CORAB ENCOR User manual

Installation manual
montażu
and safe operation instructions
of photovoltaic modules
ENCOR
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[Does not apply to BIFACIAL modules]
General information
This manual contains information regarding the
installation and safe operation instructions of ENCOR
photovoltaic modules (hereinafter referred to as
“Module”).
All instructions should be read and understood before
attempting to install. If there are any questions, please
contact the manufacturer for further explanation. The
installer should conform to all the safety precautions in
the manual when installing the module. Local regulations
should also be followed in such installation.
Before installing a solar photovoltaic system, the installer
should become familiar with the mechanical and electrical
requirement for such a system. Keep this guide in a safe
place for further reference (care and maintenance) and in
case of sale or disposal of the module.
Safety precautions
The modules are designed to meet the requirements of
IEC 61215 and IEC 61730, and its end use level is A. Class A
modules are suitable for systems with direct current
voltage greater than 50V or 240W that may be contacted
by the public. These modules’ security is classified in IEC
61730-1 and IEC 61730-2 and they meet the requirement
of security class II according to IEC 61140.
General safety
■Installing photovoltaic modules requires specialized
skills and knowledge determined in regulations applicable
in a given country.
■Installation must only be performed by authorized and
trained personnel. Installers must assume all risks of injury
that might occur during installation, including, but not
limited to, the risk of electric shock.
■A single module generates a direct current voltage over
30 V that can cause personal injury in the presence of
direct sunlight. Contact with direct current has high
potential risk, please avoid contact with direct current
under any circumstances.
■PV modules are recommended to be installed at
altitudes of less than 2000 m.
■Modules can be ground mounted or mounted on
rooftops. The proper design of support structures lies
within the responsibility of the system designers and
installers.
■When installing the system, abide to all local, regional
and national statutory regulations. Obtain a building
permit if necessary.
■The electrical characteristics are within ±3 percent of
the indicated values of Isc, Voc and Pmax under standard
test conditions: irradiance of 1000 W/m², AM 1.5
spectrum, and a cell temperature of 25 °C (77 °F).
■Only use equipment, connectors, wiring and support
frames suitable for solar electric systems.
■Always use fall protection equipment when working
from heights. Follow Occupational Safety and Health Act
(OSHA) or local safety regulations regarding fall
protection.
■Do not sit, stand, step on, or walk on modules, including
the frames. Except for natural rainfall or periodic module
cleaning, do not soak any part of the module in water or
continuously impact the module with water.
Operation safety
■Store pallets in a ventilated, rain-proof and dry location
until the modules are ready to be unpacked.
■During the transportation, do not to apply direct
pressure on the backsheet or glass.
■Do not open the package of modules during
transportation and storing until they are ready to be
installed.
■Inappropriate transport may cause damage to the
module and void the warranty.
■Do not lift the module by holding the module’s junction
box or electrical leads. Do not place any heavy or sharp
objects on the module.
■Do not attempt to disassemble the modules, and do not
remove any attached nameplates or components from the
modules.
■Do not use mirrors, other magnifiers or artificially
concentrated sunlight onto the modules.
■Do not apply paint or adhesive to the module top surface
or backsheet.
■To avoid damage to the backsheet and cells, do not
scratch, dent or hit the backsheet.
■Do not drill holes in the frame. This may compromise the
frame strength, cause corrosion of the frame and void the
warranty.
■A module with broken glass or torn backsheet cannot be
repaired and must not be used since contact with any
module surface or the frame can cause an electric shock.

Installation manual
and safe operation instructions
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Does not apply to BIFACIAL modules]
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■Work only under dry conditions, and use only dry tools.
Do not handle modules under wet conditions unless
wearing appropriate protective equipment.
■When storing uninstalled modules outdoors for any
period of time, always cover the modules and ensure that
the glass faces down on a soft flat surface to prevent water
from collecting inside the module and causing damage to
exposed connectors.
Installation safety
■Never disconnect electrical connections or unplug
connectors while the circuit is under load.
■Contact with electrically active parts of the modules,
such as terminals, can result in burns, sparks and lethal
shock whether or not the module is connected.
■Do not touch the PV module unnecessarily during
installation. The glass surface and the frame may be hot;
there is a risk of burns and electric shock.
