Structural survivability of each PV panel
frame to provide structural strength and ease of instal-
The PV panel mechanical structure was inspected
lation.
prior to installation and removal from the ARO build-
PhotoComm, Inc., model DV-50-N
Duravolt non-glass solar electric modules are
designed specifically for use in rough environments,
where typical glass solar modules are prone to break-
age. Duravolt modules are constructed with highly effi-
cient, multicrystalline solar cells laminated between an
aluminum backplate and face covering of clear Tefzel
fluropolymer resin by DuPont. The module is framed
with rugged anodized aluminum, which features a cap-
tive nut channel for easy installation. Fully gasketed
and sealed for maximum protection from rain and con-
densation, this design eliminates gaps in the gasket cor-
ners.
ASE Americas model ASE-50-AL
These devices have 36 crystalline (EFG) silicon solar
cells, 100 mm square, that are series connected. The
a. Top view of corner connections (flat head sheet metal
screws).
encapsulant is an advanced proprietary substance (not
EVA), while the front is tempered, 1/8-in.- (3.2-mm-)
thick, low iron glass. The back skin is heavy duty, 0.005-
in. (0.127-mm) aluminum foil. The frame is aluminum,
and the junction box accommodates a variety of cables.
The terminal block allows for both series and parallel
module to module wiring, with wire sizes ranging from
no. 4 to no. 18 awg. Factory installed bypass diodes are
in place for every 18 cells connected in series.
Solarex model MSX-50
This device has a heavy duty frame, made up of corro-
sion resistant aluminum, with a bronzed, anodized fin-
ish. It has the following features:
Weatherproof junction box, NEMA 4X, UL rated
b. Front view of corner connections.
terminal box, mounted to frame, not the module
back, that accepts bypass blocking diodes.
True power rating, every module tested, labels for
both standard and field operating conditions
(watts, volts, amps).
Internal bussbar located outside cell area improves
safety and module life.
UL listed for electrical and safety (class C fire rat-
ing).
FM Approved for use in NEC Class 1, Division 2,
Group D hazardous locations.
PV panel aluminum frame
Each of the four manufacturer's PV modules is sur-
rounded by a frame. The frame consists of four pieces
of extruded aluminum fastened at the top and bottom
c. Back view of corner connections (arrow points to plas-
tic environmental seal cap; extruded channel is closed).
corners by sheet metal screws. Figures 36 depict the
various styles of corner connections surrounding the
Figure 3. Details of KYOCERA panel.
PV modules.
3
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