The energy awareness of society is constantly growing. Thanks to it, more and more people realize that the building is primarily responsible for the amount of energy bills, or more precisely - the set of all its features and parameters. One of the most important is the building's demand for electricity, which sooner or later leads to the search for savings. Check how to choose the best accessories for a PV installation?
Check out the photovoltaic accessories for mounting elements at the Onninen wholesaler
Selection of appropriate accessories based on an energy audit
The basic action for a measurable assessment of the building's condition is to prepare an energy audit. The basis for the audit is to perform an inventory of a given facility , the basis of which is the analysis of technical documentation, site inspection and measurement results.
A properly prepared energy audit will not only indicate the expected thermal demand in the building, it will also help to prepare a list of devices powered by electricity and the current consumption that must be met. Photovoltaics and energy storage must be selected in accordance with the energy demand of the building.
Selecting the right system for mounting solar panels on the ground and on the roof
Solar panels that produce electricity can be placed both on the roof and on the ground. The final decision on the location of photovoltaic panels depends on environmental conditions (sun exposure) and technical parameters of the roof covering.
Photovoltaic installation on the roof
In the case of a decision to install PV using a roof surface, the photovoltaic mounting system must be selected to suit the specific substrate (shingles, roof tiles, sheet metal, etc.). The type of roof covering is of particular importance due to the planned method of installation, durability, and the installed photovoltaic sets .
You should also pay attention to the materials used to mount the panels. In each case, it should be stainless steel and aluminum. Additionally, the products used must meet the requirements of the European standard EN 1090 (basic standard for photovoltaic panel mounting systems), which is related to technical issues and user safety.
Installers often use ready-made PV mounting structures that contain all the necessary components, which seems to be an excellent method to increase the efficiency and durability of photovoltaic cells.
Photovoltaic system on the ground
Photovoltaic panels mounted on the ground should be equipped with a Magnelis coating . Its task is to protect the cells from corrosion.
Among the new models of solar panels, many are equipped with a black frame. It is worth paying attention to this when choosing accessories and mounting elements for PV installations also maintained in this style. Thanks to this, the entire structure will look very modern and aesthetic.
How to better organize cabling in a photovoltaic installation?
The cabling connecting monocrystalline modules, surge arresters, circuit breakers, etc. should be routed in a way that guarantees protection against mechanical damage. It should be remembered that photovoltaic cables and connectors are used to transmit electricity and any negligence may cause failure. The installation must be very solid, the cables must not hang down limply, which may cause accidental breakage, and the connections should be durable and tight.
For these reasons, already at the design stage of photovoltaic installations, the use of appropriate connectors, clamps, markers or heat shrink tubes is taken into account, the use of which is reflected in the Regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure of 14 November 2017 (Journal of Laws of 2017, item 2285).
It should be added here that the equipment offered by industry wholesalers is characterized by a high degree of specialization, an example of which is the Weidmuller male+female photovoltaic connector MC4 PV-STICK SET set 4-6 mm2 1000-1500 V 1422030000 .
Protection of cable connections and bushings with covers
A similar approach applies to securing cable connections and bushings with covers. To understand the importance of protection, let us briefly recall how a photovoltaic installation works and what it is made of?
PV installation – equipment:
- Photovoltaic modules (panels);
- Inverter or microinverter;
- Fuses;
- Wires;
- Assembly structure
- Energy storage (optional)
Photovoltaic modules convert solar energy into electrical energy. The direct current generated is converted into alternating current via an inverter. Surge arresters are used as protection on the direct current side. The electrical energy obtained in this way can be used immediately, stored or sent to the power grid.
As you can see, a current of a specific voltage and intensity flows through the entire installation. It is therefore necessary to take all precautions, through properly selected photovoltaic accessories .
Selecting the right electrical equipment for a solar installation (installation boxes, distribution boards, splitters, MC4 connectors) H2
The work related to the installation of the solar set largely concerns the connection of sensors, control, installation and assembly of the solar circuit. Lightning protection and grounding of the solar installation are equally important. When installing photovoltaics, remember to precisely protect against overloads, overvoltages and short circuits. For this purpose, installation boxes, switchboards, splitters, MC4 connectors, as well as the Emiter MC4 EVO2 plug-socket set are necessary.
Accessories for mounting PV panels on a pitched roof
When installing panels on pitched roofs, it is important to ensure that the structure is lightweight while remaining durable. For this reason, systems made of aluminum work best.
The most commonly used mounting elements for pitched roofs:
- mounting rails;
- mounting rail connectors;
- clamps, nuts, screws and handles;
- photovoltaic panel mounting ends.
Photovoltaic installation on a pitched roof must take into account a minimum angle of inclination of 10°. This is the necessary minimum to ensure the functioning of the entire system.
Check out the photovoltaic accessories for mounting elements at the Onninen wholesaler