10
PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES SAFETY
AND INSTALLATION MANUAL Rev. M
VALID IN NORTH AMERICA ONLY
Valid from February 2011
1305 South Bertelsen Road, Eugene, Oregon 97402, USA
www.grapesolar.com
Tel: 1-877-264-1014 (toll free), 1-541-349-9000, Fax: 1-541-343-9000
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receive the incident sunlight perpendicularly to the module surface.
5.4
For roof mounted systems, at least a 4 inch clearance is required between the module back
surface and roof for rear ventilation and module cooling.
5.5
Clearance of 1/12 inch (2mm) or more between modules is required to allow for thermal
expansion of the frames.
5.6
Keep the back surface of the module free from any foreign objects or structural elements which
could come into contact with the module, especially when the module is under mechanical load.
5.7
To prevent water from entering the junction box, which could result in a safety hazard, modules
should
not
be mounted with the front/top glass facing downward.
5.8
At least a 4 inch clearance between the module frames and structure, or wall, or ground is
required to prevent wiring damage and allows air to circulate behind the module.
5.9
PV modules can be mounted to the structure by the following methods:
5.9.1
Mounting Holes: Secure the module to the structure using the mounting holes. There are 4
mounting holes on module frame which have been evaluated by UL for mounting. Attach
¼ -20 x 0.75” stainless steel screw via each mounting hole with ¼” stainless steel flat
washer, and secure from behind with another stainless steel flat washer, local washer and
nut. Torque the bolts to 6.3ft lbs (8.5Nm).
5.9.2
Pressure Clamps or Clips: Mount the module with the clamps or clips on the module frame.
Installers should ensure the clamps are of sufficient strength to allow for the maximum
design pressure of the module.
5.10
It is recommended that modules be securely fastened on the long side of the frames, but
mounting the module only on the short side is allowed. The maximum mechanical load applied
on the module
must
not
exceed 30 lbs/ft
2
(1600 Pascal).
