SunSpark Technology SST-300M User manual

SunSpark Technology Inc
Photovoltaic Module
User Manual

Contents 1 General Information 1
Overview 1
Applicable Products 1
Warnings 1
2. Installation 5
Installation safety 5
Installation Condition 7
Climate condition 7
Site selection 7
Tilt angle selection 8
Mechanical Installation introduction 8
Fixation with clamps 10
Grounding 12
3 Wiring and connection 14
4 Maintenance and care 16
5 Electrical specification 18
6 Disclaimer of Liability 25
7 Contact us 25
Edition：V.00 08/19

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1. General Information
1.1 Overview
Thanks for choosing SunSpark Technology Inc PV modules. In order to ensure the PV
modules to be installed correctly, please read the following operation instructions carefully
before modules installed and used.
Please remember that the products would generate electricity and certain safety
measures need to be taken to avoid danger.
1.2 ApplicableProducts
This document is applicable to the series of solar module as listed below:
UL1500V ：
SST-300M SST-305M SST-310M SST-315M SST-320M
SST-300MB SST-305MB SST-310MB SST-315MB SST-320MB
SST-300ML SST-305ML SST-310ML SST-315ML SST-320ML
SST-300MLB SST-305MLB SST-310MLB SST-315MLB SST-320MLB
SST-360M SST-365M SST-370M SST-375M
SST-360MB SST-365MB SST-370MB SST-375MB
Make sure the array of modules installed with the Maximum permitted system voltage
and the rating current and voltage of the sub-equipment such as regulators and
inverters. The maximum permitted system voltage (DC) of the modules (UL 1500V series)
sold in America and Canada is 1500V.
This module has a Class C Fire Ratingand with the Module Fire performance type 2
(only in America) and must be installed over a roof which is with appropriate fire
resistance. Before mounting the module, please consult your local building department
to determine approved roofing materials.
The modules are qualified for application class A, and modules qualified for
safety through UL 61703 within this application class are considered to meet the
requirements of Safety Class II
1.3 Warnings
PV modules generate DC electrical energy when exposed to sunlight or other light
sources. Active parts of module such as terminals can result in burns, sparks, and

2
lethal shock
⚫ Artificially concentrated sunlight shall not be directed on the module or panel.
⚫ Front protective glass is utilized on module. Broken solar module glass is an electrical
safety hazard (electric shock and fire). These modules cannot be repaired and should
be replaced immediately.
⚫ To reduce the risk of electrical shocks or burns, modules may be covered with an
opaque material during installation to avoid shocks or burns.
⚫ The fire rating of this module is valid only when mounted in the manner specified in the
mechanical mounting instructions.
⚫ The module is considered to be in compliance with UL 61730 only when the
module is mounted in the manner specified by the mounting instructions below.
⚫ All installations must be performed in compliance with the National Electrical
Code (NEC)
⚫ A module with exposed conductive parts is considered to be in compliance with UL
61703 only when it is electrically grounded in accordance with the instructions
presented below and the requirements of the National Electrical Code.
⚫ Any module without a frame (laminate) shall not be considered to comply with the
requirements of UL 61730 unless the module is mounted with hardware that has
been tested and evaluated with the module under this standard or by a field

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Inspection certifying that the installed module complies with the requirements of UL
61730.
⚫ The installation work of the PV array can only be done under the protection of sun-
sheltering covers or sunshades and only qualified person can install or perform
maintenance work on this module.
⚫ Follow the battery manufacture’s recommendations if batteries are used with module
⚫ Do not use this module to replace or partly replace roofs and walls of living buildings.
⚫ Do not install modules where flammable gas may be present.
⚫ Do not touch live terminals with bare hands. Use insulated tools for electrical
connections.
⚫ Do not remove any part installed by SunSpark Technology Inc or disassemble the
module.
⚫ All instructions should be read and understood before attempting to install, wire, operate
and maintain the module.
⚫ Please don’t lift PV modules using the attached cables or the junction box.
⚫ All PV systems must be earthed. If there is no special regulation, please follow the
National Electrical Code or other national code.
⚫ Common hardware items such as nuts, bolts, star washers, lock washers and the
⚫ like have not been evaluated for electrical conductivity or for use as grounding devices
and should be used only for maintaining mechanical connections and holding electrical
grounding devices in the position for electrical conductivity. Such devices, where
supplied with the module and evaluated through the requirements in UL 61730, may be
used for grounding connections in accordance with the instructions provided with the
module.

