aptos DNA-120 Series - User Manual

InstallationManual
HighEfficiencyHalf-CellModule
Introduction
Thismanual containsinformationabout electrical and
mechanicalinstallation of the solar panels: DNA-120
and DNA-144 Series
Disclaimer of Liability
Installation techniques and methods of this product is
beyond Aptos Solar Technology’s control. AST doesnot
assumeresponsibility of lossor damage resulting from
improper installation, handling or use. AST disclaims liability
for damage, loss, expense arising out of, or in any way
connectedwith installation,useor maintenanceby usingthis
manual
Regulation Information
This certified product meets the UL1703 standard for
maximum system voltage of 1500V with maximum
overcurrent protection rating of 20A. The installer or system
integratoris assumedthe responsibility to ensurecompliance
with all localelectrical codeswhich maybe applicable.
Warnings & Safety
Solarpanels generateelectricity when exposedto light,
which can cause lethal shock and burnhazards.
Only authorized, qualified and trained installers should
handle these solar panels. Do not touch live terminals with
bare hands.Workonly in dry weatherwith dry solar panels
and tools.
Do not make connections while under load. Do not
disconnect under load. Use insulated tools for electrical
connections.Do not stepor standon thesolar panel.Do not
disassemblethe solar panel or junction box.
Carry panel with two or more person. Do not carry by its
wires or junction box. Wear non-slip, suitable gloves and
protective clothing.
Do not install the solar panel where flammable vapors or
gasesare present.Do not installin corrosiveenvironment.
Do not direct artificially concentratedsunlight on solar panel.
Fire Rating
If mounted over a roof, the solar panel shall be mounted
over afire resistant roof covering rated for the application.
Refer to local authority for guidelines and regulations for
building fire protectionand requiredslope. The module
fire performance rating is Type I.
Installing the Panel
Aptos Solar Technology panels may be installed invarious
applications. The particular mounting is to be defined by
the systemdesigner.Installermust handle and mountthe
modules to prevent any impact on front surface, back
surface,and framesas thiscould resultin damage.
Support structures used to support AST DNA panels should
be wind rated and approved for use by the appropriate
codes prior to installation. In addition, they must be
designed frommaterialsthat retain structuralintegrity over
the 25 yearslifespanof the panels theysupport.
AST DNA panels may be installed in portraits orlandscape
orientation.
Aminimumof tilt angle of 5degreesis requiredto ensure
drainage and enable rainwater.
Thejunctionbox edge should be at the top when mounted
in portraitorientation.
Specific rails and frame clips approved by AST are listed in
Table 1. Alternative rails and frame clips/fasteners need to
be approved by AST to ensure compliance toUL1703 safety
standard.
Framecross-section
Module Wiring
AST DNA panels are pre-wired and terminated withMC4-
compatibleconnectors.
Connections to other panels shouldusecompatible
connectorsthat complywith Coderequirements
AST recommendsthat all wiring be double insulated with a
minimum rating of 90 C, and wiring should use flexible
copperconductorswhere minimumsize should be
determined by theapplicable Codes.
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All Rights Reserved.DNA-120/144 Installation Manual Rev0.0

Summary

Introduction and Disclaimer

Introduction to Installation Manual

Manual covers electrical and mechanical installation of DNA-120 and DNA-144 Series solar panels.

Disclaimer of Liability

Aptos Solar Technology is not responsible for loss or damage from improper installation, handling, or use.

Regulation and Safety Information

Regulation Information

Product meets UL1703 standard for 1500V max voltage and 20A overcurrent protection.

Warnings & Safety Precautions

Hazards of lethal shock and burns. Use only qualified installers, work in dry conditions, avoid live terminals.

Fire Rating

Module fire performance rating is Type I. Refer to local authority for roof covering requirements.

Panel Installation Guidelines

Installing the Panel

Handle modules carefully to prevent surface or frame damage. Use approved mounting structures.

Orientation and Tilt Angle

Panels can be installed in portrait or landscape orientation. Minimum tilt angle of 5 degrees is required.

Mounting Hardware Approval

Use AST-approved rails and frame clips. Alternatives require AST approval for UL1703 compliance.

Module Wiring and Electrical Specifications

Module Wiring

Panels are pre-wired with MC4-compatible connectors. Use compatible connectors and double insulated wiring.

Cable and Connector Ratings

Cables and connectors are UV/weather resistant (-40°C to +90°C) and rated for 1500VDC.

