Install Manual

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Document Number: MAN-SSI-02 | SAFETY AND INSTALLATION MANUAL FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES
9.5 Silfab Module Installation in Marine Applications
This section provides guidance of safe handling and instal-
lation of Silfab PV modules less than 500 meters to any salt wa-
ter coastal waterway regarded as “near-coastal”. Improper care
and negligence to properly protect PV system as recommended
may potentially induce salt-mist corrosion and accelerate electri-
cal insulation losses and galvanic corrosion. Silfab reserves the
right to review any potential warranty claims in “near-coastal”
environments against a customer’s strict adherence to the best
practices and recommendations provided in this section. Any
non-conformances found will potentially disqualify the prod-
uct from being covered under Silfab’s Limited Product and Lin-
ear Performance Warranty. For further inquiries please contact
Silfab’s Customer Service.
Mechanical Installation
• Do not scratch or break the corrosion-resistant coating (e.g.
anodization layer) on PV Modules and mounting system
unless it is part of the electrical equipment grounding system
(grounding lugs, integrated grounding hardware compliant
to UL2703).
• Use corrosion-resistant material (e.g. stainless steel SUS
316) for components (e.g. nuts, bolts, gaskets, etc.) to install
your PV system.
• For safe mounting installation, use insulation gaskets be-
tween mounting hardware attached to the PV module frame
between PV module frame and rail, unless the mounting
hardware is part of the electrical equipment grounding sys-
tem using integrated mounting/grounding hardware that is
compliant with UL2703.
• Recommendation for gasket insulation are mica lamination,
or silicone, or fluoride made insulating material.
Grounding
• Silfab recommends to protect any exposed grounding
points (such as a grounding block) of the PV system with a
corrosion-resistant coating, for example (a) Butyl Plaster to
completely cover an exposed grounding block or (b) spray
fluorocarbon varnish of 40 um thick onto exposed ground
blocks thoroughly to form an anti-corrosion protective film.
Remember to clean the exposed grounding block and sur
rounding area and make sure the surface is dry. Any exposed
components must be fully covered from exposure to salt.
To ensure optimum module performance, Silfab recom-
mends maintenance service every three months with the follow-
ing measures:
• Check the module frame, mounting system, grounding block
and junction areas for potential signs of corrosion.
• Clean the module frame, mounting system, grounding block
and junction areas from accumulation of dust and/or salt
with so foam materials, non-woven fabrics, whisks, so
sponges, so brushes and hair brushes may be used.
• Upon possible finding of corrosion due to salt, re-apply Butyl
Plaster or fluorocarbon varnish to cover rusty area thoroughly.
Fig. 6: Bifacial solar module
IMPORTANT NOTE:
DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY
Silfab PV Modules have successfully passed IEC 61701:2011
– Level 5 Salt Mist Corrosion Test. However, full protection
against salt exposure is largely dependent on multiple compo-
nents of the PV system beyond Silfab’s control. As such, Silfab
strongly recommends to adhere to the installation procedure.
If negligence is found, Silfab cannot hold responsibility and dis-
claim liability for any loss, damage, or expense arising out from
“near-coastal” installation.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
With an expected gain of power (Pmp) and current (Isc) from
the rear due to significant light contribution, i.e from a high albedo
background, the user/designer must consider the electrical
performance of both front and irradiance % on backside for the
following below. It’s suggested at least +20% bifaciality gain.
• Wire and string sizing
• Inverter short-circuit current input limit
• Overcurrent protection device
TIP: With multi-row structures, connect horizontal series of
modules to dierent MPPT to reduce losses due to mismatch on
reflected light on back side.