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⚫ Under normal conditions, a photovoltaic module is likely to experience conditions that
produce more current and/or voltage than reported at standard test conditions. The
requirements of the National Electrical Code (NEC) in Article 690 shall be followed to
address these increased outputs. In installations not under the requirements of the NEC,
the value of Isc and Voc marked on this module should be multiplied by a factor of 1.25
when determining component voltage ratings, conductor ampacities, overcurrent device
ratings, and size of controls connected to the PV output.
⚫ Once the PV module has been shipped to the installation site, all of the parts should be
unpacked properly with care.
⚫ Do not stand or step on the PV module like below pictures show, this is prohibited and
there is a risk of damage the module and cause injury for you.
⚫ The fire rating of this module is valid only when mounted in the manner specified in the
mechanical mounting instructions.
⚫ If instructions are provided allowing modules to be installed in parallel electrically the
installation instructions shall specify that each module (for series string of modules so
connected) shall be provides with the maximum series fuse as specified.
⚫ Only PV modules with the same cell size should be connected in series.
⚫ During all transportation situations, please make sure no huge shock for the vehicle or
the modules, as this may damage the module or lead the cell to be crack.
⚫ During all transportation situation, never let the module fall down from the vehicle,
⚫ house or hands. This will break the cells of the modules.
⚫ Do not clean the glass with chemicals.
⚫ Do not disconnect any of the modules when it is under load.

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2 Installation
2.1 Installationsafety
⚫ Always wear protective head gear, insulating gloves and safety shoes (with rubber
soles).
⚫ Keep the PV module packed in the carton until installation.
⚫ 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.
⚫ Do not work in rain, snow or windy conditions.
⚫ Due to the risk of electrical shock, do not perform any work if the terminals of the PV
module are wet.
⚫ Use insulated tools and do not use wet tools.
⚫ When installing PV modules, do not drop any objects (e.g., PV modules or tools).
⚫ Make sure flammable gasses are not generated or present near the installation site.
⚫ Insert interconnect connectors fully and correctly. Check all connections.
⚫ The interconnect cable should be securely fastened to the module frame, Cable support
should be done in a way to avoid the connector from scratching or impacting the back
sheet of the module.
⚫ Do not touch the terminal box and the end of the interconnect cables (connectors) with
bare hands during installation or under sunlight, regardless of whether the PV module is
connected to or disconnect from the system.
⚫ Do not expose the PV module to excessive loads on the surface of the PV module or
twist the frame.
⚫ Do not hit or put excessive load on the glass or back sheet, this may break the Cells or
cause micro crack.
⚫ During the operation, don’t use sharp tools to wipe the back sheet and glass, it would
leave scratch on the module.
⚫ Do not drill holes on the frame, it may cause corrosion of the frame.
⚫ For roof mounting structure, when install the modules, please try to follow the ‘from top

6
to bottom’and/or ‘from left to right’principle, and don’t step on the module, that will
damage the module and would be dangerous for personal safety.
⚫ The recommended standoff height is 115 mm. If other mounting means are employed
this may affect the UL Listing.
⚫ The modules when used with a Listed mounting system that has been rated as a Class
C System when installed with type 2 modules, is suitable to maintain the System Class
C Fire Rating
⚫ The fire rating of the module is valid only when mounted in the manner specified in the
mechanical mounting instructions.

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⚫
2.2 Installation Condition
2.2.1 Climate condition
Please install the modules in the following conditions:
a)Operating temperature: within –40°C(-4°F) to 85°C (185°F)
b)Relative humidity: within 10% to 95%.
c) Do not install modules above 2000m altitude above sea level.
﹡Note: The mechanical load bearing (include wind and snow loads) of the module is
based on the mounting methods. The professional system installer must be responsible
for mechanical load calculation according to the system.
2.2.2 Site selection
In most applications, SunSpark Technology Inc PV modules should be installed in a
location where they will receive maximum sunlight throughout the year. In the Northern
Hemisphere, the module should typically face south, and in the Southern Hemisphere, the
modules should typically face north. Modules facing 30 degrees away from true South
(or North) will lose approximately 10 to 15 percent of their power output. If the module
faces 60 degrees away from true South (or North), the power loss will be 20 to 30
percent.
When choosing a site, avoid trees, buildings or obstructions, which could cast
shadows on the solar photovoltaic modules especially during the winter months when the
arc of the sun is lowest over the horizon. Shading causes loss of output, even though
the factory fitted bypass diodes of the PV module will minimize any such loss. Do not install
the PV module near naked flame or flammable materials.
When solar modules are used to charge batteries, the battery must be installed in a
manner, which will protect the performance of the system and the safety of its users.
Follow the battery manufacturer’s guidelines concerning installation, operation and
maintenance recommendations. In general, the battery (or battery bank) should be away
from the main flow of people and animal traffic. Select a battery site that is protected
from sunlight, rain, snow, debris, and is well ventilated. Most batteries generate
hydrogen gas when charging, which can be explosive. Do not light matches or create
sparks near the battery bank. When a battery is installed outdoors, it should be placed in

