Global Installation Guide for Suntech
Power Standard Photovoltaic Module
Version 20220101
Table of Contents
Purpose of this guide •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 1
General Safety
Handling Safety
Installation Safety
Fire Safety
Product Identification •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 3
Mechanical Installation••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 4
Selecting a Location
Before Installing
General Installation
Mounting Methods and Mechanical Loads
Electrical Installation •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 15
General Electrical Connection
Electrical Property
Series Wiring and Parallel Wiring
Grounding
Maintenance ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 19
* Please read carefully. This document is binding for any warranty case.
* Any installed PV system less than 500m away from coastline, please refer to the Near-coast installation manual.
1
Purpose of this guide
This guide contains information regarding the installation and safe handling of Wuxi Suntech Power Co., Ltd
(hereinafter referred to as “Suntech”) photovoltaic modules (hereinafter referred to as “PV modules” or
“modules”).
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 authorized 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" refers to regions where IEC standard
applies, e.g. Europe, Middle East, most of Asia Pacific countries; "UL Only" refers to regions where UL standard
applies, e.g. United States; 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 complying with IEC 60417-5172 are considered to meet
Class II ( ).
The environmental temperature in which the PV modules work is between -40℃ and 40℃ with relative
humidity of less than 85%, while their operating temperature is from -40℃ and 85℃.
PV modules are recommended to be installed at an altitude 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.
Modules convert light energy to direct current electrical energy. They are designed for outdoor use.
Modules can be ground mounted, mounted on rooftops. The responsibility of proper design of support
structures lies in 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% 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, magnifiers or artificially concentrated sunlight onto the modules.
Always use fall protection equipment when working at a height of 6 feet (183cm) or above. Follow
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (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.
The module is considered to be in compliance with this standard only when the module is either mounted
2
in the manner specified by the mounting instructions, or when the mounting method has been evaluated with
this PV module to UL 2703. A module with exposed conductive parts is considered to be in compliance with this
standard only when it is either electrically grounded in accordance with the manufacturer’ s instructions and the
requirements of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, or when the bonding means has been evaluated
with this PV module to UL 2703. (UL Only)
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 appropriate protective equipment.
When storing uninstalled modules outdoors for any period of time, always cover the modules and ensure
that the glass faces down on a soft flat surface to prevent water from collecting inside the module and causing
damage to exposed connectors.
Installation Safety
Never disconnect electrical connections or unplug connectors while the circuit is under load.
Contact with electrically active parts of the modules, such as terminals, can result in burns, sparks and
lethal shock whether or not the module is connected.
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 the rain, snow or in windy conditions.
Avoid exposing cables and connectors to direct sunlight and scratches or cuts in order to prevent insulation
degradation.
Use only insulated tools that are approved for working on electrical installations.
Keep children well away from the system while transporting and installing mechanical and electrical
components.
Completely cover the module with an opaque material during installation to prevent electricity from being
generated.
Do not wear metallic rings, watchbands, earrings, nose rings, lip rings or other metallic objects while
installing or troubleshooting photovoltaic systems.
Follow the safety regulations (e.g., safety rules for working on electrical power plant stations) of your
regions and for all other system components, including wires and cables, connectors, charging regulators,
inverters, storage batteries, rechargeable batteries, etc.
Under normal conditions, a photovoltaic module is likely to experience conditions that produce more
current and/or voltage than reported at standard test conditions. Accordingly, the values of Isc and Voc marked
on this module should be multiplied by a factor of 1.25 when determining component voltage ratings, conductor
current ratings, minimum factor of fuse sizes, and size of controls connected to the PV output.
Only use same connectors to connect modules to form a string, or connect to another device. Removing the
connectors will void the warranty.
3
Fire Safety
Consult your local authority for guidelines and requirements for building or structural fire safety.
Roof constructions and installations may affect the fire safety of a building; improper installation may
create hazards in the event of a fire.
Use components such as ground fault circuit breakers and fuses as required by local authority.
Do not use modules near equipment or in places where flammable gases may be generated.
