vikram solar SOMERA VSMD.72 Series User manual

INSTALLATION
MANUAL
Applicable Models
SOMERA VSMD.72.AAA.05 [AAA= 340 - 350]
ELDORA VSPG.72.AAA.05 [AAA= 320 - 330]
SOMERA VSMG.72.AAA.05 [AAA= 355 - 365]
SOMERA VSMD.60.AAA.05 [AAA= 280 -290]
ELDORA VSPG.60.AAA.05 [AAA= 265 - 275]
SOMERA VSMG.60.AAA.05[AAA= 295 - 305]

VIKRAM SOLAR INSTALLATION MANUAL DOC NO. VSL/ENG/WI/08/ Rev01
TABLE OF CONTENTS
01. DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY ......................................................... 2
02. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ............................................................... 2
02.1 FIRE SAFETY ........................................................................................ 3
03. UNPACKING AND STORAGE ....................................................... 3
03.1 MODULE IDENTIFICATION .................................................................. 4
04. INSTALLATION ENVIRONMENT .................................................. 4
04.1 CLIMATE CONDITIONS ........................................................................ 4
05. SITE SELECTION ......................................................................... 4
06. MOUNTING INSTRUCTIONS ....................................................... 5
06.1 MOUNTING METHODS ........................................................................ 5
MOUNTING WITH CLAMPS ................................................................. 6
GROUNDING ........................................................................................ 7
Module Wiring...................................................................... 7
07. ELECTRICAL CONFIGURATION .................................................. 8
07.1 FUSING ................................................................................................. 9
07.2 ELECTRICAL PARAMETERS ................................................................ 9
07.3 INVERTER SELECTION AND COMPATIBILITY .................................. 10
08. MAINTENANCE AND CARE ...................................................... 10
09. END OF LIFE PRODUCT RECYCLING ....................................... 11
10. WARNING .................................................................................. 11
11. CONTACT DETAILS ..................................................................... 11
01

VIKRAM SOLAR INSTALLATION MANUAL DOC NO. VSL/ENG/WI/08/ Rev01
The usage of this manual, installation, handling of Vikram Solar modules are beyond Vikram Solar’s
control. Vikram Solar does not assume any responsibility against failure to follow instructions
resulting into any Loss, Damage, Injury or Expense due to Improper Installation, Handling, Usage or
Maintenance
Vikram Solar assumes no Responsibility for Infringement of Intellectual Property Rights or other
rights of third parties that may result from use of the module. No license is granted in this regards
whether expressly or impliedly by Implication or under any patent rights
All information given in this manual is based on Vikram Solar knowledge and experience. Vikram
Solar reserve the rights to change this manual and module specification without prior notice
When modules have been pre-installed but the system has not been connected to the grid yet, each
module string should be kept under open-circuit conditions and proper actions should be taken to
avoid dust and moisture penetration inside the connectors.
Vikram Solar PV modules are Application Class A PV modules, PV modules generate electricity
upon direct exposure to light, which can produce electrical shock. Use of insulated tools and gloves
is recommended while working with modules in sunlight. No metallic contacts should be on the
human body
No one should stand on the front and backside of the PV module as non -uniform localized pressure
might cause damage to the solar cells inside the module
The front/back surface of the module constructed with tempered/heat strength/ Float glass and
hence it should be handled with utmost care. If the glass breaks, then human contact with the
surface can lead to electric shock particularly when the ambient condition is wet. Broken modules
cannot be repaired and it should be disposed of properly
All electrical connectors should be well protected against corrosion and soiling. Ensure that
connectors are corrosion free, cleaned with absolutely no gaps between the contacts. Gap can
result into an Electrical Arcing causing a Fire Hazard
For personal safety do not install/ handle PV modules under adverse environmental conditions viz.
gusty winds, wet frosted roof surfaces
Ensure the polarity of the modules or strings are not reversed considering the other modules in the
string
Concentrating artificial sunlight on solar module is not allowed as it will degrade its performance
and life span
Vikram Solar modules are certified for operating in installations at 1500 Vdc consider this value
while designing the power plant considering the temperature ranges in the location of power plant.
Mixing of power classes in one string is not allowed and can be harmful. Damages of modules due
to this mixing can lead to invalidity of product warranty
To allow for increased output of a module or panel resulting from certain conditions of use, the
installation instructions for a module or panel shall include the following statement or the under
normal conditions, a photovoltaic module is likely to experience conditions that produce more
equivalent current and/or voltage than reported at standard test conditions.
02
02.SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
01.DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY

