Solar Fabrik M Series User manual

Solar modules
Solar module mounting instructions
Mono S3 ▪Mono S2 ▪ M series ▪P series

2
Solar module mounting instructions
Mono S3 ▪Mono S2 ▪M series ▪P series
Subject to technical changes and changes in product design.
The technical information about the product applicable at the time of manufacture of the product shall apply.
SF Solar Fabrik GmbH & Co. KG, Wiesen, Germany, 2020
Table of
1. Safety instructions 4
■ General safety instructions 4
■ Applicable safety regulations 4
■ Using the modules 4
■ Attention: Danger to life! 4
■ Electrical installation 5
■ Transport, intermediate storage and safe unpacking 5
2. Installation of the module 6
■ Ensuring safe installation 6
■ Ensuring that the modules are properly earthed 6
■ Special instructions for handling AR glass modules 7
■ Ensuring comprehensive re protection 7
■ Ensuring a suitable environment 7
■ Suitable installation situation 7
■ Correct mounting location 8
■ Assuring yield through optimum alignment and inclination 8
■ Installing the module free from shade 8
■ Ensuring su󰀩cient rear ventilation 8
■ Secure mounting 8
■ Instructions for installation 8
■ Loads 8
■ Proper cabling 9
■ Ensuring correct connection 9
■ Using suitable materials only 9
■ Mounting variants 10
■ Protecting the cables from damaging environmental inuences 11
■ Ensuring that the plug connectors are installed correctly 11
■ Maintenance and cleaning 11
■ Instructions for disassembly 12
■ Disposal of the modules 12
■ Note on liability and status of the instructions 12
3. Notes 13

3
Solar module mounting instructions
Mono S3 ▪Mono S2 ▪M series ▪P series
[72 full cells]
[60 full cells]
[60 full cells]
[60 full cells]
P series
[72 full cells]
[60 full cells]
[120 half cells]
[72 full cells]
[120 half cells]
[120 half cells]
[60 full cells]
[60 full cells]
M series
[72 full cells]
[144 half cells]
[60 full cells]
[120 half cells]
[72 full cells]
[120 half cells]
[120 half cells]
[60 full cells]
Mono S2
[144 half cells]
[120 half cells]
[120 half cells]
Mono S3

4
Solar module mounting instructions
Mono S3 ▪Mono S2 ▪M series ▪P series
1. Safety instructions
General safety instructions
Repair and operation of a PV system require sound
expert knowledge. Therefore, all work on the sys-
tem may only be carried out by appropriately qua-
lied and authorised technical specialists. It is es-
sential to read these mounting instructions carefully
and attentively before installing, commissioning or
maintaining the PV system, and keep the instruc-
tions easily accessible. Non-observance of the
safety instructions can lead to personal injury and
damage to property. Keep children away!
We are constantly striving for the further impro-
vement of our products through innovation and re-
search activity.
We therefore reserve the right to change the infor-
mation contained in this mounting manual without
prior notice.
Applicable safety regulations
The modules of the system may only be used in
accordance with their suitability. The modules may
not be technically modied. During mounting, make
sure that the locally applicable building regulations,
standards and accident prevention regulations are
observed. Ensure that the necessary safety instruc-
tions for mounting and operation of other system
components are also followed.
Using the modules
Please note the following points in particular when
using our solar modules:
■ The installation and/or operation of the solar
modules is permitted up to a max. altitude of
2000 m above sea level.
■ The function of the modules is tested at an am-
bient temperature of -40 to +85°C. This range
should be observed.
■ The modules must not be exposed to excepti-
onal chemical loads (e.g. emissions from ma-
nufacturing companies).
■ When connecting solar modules to power sto-
rage units, the respective safety instructions of
the manufacturer must be observed.
Attention: Danger to life!
Danger to life from electric shock!
Solar modules generate electricity. If they are ex-
posed to light, they are live and can pose a danger.
Even if the voltage of a single module is still low
at less than 50 V DC, the total voltage adds up as
soon as several modules are connected in series.
When several modules are connected in parallel,
the currents add up. Although the fully insulated
plug contacts provide protection against acciden-
tal contact, the following must be observed when
handling the solar modules to avoid re, sparking
and, above all, fatal electric shock:
■ Do not insert electrically conductive parts into
the plugs and sockets.
■ Do not wear metal jewellery during mechanical
and electrical installation work.
■ Keep moisture away from tools and the wor-
king environment. Only install solar modules
and cables with dry plugs and sockets.
■ Proceed with extreme caution and care.
■ Only use insulated tools to carry out all work
on the cables and also wear insulated gloves.
■ Do not disassemble modules. Never remove
parts or type plates attached by the manufac-
turer. Only use faultless modules. Do not use
sharp objects, paints or adhesives on the back
of the module.
■ Do not expose solar modules to articially con-
centrated sunlight.
Please note that the wiring of modules may only be
carried out by qualied and authorised specialists.

