Version 20200601
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Purpose of this guide
This guide contains information regarding the installation and safe handling of Wuxi Suntech Power Co., Ltd photovoltaic
module (hereinafter referred to as “module”). Wuxi Suntech Power Co., Ltd referred to as “Suntech”.
Installers must read and understand this guide prior to installation. For any questions, please contact Suntech's Global
Quality & Customer Support department or our local representatives for more detailed information. Installers must follow all
safety precautions as described in this guide as well as local requirement and regulations by law or authorised organizations.
Before installing a solar photovoltaic system, installers should familiarize themselves with its mechanical and electrical
requirements. Keep this guide in a safe place for future reference (care and maintenance) and in case of sale or disposal of the
modules.
Suntech modules are tested and certified for installation worldwide. Different regions may have different regulations for
solar PV installations. In this guide, hereinafter "IEC Only" is used to refer to regions where IEC standard applies, e.g. Europe,
Middle East, most of Asia Pacific countries; " UL Only " is used to refer to regions where UL standard applies, e.g. United States,
Canada; all other references are global.
General safety
Modules that fall under this application class may be used in system operation at more than 50V DC or 240W, where general
contact access is anticipated. Modules qualified for safety under IEC 61730-2 and within this application class are considered to
meet the requirements for Safety Class II. (IEC Only).
PV modules are recommended to be installed at altitudes of less than 2000m.
Installing solar photovoltaic systems requires specialized skills and knowledge. 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.
One single module may generate more than 30V DC when exposed to direct sunlight. Contact with a DC voltage is
potentially hazardous and should be always avoid.
Do not disconnect the modules or any electrical part under load.
PV modules generate electricity when exposed to sunlight. Number of modules string connected can cause lethal shock and
burn hazards. Only authorized and trained person should have access to the modules.
Photovoltaic solar modules convert light energy to direct current electrical energy. They are designed for outdoor use.
Modules can be ground mounted, 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.
Do not use mirrors, other magnifiers or artificially concentrated sunlight onto the modules.
Always use fall protection equipment when working from heights of 6 feet (183cm) or above. Follow Occupational Safety
and Health Act (OSHA) or local governing safety regulations regarding Fall Protection. (UL Only)
Do not sit, stand, step or walk on any side of the module, including the frames.
Do not permit any part of the module(s) to be submerged or allow for constant water to soil the module(s) unless it's natural
rain fall or periodic cleaning.
Do not permit constant dew on any part of backsheet of the module.
Handling safety
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.
Be cautious when placing the module down onto a surface, particularly when placing it in a corner.
Inappropriate transport and installation may break the module and void the warranty.
Do not attempt to disassemble the modules, and do not remove any attached nameplates or components from 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. During the transportation, do not to
apply direct pressure on the backsheet or front glass.
Do not drill holes in the frame. This may compromise the frame strength, cause corrosion of the frame and void the
warranty.
Do not scratch the anodized coating of the frame (except for grounding connections at the grounding connection point on
the back side of the module). It may cause corrosion of the frame or compromise the frame strength.
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.
Work only under dry conditions, and use only dry tools. Do not handle modules under wet conditions unless wearing
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