VIKRAM SOLAR INSTALLATION MANUAL DOC NO. VSL/ENG/WI/08/ Rev01
02.1 FIRE SAFETY
VSL PV Modules have a Class C fire resistance rating in accordance with IEC 61730 certification and
Type 1 fire resistance rating in accordance with UL 1703 certification. “The fire rating of this module
is valid only when mounted in the manner specified in the mechanical mounting instructions.”
Rooftop installations should be placed over fire resistant roof coverings only. Roof constructions and
installations may affect the fire safety of a building improper installation may create hazards in the
event of a fire.
Wrong installation procedure, using defective/worn out parts may result in an electrical hazard
during operation. In order to prevent the risk of fire in this case, SPV modules should not be
installed near highly inflammable liquids/gases or locations with hazardous materials.
In the case of a fire, SPV modules may produce dangerous voltage/surge current, even if they have
been disconnected from the inverter, or have been partly or entirely destroyed, or the naked wiring
destroyed. In the event of fire, inform the fire/safety team about the particular hazards from the PV
system, and stay away from all elements of the PV system during and after a fire until the necessary
steps have been taken to mitigate the risk.
At receipt of PV modules, verify the product details as it had been ordered. Packing list pasted
outside the box contains all details including the serial no of modules
Do NOT stack packing boxes (pallets) more than 2 boxes high. If pallets are stored temporarily
outside, then the external protective cover to be placed and stack height should not be more than 1
pallet high
Unpacking of PV modules should always be done in the vertical manner as shown in the diagram by
two persons. Also care should be taken for falling over one module to the other inside the packaging
box
PV module surfaces may get damaged/scratched if not handled carefully. No paint or adhesive to be
applied to any of the surfaces
Do NOT connect male & female connectors of the Junction box cable of the module
Do NOT use a knife to cut the zip-ties, but use wire cutting pliers
Do NOT place module directly on top of each other
Do NOT lift modules by their wires or junction box
Do NOT stand, step, walk and / or jump on modules under any circumstances. Localized heavy
loads may cause severe micro-cracks at cell level, which in turn may compromise module reliability
and void warranty.
Do NOT drop or place objects (such as tools) on the modules.
Do NOT carry modules on your head.
Do NOT change the wiring of bypass diodes.
Keep all electrical contacts clean and dry at all times.
TM
Fig 1: Correct way to unpack modules 03
03.UNPACKING AND STORAGE

