Install Manual

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Document Number: MAN-SSI-02 | SAFETY AND INSTALLATION MANUAL FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES
9. HANDLING OF MODULES
The Silfab modules are robust, but cells may be subject to
damage if the modules are improperly handled or installed.
Wear protective gloves when handling and installing the
modules to protect against cuts and burns.
Handle the module in a way that avoids breakage or scratch-
ing of the glass or backsheet and mechanical damage to any
other part of the module.
Do not carry the module by its cables. Electric shock or dam-
age to the module may result.
Do not drop sharp or heavy objects on either surfaces of
the module.
Do not subject the modules to any impact, and do not flex
them mechanically.
In the event of any damage to either the front or the back of
the module, dangerous electrical hazards may exist, especial-
ly if the module is connected in series to a string. Replace the
module immediately and take extreme caution when handling.
Do not step or stand on the PV Module.
9.1 Electrical Connection
Do not connect or disconnect modules under load! Danger! Risk
of serious injury or death from electric shock or electric arc flash!
Only connect modules with the same rated current in series
and modules with the same rated voltage in parallel.
High hazardous voltage (several hundreds of volts) may occur
during installation. Consequently, installation and mainte-
nance of the modules, as well as the connection to the main
power supply, may only be performed by authorized and
qualified persons.
Under normal conditions, a PV module is likely to experience
conditions that produce more current and/or voltage than
reported at standard test conditions. Accordingly, the values
of Isc and Voc marked on the module should be multiplied
by an appropriate safety factor to be determined by the de-
sign engineer based on local electrical code requirements.
As a worst case, use a safety factor of 1.25 for voltage and
cable ampacities and a safety factor of 1.56 for fuse sizing.
For SIL-XXX BK/HC the maximum system voltage rating
is 1000V for TUV/IEC and 1000V for UL. For SIL-XXX HN, the
maximum system voltage rating is 1500V.
The maximum series fuse rating is 20A.
The bypass diodes are not over-current protection devices.
In the event of known or suspected diode failure, installers or
maintenance providers should contact Silfab. Never attempt
to open the junction box!
To obtain the desired system voltage, modules are wired in
series connection. The recommended maximum series con-
figuration must NOT exceed the certified maximum system
voltage stated in the module spec sheets calculated in the
worst case Voc conditions to be determined by the engineer
of record (EOR).
*Refer to the appropriate local geographic electrical codes and
regulations for the correct Voc correction factor according to
the respective temperatures. If this information is not available,
a 1.25 multiplying factor can be used as default value for correc-
tion of Voc.
For connection of the modules use only appropriate cables
with a minimum conduct cross-section of 4 mm
2
that is com-
pliant to the relevant jurisdiction code.
Verify the junction box lid is firmly closed before installing
the module.
Do not repair or reconnect junction box cable. It may occur
spark or electric shock.
Do not bend junction box cable. Under stress, it can damage
the module. Cable bending radius should be at least more
than 4 times the cable diameter.
Before connection of the system to the grid, the PV system must be
approved for correct installation, by all appropriate authorities.
Lightning protection is recommended for PV systems that are to
be installed in locations with high probability of lightning strikes.
The design of the PV system should be done by a qualified
person familiar with PV system design. Silfab does not as-
sume any responsibility for how the modules are installed or
how the system is designed.
For all solar systems, the connectors MUST be UL rated for
interminability and fully inter-matable with Silfab modules’
connectors. Otherwise, Silfab will void the warranty and will
not be responsible for any resulting safety issue.
Silfab solar modules are equipped with factory-assembled
Junction box with 12AWG/4mm
2
cables, and insulated for 90°C
maximum, with either GZX PV-GZX0601-1-F, PV-GZX0601-1-M
or MC4 connectors. Any attempt to repair/modify the junction
box, cable, or connector will void the Silfab Solar warranty.