REC Installation Manual - REC Solar Panels - IEC 61215 /61730
Rev L -09.21 Ref: PM-IM-20
CONNECTIONS AND CONNECTORS
The connectortype(s) usedonREC panelsareindicatedintheproductspecifications at the rearofthismanual.The connector IP ratingisonlyvalidwhen
correctlyconnected.Allconnectorsandcablesmustbesecureandtightaswellaselectricallyandmechanicallysound.UV-resistantcablesandconnectors
approved for outdoor use must be used. Conductor gauge must be chosen to ensure DC power losses (voltage drop) are kept to a minimum (<).
Observe all local regulations when selecting cables.
• For string connections, use minimum mm2copper wires insulated for a maximum operating temperature of °C,
• Avoid exposing cables to direct sunlight and permanent tension.
In order to ensure a safe connection between panels and BOS equipment, the following instructions must be followed to protect the connections
from the elements.
CONNECTORS
To ensure connector compatibility and reduce the potential for damage to the panels and the wider installation, the connectors used on REC panels are
detailed in the Panel Characteristics at the rear of this manual. REC only permits the mating of factory-installed connectors to connectors of the same
manufacturer, type, and system rating as shown in the table below (fig. ):
Fig. :Connector mating matrix
Connector +Connector Permied?
REC Factory-Installed + Stäubli MCEvo-On VSystems
REC Factory-Installed + Stäubli MCOn VSystems only
REC Factory-Installed + REC Factory-Installed
REC Factory-Installed + Any other connector
CUTTING THE CABLES
The cuingofcables isonlypermiedinordertoreplace afactory-installedconnectorwithanotherbrandofconnectortoensure ‘like-for-like’mating
whenconnectedtoa non-RECexternaldevice.Allotherchangesareprohibitedand willinvalidatethe RECwarranty.
• Theconnector replacement proceduremust be carriedoutcorrectlyandaccordingtothereplacementconnector manufacturer’sinstructions.
• Theselectedreplacementconnectormustalsofulfilallrelevanttechnicalspecificationsandbecertifiedaccordingtoapplicablestandards(e.g.,IEC
or UL )toensure they arefitfor purposeandsafety.
• Use of any chemicals or lubricants on the connectors or contacts may only be carried out in line with the connector manufacturer’s instructions.
TheREC warrantydoes not extendto coverany fault traceableto thereplacedconnectors. Any othermodificationtothepanelisprohibited,includingthe
opening of the junction box, unless explicitly authorized by REC. Doing so will invalidate the warranty.
CABLE MANAGEMENT
To ensure a long life span of the cables and reduce the potential for damage to the cables, follow the instructions below:
• To prevent stress on the junction box casing, ensure the cable exits the junction box in a straight line before any bend in the cable and ensure cables
are free from any external load,
• The cables must have a minimum bending radius of mm to avoid damage to the insulation (fig. ),
• Ensure cables do not hang loose where they may be damaged through friction or stress, e.g., caused by mechanical abrasion or grazing animals,
• Protect connectors from falling or dropping water by locating them directly beneath a panel,
• Cables must be firmly secured to the structure, without over-tightening, as this can deform the cable insulation using UV-resistant cables,
• When securing the connector, place it so that it has with sufficient air circulation all around. This allows the connector to dry effectively and avoids
the risk of damage or degradation of the connection,
• Secure the cable either side of the connectors to ensure no stress is exerted on the connector casing or cable entry,
• To enable correct cooling and drying of the connectors, do not add extra protection to the connector, e.g., heat shrink, grease or tape.
More detailed information is given in the
Guide to Best Practice - Connections and Connectors
which can be found via the REC online Download Center
(www.recgroup.com/downloads)
NOTE
Somecountriesand/or regionshavespecific regulationsregardingthematingof connectors.Installers areresponsibleforensuringthecompliancyof the
system with such local regulations.
i
DANGER Electrical shock
Safety is paramount when working with electrical connectors.
• Ensure that any installation work is not carried out on live or load-carrying parts.
• Connectionsmustnotbedisconnected under load and the system must be isolated from the gridbeforecarrying out any maintenance or repairwork.