5
Solar module mounting instructions
Mono S3 ▪Mono S2 ▪M series ▪P series
Danger to life due to high voltage!
High contact voltages can still occur in the inverter
even when it is disconnected. For this reason, the
following applies:
■ Exercise extreme caution when working on the
inverter and the cables.
■ In order for the high-voltage components to
discharge, it is essential to observe the time
intervals specied by the inverter manufactu-
rer after switching o󰀨 the inverter and before
starting any further work. Always observe the
mounting instructions of the inverter manufac-
turer.
Danger to life from electric arc!
When exposed to light, solar modules produce di-
rect current. If a closed circuit is opened, e.g. when
the DC line is disconnected from the inverter under
load, a fatal electric arc can occur.
■ Under no circumstances disconnect the so-
lar generator from the inverter as long as it is
connected to the mains.
■ Ensure awless cable connections.
■ Connect cables seamlessly and keep them
free from dirt.
Electrical installation
The solar modules are designed for use in PV
systems of application class A and can therefo-
re be operated in systems with dangerous direct
voltages (greater than 120 V DC according to EN
61730) and power ratings.
PV modules of this application class may be used
in systems with unlimited accessibility.
SF Solar Factory GmbH & Co. KG modules of the
Mono S2, M and P series, which are qualied wi-
thin this application class according to EN 61730,
meet the requirements of protection class II when
installed in accordance with regulations.
Transport, intermediate storage and safe
unpacking
The modules are sensitive technical components
that require great care when handled. Be especial-
ly careful, therefore, when transporting and tempo-
rarily storing the modules and leave them in their
packaging until they are used. Always lift and carry
the modules with both hands and do not use the
junction box as a hand grip.
Do not drop the modules or place them roughly on
hard ground or on the module corners. Do not pla-
ce objects on the modules. Do not stack modules
on top of each other without protection.
Avoid bending the modules. Do not step on the
modules. Do not work with sharp objects and keep
all electrical contacts clean and dry.
It is advisable to note the serial numbers for sys-
tem documentation. If intermediate storage of
the modules is necessary, a dry, ventilated room
should be provided.
Clean, non-slip gloves must be worn during all
transport and installation work to prevent injury
from cuts on module edges. In addition, avoid so-
iling the solar glass with ngerprints, as they can
damage the special coating of the glass.
It is essential to observe the warnings on the
packaging and the enclosed unpacking instruc-
tions.

6
Solar module mounting instructions
Mono S3 ▪Mono S2 ▪M series ▪P series
earthing holes are marked with a stamped eart-
hing symbol.
2. Installation of the module
Ensuring safe installation
Secure yourself and other persons against falls; do
not carry out installation work in strong winds and
prevent objects from falling if possible. Carefully
secure the working area to avoid danger or injury
to persons.
Always comply with the permissible maximum
mechanical load in accordance with DIN EN
1991-1-3/DIN EN 1991-1-4
Ensure that the maximum mechanical load is not
exceeded and take into account any location-de-
pendent loads such as wind or snow. Remember
that the module could bend under high load.
When using fastening elements, cable ties or com-
parable connecting materials between the back
of the module and the cross proles, ensure that
the module is not damaged by pointed or uneven
structures.
Ensuring that the modules are properly
earthed
In accordance with the provisions of SF Solar Fa-
brik GmbH
& Co. KG, it is not necessary to earth the module
frames and rack for trouble-free operation. To avoid
the risk of electric shock (e.g. from static charges)
as far as possible, SF Solar Fabrik GmbH
& Co. KG recommends having the installer carry
out professional earthing.
If an external lightning protection device is availab-
le, a technical specialist must integrate the PV sys-
tem in the lightning protection concept while obser-
ving country-specic standards and regulations.
A qualied electrician must check the earthing
connections between the modules. A qualied
electrician must also connect the main earthing.
An earthing method approved by Underwriters La-
boratories (UL) is mandatory in the USA and Ca-
nada.
For proper earthing, ensure optimum electrical
conductivity. For this purpose, earthing holes are
provided on the back of the module frame. These
Earthing holes are
marked with a
earthing symbol:
▪ Positions for M/P series
▪ Additional options for Mono S2
Attach the earthing clamp to one of the specially marked
earthing holes on the rear side of the module frame.

