PVUSA EMT-1 ENTECH photovoltaic concentrator module test report

Technical Report · Tue Sep 01 04:00:00 EDT 1992

OSTI ID:7024590

Hund, T D

A single EMCH concentrator module for the Photovoltaics for Utility Scale Application (PVUSA), Emerging Technologies-1 (EMT-1) program has been electrically and environmentally tested to the requirements in Sandia's SAND86-2743 document Qualification Tests for Photovoltaic Concentrator Cell Assemblies; and Modules.'' Module testing was divided into three parts: (1) initial characterization, (2) environmental testing, and (3) supplemental testing. Testing began with module inspection for damage, adequate name plate information, grounding off-axis beam damage, and baseline electrical performance. The included thermal cycling, humidity/freeze cycling, rainwater intrusion, and hail impact, and hi-pot testing. After both thermal cycling and environmental testing, the module was electrically tested. The supplemental testing not required by the Sandia qualification document was conducted for engineering evaluation. These tests included wet insulation resistance measurements and cell temperature measurements after installation of heat sink fin extensions. The test sequence revealed some module deficiencies which include RTV adhesive/sealant problems, high cell temperatures, off-track beam damage, and low wet insulation resistance values.

• Research Organization: Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: DOE; USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
• DOE Contract Number: AC04-76DP00789
• OSTI ID: 7024590
• Report Number(s): SAND-92-1904; ON: DE93004023
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
141000* -- Solar Collectors & Concentrators
ATMOSPHERIC PRECIPITATIONS
DAMAGE
DYNAMIC LOADS
ELECTRICAL TESTING
EQUIPMENT
HAIL
HEAT SINKS
INSPECTION
MATERIALS TESTING
NONDESTRUCTIVE TESTING
SINKS
SOLAR CONCENTRATORS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
TEMPERATURE EFFECTS
TESTING
THERMAL CYCLING
WEATHER
WIND LOADS