SUNPOWER SPRXyy-xxx Series Maxeon Solar Panel Instruction Manual
- June 9, 2024
- SUNPOWER
Table of Contents
FROM MAXEON SOLAR TECHOLOGIES
NEW REVISION: Y
Instruction Manual
SPRXyy-xxx Series Maxeon Solar Panel
Safety and Installation Instructions
for Europe, Asia, Australia, Latin America and Africa
This document applies to Maxeon PV Modules
Contents of this manual are subject to change without notice.
In case of inconsistencies or conflicts between the English version and any
other versions of this manual (or document), the English version shall prevail
and take control in all respects.
For the latest Europe, Asia, Australia, Latin America and Africa please refer
to
www.sunpower.maxeon.com/int/PVInstallGuideIEC
Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd.
www.sunpower.maxeon.com
Safety and Installation Instructions
IEC version
This document includes references to Maxeon X-series (SPRXyy-xxx), P-Series
(SPR-Py-xxx-UPP, SPR-Py-xxx-COM-M-BF, SPRPy-xxx-COM-S-BF, SPR-Py-xxx-BLK, SPR-
Py-xxx-COM-XS), SPRMAX3-xxx, SPR-MAX5-xxx, SPR-MAX6-xxx PV Modules.
Do not mix X, MAX3, MAX6, P3 ,P5 and P6 in one System.
All module series does not require functional grounding and are compatible
with transformer-less inverters (ref. section 4.1)
Introduction
This manual provides safety and installation instructions for IEC certified Maxeon photovoltaic modules carrying the TUV logo on the product label (Figure 1).
Important! Please read this instruction sheet in its entirety before
installing, wiring, or using this product in any way.
Failure to comply with these instructions will invalidate the Maxeon Limited
Warranty for PV Modules.
1.1 Disclaimer of Liability
The installation techniques, handling and use of this product are beyond
company control. Therefore, Maxeon does not assume responsibility for loss,
damage or expense resulting from improper installation, handling or use.
1.2 Conformity to International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
standards
This product meets or exceeds the requirements set forth by IEC 61215 Edition
3-2016 for PV Modules, as well as IEC 61730 Edition 1 and 2 series for Class
II applications. The IEC Standard covers flat-plate PV modules intended for
installation on buildings and those intended to be freestanding. This product
is not intended for use where artificially concentrated sunlight is applied to
the module.
This manual shall be used in combination with industry recognized best
practices. Modules should be installed by certified professionals only.
1.3 Limited Warranty
Module limited warranties are described in the Maxeon warranty document
obtainable at www.sunpower.maxeon.com.
Please read this document for more information.
Warranties do not apply to any of the following; PV Modules subjected to: (i)
misuse, abuse, neglect or accident; (ii) alteration or improper installation
(improper installation
includes, without limitation, installation or array that does not comply with
all Maxeon installation instructions and operations and maintenance
instructions of any type (as may be amended and updated from time to time at
Maxeon’s sole discretion), and all national, state, and local laws, codes,
ordinances, and regulations); (iii) repair or modification by someone other
than an approved service technician of Maxeon; (iv) conditions exceeding the
voltage, wind, snow load specifications; and any other operational
specification; (v) power failure surges, lightning, flood, or fire; (vi)
damage from persons, biological activity, or industrial chemical exposure;
(vii) glass breakage from impact or other events outside Maxeon’s control.
Safety Precautions
Before installing this device, read all safety instructions in this manual.
Danger! Module interconnects pass direct current (DC) and are sources of voltage when the module is under load and when it is exposed to light. Direct current can arc across gaps and may cause injury or death if improper connection or disconnection is made, or if contact is made with module components that are damaged. Do not connect or disconnect modules when current from the modules or an external source is present.
- Cover all modules in the PV array with an opaque cloth or material before making or breaking electrical connections.
- Do not disconnect any modules when its inverter is feeding in to the grid. Switch off the inverter before disconnecting, reinstalling or making any action with the modules.
- For connectors, which are accessible to untrained people, it is imperative to use the locking connectors and safety clips, if applicable, in order to defend against untrained personnel disconnecting the modules once they have been installed.
- All installations must be performed in compliance with all applicable regional and local codes.
- There are no user serviceable parts within the module. Do notattempt to repair any part of the module.
- Installation should be performed only by qualified personnel.
- Remove all metallic jewelry prior to installing this product to reduce the chance of accidental exposure to live circuits.