7
Solar module mounting instructions
Mono S3 ▪Mono S2 ▪M series ▪P series
Correct handling of AR glass modules
The nano-porous coating on the glass surfaces of
the solar module reduces reection losses. Compa-
red to uncoated glass, a deviation of the irradiation
angle from the vertical can result in an angle-de-
pendent transmission of up to 2 % more power. To
maintain this e󰀨ect and to avoid visual impairments,
we urgently recommend observing the following in-
structions:
■ Handle the modules with care due to the coa-
ted glass.
■ Handle the modules with care when unpacking
and mounting. We recommend only touching
the surfaces with clean gloves because the
special reective properties make light soiling
easier to detect. Especially grease and oil are
visible even in small quantities and can inu-
ence the transmission.
■ We advise against attaching stickers or labels
to the coated surface. Depending on the ma-
terial used, this can result in very ne residues
that are di󰀩cult to remove.
■ In rare cases, there may be visible white resi-
dues of the coating uid and colour variations
in the edge area (≤ 5 mm). These are fully fun-
ctional modules and there is no reduction in
quality.
■ If it is necessary to clean the modules due to
heavy soiling, we recommend the following
procedure:
+ Clean the modules when they have cooled down
(e.g. during the morning hours)
+ For moderate to strong residues, we recommend
cleaning with lukewarm, de-mineralised water and
clean, lint-free cotton cloths, microbre cloths or pa-
per towels
+ For particularly heavy and stubborn soiling, we
recommend detergents containing surfactants
+ Avoid cleaning with strong acids, alkaline solu-
tions, petrol-based cleaners, steam and hot clea-
ners, cleaners with silicone oils, uorides or waxes,
polishes, alkaline cleaners and cleaners with scou-
ring agents and high-pressure cleaners
Ensuring comprehensive re protection
Under certain circumstances, the installation of
roof-mounted systems can have an impact on the
re safety of a building. Improperly executed ins-
tallations in particular can lead to a re hazard. Th-
erefore always install the modules of a roof-moun-
ted system above a re-resistant substrate. As the
modules are not explosion-proof equipment, do not
install the modules near highly ammable gases
and vapours, e.g. in the vicinity of gas containers,
paint spraying systems or lling stations. Also, do
not install the modules next to naked ames and
ammable materials.
Ensuring a suitable environment
The modules are primarily intended for use in mo-
derate climatic conditions. Make sure they are not
exposed to articially concentrated sunlight, sub-
merged or continuously exposed to splashing water
at their destination. There is a risk of corrosion if the
modules are subject to exceptional loads of salts or
sulphur.
Suitable installation situation
It is of utmost importance that the module meets the
technical requirements of the overall system. The-
refore, make sure that no damaging mechanical or
electrical e󰀨ects (e.g. overvoltage) are exerted on
the module by other system components. When
connected in series, only modules of the same am-
perage may be used; when connected in parallel,
only modules with the same voltage may be used.
The modules may only be operated with the permis-
sible system voltage; operation with a higher volta-
ge is not intended.