VIKRAM SOLAR INSTALLATION MANUAL DOC NO. VSL/ENG/WI/08/ Rev01
03.1 MODULE IDENTIFICATION
Each module has a unique serial number, which is laminated behind the glass. Please do not
tamper with the serial number of the module and always record the serial numbers during an
installation for your future records. A nameplate containing model name, electrical and safety
characteristics of the module is also affixed to the back side.
04.1 CLIMATE CONDITIONS
Vikram Solar modules are certified for IEC 61215 : 2016, IS/ IEC 61730-I &II, IS 14286. In addition to
the required IEC certification to meet European standards. Although Vikram Solar PV modules have
passed Salt mist (IEC 61701)corrosion test with a salt concentration of 5 % by weight.
ENVIRONMENT
Ambient temperature: -40 °C to +50 °C
Operating temperature: -40 °C to +85 °C
Storage temperature: -20 °C to +50 °C
Humidity: < 85 RH%
Mechanical load pressure*: Design load of 1600Pa on the front and 1600Pa on the rear side with a
safety factor of 1.5.
* NOTE:
The mechanical load bearing capacity depends upon the mounting methods and failure to follow the instructions of this manual
may result in different capabilities to withstand snow and wind loads. The system installer should ensure that installation
methods used meet these requirements and any local codes and regulations.
PV modules should be installed in a place where there is no shading across the location throughout
the year. Shading can be minimized by having the distance between the obstruction and solar array
is more than thrice the height of obstruction
PV modules should typically face south in the northern hemisphere and north in southern
hemisphere
For optimum energy production, solar modules should normally be mounted facing the equator
at an angle to the horizontal plane equivalent to the latitude of the installation. If the PV module is
placed at a different angle or orientation, then it could have a direct impact on the generation output
Any slope of less than 1:2.4 is required to maintain the fire class rating; Modules are Class C Fire
Rated
PV modules should not be installed in such a way it will be immersed under water under any
circumstances and should not be also installed in a moving vehicle / vessel.
04
05.SITE SELECTION
04.INSTALLATION ENVIRONMENT

VIKRAM SOLAR INSTALLATION MANUAL DOC NO. VSL/ENG/WI/08/ Rev01
06.1 INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
A minimum clearance of 10 mm (0.394 in) or more between modules is required to allow for
thermal expansion of the modules. The clearance is from the plastic corner protector to adjacent
plastic corner protector.
To maximize your annual yield, find out the optimum orientation and tilt for PV modules in your
region. The highest yields are achieved when sunlight shines perpendicularly onto the PV modules.
Even minor partial shading (e.g. from dirt deposits) reduces yields. A module can be considered
to be unshaded if its entire surface is free from shading all year round. Sunlight should be able to
reach the module even on the shortest day of the year.
When modules have been pre-installed but the system has not been connected to the grid yet, each
module string should be kept under open circuit conditions and proper actions should be taken to
avoid dust and moisture penetration inside the connectors.
Connectors are not waterproof when unmated. When installing modules, connector should be
connected to each other as soon as possible or appropriate measures should be taken to avoid
moisture and dust penetrating into the connector.
According to UL 1703, any other specific clearance required for maintaining a system fire rating
should prevail. Detailed clearance requirements pertaining to system fire ratings must be provided
by your racking supplier.
Ground reflectance (Albedo) and Mounting structure height has an impact on energy yield of Bifacial
modules. Higher power output can be realised optimization of Albedo and module height.
06.2 MOUNTING METHODS
The connection of the module to the racking system can be created through the Clamps The
modules must be installed according to the following examples and recommendations. If a
different installation method is desired, please contact Vikram Solar customer service or technical
support team for consultation. Improperly mounted modules maybe damaged. If alternative
mounting method is used and not approved by Vikram, the modules will not continue to have a valid
warranty.
1. Panels shall not be subjected to wind or snow loads exceeding the maximum permissible loads,
and shall not be subjected to excessive forces due to the thermal expansion of the support
structures.
2. To maximize mounting longevity, Vikram Solar strongly recommends the use of corrosion proof
(stainless steel) attachment hardware.
3. Vikram Solar Limited recommends mounting rails with a minimum width of 40 mm for ±1600 Pa
load
05
06.MOUNTING INSTRUCTIONS