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an insulated and ventilated battery case specifically designed for the purpose.
Do not install the PV module in a location where it would be immersed in water or
continually exposed to water from a sprinkler or fountain etc.
2.2.3 Tilt angle selection
The tilt angle of the PV module is measured between the surface of the PV module
and a horizontal ground surface (Figure 1). The PV module generates maximum
output power when it faces the sun directly.
Figure1: PV module title angle
For standalone systems with batteries where the PV modules are attached to a
permanent structure, the tilt angle of the PV modules should be selected to optimize the
performance based on seasonal load and sunlight. In general, if the PV output is adequate
when irradiance is low (e.g., winter), then the angle chosen should be adequate during
the rest of the year. For grid-connected installations where the PV modules are attached
to a permanent structure, PV modules should be tilted so that the energy production from
the PV modules will be maximized on an annual basis. Only for UL listed products.
The System Fire Class Rating of the module or panel in a mounting system in
combination with a roof covering complete with requirements to achieve the specified
System Fire Class Rating for a non-BIPV module or panel.
Any module or panel mounting system limitations on inclination required to maintain a
specific System Fire Class Rating.
The recommended standoff height is 115 mm. If other mounting means are employed
this may affect the UL Listing.

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2.3 MechanicalInstallationintroduction
Solar PV modules usually can be mounted by using the following methods: screws and
clamps.
﹡Note:
1) All installation methods herein are only for reference, and SunSpark Technology Inc
will not provide related mounting components, the system installer or trained
professional personnel must be responsible for the PV system’s design, installation,
and mechanical load calculation and security of the system.
2) Before installing, you should confirm below important things:
a) Visual check before installation, to make sure there is no bug in the packing and
junction box as well as the surface of module, if have, remove and clean it.
b) Check the series number is right or not.
c) Our modules are designed to meet a maximum positive design loading of 3600 Pa and
negative design loading of 2400 Pa for 72 cells with frame dimension 1960*991*40mm
;a maximum positive and negative design loading of 2400 Pa for 60 cell with frame
dimension 1650*997*40mm and 1650*997*35mm.
d) Where common grounding hardware (nuts, bolts, star washers, spilt-ring lock
washers, flat washers and the like) is used to attach a listed grounding/bonding device,
the attachment must be made in conformance with the grounding device manufacturer's
instructions. Common hardware items such as nuts, bolts, star washers, lock washers
and the like have not been evaluated for electrical conductivity or for use as grounding
devices and should be used only for maintaining mechanical connections and holding
electrical grounding devices in the proper position for electrical conductivity. Such
devices, where supplied with the module and evaluated through the requirements in UL
1703, may be used for grounding connections in accordance with the instructions
provided with the module.
e) Refer to Section 690-8 of the National Electric Code for an additional multiplying
factor of 1.25 which may be applicable.
f) Indicating that this module has been evaluated to operate in an ambient air
temperature range of -40°C to + 40°C and to a positive design loading of 3600 Pa and
negative design loading of 2400 Pa for 72 cells with frame dimension 1960*991*40mm

10
;a maximum positive and negative design loading of 2400 Pa for 60 cell with frame
dimension 1650*997*40mm and 1650*997*35mm.

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2.3.1 Fixation with clamps
⚫The applicable products only allow using clamps at long side of frames.
⚫The module 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 module frame is not to be modified under any circumstances. When choosing
this type of clamp-mounting method, please be sure to use at least four clamps on
each module, two clamps should be attached on each long side of the module.
⚫The applied torque should be big enough to fix it steadily (18N.m to 24N.m), for safety,
you’d better follow the clamps manufacture’s recommendation. Please find detailed
mounting information in the below illustration, the installation dimensions are
recommended as shown below:
Figure2 above: PV module installed at long side with Clamp fitting method
Module type
Cell
type
Cell
quantity
Dimension(mm)
A*B
T
J
K
SST -XXXM SST
-XXXMB
”XXX”=300-320
Mono
6*10
1650*997
40
400
420
SST -XXXML
SST -XXXMLB
”XXX”=300-320
Mono
6*10
1650*997
35
400
420
SST -XXXM
SST -XXXMB
”XXX”=360-375
Mono
6*12
1960*991
40
400
480
Table 1 above: Mechanical dimensions when modules installed at long side with Clamp