8
Solar module mounting instructions
Mono S3 ▪Mono S2 ▪M series ▪P series
Correct mounting location
The module must not be mounted as overhead gla-
zing, e.g. on a facade. In addition to the module itself,
the mounting system must also be able to easily wi-
thstand the expected load from the conditions at the
installation site (snowfall, wind).
The underside of the module frame is provided with
openings that allow precipitation water to run o󰀨. Du-
ring installation, make sure these openings are not
restricted in their function.
If used in an upright installation, the socket can be
mounted pointing upwards and downwards. Other-
wise only installation with the junction box facing
upwards is permitted.
Assuring yield through optimum alignment and
inclination
We recommend planning the suitable orientation and
correct tilt angle of the modules before installation,
so that the system can achieve optimum yield perfor-
mance. Ideal conditions for power generation prevail
when the sun‘s rays hit the generator surface per-
pendicularly.
To avoid any loss of performance when connected in
series, please make sure that all modules are instal-
led with the same orientation and inclination.
Installing the module free from shade
Even slight shading reduces the yield from the sys-
tem. It is therefore particularly important to install the
module as free of shading as possible. There should
be no full shading throughout the year, and unhin-
dered exposure to sunlight should be ensured for
several hours, even on days when the calendar is
unfavourable.
Ensuring su󰀩cient rear ventilation
Su󰀩cient rear ventilation ensures that performan-
ce-reducing heat accumulation can be avoided.
Secure mounting
In order to mount the modules as intended, they
must each be securely fastened by at least four
points. Framed PV modules may be clamped on the
short and on the long sides.
NOTE: Ensure that the maximum mechanical load
capacity of the modules is observed, taking into ac-
count the wind and snow load zones as well as the
terrain category and building height.
Instructions for installation
The modules can be connected to the substructure
in various ways: either by clamping the modules from
the front (see example 1) or by screwing the modules
into the mounting holes provided from behind (see
example 2).
Use a torque wrench during installation. The tigh-
tening torque to be applied in the examples shown is
20 Nm. Use M6 V2A screws for installation. Only use
the existing drill holes for installation. The drilling of
further holes would lead to a loss of warranty.
Loads
Depending on the type of mounting, the solar mo-
dules are able to withstand the respective load. In
principle, make sure that the solar modules are not
subject to unnecessary stress.
When using the clamp-on mounting method (see
example 1), the xing points in extended clamping
areas must be taken into account. A graphic repre-
sentation of the clamping areas can be found on
page 10.
Please note that failure to comply will void any claim
on corresponding warranty services.

9
Solar module mounting instructions
Mono S3 ▪Mono S2 ▪M series ▪P series
Ensure that the total area of all conductor loops is
kept as small as possible to reduce voltages cau-
sed by indirect lightning strikes. It is essential to
subject the wiring to a thorough nal check before
the generator is put into operation. If the measured
open-circuit voltage deviates from the specicati-
on, there is a connection error. Also make sure the
polarity is correct.
Insert the plug connectors correctly. Connectors
may only be inserted in a dry condition. Also make
sure that gap-free connection is possible. In additi-
on, the requirements of the inverters that are used
must be observed.
If the modules are connected in parallel, appropri-
ate overcurrent protection must be used. Fuses for
DC voltage must be used for this purpose, which
prevent a reverse current greater than 15 A.
Also observe the connection conditions and the
design guidelines of the inverter manufacturers.
Using suitable materials only
The system may only be wired with special solar
cables in accordance with DIN EN 50618 class 5
and suitable plugs.
It is of utmost importance that all materials used
are in perfect electrical and mechanical condition.
Only use single-core cables and select the appro-
priate conductor cross-section to minimise the vol-
tage drop.
Only use suitable cables with a minimum cross
section of 4 mm² for the further connection of the
modules. For longer distances, the cable cross
section must be adjusted accordingly. For cable
laying, also follow the specied requirements in
accordance with DIN VDE 0298-3.
Example 2 - Direct screw connection
Example 1 - Clamping vane
Proper cabling
Under no circumstances open the junction box.
The modules are already equipped ex works with
the necessary cables and connectors.
Ensuring correct wiring
The integrated connecting cables are UV-re-
sistant. The connecting cables have a conduc-
tor cross-section of 4 mm². For connection, the
connecting cables have pre-assembled connec-
tors that are protected against reverse polarity.