- Use insulated tools to reduce your risk of electric shock.
- Do not stand on, walk, drop, and scratch or allow objects to fall on the glass surface of the modules.
- Damaged modules (broken glass, torn back sheet, broken j-boxes, broken connectors, etc) can be electrical hazards as well as laceration hazards. Contact with damaged odule surfaces or module frame can cause electric shock. Damaged modules should be immediately disconnected from the electric system. The module should be removed from array as soon as possible and contact the supplier for disposal instructions.
- Unconnected connectors must always be protected from pollution (e.g dust, humidity, foreign particles, etc), prior to installation. Do not leave unconnected (unprotected) connectors exposed to the environment. A clean assembly environment is therefore essential to avoid performance degradation.
- Do not allow the connectors to come in contact with chemicals such as greases, oils and organic solvents which may cause stress cracking.
- Do not install or handle the modules when they are wet or during periods of high wind.
- Do not block drain holes or allow water to pool in or near module frames
- Contact your module supplier if maintenance is necessary.
- Save these instructions!
Electrical Characteristics
The module electrical ratings are measured under Standard Test Conditions
(STC) of 1 kW/m² irradiance with AM 1.5 spectrum and a cell temperature of 25
°C. Maxeon modules have specific electrical characteristics as shown on the
datasheets.
A photovoltaic module may produce more current and/or voltage than reported at
STC. Sunny, cool weather and reflection from snow or water can increase
current and power output. Therefore, the values of Isc and Voc marked on the
module should be multiplied by a factor of 1.25 when determining component
voltage ratings, conductor ampacities, fuse sizes, and size of controls
connected to PV output. An additional 1.25 multiplier may be required by
certain local codes for sizing fuses and conductors. Maxeon recommends the use
of opencircuit voltage temperature coefficients listed on the datasheets when
determining Maximum System Voltage.
Electrical Connections
Modules may be connected in series and/or parallel to achieve the desired
electrical output as long as certain conditions are met. Please use only the
same type of modules in a combined source circuit.
Even if allowed by local regulation, Plug and Socket connectors mated together
in a PV system must be of the same type (model, rating) from the same
manufacturer i.e. a plug connector from one manufacturer and a socket
connector from another manufacturer, or vice versa, shall not be used to make
a connection. Maxeon recommends that all wiring be double insulated with a
minimum rating of 85° C (185° F). All wiring should use flexible copper (Cu)
conductors. The minimum size should be determined by the applicable codes. We
recommend a size not less than 4mm. The insulation type should be appropriate
for the type of installation method used and must meet SCII (Safety Class II)
and IEC 61730 requirements. To minimize the risk from indirect lightning
strikes (Voltage surges), the system should be designed to avoid loops in the
wiring.
Maxeon recommends a conservative minimum bending radius (R) 5x cable diameter
must be maintained and must not be bent on the direct exit of the connector or
junction box. Avoid exposure of electrical connections to direct sunlight and
do not place the connector in a location where water could easily accumulate.
Installers must refer to connector manufacturer’s instruction for further
installation and connection requirements.
Connectors are factory assembled with intentional gaps between the cable nut
and the body of the connector. Do not retighten module connector nuts as this
may lead to stress cracking of the connector assembly and will void the
warranty.
4.1 System & Equipment Grounding
Please refer to the applicable regional and local codes on grounding PV arrays
and mounting frames for specific requirements (e.g. lightning protection).
Module Types
SPR X , P series modules and our Maxeon and Performance Product Line are
compatible with Transformer Less (TL) inverters, when used as an ungrounded PV
source.
No frame grounding requirements (including functional frame grounding), but
may be subjected to local regulation.
Functional system grounding of a polarity (positive or negative) is optional
and may be subject to local requirements.
X Series: SPR-Xyy-xxx SPR-Xyy-xxx-BLK SPR-Xyy-xxx-COM P Series/ Performance
Product Line: SPR-P3-xxx-COM SPR-P3-xxx-COM-1500 SPR-P3-xxx SPR-P3-xxx-BLK
SPR-P5-xxx-UPP SPR-P6-xxx-COM-M-BF SPR-P6-xxx-COM-S-BF SPRP6-xxx-BLK SPR-P6
-xxx-COM-XS Maxeon Product Line: SPR-MAX3-xxx SPR-MAX3-xxx-BLK SPR-MAX3-xxx-
COM SPR-MAX6xxx SPR-MAX6-xxx-BLK, SPR-MAX6-xxx-COM
Note: If you are installing an older Module Type than above mentioned,
please refer to different/previous applicable Safety and Installation Manual.
