In addition to facing harsh weather conditions, solar plant components must also endure other challenges.…
Check list: The 10 most important points when installing cables in solar plants
The solar energy market has grown exponentially in recent years. As a result, the installation of cables in photovoltaic panels has now become an important area. To reduce failures and maintenance, professional cable management is essential. But what do workers need to look out for? Which products are the most suitable? Learn more now.
Solar energy is becoming more and more important worldwide. Despite high initial investment and medium-term financial return, it is one of the most promising alternative energy sources in the world. For optimal profitability, it is important to rely on high-quality products and to use them in the best possible way.
It pays off to train employees right from the start and make them aware of the most important aspects when installing solar cables. But what exactly should they pay attention to?
How to attach cables to photovoltaic solar modules the right way
As global market leader in cable management, HellermannTyton offers solutions that help prevent photovoltaic panel downtimes. With solutions that guarantee a long lifetime, some of which have been developed specifically for the solar sector.
This checklist is designed to assist installers in the correct application of cable ties, clips and clamps to solar modules.
Check it out right now and learn how to find the right solution for your specific type of installation.
1. Avoid “cable curves”.
This type of lashing can break over time due to movement caused by thermal expansion and wind.
Make sure cables run in straight lines rather than ovals.
2. Never tie the cables near a metal edge without using a suitable product
There is a high risk of damaging the cable sheath, which can cause short circuits and, in the worst case, a fire.
3. For perforations, use the appropriate fastening clips.
Solar Clip with Fir Tree and LOC series clips are most suitable for photovoltaic systems.
They not only fulfill the function of fastening, but also enable the tying of cables – all in a single product.
4. Use Edge Clips to avoid drilling panels.
UV-stabilized and made of stainless steel, MSC2 Edge Clip models allow you to hold one or more cables without drilling.
This ensures that cable insulation remains intact and does not suffer from exposure to the weather.
5. Take special care with cables in floating photovoltaic systems.
For underwater applications or cabling exposed to moisture, the following applies: cables and connectors must be properly protected and managed to prevent cable damage.
6. Use mounting points that suit the number of solar modules.
If mounting points are not sized correctly and a fault occurs in one of the fixing elements, a cascade effect will occur immediately.
This can lead to energy loss and damage to the system.
7. Clamps for solar applications must meet a wide variety of requirements.
Firstly, it is very important that the clamps are made of materials resistant to UV light. In addition, it is important that they can handle movements without any problems – for example, movements caused by the solar tracker. In addition, clamps in solar applications must be able to withstand different temperature fluctuations.
8. Avoid exposed, sharp or pointed edges.
Sharp or pointed edges can break the cables and subsequently cause short circuits.
9. Always ensure proper cable routing.
Remember that if the cables are not managed properly, the solar system may experience problems such as constant pulling weight on the junction boxes, which may result in constant maintenance.
10. Always refer to this checklist when installing cables on photovoltaic plants.
This is the best way to ensure the safety of your photovoltaic solar installation.
Proven cable management know-how
You would like to get more exciting information about the profitability of solar systems, e.g. via inspiring, free webinars? Or you would like to get in touch with HellermannTyton experts directly? Learn more about the competence of HellermannTyton in Solar here.
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