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⚫Fitting dimensions and recommended mounting torque
Accessories
Material
Type and Manufacturer
Size and
Length
Bolt
Stainless Steel
304
type:M8
M8*40mm
Washer
Stainless Steel
304
type: M8
24*2mm
Middle
Clamp
Aluminum Alloy
6005-T5
Type: AL40-50-8-M
Manufacturer: Suzhou Alston
Precision Electronics Co.Ltd
40*50mm
End Clamp
Aluminium alloy
6005-T5
Type: AL40-50-8-S
Manufacturer: Suzhou Alston
Precision Electronics Co.Ltd
40*50mm
Middle
Clamp
Aluminum Alloy
6005-T5
Type: AL35-40-8-M
Manufacturer: Suzhou Alston
Precision Electronics Co.Ltd
35*40mm
End Clamp
Aluminium alloy
6005-T5
Type: AL35-40-8-S
Manufacturer: Suzhou Alston
Precision Electronics Co.Ltd
35*40mm
Recommended torque is between 18N.m to 24N.m
Clamp thickness: No less than 3mm;

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2.3.2 Grounding
PV modules use an anodic oxidized aluminum frame to resist corrosion.
So the frame of Modules should be connected to the equipment grounding
conductor to prevent thunder and electrical shock.
The grounding device should fully contact with the inside of the aluminum
alloy, and should penetrate the surface of the frame oxidation film.
Please don't drill any additional grounding hole on the frame of the
Modules, otherwise SunSpark Technology Inc expressly disclaim liability for in
validness of the warranty.
For optimal performance, SunSpark Technology Inc recommend the DC
cathode of the Modules array is connected to ground. Failure to comply with this
requirement may reduce the performance of the system.
The grounding method should not result in the direct contact of dissimilar
metals with the aluminum frame of the Modules that will result in galvanic
corrosion. An addendum to UL Standard 1703 "Flat Plate Photovoltaic Modules
and Panels" recommends metal combinations not exceed an electrochemical
potential difference of 0.6 Volts.
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. The following grounding methods are available.
Use Grounded Clamp
There is a grounding hole with 4.2 mm diameter on the edge side closer to the
middle of the back frame of the Modules. The middle line of the grounding mark is
overlapped with the grounding hole, and the direction is same as the longer
frame. The grounding between Modules must be approved by qualified
electrician. And the grounding device should produce by qualified electrical
manufacture. The recommended twist torque value is 2.3 N-m. A copper core in
size of 12 AWG can be used as grounding clamp. The copper wire should not be
compressed during the installation.

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Figure 3: Installation Methods
Note: The figure above is using TYCO. 1954381-2 (recommended)

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3 Wiring and connection
a)Before this procedure, please read the operation instructions of the PV system carefully.
Make wiring by Multi-connecting cables between the PV modules in series or parallel
connection, which is determined by user’s configuration requirement for system power,
current and voltage.
b)PV module connected in series should have similar current. Modules must not be connected
together to create a voltage higher than the permitted system voltage (1500 VDC),
Recommended maximum series/parallel module configurations:([Max system
voltage/(1.25*Voc)]/[fuse rating/Isc+1]) .Any more please always take into consideration the
variation of the voltage under different temperatures, the Voc of the modules will be rise when
the temperature drops.
c) PV module connect in parallel should have similar voltage. As reference the maximum
number of modules in parallel (M) can be easily calculated by dividing the maximum rated
current (indicated in the electrical specification below) by Isc value of the module, and then
plus 1. Any more please always take into consideration the variation of the current under
different temperatures, the Isc of the modules will be rise when the temperature goes up.
d)Open the connection box of the control system and connect the cabled from the PV
arrays to the connection box in accordance with the installation indication of the PV control
systems. The cross-sectional area and cable connector capacity must satisfy the maximum
short-circuit of PV system (For a single component, we recommended the cross-sectional
area of cables is 4mm2 and the rated current of connectors is more than 10A), otherwise
cables and connectors will become overheating for large current. Please pay attention: the
temperature limit of cables is 85℃and the temperature limit of connector 105℃.
e)All module frames and mounting racks must be properly grounded in accordance with local
and national electrical codes. SunSpark Technology Inc modules can be grounded using third
party ground washers or clip devices as long as the products are approved for grounding
metallic frames of PV modules. Alternate grounding options built into the racking system are
acceptable so long as they have been UL approved.
f) Follow the requirements of applicable local and national electrical codes.
g) These modules contain factory installed bypass diode. if these modules are incorrectly
connected to each other, the bypass diodes, cable or junction box may be damaged.
h)The module shall wire in accordance with the NEC, the grounding method of the frame of

