Handling and Fitting Manual for semi-flexible solar panels EFLX series
Page 7 of 12
Gluing with double-sided tape
We recommend an industrial grade porous (“foam”) tape for this application. Applying
the tape across the entirety of the underside of the solar panel will improve the bond
quality.
When gluing with double-sided tape:
•
Apply the tape onto the solar panel first, by “unrolling” it on the solar panel. Use
a soft cloth or a roller to gently apply pressure onto the tape (protective film side)
to dispel all air from between the tape and the solar panel. Take care not to force
the solar panel to bend underneath.
•
If the length / width of the tape exceeds the solar panel, cut the tape carefully
around the edges of the solar panel.
•
Remove the protective film and stick the solar panel down on a clean and dry
surface,
keeping the solar panel as straight as possible
up until the final
moment when it takes the curved shape of the mounting surface. While sticking
it down, gently apply pressure on the solar panel with a soft cloth or a roller to
ensure that no air is trapped underneath the solar panel (2 people are
recommended for the installation).
•
Observe the required application temperature for the double-sided tape and the
time for the glue to dry.
Warning!
Double-sided adhesive tape forms a very strong immediate bond with the
contact material and does not allow for repositioning. Attempting to remove the solar
panel, even if only partially attached, can seriously damage the solar cells.
Gluing with adhesive
Your chosen adhesive should be suitable for both the solar panel and the mounting
surface. It should also be designed for outdoor applications (with a wide temperature
range, UV light protection etc). Pay attention to the application temperature and drying
time requirements.
The mounting surface must be even, clean (use a degreasing agent) and dry. The
installation must be carried out with care and precision, as this permanent method does
not allow for repositioning.
Warning!
Although preparing the roof surface for better adhesion is permitted (if
required, e.g. by removing the old paint, grinding, using a primer etc), you must not use
any sand paper or other sharp or abrasive tools on the underside of the solar panel.
One of the most important things to bear in mind when gluing the solar panel using
adhesive is to ensure that
there are no pockets of trapped air underneath the solar
panel
, i.e. no void spaces with air that are sealed all the way around with adhesive. If
you leave trapped air under the solar panel (no matter whether it is between beads of
adhesive or in various slots and holes of the uneven roof surface), such air will inevitably
warm up when the solar panel is receiving good sunlight. When the air gets hot, it will
significantly expand in volume, causing upward pressure to the solar panel surface and
possible bulging of the solar panel during hot weather. This can result in permanent
damage to the solar cells.
