The integration of bypass diodes with terrestrial photovoltaic modules and arrays

Conference · Tue May 01 00:00:00 EDT 1984 · Conf. Rec. IEEE Photovoltaic Spec. Conf.; (United States)

OSTI ID:5903011

Shepard, N F; Sugimura, R S

Bypass diodes are often required to limit the potential for reverse voltage ''hot-spot'' heating in high voltage arrays or in arrays that undergo periodic operation near the short-circuit point. In addition, when properly applied, bypass diodes can minimize the effect of shadowing and various internal module failures on the array energy output. This paper discusses the mechanical and electrical integration of bypass diodes beginning with the array-level considerations which influence the selection of an implementation approach. Concepts for the mounting of these diodes, both internally within the module encapsulant and externally to the exposed rear surface of the module, are described. Factors affecting the reliability of bypass diodes, including the control of junction temperature through adequate heat sinking and the derating of reverse voltage, are discussed.

• Research Organization: General Electric Company, Advanced Energy Programs Department, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania
• OSTI ID: 5903011
• Report Number(s): CONF-840561-
• Journal Information: Conf. Rec. IEEE Photovoltaic Spec. Conf.; (United States), Conference: 17. IEEE photovoltaic specialists conference, Orlando, FL, USA, 1 May 1984
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
SOLAR CELL ARRAYS
SEMICONDUCTOR DIODES
BYPASSES
ELECTRIC POTENTIAL
ELECTRICAL FAULTS
HEAT SINKS
HOT SPOTS
INSTALLATION
OPERATION
RELIABILITY
SEMICONDUCTOR JUNCTIONS
TEMPERATURE CONTROL
CONTROL
EQUIPMENT
JUNCTIONS
SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES
SINKS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
140501* - Solar Energy Conversion- Photovoltaic Conversion