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EN-Rev IM/GN-AM-EU/2.81 Copyright © December, 2021. CSI Solar Co., Ltd.
www.csisolar.com
6.2 MOUNTING METHOD: CLAMPING
The mechanical load test with these mounting methods
were performed according to IEC 61215.
Top or bottom clamping methods will vary and are
dependent on the mounting structures. Please follow
the mounting guidelines recommended by the
mounting system supplier.
Each module must be securely fastened at a minimum
of four points on two opposite sides. The clamps should
be positioned symmetrically. The clamps should be
positioned according to the authorized position ranges.
Install and tighten the module clamps to the mounting
rails using the torque stated by the mounting hardware
manufacturer. M8 X 1.25 (5/16”) bolt and nut are used
for this clamping method.
Tightening torques should be within 16~20 Nm
(11.8~14.75 ft-lbs) for M8 (5/16”) coarse thread bolts,
depending on the bolt class. For the bolt grade, the
technical guideline from the fastener suppliers should
be followed. Different recommendations from specific
clamping hardware suppliers should prevail.
The system designer and installer are responsible for
load calculations and for proper design of support
structure.
Canadian Solar’s warranty may be void in cases where
improper clamps or unsuitable installation methods are
found. When installing inter-modules or end-type
clamps, please take the following measures into
account:
1.
Do not bend the module frame.
2.
Do not touch or cast shadows on the front glass.
3.
Do not damage the surface of the frame (to the
exception of the clamps with bonding pins).
4.
Ensure the clamps overlap the module frame by at
least 10 mm (0.4 in) for CS6W, CS7N and CS7L, 5mm
(0.2in) for others.
5.
Overlap in length by at least
a)
80 mm (3.15 in) when uplift load > 2400 Pa is
required.
b)
40 mm (1.57 in) when uplift load ≤ 2400 Pa is
required.
6.
Ensure the clamp thickness is at least 3 mm (0.12 in).
Clamp material should be anodized aluminum alloy or
stainless steel.
Clamp positions are of crucial importance for the
reliability of the installation. The clamp centerlines must
only be positioned within the ranges indicated in table
below, depending on the configuration and load. For
configurations where the mounting rails run parallel to
the frame, precautions should be taken to ensure the
bottom flange of the module frame overlaps the rail by
15 mm (0.59 in) or more.