Modules rated for Module Fire Performance Type Ⅰ must be installed on a roof which has appropriate
fire resistance. Before mounting on the roof, please consult your local building related department to make sure
the approved roofing materials. The module qualified for safety through UL 61730 within this application class
are considered to meet the requirement of Safety Class Ⅱ. (UL only)
A minimum slope of 5 in/ft. for installation on a roof is required to maintain the fire class ratings. Any
module or panel mounting system have limitations on inclination required to maintain a specific System Fire
Class Rating. (UL only)
Product identification
Each module has three labels providing the following information:
Nameplate: describes model number; electrical properties like rated power, rated current, rated voltage,
open circuit voltage, short circuit current etc., mechanical properties like weight, dimensions etc., certification
information, company information as well as product origin.
Barcode: each individual module has a unique serial number. The serial number has 18 digits. The 15th and
the 16th digits are the week code, and the 17th and the 18th digits are the year code. For example, STP
xxxxxxxxxxxxxx2414 means the module was assembled and tested in the 24th week of 2014. Each module has
only one bar code. It is permanently attached to the interior of the module and is visible from the top front of
the module. This bar code is inserted prior to laminating.
*Typical serial number barcode label
Sorting label: Consists of barcode and current sorting information. Modules are sorted out and categorized
according to each of their output current, which is demonstrated with a symbol "Ix" on the right. “x” refers to 1
or 2 as modules usually grouped in two classes. In order to get optimal performance out of a string, it is
recommended to connect modules with the same "Ix" class (for example only I2 modules). The barcode on the
left is the same with aforementioned “Barcode” section.
*Sorting label
Please take note that removing any labels will invalidate the warranty.
4
Mechanical Installation
Selecting a location
Select a suitable location for installing the modules.
The modules should face south in northern latitudes and north in southern latitudes.
For detailed information on the best installation angle, refer to standard solar photovoltaic installation
guides or consult a reputable solar installer or systems integrator.
Modules should not be shaded at any time. If a module is shaded or even partially shaded, it will fail to
perform at ideal conditions and result in lower power output. A permanent and/or regular shade on the module
voids the warranty.
This installation manual is applicable for any PV system that is 500m way or more from the coastline. If you
need to install your system less than 500m from the coastline please refer to Near-coast installation manual
(www.suntech-power.com) or contact Suntech Customer Global Service Department or our regional
representatives.
Do not use modules near equipment or in locations where flammable gases may be generated or collected.
Before Installing
Before installing modules check for any optical deviations. Any optical deviations noticed after system installed
may cause the warranty invalid. Any potential costs for labor, material or other cost such as documentation,
safety or performing the (de/ re-) installation will not be covered.
The module mounting structure must be made of durable, corrosion-resistant and UV-resistant material.
Always use a tested and certified mounting structure approved for your system design.
In regions with heavy snowfall in winter, adjust the height of the mounting system so that the lower edge of
the module is not covered by snow. In addition, ensure the lower part of the module is not in the shadow of
plants, trees or damaged by ground soil moved by or through the air.
For ground mounting systems, the minimum distance recommends from the ground to the lower edge of
the module is at least 24 inches (60cm).
Modules must be securely attached to the mounting structure. For Clamping System installation methods,
the recommended maximum compression for each clamp is 2900 PSI (20 Mpa) in order to avoid potential
damages to module frames. Follow the instruction of the clamping system supplier.
Provide adequate ventilation under the modules in conformity to your local regulations. A minimum
distance of 10 cm between the roof plane and the frame of the module is generally recommended.
Always observe the instructions and safety precautions included in the module support frames.
Before installing modules on a roof, always ensure the roof construction is suitable. In addition, any roof
penetration required to mount the module must be properly sealed to prevent leaks.
Dust built up on the surface of the module can impair with the module performance. The modules shall be
installed with a tilt angle no less than 10 degrees, making it easier for dust to be removed by rain. A flat angle
requires more frequent cleaning.
Observe and take into account the linear thermal expansion of the module frames (the recommended
minimum distance between two modules is 2 cm).
Always keep the front and backsheet of the module free from foreign objects, plants and vegetation,
structural elements, which could come into contact with the module, especially when the module is under
mechanical load.
When installing a module on a pole, select a pole and module mounting structure robust enough to
withstand the anticipated wind load and snow load in the area.
Ensure modules are not exposed to wind or snow load exceeding the maximum permitted values, and are
not exposed to excessive forces due to the thermal expansion of support structures. Never allow modules
overlap or exceeds the rooftop: Refer to the following mounting methods for more detailed information.
