Commission and Maintenance
Blocking diodes and bypass diode
Blocking diodes prevent current flowing from the battery to the module when no electricity is being generated. It is recommended to use blocking diodes when a charging
regulator is not used. Your specialist dealer can advise you the suitable types.
In systems with more than two modules in series, high reverse current can flow through cells that are shaded partially or outright when part of a module is shaded and the rest
is exposed to the sun. These currents can cause the affected cells to get very hot and could even damage the module. To protect module from such high reverse currents, by-pass
diodes are used in module. All modules rated greater then 55 Watt have bypass diode already integrated in the junction box. In the unlikely event of diode failure, a replacement can
easily be made.
Protect yourself from electricity shocks while debuging or maintaining the solar power system.
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Testing, commissioning and troubleshooting
Test all electrical and electronic components of the system before using it. Follow the instructions in the guides supplied with the components and equipment.
Testing modules connected in series before they are connected to system.
Check the open-circuit voltage of every series module by a digital multimeter (fluke 170 series are recommended). The measured values should correspond to the sum of the
open-circuit voltage of the individual module. You will find the rated voltage in the technical specifications of the type of the module used. If the measured value is significantly
lower than the expected value, please proceed as described under "Troubleshooting an excessively low voltage".
Check the short-circuit current of every series circuit. It can be measured directly by a digital multimeter (Fluke 170 series are recommended) connected in the two terminals of
series circuit or module, or with any load such as PV illumination to make a rough measurement. Attention, the rated scale of the ammeter or the rated current of load should more
than 1.25 times of the rated short-circuit current of series module. You will find the rated current in the technical specifications of the type of module used. The measured value can
vary significantly, depending on weather conditions, the time of day and shading of the module.
Troubleshooting low voltages
Identify the commonly low voltage and excessively low voltage. Commonly the low voltage mentioned here is the decrease of open-circuit voltage of the module, which is caused
by the temperature rising of solar cells or lower irradiance. Excessively low voltage is typically caused by improper connections at the terminals or defective bypass diodes.
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Commission and Maintenance
First, check all wiring connections to make sure it is not open-circuit or is not connection well.
Check the open-circuit voltage of each module:
Fully cover the modules with an opaque material.
Disconnect the wiring at both terminals of the modules.
Remove the opaque material from the module to be checked and measure the open-circuit voltage at its terminals.
If the measured voltage is only half of the rated, this indicates a defective bypass diode. Refer to 'Testing and replacing bypass diodes' .
In the case of not very low irradiance, if the voltage across the terminals differs from the rated value by more than 5 percent, this indicates a bad electrical connection.
Maintenance
Suntech recommends the following maintenance in order to ensure optimum performance of the module:
Clean the glass surface of the module as necessary. Always use water and a soft sponge or cloth for cleaning. A mild, non-abrasive cleaning agent can be used to remove
stubborn dirt.
Check the electrical and mechanical connections every six months to verify that they are clean, secure and undamaged.
If any problem arises, have them investigated by a competent specialist. Attention, observe the maintenance instructions for all components used in the system, such as
support frames, charging regulators, inverters, batteries etc.
Disclaimer of liability
Because the use of this manual and the conditions or methods of installation, operation, use and maintenance of photovoltaic (PV)
product are beyond Suntech's control, Suntech does not accept responsibility and expressly disclaims liability for loss, damage, or
expense arising out of or in any way connected with such installation, operation, use or maintenance.
No responsibility is assumed by Suntech for any infringement of patents or other rights of third parties, which may result from use of the
PV product. No license is granted by implication or otherwise under any patent or patent rights.
The information in this manual is based on Suntech's knowledge and experience and is believed to be reliable; but such information
including product specification (without limitations) and suggestions do not constitute a warranty, expresses or implied. Suntech reserve the
right to change the manual, the PV produce, the specifications, or product information sheets without prior notice.
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