10
Solar module mounting instructions
Mono S3 ▪Mono S2 ▪M series ▪P series
MOUNTING-VARIANTS
LOAD CAPACITY 2400 N/m²
MODULE FRAME SELECTIVELY STORED MODULE FRAME STORED FLAT/AERODYNAMICALLY
LOAD CAPACITY 5400 N/m²
MODULE FRAME SELECTIVELY STORED MODULE FRAME STORED FLAT/AERODYNAMICALLY
D
D
Solar module Mounting
screwed 4x
P series D = 325 mm
M series D = 325 mm
Mono S2 D = 332 mm
M series [HC] D = 337 mm
Mono S2 [HC] D = 242 mm
Mono S3 [HC] D = 382,5 mm
P series [72 cells] D = 264 mm
M series [72 cells] D = 264 mm
Mono S2 [72 cells] D = 270 mm
Mono S2 [HC][144 cells] D = 284 mm
Mono S3 [HC][144 cells] D = 327 mm
D
D
C
C
Solar module Mounting
clamped screwed
P series C =
250 -
450 mm
D = 325 mm
M series D = 325 mm
Mono S2 D = 332 mm
M series [HC] C =
250 -
450 mm
D = 337 mm
Mono S2 [HC] D = 242 mm
Mono S3 [HC] D = 382,5 mm
P series [72 cells]
C =
240 -
320 mm
D = 264 mm
M series [72 cells] D = 264 mm
Mono S2 [72 cells] D = 270 mm
Mono S2 [HC][144 cells] D = 284 mm
Mono S3 [HC][144 cells] D = 327mm
C
C
Solar module Mounting
clamped 4x
P series C = 250 - 450 mm
M series
Mono S2
M series [HC] C = 250 - 450 mm
Mono S2 [HC]
Mono S3 [HC]
P series [72 cells]
C = 240 - 320 mm
M series [72 cells]
Mono S2 [72 cells]
Mono S2 [HC][144 cells]
Mono S3 [HC][144 cells]
Z
B
B
Solar module Mounting
clamped 6x
P series B = 150 - 350 mm
Z = vert. zentriert
M series
Mono S2
M series [HC] B = 150 - 350 mm
Z = vert. zentriert
Mono S2 [HC]
Mono S3 [HC]
P series [72 cells] B = 200 - 240 mm
or
B = 320 - 360 mm
Z = vert. zentriert
M series [72 cells]
Mono S2 [72 cells]
Mono S2 [HC][144 cells]
Mono S3 [HC][144 cells]
BB
BB
Solar module Mounting
clamped 4x
P series B = 0 - 250 mm
M series
Mono S2
M series [HC] B = 0 - 250 mm
Mono S2 [HC]
Mono S3 [HC]
P series [72 cells]
B = 0 - 250 mm
M series [72 cells]
Mono S2 [72 cells]
Mono S2 [HC][144 cells]
Mono S3 [HC][144 cells]
Z
B
B
Solar module Mounting
clamped 4x
P series B = 0 - 250 mm
M series
Mono S2
M series [HC] B = 0 - 250 mm
Mono S2 [HC]
Mono S3 [HC]
P series [72 cells]
B = 200 - 240 mm
or
B = 320 - 360 mm
M series [72 cells]
Mono S2 [72 cells]
Mono S2 [HC][144 cells]
Mono S3 [HC][144 cells]
AA
Solar module Mounting
clamped 4x
P series A = 200 - 300 mm
M series
Mono S2
M series [HC] A = 200 - 300 mm
Mono S2 [HC]
Mono S3 [HC]
P series [72 cells]
A = 200 - 300 mm
M series [72 cells]
Mono S2 [72 cells]
Mono S2 [HC][144 cells]
Mono S3 [HC][144 cells]
AA
Solar module Mounting
clamped 4x
P series A = 200 - 300 mm
M series
Mono S2
M series [HC] A = 200 - 300 mm
Mono S2 [HC]
Mono S3 [HC]
P series [72 cells]
A = 200 - 300 mm
M series [72 cells]
Mono S2 [72 cells]
Mono S2 [HC][144 cells]
Mono S3 [HC][144 cells]

