrollers and digital control systems in the 1990s and 2000s, which enabled more precise voltage regulation, automatic load management, and protection features.
The demand for reliable and uninterrupted power supply has increased significantly due to the widespread use of electrical and electronic devices in households, offices, and small-scale industries. According to Sahu and Panda (2020), inverters play a critical role in converting direct current (DC) from batteries or solar panels into alternating current (AC) suitable for operating standard electrical appliances. It has been reported that frequent power outages and voltage fluctuations in many regions are affecting the performance of sensitive electronic equipment, leading to economic losses and disruption of daily activities (Umar, 2020).
More recently, researchers have contended that designing medium-capacity inverters, such as a 2.5Kw inverter, that balance efficiency, durability, and cost is crucial for rural and peri-urban areas where power supply is unreliable. Eze and Nnaji (2022) affirmed that local development of inverters not only reduces dependence on imported units but also promotes technical skills and innovation in power electronics.
Several scholars have asserted that existing commercial inverters are either too costly or unable to sustain medium-to-high power loads efficiently, resulting in frequent breakdowns and increased maintenance costs (Adewumi and Okoye, 2021). Chukwuemeka (2019) stated that the instability in output voltage and waveform of conventional inverters is one of the main causes of premature failure of connected appliances. On the other hand, Eze and Nnaji (2022) affirmed that locally designed and constructed inverters offer significant advantages, including cost reduction, adaptability to specific load requirements, and improved reliability.
Researchers contend that designing an inverter that balances efficiency, durability, and affordability is crucial for both domestic and small-scale industrial applications (Kumar et al., 2021). According to these studies, inverters that are tailored to the specific needs of users not only enhance energy reliability but also promote local technological skills and innovation. This study is set against the backdrop of these challenges and opportunities, aiming to design and construct a 2.5Kw inverter.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that the existing inverter systems in Nigeria and other developing countries are faced with multiple challenges that affect their efficiency and reliability. Commercially available inverters are often expensive and do not suit the power requirements of households or small-scale industries (Adewumi and Okoye, 2021).
Furthermore, many existing systems produce unstable voltage and frequency, leading to damage of sensitive electrical equipment (Chukwuemeka, 2019). In addition, locally available inverters are often limited in load handling capacity and lack proper cooling and protection mechanisms, resulting in frequent breakdowns and maintenance costs.
Lastly, the unreliability of current inverter systems creates a pressing need for a locally designed 2.5Kw inverter that is efficient, durable, and cost-effective.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to design and construct a 2.5Kw inverter that is efficient, cost-effective, and capable of providing a stable AC power supply for domestic and small-scale industrial applications. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To create a functional 2.5Kw inverter capable of converting DC to AC efficiently for domestic and small-scale industrial use.
- To develop a reliable circuit model that ensures optimal performance, safety, and minimal energy loss in the inverter system.
- To design a durable and user-friendly inverter structure that integrates cooling, protection, and monitoring mechanisms.
- To construct the inverter prototype and test its performance under different load conditions to ensure stability and efficiency.
- To create a cost-effective and scalable solution that can be adapted for various power requirements and applications.
1.5 Significance of Study
It is believed that at the completion of the study, this project will provide a practical solution for households and small-scale industries experiencing power interruptions, ensuring uninterrupted electrical supply. Also, the project will enhance technical skills in inverter design, construction, and maintenance.
Furthermore, the design will serve as a practical learning tool for engineering students studying power electronics. In addition, the study will support innovation in energy technology and encourage the development of locally manufactured inverters that meet specific power requirements.
Lastly, the study will enhance local technical knowledge in power electronics and provide a cost-effective alternative to imported inverters.
1.6 Scope of the Study
The study focuses on the design and construction of a 2.5Kw inverter suitable for use within Lagos State, Nigeria, targeting households, small-scale industries, and educational institutions. The scope includes the design of the inverter circuit, selection of components, construction of the prototype, and testing of performance under different load conditions. The study also considers cost analysis and adaptability to local energy conditions.
1.7 Limitations of the Study
A study of this nature is bound to experience certain problems as such the constraints imposed on the research include:
- Time Constraints: A study of this nature needs relatively long time during which information for accurate or at least near accurate inference could be drawn. The period of the study was short, time posed as constraints to the research.
- Financial Constraints: The research would have extended the survey to other area at the empirical level, but limitation as included cost of transportation to the source of material and the cost of time setting of the already completed work.
1.8 Definition of Terms
Inverter: A device that converts direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC), enabling the operation of AC-powered appliances in areas with unreliable or absent grid supply (Sahu and Panda, 2020).
Direct Current (DC): Electrical current flowing in one direction, typically supplied by batteries or solar panels (Kumar et al., 2021).
Alternating Current (AC): Electrical current that periodically reverses direction, suitable for most household and industrial appliances (Chukwuemeka, 2019).
Load: The electrical devices or appliances connected to an inverter that consume power (Adewumi and Okoye, 2021).
Pulse Width Modulation (PWM): A technique used in inverters to produce stable and controlled AC voltage output (Eze and Nnaji, 2022).
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