Iec Fire Class Versus Module Type For Solar Panels

By niclas on 26 june 2015.

Iec fire class versus module type for solar panels.

The fire resistance qualification of pv modules within the framework of the iec certification at tüv rheinland requires at least four pv modules of each class for testing. 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. Depending on the fire behaviour and the dimensions of the pv modules this number may also be higher.

Systems which include the pv module mounting system and roof covering will be tested together. Type is based on 4 construction parameters and 2 fire performance parameters. If you buy a solar module with iec 61215 61730 61701 etc. Iec 61215 tests at the time of applying for certification.

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. Basically certifications per se do not tell much about the quality of a module. Tests are performed both on complete solar modules with and without frames and on individual module components junction box backside foil. The new version of ul1703 introduces the concept of a pv module type.

Iec certification of solar pv panels. These ensure the safe operation the suitability of the components and the functionality of solar pv panels. It indicates that the solar pv modules comply with individual safety quality and durability requirements. Class c module over class c b or a roof.

That s where iec 61730 comes in. One of the most important solar panel testing procedures is the iec certification. Modules combined with mounting or racking systems then receive a fire rating denoted by class a b or c. Tüv rheinland energie und umwelt gmbh.

Under the revisions individual panels will be required to obtain a classification type based on construction review and testing. 61646 type approval of pv modules prior to the. 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. Certifications it means that the certification holding manufacturer managed to produce a few modules of that type that passed a standard s e g.

Then a mounting system or module manufacturer performs the fire classification tests for a specific type of module or panel. 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.