Electrical Characteristics

Electrical characteristics are within ±10% of Isc, Imp, Vmp, Voc and ±3% of Pmax at STC.

System Voltage and Temperature Effects

Maximum system voltage is 1500VDC. Voc increases as ambient temperature decreases.

Grounding and Maintenance

Grounding Method

Follow NEC article 250 and local electric codes for grounding. Use specified hardware and torque.

Maintenance Recommendations

Little maintenance required. Periodic cleaning may be needed. Annual professional check of wiring and torque.

Maintenance Safety

Personnel must take precautions as panels generate electricity when exposed to sunlight.

Mounting System Details

Mechanical Drawings and Frame Clips

Use pre-drilled mounting holes. Frame clips must meet minimum height dimensions.

Mounting Methods and Fasteners

M8 bolts and fasteners with specific torque (12.5-18 Nm). Rails can run parallel or perpendicular.

General Mounting Information

Slope < 5 in/ft for fire rating. Modules are fire class C, suitable for Class A roof.

Pole Mount Installation

Select pole and mounting structures that withstand anticipated winds for the area.

Modules Installed with Clamping

Use clamps with specific torque and ensure they do not contact the front glass.

Mounting System Loading Conditions

Low;Normal Loading Conditions

Apply to most environments, rated load 1600Pa, safety factor 1.5, use 4 mounting holes.

High Loading Conditions

Apply to harsher conditions (storm, snow), rated load 3600Pa, safety factor 1.5, use 8 mounting holes.

Clamping Range for Long Frame

Specifies permissible clamp range (S) relative to module length (L) for the long frame.

Clamping Range for Short Frame

Specifies permissible clamp range (H) relative to module width (W) for the short frame.

Module Specifications and Dimensions

DNA-144 Series Electrical Data

Provides Vmax, Imax, Voc, Isc values for DNA-144 series modules (390W to 415W).

General Module Specifications

Maximum System Voltage: 1500 VDC, Bypass Diodes: 3, Series Fuse Rating: 20A, Max Modules in Series: 30.

Module Dimensions and Mounting Holes

Shows module dimensions and indicates mounting holes are at 1/4 and 1/8 of panel length.

DNA-120 Series Module Specifications

DNA-120 Series Electrical Data

Provides Vmax, Imax, Voc, Isc values for DNA-120 series modules (320W to 345W).

General Module Specifications

Maximum System Voltage: 1500 VDC, Bypass Diodes: 3, Series Fuse Rating: 20A, Max Modules in Series: 36.

Module Dimensions and Mounting Holes

Shows module dimensions and indicates mounting holes are at 1/4 and 1/8 of panel length.

Junction Box and Connector Information

Jbox Information

No overcurrent protection type in jbox. Has 3 bypass diodes. Cables are 4mm², 90°C rated, sun-exposed.

Ways of Connecting Modules

Connect positive electrode of one module to negative of the next for series installation.

PV Wiring Connectors

Modules use UL 6703 compliant PV wiring connectors. Lists allowable mating connector models.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
4. Maintenance Features

This document describes the installation and maintenance of Aptos Solar Technology's High Efficiency Half-Cell Modules, specifically the DNA-120, DNA-144, DNA320-345W, and DNA390-415W series. These solar panels are designed for various photovoltaic applications, offering high efficiency and bifacial capabilities in some models.

Function Description:

The solar panels convert sunlight into electricity. They are designed for use in grid-tied or off-grid photovoltaic systems, generating direct current (DC) power. The half-cell design aims to improve efficiency and reduce power loss. Bifacial models (DNA390-415W series) are capable of capturing sunlight from both the front and rear surfaces, potentially increasing overall energy yield depending on the installation environment and albedo. The modules are pre-wired with MC4-compatible connectors for easy integration into a solar array.

Important Technical Specifications:

• System Voltage: Maximum system voltage for all listed models is 1500 VDC.
• Overcurrent Protection: Maximum overcurrent protection rating of 20A.
• Bypass Diodes: Each module is equipped with 3 bypass diodes.
• Series Fuse Rating: 20A.
• Maximum Modules in Series:
  • DNA-144 Series: 30 modules.
  • DNA-120 Series: 36 modules.
• Cable Specifications:
  • UV and weather resistant, rated from -40°C to +90°C.
  • Diameter of cables: 4mm² for each of the two cables per module.
  • Insulation: 90°C insulation, suitable for sun exposure.
• Electrical Characteristics (within ±10% for Isc, Imp, Vmp, Voc and ±3% for Pmax under STC: 1000W/m², AM 1.5, 25°C cell temperature):
  • DNA-144 Series (390W - 415W):
    • Vmax: Ranges from 48.17 ± 3% to 48.64 ± 3%
    • Imax: Ranges from 10.14 ± 3% to 10.61 ± 3%
    • Voc: Ranges from 39.65 ± 3% to 40.50 ± 3%
    • Isc: Ranges from 9.84 ± 3% to 10.25 ± 3%
  • DNA-120 Series (320W - 345W):
    • Vmax: Ranges from 40.21 ± 3% to 40.70 ± 3%
    • Imax: Ranges from 10.06 ± 3% to 10.52 ± 3%
    • Voc: Ranges from 32.96 ± 3% to 33.80 ± 3%
    • Isc: Ranges from 9.73 ± 3% to 10.21 ± 3%
• Fire Rating: Type I for modules, suitable for mounting over Class A roof coverings (for DNA390-415W, rated Class C, suitable over Class A roof).
• Frame Cross-Section:
  • Height: 40mm
  • Width: 35mm
• Mounting Holes: 14mm x 9mm. Located at 1/4 and 1/8 of the panel length.
• Grounding: M4 bolt, cup washer, grounding wires, flat washer, tooth washer, screw nut. Torque specification: 2 to 3 Nm. Grounding materials evaluated under UL1703.
• Mounting Fasteners (for M8 bolt):
  • Bolt: M8 Stainless steel (ss)
  • Flat washer: Φ16-Φ8.4 H1.6 ss
  • Spring washer: Φ12.6-Φ8.4 H4.7 ss
  • Torque value: 12.5 Nm – 18 Nm (for M8 bolt), 9-15 Nm (for M6 bolt).
• Clamps Materials: Aluminum. Bolt torque: 12.5 – 18 Nm. Clamp must not contact the front glass.

Usage Features:

• Installation Orientation: Panels can be installed in portrait or landscape orientation.
• Tilt Angle: A minimum tilt angle of 5 degrees is required for drainage and rainwater.
• Junction Box Orientation: The junction box edge should be at the top when mounted in portrait orientation.
• Mounting Methods:
  • Mounting Holes: Modules can be bolted to support structures using pre-drilled holes in the frame.
  • Clamping: Modules can be clamped to support structures. Clamping distance is recommended to be at quarter of the module length.
• Wiring:
  • Pre-wired with MC4-compatible connectors.
  • Connections to other panels should use compatible connectors that comply with Code requirements.
  • AST recommends double-insulated wiring with a minimum rating of 90°C, using flexible copper conductors.
  • The specific allowable mating connector manufacturers and model numbers are listed (e.g., PV-ZH202-SBN, TL-Cable01, PV-JM601, etc.).
• Electrical Design Considerations:
  • Panels can be wired in series or parallel.
  • The values of Isc and Voc, including bifacial gain, should be multiplied by a factor of 1.25 (or more) when determining component voltage ratings and sizing controls.
  • Voc increases as ambient temperature decreases, requiring careful calculation of maximum system voltage for the lowest expected ambient temperature.
  • AST panels may produce up to 20% more power than STC rating, depending on system design and albedo, which should be considered for optimum system sizing.
• Safety:
  • Only authorized, qualified, and trained installers should handle the panels.
  • Do not touch live terminals with bare hands.
  • Work only in dry weather with dry panels and tools.
  • Do not make or disconnect connections under load.
  • Use insulated tools for electrical connections.
  • Do not step or stand on the solar panel.
  • Do not disassemble the solar panel or junction box.
  • Carry panels with two or more persons, not by wires or junction box.
  • Wear non-slip gloves and protective clothing.
  • Do not install where flammable vapors/gases or corrosive environments are present.
  • Do not direct artificially concentrated sunlight on the solar panel.

Maintenance Features:

• Low Maintenance Design: ASTDNA panels are designed to require little to no maintenance.
• Cleaning:
  • Periodic cleaning may be needed to remove dirt build-up and soiling.
  • Panels should be washed with water.
  • Frequency of cleaning depends on local weather conditions and panel tilt.
• Annual Inspection: Once a year, a qualified service professional should check:
  • General condition of wiring.
  • Mounting hardware for correct torque (loose connections can damage panels).
• Safety during Maintenance: Cleaning/maintenance personnel must take proper precautions as panels generate electricity when exposed to sunlight.

aptos DNA-120 Series Specifications

General

Brand	aptos
Model	DNA-120 Series
Category	Solar panel
Language	English