5
General Installation
Modules can be installed by using mounting holes, clamps* or an insertion system, recommended torque is
20Nm-25Nm. Modules must be installed according to the following examples. Strictly follow the guidelines when
installing, otherwise the warranty will be affected.
* The required length for each clamp is minimum 50 mm
** 34.9 for frame of 35mm in height, 29.9 for frame of 30mm in height
***Reference length based on M8 bolt and M8 nut
Module can be installed in both landscape and portrait modes.
The modules must be properly secured to their support so that they can withstand positive and negative
load they have been certified for. Installer must ensure that the clamps used to secure the modules are robust
enough.
Mounting Methods and Mechanical Loads
Select a proper installation method based on the required load (See below for more detailed information).
All installation methods herein are only for reference, and Suntech 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.
For each installation, modules can be installed either in portrait or landscape mode. If you integrate our
obsolete products and need advice, please contact Suntech Global Customer Service department for installation
instructions
Module installed
with bolts
Module installed
with clamps
Module
Frame
M8 Bolt
M8 Nut
Flat
washer
Split
washer
M8 Bolt
M8 Nut
Clamp
s
Mounting structure
Mounting structure
Module
Flat
washer
Split
washer
6
Suntech Standard Module Type
(using 156.75 - 157.4 mm solar cell)
Module Dimension
Length × Width × Thickness
16/T Series (Full cell solar module)
1324mm × 992mm × 35mm
20/W Series (Full cell solar module)
1640mm × 992mm × 35mm
1650mm × 992mm × 35mm
24/V Series (Full cell solar module)
1956mm × 992mm × 40mm
1960mm × 992mm × 40mm
16/T Series (Half cell solar module)
1338mm × 992mm × 35mm
20/W(Half cell solar module)
1670mm × 992mm × 35mm
24/V Series(Half cell solar module)
1988mm × 992mm × 40mm
60/W Series (Half cell solar module)
1684mm × 1002mm × 35mm
72/V Series (Half cell solar module)
2008mm × 1002mm × 35mm
72/P Series (Half cell solar module)
2018mm × 992mm × 35mm
Suntech Standard Module Type
(using 158.75 mm solar cell)
Module Dimension
Length × Width × Thickness
A16/T (Half cell solar module)
1354mm × 1002mm × 35mm
A20/W (Half cell solar module)
1680mm × 1002mm × 35mm
A60/W (Half cell solar module)
1684mm × 1002mm × 35mm
A72/V (Half cell solar module)
2008mm × 1002mm × 35mm
A72/P (Half cell Solar module)
2028mm × 1002mm × 35mm
Suntech Standard Module Type
(using 166 mm solar cell)
Module Dimension
Length × Width × Thickness
B60/W (Half cell solar module)
1756mm × 1039mm × 35mm
B72/V (Half cell solar module)
2095mm × 1039mm × 35mm
B72/P (Half cell module)
2096mm × 1040mm ×35(30) mm
2095mm × 1039mm ×35mm
Suntech Standard Module Type
(using 182 mm solar cell)
Module Dimension
Length × Width × Thickness
C54/U (Half cell solar module)
1724mm × 1134mm × 35(30)mm
1722mm × 1134mm × 30mm
C72/V (Half cell solar module)
2279mm × 1134mm × 35mm
2278mm × 1134mm × 35mm
C72/P (Half cell solar module)
2279mm × 1134mm × 35(30)mm
2278mm × 1134mm × 30mm
C54/N (Half cell solar module)
1722mm × 1134mm × 30mm
C72/N (Half cell solar module)
2279mm × 1134mm × 30mm
7
Suntech Standard Module Type
(using 210 mm solar cell)
Module Dimension
Length × Width × Thickness
D66/W (Half cell solar module)
2384mm × 1303mm × 35mm
D60/W (Half cell solar module)
2172mm × 1303mm × 35mm
D66/P (Half cell solar module)
2384mm × 1303mm × 35mm
D60/P (Half cell solar module)
2172mm × 1303mm × 35mm
8
Recommended mounting method
Mounting
method*
Mechanical load
Installation location
Module type
Four bolts mounting
with beams
underneath
Test load:
Positive 5400Pa
Negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
20/W Series
60/W Series
A60/W Series
B60/W Series
C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm)**
C54/N Series
Four bolts mounting
with beams
underneath
Test load:
positive 3800Pa
negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
20/W Series
60/W Series
A16/T Series
A60/W Series
B60/W Series
C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm)
C54/N Series
Four bolts mounting
with beams
underneath
Test load:
positive 5400Pa
negative 3800Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
16/T Series
24/V Series
Four bolts mounting
with beams
underneath
Test load:
positive 5400Pa
negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
72/V Series
72/P Series
A72/V Series
A72/P Series
B72/V Series
B72/P Series (35mm & 30mm)
C72/V Series
