Tindo Solar Karra Series

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Overview

Function Description
Important Technical Specifications
Usage Features
Maintenance Features

The Tindo Solar PV Modules are designed to transform sunlight into electricity, offering a sustainable energy solution. This installation manual provides comprehensive guidelines for the safe and effective setup, operation, and maintenance of these modules.

Function Description

Tindo solar modules convert solar energy into electrical energy. The name "Tindo" is derived from the Kaurna warra Aboriginal language, meaning "sun," "watch," "clock," or "day," while "Karra" signifies "sky," "height," or "heaven." This nomenclature reflects the origin of the energy—from the sun and sky. The modules are designed for outdoor installations, specifically in Australia, and are suitable for altitudes up to 2000m. They are not intended for mobile usage or indoor installations. The system comprises an anodized aluminum frame, highly transparent tempered glass, encapsulant material, photovoltaic solar cells, an insulating back sheet, and a junction box. The junction box contains bypass diodes connected in parallel with cell strands to prevent localized heat spots and performance loss.

Important Technical Specifications

The Tindo Solar PV Modules come in different series, including Karra - XXX (System Voltage 1000V Module) and Karra - XXXH (System Voltage 1500V Module). The modules are certified according to IEC 61215, IEC 61730-1, and IEC 61730-2 for safe operation in moderate climates.

Mechanical Load Test Conditions:
- Clamping Installation:
  - Design Load: Front 3600 Pa, Back 1600 Pa
  - Safety Factor: 1.5
  - Test Load: Front 5400 Pa, Back 2400 Pa
- Bolting Installation:
  - Design Load: Front 3600 Pa, Back 1600 Pa
  - Safety Factor: 1.5
  - Test Load: Front 5400 Pa, Back 2400 Pa
Loading Conditions:
- Low/Normal Loading: Maximum static pressure on the back side is 2400 Pa (wind load), and on the front side is 2400 Pa (wind and snow load).
- High Loading (Severe Environments): Maximum static pressure on the back side is 2400 Pa (wind load), and on the front side is 5400 Pa (wind and snow load), meeting the highest IEC pressure requirements.
Temperature Range: Permitted module temperatures lie between -40 °C and +85 °C.
Electrical Performance: Module electric performance parameters (Isc, Voc, Pmax nominal values) have a ±3% error under standard testing conditions (irradiance of 1000 W/m², cell temperature of 25°C, and air mass of AM1.5).
Cables: Type Designation: H1Z2Z2-K 1x4mm², Rated Voltage: DC 1.5kV / AC 1kV, Ambient Temperature: -40°C ~ +90°C, Conductor.
Connectors: Only PV-KST4 EVO 2, PV-KBT4 EVO 2 / Staubli (MC4) are to be used.
Junction Box: Enclosed, with a protective level of IP67.
Tilt Angle: Minimum 5 degrees.
Module Spacing: Minimum 10mm between modules.

Usage Features

Installation Flexibility: Modules can be installed in either landscape or portrait orientation. The junction box should be positioned in the upper area with wires hanging down.
Mounting Options: Modules can be fixed using mounting holes or clamps.
- Mounting Holes: Bolts are used to fix modules to the mounting system through frame mounting holes on the back of the module frame. Four mounting holes are used for both portrait and landscape installations. Recommended accessories include M8 x 16mm stainless steel bolts, M8 washers, M8 spring washers, and M8 nuts. Torque for fastening bolts is 16Nm~20Nm.
- Clamps: Modules are installed on the mounting system using clamps. The clamps must not contact the glass or deform the module frame. The contacting surface of the clamp should be even and smooth to prevent damage. Clamps should not produce any shading effect. Approved clamping areas are specified relative to the module edge. Torque for fastening bolts is 18Nm~24Nm.
Series and Parallel Connections:
- In series connection, the final voltage is the sum of the single module voltages.
- In parallel connection, the final current is the sum of the single module currents.
- Modules with different electric performance models cannot be connected in series.
- The number of modules in series connection must comply with regulations, ensuring the open circuit voltage under the lowest expected temperature does not exceed the maximum system voltage.
Grounding: The anodized corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy frame must be grounded for safety and protection against lightning and static-electricity damage. Grounding devices must be in full contact with the inner side of the aluminum alloy and penetrate the frame surface oxide film. No additional grounding holes should be drilled. Grounding can be done via a grounding clamp (using a Ø4.2 mm hole on the back frame, 12 AWG copper core wire, 2.3N.m torque) or unoccupied mounting holes.
Environmental Adaptability: Designed to withstand various environmental conditions, but installation should avoid rain, snow, hot, or windy conditions. Drain holes in the frame must remain unobstructed for water drainage.

Maintenance Features

Cleaning: Tindo panels are designed for long life with minimal maintenance. Rain typically washes off most dirt. If dirt accumulates, panels should be washed or rinsed with water to remove dust, dirt, or other deposits. The glass surface should be cleaned with a soft cloth using warm water or ethanol. Aggressive cleaners, especially those with alkali chemicals or ammonia-based products, should not be used.
Annual Inspection (by a specialist installer):
- Secure fastening and corrosion-free system components.
- Secure connection, cleanliness, and integrity of all electrical components.
- Contact resistances of the grounding.
Module Appearance Inspection (visual check):
- Module glass cracks.
- Corrosion at welding parts of the cell main grid (indicating moisture ingress).
- Traces of burning on the module back plate.
- Signs of aging, including rodent damage, weather damage, connection tightness, corrosion, and grounding condition.
- Any foreign objects in contact with the PV module surface.
- Any obstacles shielding the PV modules.
- Loose or damaged screws between modules and brackets (adjust and fix as needed).
- Connector sealing and cable connection.
- Gaps or cracks in the sealant of the terminal box.
Bypass Diode Check: If a bypass diode is suspected to be out of order, the installer or system maintenance supplier should be contacted. Users should not attempt to open the module junction box.
Handling Precautions:
- Avoid walking on modules or dropping heavy/sharp objects on them.
- Transport modules in original packaging.
- Secure panels properly if transported outside their boxes to prevent movement.
- Record module serial numbers for system documentation.