SUNTECH 16/T Series Power Standard Photovoltaic Module Installation Guide
- June 12, 2024
- SUNTECH
Table of Contents
16/T Series Power Standard Photovoltaic Module
Installation Guide
Global Installation Guide for Sentech
Power Standard Photovoltaic Module
Version 20220101
- Please read carefully. This document is binding for any warranty case.
- Any installed PV system less than 500m away from coastline, please refer to the Near-coast installation manual.
Purpose of this guide
This guide contains information regarding the installation and safe handling
of Wuxi Sentech Power Co., Ltd (hereinafter referred to as “Sentech”)
photovoltaic modules (hereinafter referred to as “PV modules” or “modules”).
Installers must read and understand this guide prior to installation. For any
questions, please contact Sentech’s Global Quality & Customer Support
department or our local representatives for more detailed information.
Installers must follow all safety precautions as described in this guide as
well as local requirement and regulations by law or authorized organizations.
Before installing a solar photovoltaic system, installers should familiarize
themselves with its mechanical and electrical requirements. Keep this guide in
a safe place for future reference (care and maintenance) and in case of sale
or disposal of the modules.
Sentech modules are tested and certified for installation worldwide. Different
regions may have different regulations for solar PV installations. In this
guide, hereinafter “IEC Only” refers to regions where IEC standard applies,
e.g. Europe, Middle East, most of Asia Pacific countries; “UL Only” refers to
regions where UL standard applies, e.g. United States; all other references
are global.
General Safety
Modules that fall under this application class may be used in system
operation at more than 50V DC or 240W, where general contact access is
anticipated. Modules complying with IEC 60417-5172 are considered to meet
Class II ( **).
The environmental temperature in which the PV modules work is between -40℃ and
40℃ with relative humidity of less than 85%, while their operating temperature
is from -40℃ and 85℃.
PV modules are recommended to be installed at an altitude of less than 2000m.
Installing solar photovoltaic systems requires specialized skills and
knowledge. Installation must only be performed by authorized and trained
personnel.
Installers must assume all risks of injury that might occur during
installation, including, but not limited to, the risk of electric shock.
One single module may generate more than 30V DC when exposed to direct
sunlight. Contact with a DC voltage is potentially hazardous and should be
always avoid.
Do not disconnect the modules or any electrical part under load.
PV modules generate electricity when exposed to sunlight. Number of modules
string connected can cause lethal shock and burn hazards. Only authorized and
trained person should have access to the modules.
Modules convert light energy to direct current electrical energy. They are
designed for outdoor use.
Modules can be ground mounted, mounted on rooftops. The responsibility of
proper design of support structures lies in the system designers and
installers.
When installing the system, abide to all local, regional and national
statutory regulations. Obtain a building permit if necessary.
The electrical characteristics are within ±3% of the indicated values of Sic,
Vic and Pmax under standard test conditions (irradiance of 1000 W/m², AM 1.5
spectrum, and a cell temperature of 25 °C (77 °F)).
Only use equipment, connectors, wiring and support frames suitable for solar
electric systems.
Do not use mirrors, magnifiers or artificially concentrated sunlight onto the
modules.
Always use fall protection equipment when working at a height of 6 feet
(183cm) or above. Follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
or local governing safety regulations regarding Fall Protection. (UL Only)
Do not sit, stand, step or walk on any side of the module, including the
frames.
Do not permit any part of the module(s) to be submerged or allow for constant
water to soil the module(s) unless it’s natural rain fall or periodic
cleaning.
Do not permit constant dew on any part of backset of the module.
The module is considered to be in compliance with this standard only when the
module is either mounted in the manner specified by the mounting instructions,
or when the mounting method has been evaluated with this PV module to UL 2703.
A module with exposed conductive parts is considered to be in compliance with
this standard only when it is either electrically grounded in accordance with
the manufacturer’ s instructions and the requirements of the National
Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, or when the bonding means has been evaluated
with this PV module to UL 2703. (UL Only)
Handling Safety
Do not lift the module by holding the module’s junction box or electrical
leads.
Do not place any heavy or sharp objects on the module.
Be cautious when placing the module down onto a surface, particularly when
placing it in a corner.
Inappropriate transport and installation may break the module and void the
warranty.
Do not attempt to disassemble the modules, and do not remove any attached
nameplates or components from the modules.