C72/P Series (35mm & 30mm)
C72/N Series
D66/W Series
D60/W Series
D66/P Series
D60/P Series
Eight bolts
mounting with
beams underneath
Test load:
positive 5400Pa
negative 3800Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
20/W Series
60/W Series
A20/W Series
A60/W Series
B60/W Series
C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm)
9
Four clamps
mounting with
beams underneath
Test load:
positive 6000Pa
negative 3800Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
L = 200mm
Clamping zone: A = 200 mm
C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm)
C54/N Series
Four clamps
mounting with
beams underneath
Test load:
positive 2400Pa
negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
Clamping zone: A = 1/4 long frame length±50 mm
16/T Series
20/W Series
24/V Series
60/W Series
A16/T Series
A20/W Series
A60/W Series
B60/W Series
C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm)
Four clamps
mounting with
beams underneath
Test load:
positive 5400Pa
negative 3800Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
16/T series L = 180 mm
20/W series L = 180 mm
24/V series L = 280 mm
A16/T series L = 180 mm
Clamping zone: A = 300 mm
16/T Series
20/W Series
24/V Series
A16/T Series
7
10
Four clamps
mounting with
beams underneath
Test load:
positive 5400Pa
negative 3800Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
60/W series L = 200 mm
72/V series L = 300 mm
A20/W series L = 200 mm
A60/W series L = 200 mm
B60/W series L = 200 mm
A72/V series L = 300 mm
A72/P series L = 300 mm
B72/V series L = 380 mm
B72/P series L = 380 mm
Clamping zone: A = 200 mm
60/W Series
72/V Series
72/P Series
A20/W Series
A60/W Series
B60/W Series
A72/V Series
A72/P Series
B72/V Series
B72/P Series (35mm)
Four clamps
mounting with
beams underneath
Test load:
positive 5400Pa
negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
C72/V series L = 400 mm, clamping zone A = 250 mm
D66/W Series L = 430 mm, clamping zone A = 160 mm
D60/W Series L = 400 mm, clamping zone A = 160 mm
B72/P Series L = 380 mm, clamping zone A = 200 mm
C72/P Series L = 400 mm, clamping zone A = 250 mm
C72/N Series L = 400 mm, clamping zone A = 250 mm
D66/P Series L = 430 mm, clamping zone A = 160 mm
D60/P Series L = 400 mm, clamping zone A = 160 mm
C72/V Series
D66/W Series
D60/W Series
B72/P Series (30mm)
C72/P Series (30mm)
C72/N Series
D66/P Series
D60/P Series
11
Customized mounting method
Note: The installation methods below are based on the internal evaluation results in Suntech
Mounting
method*
Mechanical load
Installation location
Module type
Four clamps short
end mounting with
beams parallel with
long frame
Test load:
positive 5400Pa
negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
A0 = 1/4 short frame length±50mm
B60/W Series
C54/U Series (30mm & 35mm)
Four clamps short
end mounting with
beams parallel with
long frame
Test load:
positive 2400Pa
negative 1600Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
A0 = 1/4 short frame length±50mm
B72/V Series
Four clamps short
end mounting with
beams parallel with
long frame
Test load:
positive 2400Pa
negative 800Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
A0 = 1/4 short frame length±50mm
C72/V Series
Four clamps short
end mounting with
beams underneath
the short frame
Test load:
positive 2400Pa
negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
A0 = 1/4 short frame length±50mm
C54/U Series (30mm)
12
Four clamps short
end mounting with
beams underneath
the short frame
Test load:
positive 1600Pa
negative 1000Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
A0 = 1/4 short frame length±50mm
B72/V Series
Four clamps mixed
mounting with
beams underneath
Test load:
positive 2400Pa
negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
A≥40mm;
A0 = 1/4 short frame length±50mm;
For A72/V, A1 =360~560mm
For B60/W and C54/U, A1 = 280~420mm
A72/V Series
B60/W Series
C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm)
Four clamps mixed
mounting with
beams underneath
Test load:
positive 1600Pa
negative 1000Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
A≥40mm;
A0 = 1/4 short frame length±50mm;
A1 = 360~560mm
B72/V Series
B72/P Series (35mm & 30mm)
13
Four clamps
mounting without
beams
Test load:
positive 5400Pa
negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
L = 380 mm, clamping zone A = 200 mm
B72/P Series (35mm & 30mm)
C72/P Series (35mm & 30mm)
Four bolts
mounting without
beams
Test load:
positive 5400Pa
negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
B72/P Series (35mm & 30mm)