If you are doing a frame grounding connection, avoid the direct contact
between Aluminum and Copper using an intermediate metal like stainless steel
or tin.
4.2 Series Connection
The modules may be wired in series to produce the desired voltage output. Do
not exceed the maximum system voltage specified in module datasheet.
4.3 Parallel Connection
The modules may be combined in parallel to produce the desired current output.
Series string must be fused prior to combining with other strings if the
resulting maximum reverse current exceeds the fuse rating as shown in the
datasheets. Bypass diodes are factory installed in the modules. Please refer
to the applicable regional and local codes for additional fusing requirements
and limitations on the maximum number of modules in parallel.
Module Mounting
The Maxeon Limited Warranty for PV Modules is contingent upon modules being mounted in accordance with the requirements described in this section.
5.1 Site Considerations
Maxeon modules should be mounted in locations that meet the following
requirements:
Operating Temperature: All Maxeon modules must be mounted in environments
within the following maximum and minimum operating temperatures:
Maximum Operating Temperature | +85 °C (+185 °F) |
---|---|
Minimum Operating Temperature | -40 °C (-40 °F) |
Care should be taken to provide adequate ventilation behind the modules,
especially in hot environments.
Shading: Modules should be installed so that permanent shading of cells
is avoided and partial shading that may occur during certain times of the day
or year is minimized. Permanent shading is defined as shade that is cast over
the same position (of constant area) of the solar module throughout the
generation hours of the day.
Shading may induce in certain cases strong energy production reduction, even
in case of small shading and should be avoid as much as possible, specially at
mid-day when the production is maximum.
Design Strength: Maxeon modules are designed to meet a positive or
negative (upward and downward, e.g. wind) withstanding test pressure load and
a negative (or downward, e.g. static load or snow load) withstanding test
pressure load, as per IEC 61215, when mounted in the configurations specified
in Section 5.2 and Tables 1.2 or 1.3 below.
When mounting modules in snow prone or high wind environments, special care should be taken to mount the modules in a manner that provides sufficient design strength while meeting local code requirements.
Additional authorized Operating Environments:
Modules can be mounted in the following aggressive environment according to
the test limits mentioned below (available upon request) Salt mist corrosion
testing: IEC 61701 Severity 6 Ammonia Corrosion Resistance: IEC 62716
Concentration: 6,667ppm
Excluded Operating Environments:
Certain operating environments are not recommended for specific Maxeon modules
and are excluded from the Maxeon Limited Warranty for these modules.
No Maxeon module should be mounted at a site where it may be subject to direct
contact with salt water, or other aggressive environment.
Modules should not be installed near flammable liquids, gases, or locations
with hazardous materials; or moving vehicules of any type.
Performance Series Mounting Orientation
Performance Series (P-Series) modules are designed to be installed in
landscape orientation. In landscape orientation, P-series modules maintain
higher power under row to row shading and edge soiling.
5.2 Mounting Configurations
Mounting system must provide a flat plane for the modules to be mounted on
and must not cause any twist or stress to be placed on the Module, even in
case of thermal expension.
Modules may be mounted at any angle from horizontal to vertical. Select the
appropriate orientation to maximize sunlight exposure.
Maxeon recommends for a good performance of the system (reduction of soiling
effect/water pooling) a minimum of 5˚ tilt angle.
The cleaning frequency must be increased for modules installed with a very low
angle.
Commercial modules (96 & 128 cells) frames have permanently attached stacking
pins located a 20mm zone on the long side frame at 388-408 mm (“D” area in
Figure 2). Mounting system hardware used with commercial modules must account
for the presence of these stacking pins (see Table 2).
Specific information on module dimensions and the location of mounting and
grounding holes is provided in Figures 2 and Table 2.
In order to prevent water from entering the junction box, which could present
a safety hazard, modules should not be mounted such that the front/top glass
faces downward (e.g., on a tracking structure that positions the module with
the junction box facing skyward during sleep mode).
We also want to remind that the watertightness is not ensured by the modules
but by the mounting system and that drainage should be well designed for
Modules.