■Completely cover the module with an opaque material
during installation to prevent electricity from being
generated.
■Do not work in the rain, snow or in windy conditions.
■Avoid exposing cables and connectors to direct sunlight
and scratches or cuts in order to prevent insulation
degradation.
■Keep children well away from the system while
transporting and installing mechanical and electrical
components.
■Use only insulated tools that are approved for working
on electrical installations.
■Do not wear metallic rings, watchbands, ear, nose, lip
rings or other metallic devices while installing or
troubleshooting photovoltaic systems.
■Follow the safety regulations (e.g., safety rules for
working on electrical power plant stations) of your regions
and for all other system components, including wires and
cables, connectors, charging regulators, inverters, storage
batteries, rechargeable batteries, etc.
■Under normal conditions, a photovoltaic module is likely
to experience conditions that produce more current
and/or voltage than reported at standard test conditions.
Accordingly, the values of Isc and Voc marked on this
module should be multiplied by a factor of 1.25 when
determining component voltage ratings, conductor
current ratings, minimum factor of fuse sizes, and size of
controls connected to the PV output. Rated values of
systems are selected based on temperature factors and
local weather conditions.
■Only use same connectors to connect modules to form a
string, or connect to another device. Removing the
connectors will void the warranty.
Fire safety
■Consult your local authority for guidelines and
requirements for building or structural fire safety.
■According to IEC 61730-2 standard, the modules have
been rated Fire Class C. W
■When installing on the roof, the roof must be covered
with a layer of fireproof material adequate for this
application, and sufficient ventilation between the back of
the module frame and the installation surface must be
ensured.
■Roof construction and installation may affect the fire
safety of the building. Improper installation may create
hazards in the event of a fire.
■Use appropriate components such as fuses, circuit
breakers and grounding connectors as requires by local
authority.
■Do not use modules near equipment or in locations
where flammable gases may be generated or collected.

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and safe operation instructions
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Does not apply to BIFACIAL modules]
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Product identification
Each module has two labels providing the following
information.
1. Nameplate: describes the product type; rated
power, rated current, rated voltage, open circuit voltage,
short circuit current, all as measured under standard test
conditions; weight, dimensions, the maximum system
voltage, etc.;
2. Barcode: each single module has a unique serial
number. The serial number contains the model number,
manufacturing time, and corresponding serial number of
the module (except for customer designation). Each
module has only one barcode, which is permanently fixed
to the internal part of the module (excluding black
modules) and visible from the top in the front part of the
module. The barcode is placed on the module before the
process of lamination.
Location selection
■Select a suitable location for the module installation,
where they receive maximum sunlight throughout the
year.
■In the northern hemisphere, the module is
recommended to face south, while in the southern
hemisphere, the module is recommended to face north.
■The module should not be shaded at any time of the day.
■The recommended ambient temperature should be
within -20℃to 40℃, the temperature limits are defined
as the monthly average high and low of the installation
site, the limit operating temperature should be -40℃to
85℃.
■Modules have passed the IEC61701 requirements
concerning salt-mist, however galvanic corrosion can
occur between the aluminium frame of the modules and
mounting or grounding hardware if such hardware is
comprised of other metals. When the module is installed
near the sea, the module should be installed at a distance
of at least 500 m from the coastline. The offshore
installation needs to be confirmed with the manufacturer
and installed after approval.
■Modules must not be installed or operated in areas
where salt, hail, snow, sand, dust, air pollution,
chemically active, acid rain, soot, etc., are excessive.
Modules must be sited in locations where aggressive
substances such as salt or salt-water, or any other type of
corrosive agent, cannot affect the safety and/or
performance of the modules.
■Modules are not allowed to be placed where flammable
gases are easily generated or concentrated.
Tilt angle selection
The tilt angle of the PV module is measured between the
surface of the PV module and a horizontal ground surface.
The PV module generates maximum output power when it
faces the sun directly.
Dust accumulation on the module surface may degrade its
performance. It is recommended to instal modules with
the inclination angle according to the following table so the
accumulated dust can easily be washed by the rain.
Conventional requirements
■The module mounting structure must be made of
durable, corrosion-resistant and UV-resistant material.