VIKRAM SOLAR INSTALLATION MANUAL DOC NO. VSL/ENG/WI/08/ Rev01
,MOUNTING WITH CLAMPS
Vikram Solar has tested its modules with a number of clamps from different manufacturers and
recommends the use of clamps which have an EPDM or similar insulating washer, mounting bolt of
at least M8.
Use at minimum 6 clamps to attach modules to the mounting rails.
Be sure to avoid shadowing effects from the module clamps.
When choosing this type of clamp-mounting method, use at least four clamps on each module, the
6 clamps should be attached on each long sides of the module. Depending on local wind and snow
loads, additional clamps may be required to ensure that modules can bear the load.
Fig 2: Mounting with clamps
Vikram Solar Limited warranty may be void in cases where improper clamps or unsuitable
installation methods are found. When installing clamps, take measures so as:
Not to bend the glass excessively.
Not to cast shadow on the cells.
Not to damage or scratch the surface of the glass.
To ensure the clamps overlap the module by 13 mm to 15 mm.
To ensure thickness of top and bottom rubber ≥ 3 mm, and side rubber thickness ≥ 1 mm.
The mounting rails shall be designed to limit as much as possible shade on module rearside cells.
A. Use 6 clamps on the long side. Mounting rails run parallel to the long side frame
Clamp length ≥ 200 mm
A = 330 ± 20 mm
Maximum Load:
Uplift load ≤ 1600 Pa
Downforce load ≤ 1600 Pa
06

VIKRAM SOLAR INSTALLATION MANUAL DOC NO. VSL/ENG/WI/08/ Rev01
07
B. Use 6 clamps on the long side ( Only for Glass-Glass mono-facial PV modules) . Mounting rails
run perpendicular to the long side frame
Clamp length ≥ 200 mm
A = 330 ± 20 mm
B = 650 ± 20 mm
Maximum Load:
Uplift load ≤ 1600 Pa
Downforce load ≤ 1600 Pa
SERIES CONNECTION:
PARALLEL CONNECTION:
All wiring should be performed, by qualified installers, in accordance with the local codes and
regulations
06.3MODULE WIRING
07

VIKRAM SOLAR INSTALLATION MANUAL DOC NO. VSL/ENG/WI/08/ Rev01
08
Modules can be connected in series to increase the operating voltage by plugging the positive plug
of one module into the negative socket of the next. Before connecting modules always ensure that
the contacts are corrosion free, clean and dry
Product can be irreparably damaged if an array string is connected in reverse polarity to another.
Always verify the voltage and polarity of each individual string before making a parallel connection.
If you measure a reversed polarity or a difference of more than 10 V between strings then check
the string configuration before making the connection. Module wiring should be performed by
professional expert installers in accordance with local regulations and national codes
PV modules can be connected in Series to have an increase in the Operating Voltage. The positive
connector plug of module is connected to the negative connector plug of another module until there
is a click sound. Only if there is a click sound assume the modules are connected
There can be irreparable damage done if the array strings are connected in reverse polarity. i.e.
if the positive end is connected to negative input of the string combiner box and vice versa. So
proper connection in the right polarity is recommended and if any reverse polarity is seen or any
difference of more than 10 V is observed, the string configuration connection needs to be checked
and connected appropriately
Vikram Solar modules are provided with standard copper cables with a 4 mm2cross-sectional
area and are rated for 1500V (IEC and UL) for maximum system voltage, 90oc and are UV resistant.
Ensure the cables are not exposed to water logged areas
A maximum of two strings can be connected in parallel without using over-current protection device
(fuses, etc.) incorporated in series within each string. Three of more strings can be connected in
parallel if an appropriate and certified over-current protection device is installed in series with each
string.
The maximum voltage of the system should be lesser than the certified system voltage (typically
1500V) or the maximum input voltage of the inverter. Since Voc α(1/T), the open circuit voltage of
the array needs to be calculated at the lowest ambient temperature for the location of power plant.
This can be done using the formula below,
Max System voltage = X * Voc * [1 + ((Tα-Voc (%) x (25 - Tmin))] ; Where
X - No: modules which are connected in series.
Voc - Open circuit voltage of each module (Refer to the Data Sheet)
Tα-Voc - Thermal coefficient of open circuit voltage for the module in Percentage (refer to Vikram
Solar Spec sheet)
Tmin - Minimum ambient temperature of the location of the plant
Solar array generates DC electricity once sunlight falls on the modules and the inverter is in active
mode once the minimum voltage and current requirements are met and is converted into AC Power
appropriately.
CAUTION:
The modules are rated to operate at potentially lethal DC Voltages which have the potential to cause
severe electric hazards in the form of shock, arcing and other fire hazards. Hence only trained
professionals are requested to operate on the panels and the DC solar array and the DC combiner
box. The PV modules are certified to operate at 1500V DC .
Always a rated isolator (DC Switch) is to be used to interrupt the current flow while disconnecting
the connectors. Even after disconnecting, the DC power may be active for some time, hence only
expert operators are recommended to operate upon the panels, string combiner box, etc. Vikram
Solar will not be responsible for any electrical accidents occurring in power plants using Vikram
Solar modules 08
07.ELECTRICAL CONFIGURATION

