5
3.3.4 Connecting solar module
On the rear of the solar module, there is a connection box
with the connection cables, the plug and the socket. A proper
connection have to close with an audible click.
For modules with 1,000 mm cable lenght it is not possible to
install cables with a so-called cross cabling, where only every
second module is connected in one direction. Otherwise the
permanent force can damage junction box fixation. Cross-
connecting of different connector types for module- or
stringconnection is generally not advised.
3.3.5 Grounding
The grounding cable can be mounted on one of the holes in
the module frame. Please see fig. 1.
Avoid contact corrosion when using different metals and
observe electro-chemical insulation rating. As an option,
stainless-steel terminals with pins can also be used for
grounding the solar modules, which penetrate the anodised
layer of the module frame during installation. These stainless
steel terminals are available together with grounding
terminals (for the connection of the installation frame to the
earth) from several manufactures. Observe the applicable
regulations. Use a suitable stainless-steel bolt together with
a stainless steel spring lock washer between bolt head and
module frame, a self-cutting stainless steel serrated lock
washer between ring terminal end and module frame, a
suitable ring terminal end and a suitable nut.
4. Maintenance and care
Solar modules are low-maintenance products. However,
ASTRONERGY recommend a visual inspection of the
mechanical and electrical connections, performed once a
year to detect any damage. Dirt on the solar modules is
reducing output and yield. Solar modules installed with
an inclination angle of more than 15°, will generally be
adequately cleaned by the rain.
Damage to the solar module surface by
scratching or extreme differences in temperature.
• Only use pH neutral liquid cleaner, even if there is excessive
dirt build-up.
• Do not use cleaning agents with abrasive constituents.
• Only use cleaning solutions that are at roughly the same
temperature as the solar module surface.
• Wipe the solar module surface with water and a soft cloth.
• Never attempt to rub or scratch off dirt particles.
• For persistent contamination a mixture of 1:1 of isopropanol
(IPA) and water can be used. Make sure that no IPA reach
area between frame and glass.
5. Removal
Risk of electric shock.
• Do not touch any bare connection parts.
• Only use insulated tools.
1. Disconnect the inverter from the supply network on the
AC side so that the photovoltaic system has no load.
2. Disconnect the photovoltaic system from the inverter at
the cut-off point on the DC side.
3. Make sure that the system is not supplied with voltage.
4. Remove the photovoltaic system in the same way as it
was installed; observe the safety instructions.
6. Disposal
Do not dispose old or defective solar modules with normal
household waste.
The ASTRONERGY Solarmodule GmbH is a member of EAR
(Stiftung Elektro-Altgeräte Register) since the disposal of
solar modules is regulated by European Directives on Waste
Electrical and Electronic Equipment ("WEEE").
For questions about disposal, please contact your installer,
point of sale or ASTRONERGY Solarmodule GmbH.
Pictures and drawings in this installation guide are only for
Connection cable lenght
1.000 mm (incl. plug)
Cable cross section
4 mm²
Allowable ambient temperature
range for modules
- 40 °C bis + 85°C
• Make sure that only solar modules with the same amperage
(Impp) are interconnected for series connection and make
sure that the voltages of lines connected in parallel are
the same. Even at low temperatures, never exceed the
maximum permissible system voltage of the solar modules
• Maximum number of modules that are allowed to be
switched in series: maximum system voltage / (open circuit
voltage * 1.25), with respect to the temperature coefficient.
• Make sure that the number and connection of the solar
modules match the electrical values specified by the devices
connected to the photovoltaic system.
• Make sure that the polarity is correct.