11
Solar module mounting instructions
Mono S3 ▪Mono S2 ▪M series ▪P series
Protecting the cables from damaging environ-
mental inuences
Only use UV-resistant cable ties to x the cables
to the mounting system. Protect exposed cables
from possible damage, e.g. by laying them in pla-
stic pipes. Avoid direct sunlight.
Under normal conditions, a PV module can deliver
a higher current and/or voltage than specied in
the standardised test conditions under expected
conditions. To determine the rated voltage values
of components, rated current values of conduc-
tors, sizes of fuses and dimensioning of controllers
connected to the output of PV modules.
The values of Isc and Uoc edges. Furthermore,
avoid soiling indicated on the module should the-
refore be multiplied by a factor of 1.25.
Ensuring the plug connectors are correctly in-
stalled
To ensure that connectors are used correctly, it is
permitted to disconnect the module cable shortly
before the module connector and to install an al-
ternative connector approved in writing by SF So-
lar Fabrik GmbH & Co. KG.
The connector marketed by SF Solar Fabrik
GmbH & Co. KG of the Forward Electronics brand
is approved for assembly.
More on request if necessary. Please contact your
SF Solar Fabrik GmbH & Co. KG sales represen-
tative.
The mounting of the connector on the module
must be carried out according to the mounting in-
structions enclosed with the connector. The com-
plete reassembly of the plug connector may only
be carried out at ground level. It is also important
to ensure that the module is not connected to the
generator eld during operation.
The photoactive front side of the module should
be covered as far as possible or face the ground
during all work steps to keep the voltage low.
If all installation instructions are observed and the
installation is carried out by a technical specialist,
the product guarantee of the modules remains in
full force.
Maintenance and cleaning
Usually rainfall ensures that the modules are cle-
aned automatically. With su󰀩cient inclination (gre-
ater than 15°), it is therefore generally not neces-
sary to specially clean the modules. In the event of
heavy soiling, we recommend cleaning with plenty
of water, but without cleaning agents.
Wear clean, non-slip gloves during all transport
and installation work to prevent injury from cuts on
module edges. Furthermore, avoid soiling the so-
lar glass with ngerprints, as they can damage the
special coating of the glass.
In case of heavy soiling, we recommend cleaning
with plenty of water with low levels of lime. The
pH value of the water should be between 6.0 and
7.5. Please do not use any nozzle attachment and
only an appropriate water pressure and tempera-
ture. The use of cleaning agents and scratching
cleaning equipment would damage the special an-
ti-reective coating and invalidate the product and
performance guarantee.
Never scrape o󰀨 or rub o󰀨 impurities when the mo-
dule is dry. Damage to the highly e󰀩cient antire-
ective surface can lead to optical changes of the
module surface as well as to power losses.
The use of automatic cleaning machines for solar
systems is at your own risk and is not approved by
SF Solar Fabrik GmbH & Co. KG.

12
Solar module mounting instructions
Mono S3 ▪Mono S2 ▪M series ▪P series
Inspect the system regularly and check
the system for:
■ Secure attachment and that all fastenings are
free of
■ corrosion
■ Safe connection, cleanliness, integrity and that
all cable connections are freed from corrosion
■ Contact resistances of the potential equalisa-
tion
Instructions for disassembly → Shut down.
■ Disconnect the inverter(s) on the AC side from
the mains supply so that the photovoltaic sys-
tem is without load.
■ Disconnect the photovoltaic system from the
inverter at the
■ DC-side disconnection point.
■ Make sure that voltage is no longer applied to
the system.
■ The photovoltaic system can now be disas-
sembled. Please observe the safety instruc-
tions.
Disposal of the modules
Disposal and recycling of solar modules are regu-
lated by the Electrical and Electronic Equipment
Act (ElektroG), which transposes the WEEE Direc-
tive into German law.
Please also observe country-specic regulations.
It is possible that notication is required in the res-
pective country.
Note on liability and status of the instructions
If there are deviations from the instructions con-
tained in this user information, SF Solar-Fabrik
GmbH & Co. KG does not accept any liability for
the use and functionality of the modules.
Since it is not possible for SF Solar-Fabrik GmbH
& Co. KG to check or monitor compliance with the
above-mentioned safety instructions as well as the
conditions and methods of installation, operation,
use and maintenance of the modules,
SF Solar-Fabrik GmbH & Co. KG also accepts no
liability for damage resulting from improper use, in-
correct installation, operation, use or maintenance.
The text and illustrations in these mounting inst-
ructions correspond to the technical status at the
time of printing.
Subject to change without notice.

13
Solar module mounting instructions
Mono S3 ▪Mono S2 ▪M series ▪P series
3. Notes:

Stand: 01.04.2020 / Dokument-Nr.: 2004M01-E
Solar modules
SF Solar Fabrik GmbH & Co. KG
Im Gewerbegebiet 12
63831 Wiesen
Germany
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-Mail: [e-mail]
Internet: www.solar-fabrik.de
REFERENCE PROJECT