Always use tested and certified mounting structures
approved for a given system design. It is recommended to
use structures or parts manufactured by Corab S.A.
■Ensure that the module installation method and bracket
system are strong enough to allow the module to
withstand the predetermined load conditions. Always
comply with safety instructions and precautions supplied
with the module support frames.
■In regions with heavy snowfall in winter, select the height
of the mounting system so that the lowest edge of the
module is not covered by snow for any length of time. In
addition, ensure that the lowest portion of the module is
placed high enough so that it is not shaded by plants, trees
or damaged by ground soil moved by or through the air.
■For ground mounting systems, the minimum distance
recommend from the ground to the bottom of the module
is at least 60 cm.
■Provide adequate ventilation under the modules in
conformity to your local regulations.
■Modules must be securely attached to the mounting
structure. For clamping system installation methods, the
recommended maximum compression for each clamp is
2900 PSI (20 MPa) in order to avoid potential damages to
module frames. Follow the instruction of the clamping
system supplier. Use of clamps manufactured by Corab
S.A. is recommended.
M
M

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and safe operation instructions
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Does not apply to BIFACIAL modules]
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■The following recommendations must be observed
during installation:
■Avoid the frame receiving the lateral tension and
pressure, causing deformations or cracking of the glass.
■Before installing modules on a roof, always ensure the
roof construction is suitable. In addition, any roof
penetration required to mount the module must be
properly sealed to prevent leaks.
■Observe and take into account the linear thermal
expansion of the module frames (the recommended
minimum distance between two modules is 1 cm).
■When installing the module on the column, choose the
column and module installation structure that can
withstand the expected local wind and snow load.
■Ensure that the modules are not subjected to wind
pressure or snow load in excess of the maximum
permissible values and are not subjected to excessive
forces as a result of thermal expansion of the structures.
Under no circumstances should modules overlap or
protrude beyond the outline of the roof. For more detailed
information, see the description of installation methods
below.
Installation methods
Mounting with clamps
When choosing this type of clamp-mounting method, use
at least four clamps on each module, two clamps should be
attached on each long sides of the module (for portrait
orientation) or each short sides of the module (for
landscape orientation). The minimum recommended
length for each fixture shall be 50 mm. Depending on local
wind and snow loads, additional clamps may be required
to ensure that modules can bear the load.
Modules clamps should not come into contact with the
front glass and must not deform the frame. Be sure to
avoid shadowing effects from the module clamps. The
mounting details are shown in the following figures.
Fastening guidelines
The standard/lower loading capacity applies to normal
environment: the modules are tested under a maximum
positive pressure of 2400 Pa, and negative pressure of
1600 Pa or 2400 Pa, the modules are designed to meet a
maximum positive pressure of 1600 Pa, and negative
pressure of 1067 Pa, this design load was then tested with
a safety factor of 1.5 times.
The high loading capacity applies to severe environment,
like storm, big snow, etc. The modules are tested under a
maximum positive pressure of 5400 Pa, and negative
pressure of 2400 Pa, the modules are designed to meet a
maximum positive pressure of 3600 Pa, and negative
pressure of 1600 Pa, this design load was then tested with
a safety factor of 1.5 times.
Distance between
module frame and
roof surface
Tightening torque
of Corab S.A.
clamps
Clamp overlap depth
on module frame
Structure
profile
Nut M8
Spring washer M8
Photovoltaic module
Terminal fixed clamp
Allen bolt
Photovoltaic module
Structure
profile
Nut M8
Spring washer M8
Allen bolt
Middle clamp

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Does not apply to BIFACIAL modules]
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Mounting of modules EC 370M-6-120FB 370Wp and EC 375M-6-120B 375Wp
Clamp position /
Installation
method
Test load: positive pressure 2400 Pa/negative pressure 2400 Pa
Design load: positive pressure 1600 Pa/negative pressure 1600 Pa
Test load: positive pressure 5400 Pa/ negative pressure 2400 Pa
Design load: positive pressure 3600 Pa/ negative pressure 1600 Pa
(1/4L-50)<S<(1/4L+50)
Test load: positive pressure 1600 Pa/ negative pressure 1600 Pa
Design load: positive pressure 1067 Pa/ negative pressure 1067 Pa
Test load: positive pressure 5400 Pa/ negative pressure 2400 Pa
Design load: positive pressure 3600 Pa/ negative pressure 1600 Pa
0<H<1/4W
(1/2L-50)<S<(1/2L+50)
0<H<1/4W
Fasten to the long side / Mounting method
with screws.