Do not apply paint or adhesive to the module top surface or backset.
To avoid damage to the backset and cells, do not scratch, dent or hit the
backset. During the transportation, do not to apply direct pressure on the
backset or front glass.
Do not drill holes in the frame. This may compromise the frame strength, cause
corrosion of the frame and void the warranty.
Do not scratch the anodized coating of the frame (except for grounding
connections at the grounding connection point on the back side of the module).
It may cause corrosion of the frame or compromise the frame strength.
A module with broken glass or torn backset cannot be repaired and must not be
used since contact with any module surface or the frame can cause an electric
shock.
Work only under dry conditions, and use only dry tools. Do not handle modules
under wet conditions unless wearing appropriate protective equipment.
When storing uninstalled modules outdoors for any period of time, always cover
the modules and ensure that the glass faces down on a soft flat surface to
prevent water from collecting inside the module and causing damage to exposed
connectors.
Installation Safety
Never disconnect electrical connections or unplug connectors while the
circuit is under load.
Contact with electrically active parts of the modules, such as terminals, can
result in burns, sparks and lethal shock whether or not the module is
connected.
Do not touch the PV module unnecessarily during installation. The glass
surface and the frame may be hot; there is a risk of burns and electric shock.
Do not work in the rain, snow or in windy conditions.
Avoid exposing cables and connectors to direct sunlight and scratches or cuts
in order to prevent insulation degradation.
Use only insulated tools that are approved for working on electrical
installations.
Keep children well away from the system while transporting and installing
mechanical and electrical components.
Completely cover the module with an opaque material during installation to
prevent electricity from being generated.
Do not wear metallic rings, watchbands, earrings, nose rings, lip rings or
other metallic objects while installing or troubleshooting photovoltaic
systems.
Follow the safety regulations (e.g., safety rules for working on electrical
power plant stations) of your regions and for all other system components,
including wires and cables, connectors, charging regulators, inverters,
storage batteries, rechargeable batteries, etc.
Under normal conditions, a photovoltaic module is likely to experience
conditions that produce more current and/or voltage than reported at standard
test conditions. Accordingly, the values of Sic and Vic marked on this module
should be multiplied by a factor of 1.25 when determining component voltage
ratings, conductor current ratings, minimum factor of fuse sizes, and size of
controls connected to the PV output. Only use same connectors to connect
modules to form a string, or connect to another device. Removing the
connectors will void the warranty.
Fire Safety**
Consult your local authority for guidelines and requirements for building or
structural fire safety.
Roof constructions and installations may affect the fire safety of a building;
improper installation may create hazards in the event of a fire.
Use components such as ground fault circuit breakers and fuses as required by
local authority.
Do not use modules near equipment or in places where flammable gases may be
generated.
Modules rated for Module Fire Performance Type Ⅰ must be installed on a roof
which has appropriate fire resistance. Before mounting on the roof, please
consult your local building related department to make sure the approved
roofing materials. The module qualified for safety through UL 61730 within
this application class are considered to meet the requirement of Safety Class
Ⅱ. (UL only)
A minimum slope of 5 in/ft. for installation on a roof is required to maintain
the fire class ratings. Any module or panel mounting system have limitations
on inclination required to maintain a specific System Fire Class Rating. (UL
only)
Product identification
Each module has three labels providing the following information:
Nameplate: describes model number; electrical properties like rated power,
rated current, rated voltage, open circuit voltage, short circuit current
etc., mechanical properties like weight, dimensions etc., certification
information, company information as well as product origin.
Barcode: each individual module has a unique serial number. The serial number
has 18 digits. The 15th and the 16th digits are the week code, and the 17th
and the 18th digits are the year code. For example, STP xxxxxxxxxxxxxx2414
means the module was assembled and tested in the 24th week of 2014. Each
module has only one bar code. It is permanently attached to the interior of
the module and is visible from the top front of the module. This bar code is
inserted prior to laminating.
*Typical serial number barcode label
Sorting label: Consists of barcode and current sorting information. Modules are sorted out and categorized according to each of their output current, which is demonstrated with a symbol “Ix” on the right. “x” refers to 1 or 2 as modules usually grouped in two classes. In order to get optimal performance out of a string, it is recommended to connect modules with the same “Ix” class (for example only I2 modules). The barcode on the left is the same with aforementioned “Barcode” section.
