Adopted Climatic Chamber Solar Simulator for Testing Solar Radiation Effects on Electricity Meters at NIS

One of the crucial assessments for electricity meters involves the solar radiation test, typically conducted using solar simulators. This work focuses on the modification of the climatic chamber (MKF-240) at the Egyptian National Institute of Standards (NIS) to serve as a solar simulator. To replicate solar test conditions, enhancements such as an aluminum plate and quartz tungsten halogen (QTH) lamps have been integrated into the MKF-240 climatic chamber. Several experimental trials were undertaken to ascertain the optimal number of lamps required to meet testing standards and achieve optimal uniformity within the test area. The solar simulator, designed for irradiance levels up to 1066 W/m², allows for control of output radiation by adjusting the number of illuminated lamps and the distances between lamps and the unit under examination. At maximum irradiance, the simulator demonstrates a remarkable 91.5% uniformity of radiation. To validate its functionality, the solar radiation test was executed on an outdoor electricity meter, exposing it to different loads and varying radiation values. The accuracy of the meter was precisely recorded and analyzed as an essential component of the overall assessment process.