Page 15 - North American Clean Energy November/December 2018 Issue

outdoor operating conditions. Accurately measuring the performance of PV modules under different environmental conditions is a critical requirement when predicting expected future energy output in the field. However, not all tests are created equal. Attention to detail is critical.
So, what should you look for in
these “details”? From suitable space to advanced technology, here is a list of vital components and capabilities that should be present, to ensure that your PV equipment and components are rigorously tested against an array of outdoor conditions.
• Sizable and secure outdoor test, close to or attached to the lab, with a secure fenced perimeter and security cameras
• UV exposure chambers that can accept large modules, if required
• Custom UV testing chambers
that can test for all angles of UV exposure, a higher than typical level of irradiance, as well as an outdoor exposure intensity much greater than a normal outdoor exposure level
• Dual-axis trackers, single-axis trackers, and fixed-tilt racking systems, along with a greater than 2,300 kwh/m2 annual fixed rack irradiance
• String level monitoring and module level micro-inverter monitoring available for long-term exposure testing LID testing, with flashing
at various intervals to assess
performance degradation
PV equipment manufacturers who are competing in this growing global
market have options for their testing & certification needs, but should exercise due diligence to make sure their service provider has checked all of the boxes, and can deliver thorough testing solutions.
Jim Crimmins is General Manager at CFV Solar Testing Laboratory, a jointly owned CSA Group lab. CSA Group is a global organization providing testing, inspection, and certification services
for products in many market sectors, including industrial, healthcare, and emerging technologies. CSA Group also provides functional safety, cybersecurity, and management systems certification. CSA Group is one of the largest providers of safety and environmental certification for Canada and the U.S.
CSA Group | www.csagroup.org
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Rail-free mounting without compromise
The Zilla Phantom XL Lo-Pro is a low profile version of the popular Zilla Phantom XL rail-less pitched
roof solar mounting system, their completely watertight rooftop installation that attaches anywhere on a composite roof, in almost any configuration and Certified to UL 2703: 2015. The Phantom Lo-Pro utilizes
the Zilla Double Stud with Encapsulated Gland Washer to provide 2-1/4" or 2-7/8" between the roof deck and the bottom of the module frame. This rail-less mounting system provides installation professionals
with the flexibility to attach directly to sheathing or structure and features the Zilla Top Clip with integrated grounding for efficient installations requiring fewer materials. The Phantom XL Lo-Pro is a complete roof mount flashing and solar mounting system in one convenient package for easy shipping and transport along with maximum flexibility, which leads to a better bottom line for installers.
Zilla Corporation | www.zillarac.com
North American Clean Energy
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