*Sorting label
Please take note that removing any labels will invalidate the warranty.
Mechanical Installation
Selecting a location
Select a suitable location for installing the modules.
The modules should face south in northern latitudes and north in southern
latitudes.
For detailed information on the best installation angle, refer to standard
solar photovoltaic installation guides or consult a reputable solar installer
or systems integrator.
Modules should not be shaded at any time. If a module is shaded or even
partially shaded, it will fail to perform at ideal conditions and result in
lower power output. A permanent and/or regular shade on the module voids the
warranty.
This installation manual is applicable for any PV system that is 500m way or
more from the coastline. If you need to install your system less than 500m
from the coastline please refer to Near-coast installation manual (www
.suntech-power.com) or contact Sentech Customer
Global Service Department or our regional representatives.
Do not use modules near equipment or in locations where flammable gases may be
generated or collected.
Before Installing
Before installing modules check for any optical deviations. Any optical
deviations noticed after system installed may cause the warranty invalid. Any
potential costs for labor, material or other cost such as documentation,
safety or performing the (de/ re-) installation will not be covered.
The module mounting structure must be made of durable, corrosion-resistant and
UV-resistant material.
Always use a tested and certified mounting structure approved for your system
design.
In regions with heavy snowfall in winter, adjust the height of the mounting
system so that the lower edge of the module is not covered by snow. In
addition, ensure the lower part of the module is not in the shadow of plants,
trees or damaged by ground soil moved by or through the air.
For ground mounting systems, the minimum distance recommends from the ground
to the lower edge of the module is at least 24 inches (60cm).
Modules must be securely attached to the mounting structure. For Clamping
System installation methods, the recommended maximum compression for each
clamp is 2900 PSI (20 Mpa) in order to avoid potential damages to module
frames. Follow the instruction of the clamping system supplier.
Provide adequate ventilation under the modules in conformity to your local
regulations. A minimum distance of 10 cm between the roof plane and the frame
of the module is generally recommended.
Always observe the instructions and safety precautions included in the module
support frames.
Before installing modules on a roof, always ensure the roof construction is
suitable. In addition, any roof penetration required to mount the module must
be properly sealed to prevent leaks.
Dust built up on the surface of the module can impair with the module
performance. The modules shall be installed with a tilt angle no less than 10
degrees, making it easier for dust to be removed by rain. A flat angle
requires more frequent cleaning.
Observe and take into account the linear thermal expansion of the module
frames (the recommended minimum distance between two modules is 2 cm).
Always keep the front and backset of the module free from foreign objects,
plants and vegetation, structural elements, which could come into contact with
the module, especially when the module is under mechanical load.
When installing a module on a pole, select a pole and module mounting
structure robust enough to withstand the anticipated wind load and snow load
in the area.
Ensure modules are not exposed to wind or snow load exceeding the maximum
permitted values, and are not exposed to excessive forces due to the thermal
expansion of support structures. Never allow modules overlap or exceeds the
rooftop: Refer to the following mounting methods for more detailed
information.
General Installation
Modules can be installed by using mounting holes, clamps* or an insertion
system, recommended torque is 20Nm-25Nm. Modules must be installed according
to the following examples. Strictly follow the guidelines when installing,
otherwise the warranty will be affected.
- The required length for each clamp is minimum 50 mm
** 34.9 for frame of 35mm in height, 29.9 for frame of 30mm in height
***Reference length based on M8 bolt and M8 nut
Module can be installed in both landscape and portrait modes.
The modules must be properly secured to their support so that they can
withstand positive and negative load they have been certified for. Installer
must ensure that the clamps used to secure the modules are robust enough.
Mounting Methods and Mechanical Loads
Select a proper installation method based on the required load (See below for
more detailed information).
All installation methods herein are only for reference, and Sentech will not
provide related mounting components. The system installer or trained
professional personnel must be responsible for the PV system’s design,
installation, and mechanical load calculation and security of the system.