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arrays shall comply with the NEC, article 250.
i) It is recommended that the screw be tightened to a torque between 18N.m to 24N.m
j) For SunSpark Technology Inc standard module, the length of cable is 1000mm; and for
customized module, the cable length can be based on your condition, take the cable length
into consideration before designing the wiring layout.
k) Connector matching requirements
Manufactured by
Male
Female
Mating
QC SOLAR (SUZHOU)
CORP
PV- QC4.10-
a5c13d3e2
PV- QC4.10-
a5c13d3e2
only the same
manufacturer and
model of
connectors. See
table below
STAUBLI ELECTRICAL
CONNECTORS ESSEN
GMBH
PV-KST4/6II-
UR
PV-KBT4/6II-UR
STAUBLI ELECTRICAL
CONNECTORS ESSEN
GMBH
PV-KST4-
EVO2/6I-UR
PV-KBT4-EVO2/6I-
UR
STAUBLI ELECTRICAL
CONNECTORS ESSEN
GMBH (E343181)
PV-KST4-
EVO2/6II-UR
PV-KBT4-
EVO2/6II-UR
l) Contact information of connector manufacturer.:
Manufactured by
Contact Wabe
QC SOLAR (SUZHOU) CORP
www.quick-contact.com,
STAUBLI ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS
ESSEN GMBH
https://www.staubli.com/zh-
cn/profile/company/
m) Terminal box information
Type
Manufacturers
Model
Junction
Box
QC SOLAR (SUZHOU) CORP
0816431-11z
diode
QC Solar
SB3050DY
cable
QC SOLAR (SUZHOU) CORP
UL PV-12AWG
connector
QC SOLAR (SUZHOU) CORP
PV- QC4.10-a5c13d3e2
STAUBLI ELECTRICAL
CONNECTORS ESSEN GMBH
PV-KST4/6II-UR/ PV-KBT4/6II-UR
PV-KST4-EVO2/6I-UR/ PV-KBT4-
EVO2/6I-UR
PV-KST4-EVO2/6II-UR/ PV-KBT4-
EVO2/6II-UR

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4 Maintenance and care
SunSpark Technology Inc recommends the following maintenance in order to ensure optimum
performance of the module:
a) Check the electrical and mechanical connections every six months to verify that they are clean,
secure and undamaged;
b) Check that mounting hardware, terminal screws and grounding components are tightly secured
with no corrosion;
c) Check that modules are not shaded by vegetation or any unwanted obstacles;
d) Do not touch live parts of cables and connectors;
e) Use appropriate safety equipment (insulated tools, insulating gloves, etc.) when handling
modules;
f) If any problem with the system or individual module arises, have them investigated by a
competent specialist;
g) Replacement modules must be the same type of those to be replaced;
h) Modules generate high voltage when exposed to sunlight. Please cover the front surface of
modules with an opaque non- scratch material when repairing. Repairing works must be
performed by specialized and properly trained personnel only;
NOTICE: Follow the maintenance instructions for all components used in the system, such as
support frames, charge regulators, inverters, batteries etc.
4.1 Cleaning
Dirt and dust can accumulate on the glass surface of the PV module over time, particularly in
low inclination installations. This can cause a general decrease of power output and also
sedimentation on the lower edge of the modules due to dirt accumulation. SunSpark
Technology Inc Technology recommends periodic cleaning of PV modules to ensure maximum
power output, especially in regions with high quantity of dust in the air or low precipitations, as
follows:
a) Under most weather conditions, normal rainfall is enough to keep the PV module glass surface
clean. Clean the glass surface of the module as necessary and consider that lower inclination
requires more cleaning frequency;
b) Always use water and a soft sponge or cloth for cleaning. A mild, non-abrasive cleaning agent can

17
be used to remove stubborn dirt. High mineral content water is not recommended, as it may leave
residual deposits on the module;
c) SunSpark Technology Inc modules may be equipped with anti-reflective coated glass. This
technology provides SunSpark Technology Inc modules with high transmittance and low reflectivity
features, which improves the module power output, reduces the dust and dirt deposition and
produces very low glare. To avoid any damage to this layer do not clean the modules with high
pressure washers, steam or corrosive chemicals. Do not use abrasive sponges or aggressive tools
that could scratch the module surface.
d) To avoid a possible thermal shock, clean the modules during early morning, when the module is still
cold. This is specially recommended in regions with hotter temperatures;
e) In cold environments with snow do not try to remove the frozen snow or ice from the module
scratching on the front glass. Only soft snow can be removed gently with a soft brush in order to
improve the production;
f) Do not clean modules having broken glass or exposed wiring. This could cause a general electrical
failure of the module and/or electrical shock hazard .