Install Manual
Document Number: MAN-SSI-02 | SAFETY AND INSTALLATION MANUAL FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES
2
other completely opaque non-marking material, or by working
with them face down on a smooth, flat surface.
• Do not expose the modules to artificially concentrated sunlight.
• Do not stand on, drop, scratch, or allow objects to
fall on the modules.
• Do not lift the modules by the junction box or junction
box cables.
• Do not install or handle the modules when they are wet or
during periods of high winds. Modules in Silfab packaging
should not be kept outdoors for a period exceeding 60 days.
• Ensure that junction box cables are provided with strain relief
to avoid damage to the junction box, maintaining a minimum
bending radius of 50 mm at all locations along the cable.
• Do not leave cable connectors exposed in adverse climatic
conditions. Water and dust deposits inside the cable connec-
tors can cause long term damage.
A module with broken glass, torn or cut backsheet, damaged
junction box, connectors or cables present electrical safety
hazards and must be removed from service.
The total voltage of modules connected in series corre-
sponds to the sum of the voltages of the single modules; whereas
connecting the modules in parallel results in adding up the cur-
rents. Consequently, strings of inter-connected modules can pro-
duce high voltages and high currents and constitute an increased
risk of electric shock and may cause injury or death.
For installation, maintenance, or before making any elec-
trical connection or disconnection, ensure all modules in the PV
array are exposed to a light intensity that is less than 400W/m
2
as
measured by an accurate solarmeter/ pyranometer.
Methods to reduce solar irradiance when making electrical
connections or disconnections include:
• Covering the modules with an opaque cloth or other material
in order to shield them from exposure.
• Making the connections during hours of low intensity of solar
irradiance (such as early morning or late aernoon).
8. INSTALLATION
8.1 Module Mounting Overview
The fire rating of Silfab modules is valid only when mounted
in the manner specified in the mechanical mounting instructions.
When installing Silfab modules, local building code require-
ments and regulations must be adhered to at all times. In case
of roof mounting, the appropriate system fire class rating of PV
module with Mounting system in combination with roof covering
and slope applications should be considered. Silfab modules are
fire rating Type 1 or Type 2 in accordance with UL 1703 standard.
For more information about the specific product, please check
DATASHEET or www.silfabsolar.com.
Suicient ventilation of the module backside is required to
maintain the Type 1 or 2 fire rating, and therefore the mounting
configuration (e.g. suicient clearance) should be adapted ac-
cordingly. The recommended clearance distance is a minimum
10 cm (3 15/16”).
To maximize the rate of energy conversion, modules have to
be installed in the best orientation and tilt according to your re-
gion. To prevent solar module hot spots and/or reduction in pow-
er, find a location that has the lowest shading.
Avoid low tilt angles to prevent the accumulation of dirt/de-
bris along the module edge.
Modules must be spaced a minimum 10 mm (3/8”) a part on all
sides to provide space for thermal expansion and to provide ventilation.
Do not drill any additional holes into the module frames and
do not cover the drainage holes.
Do not mount Silfab modules in a position where the junc-
tion boxes are “upside down” (leads facing upwards).
8.2 Module Mounting Method using mounting holes
Each module must be securely fastened at a minimum of
4 points.
Only use the 4 pre-drilled mounting holes (slots, see Figures
3 and 5) on the PV module frame to bolt the module with M6 (1/4”)
stainless steel screws and nuts to the mounting framework.
The distance of the mounting holes has been designed in or-
der to result in a uniform wind and snow load without damaging
the module.
Do not drill additional holes in the module frame; doing so
will void the Warranty.
8.3 Mounting using clamping method
Silfab recommends the use of clamps with a design as
shown in Fig. 4a (or equivalent). The use of improper clamps will
void the Warranty.
• These modules can be installed in either Portrait (vertical) or
Landscape (horizontal) configuration. Refer to Fig. 4 b, c, and d
for an example of attaching the modules to a support structure
using mounting clamps. Use stainless steel fastening hardware.
• These modules can be mounted on continuous base struc-
tures (inclined or horizontal) such as rails or similar.
• Both base structures must be mounted at the same distance
from the symmetrical axis (portrait or landscape) of the module.
• Placing the supporting elements according to the mounting in-
structions on the following pages in order to maintain a correct
load distribution and achieve the design and test load rating
based on the UL1703.
• When clamping the modules on a support structure, refer to
the following pages that identify mounting locations and as-
sociated load ratings.
8.4 Mounting Using rear flange mounted clamping hardware
(e.g. CAMO clamp / IronRidge, PanelClaw / Esdec)
Silfab recommends the use of rear flange mounted clamping
hardware with a design as shown in Fig. 4 e. The following conditions
have to be applied in order to receive coverage under Silfab’s Warranty:
• Rear flange mounted clamping hardware is allowable only for
the following Silfab product lines: (SIL-XXX BK/ HC/ HN).
• Bars or rails must run parallel to the module’s short frame edge,
and they must be placed outside of the mounting holes (mini-
mum of 15mm away from the edge of the mounting hole).