HelioSphera HS Atlas Series, Safety And Installation Instructions Manual

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10-SSI-001_rev.005_ENG
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HelioSphera modules have been designed and tested, according to IEC 61646 paragraph
10.16, to a maximum mechanical loading of 2400 Pa (2, 4 N/m
2
or 240 Kg/m
2
).This loading can
be any combination of snow, ice or wind. In order for the solar modules to withstand this loading
the module must be supported as shown in Fig. 14 and Fig. 17
In any roof installation check carefully with local authorities/local building codes for
minimum mechanical means for securing the module.
5.2 Location and Tilt Angle
HS Atlas, HS Venus, and HS Glass-Glass modules should ideally be installed in a
location where they will receive maximum sunlight throughout the year.
The modules should typically face South (for installations in the Northern Hemisphere. In
the Southern Hemisphere modules should be facing North) and be tilted at an angle
approximately equal to the
location’s latitude for optimum performance. Ideal inclination for each
area should be calculated using a PV system simulation software. Installations facing East
and/or West or variable tilt angles are also possible, although the energy yield may be less than
optimum.
When choosing a site, avoid trees, buildings or obstructions, which could cast shadows on
the solar photovoltaic modules especially during the winter months when the arc of the sun is
lower over the horizon. Shading causes loss of output, even though the factory fitted a by-pass
diode on the module to minimize these kinds of losses.
The modules connected in series should be installed at same orientation and angle. Also
strings connected in parallel should all consist of modules installed at same orientation and
angle. For more info see
next point “6.- Electrical installation”. Different orientation or angle may
cause loss of output power due to differences in the amount of sunlight irradiance level.
The modules produce the optimum power when they are pointed directly towards the sun.
For grid connected installations where the modules are attached to a permanent structure, the
modules should be tilted so that the energy production from the PV modules will be maximized
on an annual basis. The module tilt angle defined as the angle between the module surface and
the complete horizontal plane. A minimum angle of 10
° is recommended in order to help the
self-cleaning of the modules.
Nevertheless, one of the merits of Heliosphera modules is that they have minimal losses
in non-optimum tilt angles and orientation or in diffuse light conditions.