Fasten to the long side./ Mounting method with terminal and
middle clamps.
Fasten to the short side / Mounting method with terminal and middle
clamps.

Installation manual
and safe operation instructions
of photovoltaic modules ENCOR
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Does not apply to BIFACIAL modules]
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Mounting of modules EC 395M-10-108FB 395Wp and EC 405M-10-108B 405Wp
Clamp position /
Installation
method
Test load: positive pressure 5400 Pa/ negative pressure 2400 Pa
Design load: positive pressure 3600 Pa/ negative pressure 1600 Pa
Test load: positive pressure 5400 Pa/ negative pressure 2400 Pa
Design load: positive pressure 3600 Pa/ negative pressure 1600 Pa
Test load: positive pressure 5400 Pa/ negative pressure 3600 Pa
Design load: positive pressure 3600 Pa/ negative pressure 2400 Pa
(1/5L-50)<S<(1/5L+50)
(1/2L-80)<S<(1/2L-30)
(1/6L-50)<H<(1/6L+50)
Test load: positive pressure 2400 Pa/ negative pressure 1600 Pa
Design load: positive pressure 1600 Pa/ negative pressure 1067 Pa
0<H<1/4W
Fasten to the long side / Mounting method
with screws.
Fasten to the long side./ Mounting method with terminal and
middle clamps.
Fasten to the short side / Mounting method with terminal and middle
clamps.

Installation manual
and safe operation instructions
of photovoltaic modules ENCOR
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Does not apply to BIFACIAL modules]
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Electrical installation
■To avoid galvanic corrosion, all components used must
be compatible with the module material. Damages caused
by galvanic corrosion are not cover under the warranty.
■It is not recommended to use modules with different
configurations (grounding, wiring) in the same system.
■Excessive cables must be organized or fixed in an
adequate way, e.g. attached to the mounting structure by
using non-metallic cable ties or other suitable ties. Solar
cables, connectors and junction boxes should not be
exposed to water and snow, and rain or water submersion
for a long period of time (IP65/67/68).
■For applications requiring high operating voltage several
modules can be connected in series to form a string of
modules; the system voltage is then equal to the sum of
the voltage of each module.
■For applications requiring high operating currents
several strings of modules can be connected in parallel;
the system current is then equal to the sum of the current
of each string of modules.
■The maximum system voltage is 600 volts, 1000 volts or
1500 volts depending on the product family direct current
value according to standards.
■The maximum number of series of connected modules
depends on the system design, type of inverter used and
environmental conditions.
■Based on the maximum series fuse rating of module and
local electrical installation code, always make sure that PV
modules are assembled with the appropriate string fuse
for circuit protection. There is no specific limitation on the
number of modules that can be connected in parallel, the
number of modules is determined by system design
parameters such as current or power output.
■To prevent the cables and the connectors from
overheating, the cross section of the cables and the
capacity of the connectors must be selected to suit the
maximum system short circuit current. The recommended
cable is PV wire with a cross section of at least 4 mm2.
■Caution: do not secure the cables too tight. Any cable
damage caused by cable management system is not
covered under module warranty.
■Always observe the bending radius specified by the cable
manufacturer, which includes the radius after the
connectors.
■When designing large modules arrays connected to a
single inverter, always take into account the resulting
isolation resistance (Riso), which decreases with an
increase in the number of modules in the array. A too low
Riso can results in inverter faults. Please read local
regulations to determine the wire size, type and
temperature.
■The modules are supplied with connectors used for
system electrical connections. It is strongly recommended
to use the original connectors specified in the module data
sheet. Selecting a connector type other than those
specified may invalidate the warranty.
■To ensure reliable electric connection and to prevent
possible intrusion of humidity, two connectors must be
mated and locked together until a click can be heard.
■Long-term exposure to wet environments may cause
connectors' poor connectivity, resulting in current leakage
and poor conductivity which voids the warranty. Proper
management of connector/cable/wire is recommended to
prevent moisture intrusion. Depending on the amount of
humidity, it is recommended to conduct periodic
inspections of the installation system to maintain optimal
module performance.
