Solar Module Installation Manual
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grounding, the star washers must go through the anodized surface of the frame to create a
conductive connection and the modules frames must be connected using a copper or copper
alloy conductor which in turn has to be connected to the earth ground electrode.
Please see the drawing below for one of the correct grounding method:
Note : The star washer shown above must go through the anodized surface of the frame
to create a conductive path.
Proper grounding can also be achieved by using
self tapping screw with a stainless steel washer to
hold the wire under the washer very firmly. It is
highly recommended to use at least two self
tapping screws per module in order to get
adequate grounding contact. Stain steel bolts
and nuts, washer only to be used to corrosion.
The screw of diameter 4.17 mm can be used and
it should at least have two full turn of threads
embedded into Aluminium frame.
Figure ‐2 (Grounding using stainless steel
hardware with star washers)
IMPORTANT
It is always important to ensure that the grounding hardware used must not corrode itself or
induce corrosion (Galvanic effect) in the parent material.
The standard hole provided in the module frame is 4 mm. However if there is a need to drill
additional holes, the diameters specified in the table 3 can be used :
Table 5. Grounding Hole Hardware Diameters
Rated current(A)
Minimum nominal thread
diameter(mm)
Pillar type
Screw type
Up to and including 10 A
3
3.5
Over 10 A including 16 A
3.5
4
Over 16 A up to and including 25 A
4
5
Over 25 A up to and including 32 A
4
5
Over 32 up to and including 40 A
5
5
Solar Module Installation Manual
13
R. CLEANING / MAINTENANCE
All solar modules of the types described in this manual are designed to operate in the outdoor
conditions for long periods. However it is recommended to follow the basic procedures that
are described below to get the best performance from the solar photovoltaic modules;
•
Regular maintenance is required to keep modules clear of dust, bird droppings,
seeds, pollen, leaves, branches, dirt spots and snow.
•
When there is a noticeable buildup of soiling deposits on the module surface, wash
the PV array with water and a gentle cleaning implement (a sponge) during the cool
part of the day. Dirt must never be scraped or rubbed away when dry, as this will
cause micro‐scratches.
•
The power output from the module is strongly influenced by the transparency of the
Cover/front glass. Over a period of time dust could accumulate on the glass and reduce
the solar light passing through the glass which in turn reduces the performance of the
module. In order to restore the module performance, clean the glass with plain water.
In most cases plain water clean is just adequate. However if there are any hard stains
they could be easily removed by gentle wiping/mopping with soft cotton/sponge.
•
Check the hardness/TDS of water; preferably it should be below 150; more than 250
to be avoided;
•
When under load, modules to be cleaned either in the early morning or after Sunset.
•
Aluminium frames could get discolored due to bird droppings. It is recommended to
use mild soap or detergent to clean the Aluminium surface. Wear gloves while
cleaning, as sharp edges on the Aluminium module can cause injury.
•
While cleaning be careful not to drop any objects on the module surface. The module
surface is made from glass and could get easily damaged. The damaged module
increases the risk of electrical shock. The damaged module must be immediately
replaced with a new module.
•
Periodic inspection of the mounting structure and electrical connections must be
carried out and any loose connections must be corrected immediately.
IMPORTANT
All cleaning and maintenance operations are to be done by a trained person only. If the
modules are mounted on high roof or on an area which is at a height from the ground level,
person involved in cleaning operations must wear appropriate safety harness.
S. DISPOSAL
If the modules need to be disposed off, kindly contact the manufacturer or can be done in
accordance with the local law of land; in either case, customer is requested to intimate the
manufacturer.
