SunPower SPR-E Series

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Overview

Function Description
Important Technical Specifications
Usage Features
Maintenance Features

This document provides safety and installation instructions for SunPower photovoltaic (PV) modules, specifically covering E-series (SPR-Eyy-xxx), X-series (SPR-Xyy-xxx), P-Series (SPR-Pyy-xxx, SPR-P3-xxx, SPR-Pyy-xxx-UPP), SPR-MAX2-xxx, SPR-MAX3-xxx, and SPR-MAX5-xxx PV Modules. It is intended for use in Europe, Asia, Australia, Latin America, and Africa. The manual emphasizes that the English version prevails in case of inconsistencies with other language versions.

Function Description:

SunPower PV modules are designed to convert sunlight into electricity. They are suitable for installation on buildings and as freestanding units. The modules are compatible with transformer-less inverters and do not require functional grounding. The document outlines procedures for safe handling, electrical connection, and mounting to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Important Technical Specifications:

Module Types: E-series, X-series, P-Series (including P3, P5, and UPP variants), MAX2, MAX3, and MAX5. It is crucial not to mix different series (E, X, MAX2, MAX3, MAX5, P Series, P3, P5) within a single system.
Certifications: IEC 61215 Edition 2-2005 and Edition 3-2016 for PV Modules, and IEC 61730 Edition 1 and 2 series for Class II applications, as indicated by the TÜV Rheinland logo.
Electrical Characteristics:
- Standard Test Conditions (STC): 1 kW/m² irradiance, AM 1.5 spectrum, cell temperature of 25 °C.
- Voltage and Current Multipliers: A factor of 1.25 should be applied to STC values (Isc and Voc) when determining component voltage ratings, conductor ampacities, fuse sizes, and controls connected to PV output. An additional 1.25 multiplier may be required by local codes for fusing and conductors.
- Maximum System Voltage: Determined using open-circuit voltage temperature coefficients listed on the datasheets.
- Wiring: Double insulated, minimum rating of 85°C (185°F). Flexible copper (Cu) conductors, minimum size determined by applicable codes (recommended not less than 4mm²). Insulation type must meet SCII (Safety Class II) and IEC 61730 requirements.
- Cable Bend Radius: Minimum of 40mm, not to be bent on the direct exit of the connector or junction box.
Operating Temperatures:
- Maximum: +85 °C (+185 °F)
- Minimum: -40 °C (-40 °F)
Design Strength: Modules are designed to withstand positive or negative (upward and downward, e.g., wind) and static (e.g., snow) pressure loads as per IEC 61215, when mounted in specified configurations.
Corrosion Resistance:
- Salt Mist: IEC 61701 Severity 6
- Ammonia: IEC 62716 Concentration: 6,667ppm
Module Dimensions and Mounting Holes: Detailed diagrams and tables (Figures 2, 4, and Tables 1, 2) provide specific measurements for various module types (96-cell, 104-cell, 128-cell, P-series, MAX-series) including frame dimensions, drain holes, ground holes, and mounting hole locations. Measurement tolerances are +/-3 mm for length and width.
Mounting Zone Load Ratings: Tables 1.2, 1.3, and 1.4 specify allowed wind (up & down) and snow (down) load ratings in Pascals (Pa) for different mounting configurations (with and without rail support, and various clamping zones). A safety factor of 1.5 is included in these ratings.
Frame Grounding: If frame grounding is performed, direct contact between aluminum and copper should be avoided using an intermediate metal like stainless steel or tin.

Usage Features:

Installation Orientation: Modules can be mounted at any angle from horizontal to vertical. A minimum of 5° tilt angle is recommended for good performance (reduction of soiling/water pooling).
Ventilation: Adequate ventilation behind modules is crucial, especially in hot environments. A minimum clearance of 5 mm between module frames and structure or ground is recommended.
Shading Avoidance: Modules should be installed to minimize permanent and partial shading, especially at mid-day, to prevent significant energy production reduction.
Series/Parallel Connection: Modules can be connected in series to achieve desired voltage output (not exceeding maximum system voltage) and in parallel for desired current output. Series strings must be fused if the resulting maximum reverse current exceeds the fuse rating.
Bypass Diodes: Factory installed in the modules.
Locking Connectors: For connectors accessible to untrained people, locking connectors and safety clips (if applicable) must be used to prevent accidental disconnection.
Performance Series Mounting: P-Series modules are designed for landscape orientation to maintain higher power under row-to-row shading and edge soiling.
Bifacial Gain: The document acknowledges bifacial gain, influenced by albedo, irradiance, structure shading factor, and module installation height. Users are advised to consult datasheets and suitable software for simulating overall bifacial gain.

Maintenance Features:

Visual Inspection: Regular visual inspection of all modules is recommended for safe electrical connections, sound mechanical connection, and freedom from corrosion. This should be performed by trained personnel, ideally once a year.
Cleaning: Periodic cleaning is recommended but not required, especially in regions with low annual precipitation.
- Method: Wash with potable, non-heated water. Normal water pressure is sufficient, but pressurized water up to 100 bar (min. 50 cm distance) can be used.
- Procedure for Stains/Fingerprints: Rinse the area, let soak for 5 minutes, re-wet, and wipe with a soft sponge or seamless cloth in a circular motion.
- Avoid: Harsh cleaning materials (scouring powder, steel wool, scrapers, blades), dry cleaning, or spinning brushes.
- Gloves: When handling modules with anti-reflective coated glass, gloves (not leather) are recommended to avoid fingerprints.
Damaged Modules: Damaged modules (broken glass, torn back sheet, broken j-boxes, broken connectors) are electrical and laceration hazards. They should be removed from the array and the supplier contacted for disposal instructions.
Storage: Modules must be protected from rain or liquids. Required storage temperature is 10°C to 40°C in a dry environment (30% to 80% humidity). Do not store modules outdoors.