Iec Fire Class Versus Module Type For Solar Panels

Under the revisions individual panels will be required to obtain a classification type based on construction review and testing.

Iec fire class versus module type for solar panels.

Tests are performed both on complete solar modules with and without frames and on individual module components junction box backside foil. Any other module or panel that meets the requirements for same type module or panel could receive the same fire classification rating. If a pv rack with a type 1 module achieves a class a fire rating the installer can use any other type 1 module and retain the fire classification. 61646 type approval of pv modules prior to the.

One of the most important solar panel testing procedures is the iec certification. If you buy a solar module with iec 61215 61730 61701 etc. By niclas on 26 june 2015. That s where iec 61730 comes in.

Then a mounting system or module manufacturer performs the fire classification tests for a specific type of module or panel. Over a fire rated roof of the same or higher fire class. The new version of ul1703 introduces the concept of a pv module type. Certifications it means that the certification holding manufacturer managed to produce a few modules of that type that passed a standard s e g.

Pv modules certified as class c modules will only need to perform one fire test and provide information on the thickness of their glass encapsulate and substrate backsheet to obtain a. Type is based on 4 construction parameters and 2 fire performance parameters. Tüv rheinland energie und umwelt gmbh. A module manufacturer may perform the module or panel characterization tests.

As with any electronic device solar panels carry the risk of electrical shock if improperly built. A special requirement from en iec 61730 is that the test samples have to be preconditioned with environmental tests as described in en iec 61215 resp. Class c module over class c b or a roof. This standard address the safety aspects of a solar panel encompassing both an assessment of the module s construction and the testing requirements to evaluate electrical mechanical thermal and fire safety.

These ensure the safe operation the suitability of the components and the functionality of solar pv panels. Basically certifications per se do not tell much about the quality of a module. Systems which include the pv module mounting system and roof covering will be tested together. Modules combined with mounting or racking systems then receive a fire rating denoted by class a b or c.

It indicates that the solar pv modules comply with individual safety quality and durability requirements. Depending on the fire behaviour and the dimensions of the pv modules this number may also be higher.