■The DC current generated by photovoltaic systems can
be converted into AC current and fed into a public grid. As
local public utility policies on connecting renewable
energy systems to the grids vary from region to region,
always seek the advice from a qualified system designer.
Building permits, inspections and approvals by the local
utility facilities are generally required.
■For larger installations, it is recommended to instal
lightning protection following the local requirements and
regulations.
Grounding
For grounding and connecting requirements, please refer
to regional and national safety and electricity standards. If
grounding is required, use a recommended connector type
for the grounding wire.
PV Modules use an anodic oxidized aluminium frame to
resist corrosion, so the module frame should be connected
to the system grounding wire to prevent thunder and
electrical shock.
The frame rails have pre-drilled holes marked with
a grounding sign, these holes should be used for
grounding purposes and should not be used for
mounting the modules.

Installation manual
and safe operation instructions
of photovoltaic modules ENCOR
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Does not apply to BIFACIAL modules]
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Photovoltaic modules can be grounded using accessories
manufactured by another company, provided that they
are certified for grounding the modules and installed in
accordance with the instructions provided by the
manufacturer. It is recommended to use grounding
solutions from Corab S.A.
Maintenance and care
It is required to perform regular inspections and
maintenance of the modules, especially during the
warranty period. To ensure optimum module
performance, the following maintenance measures are
recommended:
Visual inspection
Inspect the modules to find if there are any visual defects.
If so, the following items should be evaluated for:
■Any slight cell colour differences at different angles. This
is a normal phenomenon of modules with anti-reflection
coating technology.
■Any broken glass panes.
■Any sharp objects in contact with the PV module
surfaces.
■Any shading of the PV modules by undesirable obstacles
and/or foreign material.
■Any corrosion along the cells’ bus-bar. This kind of
corrosion is caused by humidity penetrating the back
surface of the module frame. Inspect the back of the frame
for damage.
■Any burns at the back sheet.
■Check if screws and mounting brackets are tight, adjust
and tighten as necessary.
Cleaning
■Clean the module glass surface as necessary. Always use
distilled water and a soft sponge or cloth for cleaning.
■A mild, nonabrasive cleaning agent can be used to
remove stubborn dirt.
■In order to reduce the potential for electrical and
thermal shock, it is recommended to clean PV modules
during early morning or late afternoon hours when solar
radiation is low and the modules are cooler, especially in
regions with hotter temperatures.
■Never attempt to clean a PV module with broken glass
or other signs of exposed wiring, as this presents a shock
hazard.
■Never use chemicals when cleaning modules as this may
affect the module warranty and energy output.
■Do not allow the connector to come into contact with
substances such as oils, greases, acetone, alcohol, release
agent, adhesives, cleaning agents that may generate
oxime gas.
Inspection of connector and cable
It is recommended to implement the following
maintenance every 6 months, however at least once a
year:
■Check the photovoltaic modules for any wear signs.
■Check all wiring for possible damage from rodents,
weather conditions and whether all connectors are tight
and free from corrosion. Check for current leakage to the
grounding.
If any problem arises, consult a professional solar service
provider for suggestions. Caution: observe solar product
manufacturers' maintenance instructions for all
components used in the system, such as support frames,
charging regulators, inverters, batteries etc.
Disclaimer of liability
Since the use of this manual and the conditions or
methods of installation, operation, use and maintenance
of the photovoltaic (PV) product are beyond the control of
the module manufacturer, the manufacturer assumes no
responsibility and expressly disclaims liability for loss,
damage or costs arising out of or in any way connected
with such installation, operation, use or maintenance.
The module manufacturer accepts no responsibility for
any infringement of patents or other third party rights that
may arise from the use of the photovoltaic product. No
license is granted by implication or otherwise under any
patent or patent rights.
The information contained in this manual is based on the
knowledge and experience of the module manufacturer
and is believed to be reliable; but such information,
including product specifications (without limitation) and
recommendations, does not constitute a warranty,
expressed or implied. The module manufacturer reserves
the right to modify the manual, photovoltaic product,
specifications or product data sheet without prior notice.