For each installation, modules can be installed either in portrait or
landscape mode. If you integrate our obsolete products and need advice, please
contact Sentech Global Customer Service department for installation
instructions
Sentech Standard Module Type (using 156.75 – 157.4 mm solar cell)| Module
Dimension Length × Width × Thickness
---|---
16/T Series (Full cell solar module)| 1324mm × 992mm × 35mm
20/W Series (Full cell solar module)| 1640mm × 992mm × 35mm 1650mm × 992mm ×
35mm
24/V Series (Full cell solar module)| 1956mm × 992mm × 40mm 1960mm × 992mm ×
40mm
16/T Series (Half cell solar module)| 1338mm × 992mm × 35mm
20/W(Half cell solar module)| 1670mm × 992mm × 35mm
24/V Series(Half cell solar module)| 1988mm × 992mm × 40mm
60/W Series (Half cell solar module)| 1684mm × 1002mm × 35mm
72/V Series (Half cell solar module)| 2008mm × 1002mm × 35mm
72/P Series (Half cell solar module)| 2018mm × 992mm × 35mm
Sentech Standard Module Type (using 158.75 mm solar cell)| Module Dimension
Length × Width × Thickness
---|---
A16/T (Half cell solar module)| 1354mm × 1002mm × 35mm
A20/W (Half cell solar module)| 1680mm × 1002mm × 35mm
A60/W (Half cell solar module)| 1684mm × 1002mm × 35mm
A72/V (Half cell solar module)| 2008mm × 1002mm × 35mm
A72/P (Half cell Solar module)| 2028mm × 1002mm × 35mm
Suntech Standard Module Type (using 166 mm solar cell)| Module Dimension
Length × Width × Thickness
---|---
B60/W (Half cell solar module)| 1756mm × 1039mm × 35mm
B72/V (Half cell solar module)| 2095mm × 1039mm × 35mm
B72/P (Half cell module)| 2096mm × 1040mm ×35(30) mm 2095mm × 1039mm ×35mm
Sentech Standard Module Type (using 182 mm solar cell)| Module Dimension
Length × Width × Thickness
---|---
C54/U (Half cell solar module)| 1724mm × 1134mm × 35(30)mm 1722mm × 1134mm ×
30mm
C72/V (Half cell solar module)| 2279mm × 1134mm × 35mm 2278mm × 1134mm × 35mm
C72/P (Half cell solar module)| 2279mm × 1134mm × 35(30)mm 2278mm × 1134mm ×
30mm
C54/N (Half cell solar module)| 1722mm × 1134mm × 30mm
C72/N (Half cell solar module)| 2279mm × 1134mm × 30mm
Sentech Standard Module Type (using 210 mm solar cell)| Module Dimension
Length × Width × Thickness
---|---
D66/W (Half cell solar module)| 2384mm × 1303mm × 35mm
D60/W (Half cell solar module)| 2172mm × 1303mm × 35mm
D66/P (Half cell solar module)| 2384mm × 1303mm × 35mm
D60/P (Half cell solar module)| 2172mm × 1303mm × 35mm
Recommended mounting method
Mounting **method*| Mechanical load| Installation location|
Module type
---|---|---|---
Four bolts mounting with beams underneath| Test load: Positive 5400Pa Negative
2400Pa Safety factor: 1.5| | 20/W Series 60/W Series A60/W Series
B60/W Series C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm) C54/N Series
Four bolts mounting with beams underneath| Test load: positive 3800Pa negative
2400Pa Safety factor: 1.5| ** **| 20/W Series 60/W Series A16/T Series
A60/W Series B60/W Series C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm) C54/N Series
Four bolts mounting with beams underneath| Test load: positive 5400Pa negative
3800Pa Safety factor: 1.5| | 16/T Series 24/V Series
Four bolts mounting with beams underneath| Test load: positive 5400Pa negative
2400Pa Safety factor: 1.5| | 72/V Series 72/P Series A72/V Series A72/P Series
B72/V Series
B72/P Series (35mm & 30mm) C72/V Series
C72/P Series (35mm & 30mm) C72/N Series
D66/W Series D60/W Series D66/P Series
D60/P Series
Eight bolts mounting with beams underneath| Test load: positive 5400Pa
negative 3800Pa Safety factor: 1.5| | 20/W Series 60/W Series A20/W Series
A60/W Series B60/W Series C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm)
Four clamps mounting with beams underneath| Test load: positive 6000Pa
negative 3800Pa Safety factor: 1.5|
| C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm) C54/N Series
---|---|---|---
Four clamps mounting with beams underneath| Test load: positive 2400Pa
negative 2400Pa Safety factor: 1.5|
__Clamping zone: A = 1/4 long frame length±50 mm
| 16/T Series 20/W Series 24/V Series 60/W Series A16/T Series A20/W Series
A60/W Series B60/W Series C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm)
Four clamps mounting with beams underneath| Test load: positive 5400Pa
negative 3800Pa Safety factor: 1.5|
16/T series L = 180 mm
20/W series L = 180 mm
24/V series L = 280 mm
A16/T series L = 180 mm
Clamping zone: A = 300 mm
| 16/T Series 20/W Series 24/V Series A16/T Series
Four clamps mounting with beams underneath| Test load: positive 5400Pa
negative 3800Pa Safety factor: 1.5| 60/W series L = 200 mm 72/V series L =
300 mm A20/W series L = 200 mm A60/W series L = 200 mm B60/W series L = 200 mm