VIKRAM SOLAR INSTALLATION MANUAL DOC NO. VSL/ENG/WI/08/ Rev01
09
07.1 FUSING
Please rate the fuses for maximum Vdc and connected in each, non-grounded pole of the solar
Array. (If the system is a floating system then fuses should be connected in both positive or negative
poles). The maximum Fuse Rating connected in series with the array string is usually 20 A, but
the actual module specific rating can be found on the module data sheet. The fuse rating also
corresponds to maximum reverse current that a module will be able to withstand. 20 A fuse per
series string is recommended. Under certain conditions, a module may produce more current
or voltage than its STC rated power. As a result, a module open-circuit voltage and short-circuit
current under STC should be multiplied by 1.25 when determining component voltage ratings,
conductor ampacities, overcurrent device ratings, and the size of controls connected to the PV
output. An additional 1.25 multiplier for the short-circuit current (giving a total multiplier of 1.56),
may be applicable when sizing conductors and fuses, as described in section 690-8 of U.S. NEC.
Electrical Specifications [Nominal Values: for 72 Cell model] Maximum System Voltage: 1500V
Maximum Series Fuse: 20A @ 20% Bifacial gain
Fire Rating Class: Fire Rating Class C / Fire Rating Type 1
Dimensions: 1975mm*992mm*6mm
Weight: 27 kg
Bypass Diodes: 3 Bypass Diodes
Typically, modules consists of bypass diodes like PST4530/T (Peak Inverse voltage -45 V, Forward
Current- 30 A) diodes in the junction box. Rated electrical characteristics are within ±10% of
measured values at standard test conditions of 1000 W/M2, 25°C cell temperature and air mass 1.5
solar spectral irradiance.
07.2 ELECTRICAL PARAMETERS
Type name or model
number
ELDORA
VSPG.72.AAA.05
SOMERA
VSMD.72.AAA.05
VSMG.72.AAA.05
ELDORA
VSPG.60.AAA.05
SOMERA
VSMD.60.AAA.05
VSMG.60.AAA.05
Rated maximum power
range [W]
315-335 340-370 265-290 295-315
Module technology Poly Crystalline Mono Crystalline Poly Crystalline Mono Crystalline
Number of cells 72 72 60 60
Rated short circuit current
range [A]
8.9-9.6 9.3-10.3 8.9 - 9.7 9.4-10.3
Rated open circuit voltage
range [V]
45.1- 47.5 47.5-49.5 37.5 - 39.9 39.0 - 42.5
Rated current at Pmax
range [A]
8.3- 9.1 8.90 -9.7 8.4- 9.3 9.0-9.7
Rated voltage at Pmax
range [V]
36.5- 38.9 38.5 - 40.8 29.5 - 32.5 31.8- 33.9
Maximum system voltage
[VDC]
1500 1500 1500 1500
Over-current protection
rating [A]
15 20 15 20
Dimensions 1975×992×6 1975×992×6 1658×992×6 1658×992×6
(l × w × h) [mm]
Module area [m²] 1.959 1.959 1.959 1.959
Maximum Series Fuse, (A) 15 20 15 20
09