Clearance between the module frames and structure or ground is required to
prevent wiring damage and allows air to circulate behind the module. The
recommended assembling clearance between modules installed on any mounting
system is a minimum of 5 mm distance.
When installed on a roof, the module shall be mounted according to the local
and regional building and fire safety regulations. In case the module is
installed in a roof integrated PV-System (BIPV), it shall be mounted over a
watertight and fire-resistant underlayment rated for such application Modules
mounting systems should only be installed on building that have been formally
considered for structural integrity, and confirmed to be capable of handling
the additional weighted load of the Modules and mounting systems, by a
certified building specialist or engineer.
Mounting system supplier shall manage the galvanic corrosion which can occur
between the aluminium frame of the Modules and mounting system or grounding
hardware if such devices is comprised of dissimilar metals.
The module is only certified for use when its factory frame is fully intact.
Do not remove or alter the module frame. Creating additional mounting holes or
removing the stacking pins may damage the module and reduce the strength of
the frame, therefore are not allowed. Using mounting Clamps or clips with
additional grounding bolts or grounding metal sheets could be in compliance
with this Safety and Installation Instructions manual subject to conditions of
Section 4.1
Modules may be mounted using the following methods only:
-
Frame Holes: Secure the module to the structure using the factory mounting holes. Four M6 or M8 stainless steel bolts, with nuts, washers, and lock washers are recommended per module. Bolts to be fasten according to racking supplier recommendations. Refer to Table 2 for the module dimensions and mounting hole locations. (Please refer to the arrows on the Table 2, E1&E2&E3&E4).
-
Pressure Clamps or Clips: Mount the module with the opposite clips on the longer and/or shorter side of the frame of the module. The clips allowed location should be according to Table
1.1. Installers should ensure the clamps are of sufficient strength to allow for the maximum design pressure of the module. Clips and clamps are not provided by Maxeon. Clamps must apply force collinear with the ‘wall’ of the module frame and not only to the top flange. Clamps shall not apply excessive force to the top frame, warp the top flange, or contact the glass-these practices void the module warranty and risk glass breakage. Figure 1a illustrates locations for top frame clamp force. Avoid clamping within 50mm of module corners to reduce risk of frame corner deflection and glass breakage. When clamping to the module frame, torque should never exceed 15 N.m to reduce chances of frame deformation, if the clamp datasheets show a specific torque value which is lower than 15 Nm the installer should follow the torque value which ever is more stringent. A calibrated torque wrench must be used. Mounting systems should be evaluated for compatibility before installing specially when the system is not using Clamps or clips. Please contact Maxeon for the approval of the use of non-standard pressure clamps or clips where torque values are higher than otherwise stated.
Force must not deform top frame flange or glass may break Force has to be applied in line with frame wall Figure 1a: Clamp Force Locations Minimum clamp width allowance is ≥35mm, and for corner clamping the minimum clamp width is: ≥50mm. Clamps should not be in contact with the front glass and clamps should not deform the frame.
Maxeon does not recommend nor endorse the application on the modules of clamps which, as part of their grounding or earthing function, have teeth or claw features (see Figure 2) which may, individually or cumulatively, cause the module breakage due to (and without limitation):
i) the grounding features touching the front glass which is incorporated into the module due to the position of such grounding feature,
ii) the shape, the position or the number of the grounding features deforming the module top frame, or
iii) the clamp being over-torqued during the installation.
Maxeon shall not be liable for any damages or losses whatsoever arising from the use by the Installer of any such clamps on its modules, and disclaims all warranties, express or implied, applicable to those modules should they be damaged in any way by such clamps. Therefore, the use of the above mentioned clamps by the Installer is at the Installer’s sole risks. -
End Mount: End mounting is the capture mounting of the length of the module’s shorter frames with clamps on each shorter sides of the frame. Three different configurations are possible: 1) with two mounting rails under the complete length of each shorter side of the Modules, (See Table 1.2), 2) with two mounting rails parallel to the long side of the Modules (See Table 1.2) and 3) without any mounting rail (See Table 1.2). The end-mounting rails and clips or clamps (identified as A(1&2&3&4) in Table 1.1) must be of sufficient strength to allow for maximum designed test pressure of the module. Verify this capacity with the mounting system of vendor before installation.
-
Hybrid Mount: Combination with clamps or clips located on longer or shorter sides of Modules are also possible, see Table 1.2 for allowed configurations. In any case, four clampings points are needed.