A72/V series L = 300 mm A72/P series L = 300 mm B72/V series L = 380 mm B72/P
series L = 380 mm Clamping zone: A = 200 mm| 60/W Series 72/V Series 72/P
Series A20/W Series A60/W Series B60/W Series A72/V Series A72/P Series B72/V
Series
B72/P Series (35mm)
---|---|---|---
Four clamps mounting with beams underneath| Test load: positive 5400Pa
negative 2400Pa Safety factor: 1.5| C72/V series L = 400 mm, clamping zone A
= 250 mm D66/W Series L = 430 mm, clamping zone A = 160 mm D60/W Series L =
400 mm, clamping zone A = 160 mm B72/P Series L = 380 mm, clamping zone A =
200 mm C72/P Series L = 400 mm, clamping zone A = 250 mm C72/N Series L = 400
mm, clamping zone A = 250 mm D66/P Series L = 430 mm, clamping zone A = 160 mm
D60/P Series L = 400 mm, clamping zone A = 160 mm| C72/V Series D66/W Series
D60/W Series
B72/P Series (30mm) C72/P Series (30mm) C72/N Series
D66/P Series D60/P Series
Customized mounting method
Note: The installation methods below are based on the internal evaluation
results in Sentech
Mounting **method*| Mechanical load| Installation location|
Module type**
---|---|---|---
Four clamps short end mounting with beams parallel with long frame| Test load:
positive 5400Pa negative 2400Pa Safety factor: 1.5|
| B60/W Series
C54/U Series (30mm & 35mm)
Four clamps short end mounting with beams parallel with long frame| Test load:
positive 2400Pa negative 1600Pa Safety factor: 1.5|
| B72/V Series
Four clamps short end mounting with beams parallel with long frame| Test load:
positive 2400Pa negative 800Pa Safety factor: 1.5|
| C72/V Series
Four clamps short end mounting with beams underneath the short frame| Test
load: positive 2400Pa negative 2400Pa Safety factor: 1.5|
| C54/U Series (30mm)
Four clamps short end mounting with beams underneath the short frame| Test
load: positive 1600Pa negative 1000Pa Safety factor: 1.5| | B72/V Series
---|---|---|---
Four clamps mixed mounting with beams underneath| Test load: positive 2400Pa
negative 2400Pa Safety factor: 1.5| | A72/V Series B60/W Series
C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm)
Four clamps mixed mounting with beams underneath| Test load: positive 1600Pa negative 1000Pa Safety factor: 1.5| | B72/V Series
B72/P Series (35mm & 30mm)
Four clamps mounting without beams| Test load: positive 5400Pa negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5| | B72/P Series (35mm & 30mm) C72/P Series (35mm & 30mm)
---|---|---|---
Four bolts mounting without beams| Test load: positive 5400Pa negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5| | B72/P Series (35mm & 30mm) C72/P Series (35mm & 30mm)
C72/N Series
Four bolts mounting without beams| Test load: positive 4500Pa negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5| __| B72/V Series
Four bolts tracker mounting*| Test load: positive 1600Pa negative1600Pa
Safety factor: 1.5| | B72/V Series
B72/P Series (35mm & 30mm) C72/V Series
C72/P Series (35mm & 30mm) C72/N Series
Short frame insertion / Slide-in| Test load: positive 2400Pa negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5| __**| 16/T Series 20/W Series A60/W Series B60/W
Series
C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm)
Six clamps mounting with beams underneath| Test load: positive 5400Pa negative
3800Pa Safety factor: 1.5| | 16/T Series 20/W Series 24/V Series 60/W Series
72/V Series A16/T Series A60/W Series B60/W Series C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm)
C72/V Series
---|---|---|---
Six clamps mounting with beams underneath| Test load: positive 5400Pa negative
3800Pa Safety factor: 1.5| | 16/T Series 20/W Series 24/V Series 60/W Series
72/V Series A16/T Series A60/W Series B60/W Series A72/V Series B72/V Series
C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm) C72/V Series
Insertion installation with two clamps in the middle| Test load: positive
5400Pa negative 3800Pa Safety factor: 1.5| | 16/T Series 20/W Series 24/V
Series A24/V Series A60/W Series B60/W Series A72/V Series B72/V Series C72/V
Series
- The module clamps must not come into contact with the front glass or deform the frame in any way. Avoid shading effects caused by clamps or insertion systems. Drainage holes in the module frame must not be closed or obscured by the clamps;
** 35mm or 30mm represents the height of frame;
*** The mounting holes reserved for tracker mounting system with special accessories. If the length of module is over 2 meters, its mechanical load value for tracker needs to be confirmed by module supplier
Electrical Installation
General Electrical Connection
Any hardware used must be compatible with any other used material to avoid
galvanic corrosion. Defects caused by corrosions void the warranty.