C72/P Series (35mm & 30mm)
C72/N Series
Four bolts
mounting without
beams
Test load:
positive 4500Pa
negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
B72/V Series
Four bolts tracker
mounting***
Test load:
positive 1600Pa
negative1600Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
B72/V Series
B72/P Series (35mm & 30mm)
C72/V Series
C72/P Series (35mm & 30mm)
C72/N Series
Short frame
insertion / Slide-in
Test load:
positive 2400Pa
negative 2400Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
16/T Series
20/W Series
A60/W Series
B60/W Series
C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm)
14
Six clamps
mounting with
beams underneath
Test load:
positive 5400Pa
negative 3800Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
Clamping zone: A0 = 1/4 short frame length ±50 mm
A1 = 100 mm
16/T Series
20/W Series
24/V Series
60/W Series
72/V Series
A16/T Series
A60/W Series
B60/W Series
C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm)
C72/V Series
Six clamps
mounting with
beams underneath
Test load:
positive 5400Pa
negative 3800Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
Clamping zone: A1 = 100 mm
A2 = 200 mm
16/T Series
20/W Series
24/V Series
60/W Series
72/V Series
A16/T Series
A60/W Series
B60/W Series
A72/V Series
B72/V Series
C54/U Series (35mm & 30mm)
C72/V Series
Insertion
installation with
two clamps in the
middle
Test load:
positive 5400Pa
negative 3800Pa
Safety factor: 1.5
Clamping zone A = 100mm
16/T Series
20/W Series
24/V Series
A24/V Series
A60/W Series
B60/W Series
A72/V Series
B72/V Series
C72/V Series
* The module clamps must not come into contact with the front glass or deform the frame in any way. Avoid shading effects caused
by clamps or insertion systems. Drainage holes in the module frame must not be closed or obscured by the clamps;
** 35mm or 30mm represents the height of frame;
*** The mounting holes reserved for tracker mounting system with special accessories. If the length of module is over 2 meters, its
mechanical load value for tracker needs to be confirmed by module supplier
9
15
Electrical Installation
General Electrical Connection
Any hardware used must be compatible with any other used material to avoid galvanic corrosion. Defects caused
by corrosions void the warranty.
It is not recommended to use modules with different configurations (grounding, wiring) in the same system.
Excessive cables must be organized or fixed in an adequate way, e.g. attached to the mounting structure by
using non-metallic cable ties. Solar cables, connectors and junction boxes should not be exposed to water, snow,
or rain or water submersion for a long period of time (IP65/67/68).
For applications requiring high operating voltage several modules can be connected in series to form a
string of modules; the system voltage is then equal to the sum of the voltage of each module.
For applications requiring high operating currents several strings of modules can be connected in parallel;
the system current is then equal to the sum of the current of each string of modules.
Whether the maximum system voltage of a certain product family is 600 volts, 1000 volts or 1500 volts is
depended on related test standards. The maximum number of modules connected in a series is depended on
system design, the type of inverter used and environmental conditions.
Based on the maximum series fuse rating of module and local electrical installation code, always make sure
Suntech PV modules are assembled with the appropriate string fuse for circuit protection.
There is no specific limitation on the number of modules that can be connected in parallel, the number of
modules is determined by system design parameters such as current or power output.
To prevent the cables and the connectors from overheating, the cross section of the cables and the capacity
of the connectors must be selected to suit the maximum system short circuit current. The recommended cable is
PV wire with a cross section of at least 4mm2.
Caution: do not secure the cables too tight. Any cable damage caused by cable management system is not
covered under Suntech's warranty.
Cable manufacturer's suggested bending radius is no less than 68mm.
When designing large modules arrays connected to a single inverter, always take into account the resulting
isolation resistance (Riso), which decreases increasing the number of modules in the array. A too low Riso can
results in inverter faults. Please refer to local regulations to determine the system wires size, type and
temperature.