-
Maxeon specified or Maxeon supplied mounting systems. Modules mounted with strict adherence to Maxeon documentation, using hardware systems supplied by or specified by Maxeon.
Figure 2 and Table 1.1 below demonstrate the mounting locations and Tables 1.2
and 1.3 give allowed load ratings (designed test value) for Maxeon modules.
Figure 2: Mounting Zone locations for Maxeon modules
For P-Series, MAX3 96, 104, 112 cells and MAX6 66 cells:
For 128 cells, P-Series and MAX5/MAX6 Commercial:
Table 1.1: Approved module clamping/direct fixation zones
Module Configuration| Mounting zone distance from corner in (mm)1| Frame holes
E
---|---|---
Module size| Frame type| A| B| C
(1&2&3&4)| (1&2&3&4)| (1&2&3&4)| (1&2&3&4)
96 cells, 104 cells (MAX3), 112 cells and and P3 RES+| G3
(Black)
Silver &
G4.1 &
G4.2 &
G4.3| 50-350| 150-380| 50-150| As per Drawing in the Table 2
128 cells| G4 &
G4 .1| 50-350| 408-880| 50-375
P3-COM| G4.2 &
G4.3| 50-350| 408-833| 50-375
MAX6 (66 cells)| G5.2| 50-350| 265-514| 50-265
MAX6 COM (72 cells)| G4.2 &
G5.6| 50-350| 296-536| 50-296
D – There is a 20mm zone at 388-408mm from the corner where mounting is not allowed due to the module stacking pin feature. Applicable to 128 and 96 cell commercial only.
- No part of the module clamp may extend beyond this area.
Figure 3: Mounting Configurations
Configurations 1 and 2 show mounting with rail support, 3 and 4 show mounting without rail support. In “With Rail Support” the rails becomes conventional or rails transverse while “Without Rail Support” becomes end mounted in long or short side. In the case when the glass deflects it would not deflect in the rails for additional support.
Table 1.2: Mounting Zone Design Load Ratings for Racking systemwithout rail support underneath the module. Refer to configuration3 and 4 in Fig.3
Module Configuration | Wind (up & down) / Snow (down) (units in Pa) (***) |
---|---|
Module size | Frame type |
(1&2&3&4) | Frame Holes E |
(1&2&3&4) | B (1&2&3&4) |
(Bat; 4-C2&4 Or B2&4 +C1&3) OrA+ B , „
VA1/13 +B2&4 or A2&4 +Bl&3) Or A + C
(Al&3 +C2&4 or A2&4 +C3&3)
96 cells| G3
Black &
Silver| 2400/ 2400n| 2400/5400| 2400/5400| 2400/2400
104 cells (MAX3) and 112- cells
(MAX3)| G4.2| 1800/ 1800
P3 RES+| G4.3| 1300/ 1600| 1600/2400| 1600/2400| 1300/1600
128 cells| G4 &
G4.1| Not applicable (**)| 2400/5400| 3600/3600| 2400/2400
P3-COM| G4.2 &
G4.3| 1600/ 1600| 1600/2400| 1600/2400| 1600/1600
MAX6 (66 cells)| G5.2| 1600/1600| 3600/3600| 3600/3600| 1600/1600
MAX6-
COM
(72 cells)| G5.6| 1067/ 1200| 3600/3600| 3600/3600| 1600/1600
(): 5400Pa is allowed with clamps and mounting rails along the longer side of
the frame
(): 2400/2400Pa are allowed with clamps and mounting rails along the longer
side of the frame
For Rooftop application 1200/1200Pa is allowed with only clamps
() Safety factor of 1.5 included
Table 1.3: Mounting Zone Load Ratings for Racking system with rail support. Refer to Configuration 1 and 2 in Fig.3
Module Configuration | Wind (up & down) /Snow (down) (units in Pa) (***) |
---|---|
Module size | Frame type |
96 cells and P3 BLK | G3 (Black &Silver) & G4.1 & G4.2 |
2400
104 cells (MAX3) and
112-cells (MAX3)| G4.2| 3600/5400
P3 RES+| G4.3| 1600/3600| 1600/3600
128 cells| G4 & G4.1| 3600 / 5400| 2400/ 3600
P3-COM| G4.2 & G4.3| 2000/2400| 1600/2400
MAX6 (66 cells)| G5.2| 3600/6000| 2800/2800
MAX6 COM
(72 cells)| G5.6| 3000/5400| 2400/2400
Table 1.4: Mounting Zone Load Ratings for Performance Modules
Applicable Products²| Mounting Zone| Distance from corner (mm)| Wind (up &
down) /Snow(down)
(units in Pa)3| Mounting Method
---|---|---|---|---