VIKRAM SOLAR INSTALLATION MANUAL DOC NO. VSL/ENG/WI/08/ Rev01
010
07.3 INVERTER SELETION AND COMPATIBILITY
Only connect the quantity of modules that corresponds to the voltage specifications of the inverters
used in the system. When installed as per IEC norms and regulations, Vikram Solar modules
normally do not need to be electronically connected to earth and can operate with either galvanic
ally isolated (with transformer) and transformer less inverters. If the system is located in hot and
very humid locations then galvanically isolated Inverters with Transformers must be used and the
negative pole of the array must be connected to earth. It is recommend to adopt inverter negatively
earthed installation to avoid the PID effect. If a Transformer less Inverter is used in hot humid
climatic locations, The Installer should ensure the right active negative earthing kit is to be installed
by consulting and having assurance from the inverter supplier.
Well-designed PV Plant requires minimum maintenance but however with further maintenance the
performance and the reliability of the system can be improved
Periodica maintenance by a trained professional is usually advised
Regular maintenance is required to keep modules clear of snow, bird droppings, seeds, pollen,
leaves, branches, dirt spots, and dust.
Modules with sufficient tilt (at least 15°), generally do not require cleaning (rain will have a self-
cleaning effect).
Check that the mounting structures are properly laid and the modules are held tightly and are in
accordance with the mounting instructions given above
Ensure no part of the light falling area of the module is shaded, any leaves / trees or any object
which causes shading has to be removed accordingly
Ensure all the cable assembly is tight and no part of cable assembly will be exposed to water
logging
Check that the string fuses in each non/earthed pole are in operation
Do not open the junction box to change the diodes even if they are defective. Please contact with PV
module manufacturer in case of known or suspected diode failure
Ensure the module is cleaned without causing any damage like micro-crack, etc. to the module
Cover the front and back surface of modules by an opaque material when repairing. Modules when
exposed to sunlight generate high voltage and are dangerous
Always recommended to have the module clean and tidy for maximum power generation from the
solar PV module
08.1 CLEANNING
The amount of electricity generated by a solar module is proportional to the amount of light falling
on it. A module with shaded cells will produce less energy and therefore it is important to keep
modules clean.
It is recommended to check TDS of the cleaning water on regular basis. TDS should be maintained
below 500 mg/L & total hardness shall be less than 75 mg/L;
Clean PV modules when the irradiance is below 200W/m2; liquid with a large temperature difference
from the modules shall not be used for cleaning the modules;
When cleaning with pressurized water, the water pressure on the glass surface of the module shall
not exceed 700 kPa (14619.80psf); the module is prohibited to bear the extra force;
When cleaning PV modules, do NOT step on the modules; do NOT spay water on the the cables;
keep the connectors clean and dry; prevent fire and electrical shock from occurring; do NOT use as
steam cleaner;
10
08.MAINTENANCE AND CARE

VIKRAM SOLAR INSTALLATION MANUAL DOC NO. VSL/ENG/WI/08/ Rev01
011
When cleaning the modules, use a soft cloth together with a mild detergent and clean water. Take
care to avoid severe thermal shocks which might damage the module by cleaning modules with
water which has a similar temperature to the modules being cleaned;
Use dry or wet soft clean cloth to clean the PV modules; non-corrosive solvents or hard objects are
strictly prohibited ,do not scrape or rub dry dirt away, as this may cause micro scratches;
Snow should be removed using a soft brush;
If there are greasy dirt and other substances on the surface of the PV module which are difficult
to clean, conventional household glass cleaning agents can be used; Do NOT use the alkaline and
strong acid solvents.
11

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








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 
    
   








 9
12

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 
  
      









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
    
    
 
 











 13





















10 
11 
12 
14