5
Mechanical Installation
Selecting a location
Select a suitable location for installing the modules.
The modules should face south in northern latitudes and north in southern latitudes.
For detailed information on the best installation angle, refer to standard solar photovoltaic installation
guides or consult a reputable solar installer or systems integrator.
Modules should not be shaded at any time. If a module is shaded or even partially shaded, it will fail to
perform at ideal conditions and result in lower power output. A permanent and/or regular shade on the module
voids the warranty.
This installation manual is applicable for any PV system that is 500m way or more from the coastline. If you
need to install your system less than 500m from the coast line please refer to Near-coast installation manual
(www.suntech-power.com) or contact Suntech Customer Global Service Department or our regional
representatives.
Do not use modules near equipment or in locations where flammable gases may be generated or collected.
Before Installing
Before installing modules check for any optical deviations. Any optical deviations noticed after system installed
may cause the warranty invalid. Any potential costs for labor, material or other cost such as documentation,
safety or performing the (de/ re-) installation will not be covered.
The module mounting structure must be made of durable, corrosion-resistant and UV-resistant material.
Always use a tested and certified mounting structure approved for your system design.
In regions with heavy snowfall in winter, adjust the height of the mounting system so that the lower edge of
the module is not covered by snow. In addition, ensure the lower part of the module is not in the shadow of
plants, trees or damaged by ground soil moved by or through the air.
For ground mounting systems, the minimum distance recommends from the ground to the lower edge of
the module is at least 24 inches (60cm).
Modules must be securely attached to the mounting structure. For Clamping System installation methods,
the recommended maximum compression for each clamp is 2900 PSI (20 Mpa) in order to avoid potential
damages to module frames. Follow the instruction of the clamping system supplier.
Provide adequate ventilation under the modules in conformity to your local regulations. A minimum
distance of 10 cm between the roof plane and the frame of the module is generally recommended.
Always observe the instructions and safety precautions included in the module support frames.
Before installing modules on a roof, always ensure the roof construction is suitable. In addition, any roof
penetration required to mount the module must be properly sealed to prevent leaks.
Dust built up on the surface of the module can impair with the module performance. The modules shall be
installed with a tilt angle no less than 10 degrees, making it easier for dust to be removed by rain. A flat angle
requires more frequent cleaning.
Observe and take into account the linear thermal expansion of the module frames (the recommended
minimum distance between two modules is 2 cm).
Always keep the front and backsheet of the module free from foreign objects, plants and vegetation,
structural elements, which could come into contact with the module, especially when the module is under
mechanical load.
When installing a module on a pole, select a pole and module mounting structure robust enough to
withstand the anticipated wind load and snow load in the area.
Ensure modules are not exposed to wind or snow load exceeding the maximum permitted values, and are
not exposed to excessive forces due to the thermal expansion of support structures. Never allow modules
overlap or exceeds the rooftop: Refer to the following mounting methods for more detailed information.
Summary of Contents for 16/T Series
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