P3 UPP (2066 x 1160 x35mm| A| 183-283| 1600/2400| Clamp
B| 466-566| 1600/36004
C| 783-833| 1600/1600
D| 260-320| 1600/1600
E| 465-565| 1600/2400
Frame
Holes2| 383 (1300)| 1600/1600| Bolt
504 (1058)| 1600/3600
683 (700)| 1600/1600
833 (400)
P5 UPP & P6 COMM
(2384 x 1092 x 35mm)| A| 50-546| 800/1600| Clamp6
B| 546-692| 1600/36004
C| 692-1042| 1333/3600
D| 0-323| 933/933| Clamp7
E| 546-692| 1600/3600| Clamp8
F| 546-692| 1600/2000| Clamp9
G| 0-323| 933/933| Clam 10
Frame Holes²| 492 (1400)| 1600/3600| Bolts5
642 (1100)| 1600/3600
992 (400)| 1160/1160
P6 RES BLK & COM-XS
(1808 x 1086 x 30mm) &
(1808 x 1092 x 30mm)| A| 50-402| 1333/1333| Clamp6
B| 402-502| 1600/3600
C| 502-754| 1200/1333
D| 221-321| 1066/1066| Clamp7
E| 402-502| 1200/1800| Clamp8
F| 50-100| 1300/1300| Clamp9
G| 0-221| 1066/1066| Clampin10
P6 COM-S (2185 x 1092 x
35mm)| A| 50-496| 1066/1200| Clamp6
B| 496-596| 1600/3600
C| 596-942| 1066/1600
D| 223-323| 933/1600| Clamp7
E| 496-596| 1200/1867| Clamp8
F| 50-100| 1066/1200| Clamp9
G| 0-100| 666/800| Clam10
100-323| 1066/1066
Frame
Holes2| 1100(392)| 1600/3600| Bolt
1400(542)| 1600/3600
- Refer to Table 2 for different mounting hole locations
- Safety Factor 1.5 included
- IEC validated
- Minimum washer size of 24mm in diameter is required.
- Long Side Mounting, Rails Perpendicular to Mounting Frame
- Short Side Mounting, Rails Parallel to Mounting Frame
- Long Side Mounting, Rails Parallel to Mounting Frame
- Long Side Mounting, Point Supported (Bottom Flange Mounting)
- Corner Mounting (Short Side), minimum of 50mm clamp is required.
Figure 4: Mounting Zone Locations for Performance modules
For P3, P5 UPP and P6 (COM-M, COM-S, RES BLK, COM-XS)
5.3 Ground Mount Applications for Bifacial modules
Various environmental and installation parameters affect bifacial gain. Albedo
is a measure of the amount of light reflected from the ground surface. A
higher albedo factor will increase irradiance on the backside and result in
higher bifacial gain of the module. The surface conditions, month of the year,
time of day, GHI and DNI both influence
the amount of incident rearside irradiance.
Maxeon recommends to check with solar module mounting hardware supplier in
order to determine the Structure Shading factor of your particular
installation. The Structure Shading Factor varies with racking system design,
irradiance, albedo and height of module installation above ground and has an
overall impact on the rear sideirradiance mismatch.
The Rearside mismatch losses are proportional to the albedo, height of the
modules above ground and structure shading factor. The irradiance non-
uniformity on the rearside results in mismatch generally as the albedo
increases and installation height of the modules are lower to the ground.
5.4 Rooftop Applications for Bifacial modules
Bifacial modules use direct, reflected or diffuse sunlight at the rearside to
generate additional power. Therefore, it is recommended to use bifacial
modules installed on flat roof applications.
In order to maximize the bifacial gain at the rooftop applications the following parameters listed below should be considered:
- Surface Albedo
- Roof Integrity
- Module Tilt Angle
- Module Elevation
- Structural Backside Shading
The bifacial modules can be mounted both landscape or portrait orientation as
shown in Appendix section.
When installing a bifacial module on a roof, check applicable building codes
and ensure that the roof construction and the structural load calculations of
the building are suitable.
Bifacial gain tends to be most effective with a higher tilt angle.