It is not recommended to use modules with different configurations (grounding,
wiring) in the same system.
Excessive cables must be organized or fixed in an adequate way, e.g. attached
to the mounting structure by using non-metallic cable ties. Solar cables,
connectors and junction boxes should not be exposed to water, snow, or rain or
water submersion for a long period of time (IP65/67/68).
For applications requiring high operating voltage several modules can be
connected in series to form a string of modules; the system voltage is then
equal to the sum of the voltage of each module.
For applications requiring high operating currents several strings of modules
can be connected in parallel; the system current is then equal to the sum of
the current of each string of modules.
Whether the maximum system voltage of a certain product family is 600 volts,
1000 volts or 1500 volts is depended on related test standards. The maximum
number of modules connected in a series is depended on system design, the
type of inverter used and environmental conditions.
Based on the maximum series fuse rating of module and local electrical
installation code, always make sure Sentech PV modules are assembled with the
appropriate string fuse for circuit protection.
There is no specific limitation on the number of modules that can be connected
in parallel, the number of modules is determined by system design parameters
such as current or power output.
To prevent the cables and the connectors from overheating, the cross section
of the cables and the capacity of the connectors must be selected to suit the
maximum system short circuit current. The recommended cable is PV wire with a
cross section of at least 4mm².
Caution: do not secure the cables too tight. Any cable damage caused by cable
management system is not covered under Sentech’s warranty.
Cable manufacturer’s suggested bending radius is no less than 68mm.
When designing large modules arrays connected to a single inverter, always
take into account the resulting isolation resistance (Rios), which decreases
increasing the number of modules in the array. A too low Rios can results in
inverter faults. Please refer to local regulations to determine the system
wires size, type and temperature.
Sentech modules come with connectors used for system electrical connections.
The recommended connectors are STP-XC4, TL-CABLE01S, MC4, and Amphenol H4.
Sentech strongly recommends using the genuine connector type specified by
Sentech’s product data sheet. Choosing a different connector type other than
specified may cause the warranty invalid.
To ensure reliable electric connection and to prevent possible intrusion of
humidity, two connectors must be mated and locked together until a click can
be heard.
Long-term exposure to wet environments may cause connectors’ poor
connectivity, resulting in current leakage and poor conductivity which voids
the warranty. Sentech recommends proper connector/cable/wire management to
prevent moisture intrusion. Depending on the amount of humidity, Sentech
recommends periodic inspections of the installation system to maintain optimal
module performance.
The DC current generated by photovoltaic systems can be converted into AC and
fed into a public Grid. As local utilities’ policies on connecting renewable
energy systems to the Grids vary from region to region. Always seek the advice
from a qualified system designer or integrator. Building permits, inspections
and approvals by the local utility are generally required.
Especially for larger installations Sentech recommends lightning protection
following the local requirements and regulations.
When the installation finished and after connecting to the grid, please do a
professional hand over to the owner including an installation protocol is
required. Provide a clear documentation of the system to the owner consisting
of following minimum data such as: user guide, system layout, data sheets,
performance expectations, electrical system data e.g. a copy of the
installation test report following minimum requirements of IEC 62446 / IEC
60364-6. Electrical property
Module under standard test conditions of: irradiance of 1000W /m² , cell
temperature of 25 °C and air mass of AM1.5.