Suntech modules come with connectors used for system electrical connections. The recommended
connectors are STP-XC4, TL-CABLE01S, MC4, and Amphenol H4. Suntech strongly recommends using the genuine
connector type specified by Suntech's product data sheet. Choosing a different connector type other than
specified may cause the warranty invalid.
To ensure reliable electric connection and to prevent possible intrusion of humidity, two connectors must
be mated and locked together until a click can be heard.
Long-term exposure to wet environments may cause connectors' poor connectivity, resulting in current
leakage and poor conductivity which voids the warranty. Suntech recommends proper connector/cable/wire
management to prevent moisture intrusion. Depending on the amount of humidity, Suntech recommends
periodic inspections of the installation system to maintain optimal module performance.
The DC current generated by photovoltaic systems can be converted into AC and fed into a public Grid. As
local utilities’ policies on connecting renewable energy systems to the Grids vary from region to region. Always
seek the advice from a qualified system designer or integrator. Building permits, inspections and approvals by
the local utility are generally required.
Especially for larger installations Suntech recommends lightning protection following the local requirements
and regulations.
When the installation finished and after connecting to the grid, please do a professional hand over to the owner
including an installation protocol is required. Provide a clear documentation of the system to the owner
consisting of following minimum data such as: user guide, system layout, data sheets, performance expectations,
electrical system data e.g. a copy of the installation test report following minimum requirements of IEC 62446
/ IEC 60364-6.
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Electrical property
Module under standard test conditions of: irradiance of 1000W /m2, cell temperature of 25 °C and air mass of
AM1.5.
Normally, a module is likely to produce more current and/or voltage than reported at standard test
conditions.. Accordingly, the values of Isc and Voc marked on this module should be multiplied by a factor of 1.25
when determining component voltage ratings, conductor ampacities, fuse sizes, and size of controls connected
to the PV output.
Voltages are additive when modules are connected in series, and modules currents are additive when
Modules are connected in parallel, as illustrated in Figure 1.
Modules with different electrical characteristics must not be connected directly in series.
Series Wiring and Parallel Wiring
Series wiring
Parallel wiring
The maximum number of Modules that can be connected in series within a string must be calculated in
accordance with applicable regulations in a way that the specified maximum system voltage of the modules and
all other electrical DC components will not exceed in open-circuit operation at the lowest temperature expected
at the PV system location.
Recommended maximum series configuration: system voltage / (1.25* Voc)
Recommended maximum parallel configuration: overcurrent rating / (Isc +1)
Recommended installation method of full cell solar module:
The modules in PV array are recommended for portrait connecting, and cable length is not less than 0.7 m.
17
Recommended mounting method of half-cut cell solar module:
The head and tail of the modules in PV array are placed in portrait layout, and cable length is not less than 0.65
m.
Grounding
For grounding and bonding requirements, please refer to regional and national safety and electricity standards.
If grounding is required, use a recommended connector type for the grounding wire.
For grounding, this guide refers to module frame grounding. If grounding is required, make sure module
frames (metal exposed to touch) are always grounded.
Suntech recommends always refer to local state and national code requirements for PV module grounding.
Suntech highly recommends negative grounding if it's allowed by local authorities.
When attaching the frame grounding hardware and wire to the frame it must be placed corresponding to
the ground symbol stamped location to ensure proper electrical connection.
Suntech recommends one of the following parts for grounding:
1) Use M5 bolt and washer to bond the ground wire and aluminum frame through the grounding hole (as
shown below). The tightening torque is 3-7Nm. All nuts and washers should be made of stainless steel. 4-14 mm2
(AWG 6-12) exposed copper wire recommended as ground wire.
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2) Use WEEB-DPF to bond solar modules to module mounting brackets (grounding part is tested to UL467)
Notice that WEEB tooth is positioned completely under the edge of the module frame.
When position of solar module is finalized, torque fasteners to 20.5 N-m/15 ft-lb using general purpose
anti-seize on threads.
For more information, please contact supplier: BURNDY, http://www.we-llc.com
3) Use Schletter clamps to bond solar module to module mounting brackets (grounding part is tested to UL467).
Recommend fastening torque is 20.5N-m/15 ft-lb.
For more information, please contact supplier: Schletter, http://www.solar.schletter.eu
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