As the tilt angle and the module elevation from the underlying surface
increases, more reflected light and diffuse light can be captured by the
module. The mounting rails shall be designed to limit the rear side shading as
much as possible. Obstacles between modules and the ground should be avoided
as much as possible in order to increase the bifacial gain.
5.5 Bifacial Electrical Considerations
The overall electrical bifacial gain is determined by the combination of
surface albedo, irradiance, module tilt angle, shading losses from the
rearside, rearside mismatch and module elevation above ground. Please refer to
the Maxeon datasheet for the electrical outputs with respect to the overall
bifacial gain. Please utilise a suitable performance software package to
simulate the overall bifacial gain.
5.6 Handling of Modules during Installation
Do not place modules face forward in direct contact with abrasive surfaces
like roofs, driveways, wooden pallets, railings, stucco walls, etc…
The module front surface glass is sensitive to oils and abrasive surfaces,
which may lead to scratches and irregular soiling.
During storage, modules need to be protected from rain or any kinds of
liquids. Required storage temperature is between 10°C to 40°C in a dry
environment (humidity between 30 to 80%). Do not store modules outdoor to
avoid moisture and wet conditions.
Modules that feature antireflective coated glass are prone to visible finger
print marks if touched on the front glass surface. Maxeon recommends handing
modules with anti-reflective glass with gloves (no leather gloves) or limiting
touching of the front surface. Any finger print marks resulting from
installation will naturally disappear over time or can be reduced by following
the washing guidelines in Section 6.0 below. Any module coverage (colored
plastic tarps or similar) during installation can lead to permanent front
glass discoloration and is not recommended. The use of vacuum lifting pads can
cause permanent marks on the front glass. Never lift or move the module using
the cables or the junction box under any-circumstances.
Shading incidence need to be avoided during PV system operation.
The system is not supposed to be energized until the mounting scaffolding,
fences or railing have been removed from the roof.
Systems should be disconnected in any cases of maintenance which can cause
shading (e.g. chimney sweeping, any roof maintenance, antenna/dish
installations, etc).
Maintenance
Maxeon recommends visual inspection on a regular basis of all modules for safe
electrical connections, sound mechanical connection, and free from corrosion.
This visual inspection should be performed by trained personnel. The standard
frequency is once a year according to environmental conditions, periodic
cleaning of modules is recommended but is not required. Periodic cleaning has
resulted in improved performance levels, especially in regions with low levels
of annual precipitation (less than 46,3cm (18,25 inches)).
Consult your dealer or supplier about recommended cleaning schedules for your
area.
To clean a module, wash with potable, non-heated, water. Normal water pressure
is more than adequate, but pressurized water up to 100 bar (min.50 cm
distance) may be used. Maxeon recommends using a large hosepipe and not to
perform cleaning at high outside temperatures. Fingerprints, stains, or
accumulations of dirt on the front surface may be removed as follows: first
rinse off area and let soak for a short period of time (5 mins). Re-wet and
use a soft sponge or seamless cloth to wipe glass surface in a circular
motion.
Fingerprints typically can be removed with a soft cloth or sponge and water
after wetting. Do not use harsh cleaning materials such as scouring powder,
steel wool, scrapers, blades, or other sharp instruments to clean the glass
surface of the module. Use of such materials or cleaning without consultation
will invalidate the product warranty. As dry cleaning is also risky for Anti-
Reflective (AR) coated module surface, spinning brush is not recommended for
module cleaning.
Recommended Cable Management
Maxeon Product Line:
Performance Product Line:
*The image above is for illustration purposes only
Table 2: Module Frame Details
Measurement Tolerances are +/-3 mm for the Length and Width of the Module.
Document 001-15497 Rev Y
P/N 100657
P/N 520728
MAXEON SOLAR TECHNOLOGIES, LTD.
Safety and Installation Instructions – Document 001-15497 Rev.Y
©November 2022 Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd. All rights reserved.
Specifications included in this manual are subject to change without notice.
References
- Home Solar plus Storage Solutions | SunPower
- Virtual Patent Marking | SunPower
- Global Solar Energy Company | Solar Panels | Maxeon US
- Solarmodulhersteller in Deutschland | SunPower Germany
- Compañía de paneles solares en España | SunPower España
- Entreprise d'énergie solaire | Panneaux solaires | SunPower France
- Società di energia solare | Pannelli solari | SunPower Italia
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