Discuss the control of microcracks in photovoltaic modules from three aspects
Today, Hengyuantai will discuss how to control microcracks in photovoltaic modules after leaving the factory from three aspects: module placement, secondary handling, and installation.
1. Module Placement
- The stacking area for whole module boxes should be flat and spacious, facilitating transportation while preventing module microcracks or damage caused by sloping ground.
- The stacking height of the whole boxes should not exceed two boxes high. Pay attention to ensure that pallets are stacked neatly, avoiding corners of the pallets hanging in the air.
- After placing the modules, avoid further handling or movement before they reach the construction site, as repeated movements increase the risk of microcracks.
- Once the modules are placed neatly, cover them with materials such as tarps to prevent damage or microcracks caused by modules tilting or overturning due to continuous rain washing the area.
- When temporarily placing modules flat, they must be arranged neatly, placed on pallets or flat ground. The glass side of the first and last module should face upwards, while the back of the modules in the middle should face upwards.
- When temporarily leaning modules against columns or other objects, they must be arranged neatly, and the supporting object must be flat and free of protrusions.
- Temporarily stored modules should be installed on the same day. Any remaining modules should be stored flat or protected to prevent collapse when unattended.
2. Secondary Handling of Modules
- After unpacking, each module should be handled by two people when transporting it to the installation site to reduce the risk of dropping the module. This also minimizes the risk of collisions or shocks that could cause microcracks or damage.
- During transportation, be mindful of the surrounding environment to avoid collisions between the module and other objects, which could cause microcracks or broken glass.
- When the modules arrive at the installation site, they should be leaned against the completed support beams rather than placed flat on the ground.
- The transport of modules should use forklifts for single-box handling, and cranes should be used for water-based projects. Non-conventional machinery such as excavators or loaders should be avoided to prevent damage during transportation.
- When modules are on the roof, protective measures should be taken around the modules to prevent accidental collisions with walls or corners, which could cause microcracks or visible damage.
3. Module Installation
- During installation, a top-to-bottom installation approach should be followed. Temporary fixing of modules using bricks, wooden plugs, or other materials should be avoided. At least two bolts should be used to temporarily secure the top of the module.
- During installation, installers should avoid stepping directly on the modules. Actions such as stepping, sitting, kneeling, striking, pressing, or impacting the module can cause localized pressure on the cells, leading to microcracks.
- The bolts used to secure the modules must be tightened securely, and the spring washers should be tightened flat.
- When using compression blocks to fix the modules, the surface of the compression block should make firm contact with the module frame to avoid angles that could cause instability.
This concludes Hengyuantai’s introduction on how to prevent microcracks in photovoltaic modules through these three points.