Normally, a module is likely to produce more current and/or voltage than
reported at standard test conditions.. Accordingly, the values of Isc and Voc
marked on this 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 the PV output.
Voltages are additive when modules are connected in series, and modules
currents are additive when Modules are connected in parallel, as illustrated
in Figure 1.
Modules with different electrical characteristics must not be connected
directly in series.
Series Wiring and Parallel Wiring
The maximum number of Modules
that can be connected in series within a string must be calculated in
accordance with applicable regulations in a way that the specified maximum
system voltage of the modules and all other electrical DC components will not
exceed in open-circuit operation at the lowest temperature expected at the PV
system location.
Recommended maximum series configuration: system voltage / (1.25* Voc)
Recommended maximum parallel configuration: overcurrent rating / (Isc +1)
Recommended installation method of full cell solar module:
The modules in PV array are recommended for portrait connecting, and cable
length is not less than 0.7 m.
Recommended mounting method of half-cut cell solar module:
The head and tail of the modules in PV array are placed in portrait layout,
and cable length is not less than 0.65 m.
Grounding
For grounding and bonding requirements, please refer to regional and national
safety and electricity standards.
If grounding is required, use a recommended connector type for the grounding
wire.
For grounding, this guide refers to module frame grounding. If grounding is
required, make sure module frames (metal exposed to touch) are always
grounded.
Sentech recommends always refer to local state and national code requirements
for PV module grounding.
Sentech highly recommends negative grounding if it’s allowed by local
authorities.
When attaching the frame grounding hardware and wire to the frame it must be
placed corresponding to the ground symbol stamped location to ensure proper
electrical connection.
Sentech recommends one of the following parts for grounding:
-
Use M5 bolt and washer to bond the ground wire and aluminum frame through the grounding hole (as shown below). The tightening torque is 3-7Nm. All nuts and washers should be made of stainless steel. 4-14 mm² (AWG 6-12) exposed copper wire recommended as ground wire.
-
Use WEEB-DPF to bond solar modules to module mounting brackets (grounding part is tested to UL467)Notice that WEEB tooth is positioned completely under the edge of the module frame.
When position of solar module is finalized, torque fasteners to 20.5 N-m/15 ft-lb using general purpose anti-seize on threads.
For more information, please contact supplier: BURNDY, http://www.we-llc.com -
- Use Schlatter clamps to bond solar module to module mounting brackets (grounding part is tested to UL467).Recommend fastening torque is 20.5N-m/15 ft-lb.
For more information, please contact supplier: Schlatter, http://www.solar.schletter.eu
- Use Schlatter clamps to bond solar module to module mounting brackets (grounding part is tested to UL467).Recommend fastening torque is 20.5N-m/15 ft-lb.
Maintenance
To ensure optimum module performance, Sentech recommends the following
maintenance measures:
Clean the module minimum once a year or more often when required depending of
the pollution. Remove all organic from the surface. Module with soiling or
contamination may reduce the power generation of the system. Always use clean
water and a soft non-abrasive sponge or cloth for cleaning. A mild, non-
abrasive cleaning agent may be used to remove stubborn dirt.
Uncontrolled pollution is voiding the warranty or not cleaning the modules in
time voids the warranty.
Check the electrical, grounding and mechanical connections every six months to
verify that they are clean, secure, undamaged and free of corrosion. Or else
the warranty may be voided.
In the event of a ground fault condition, NEVER wash or spray modules with
water until ground fault has been identified, corrected by an authorized solar
inverter service technician and the inverter is fully operational.
This can cause electrocution or a serious safety issue.
If any problem arises, consult a professional solar service provider for
suggestions.
Caution: observe solar manufacturers’ maintenance instructions for all
components used in the system, such as support frames, charging regulators,
inverters, batteries etc.
Wuxi Sentech Power Co., Ltd.
Address: No.9 Xinhua Road, Xingu District Wuxi, China 214028
Customer Service Hot Line: +86 400 8888 009 Fax: +86 510 8534 3321
E-mail: services@suntech-power.com,
service.America@suntech-power.com
Or please contact our local representatives, details at www.suntech-
power.com