09
The frame of the PV module, as well as any exposed non-current carrying metal parts of fixed
equipment that can be energized must be grounded to avoid electrical shock. Renogy
recommends grounding all PV module frames to ensure the voltage between the conductive
equipment and the earth ground is zero in all circumstances.
Appropriate grounding consists of using an appropriately sized EGC or racking system that
can be used for integrated grounding. Renogy panels implement a coated aluminum frame for
corrosion resistance. The frame rails have pre-drilled holes marked with the grounding sign.
Do not drill additional holes into the frame rails.
Grounding
Note that the stainless steel washer is used between the grounding wire and the module
frame. This is for avoiding corrosion due to dissimilar metals.
The module frame must be properly grounded (refer to NEC clause 250). The grounding
wire must be properly fastened to the module frame to assure good electrical contact. Use
the recommended type, or an equivalent, connector for this wire.
We recommend the lay-in lug (Cat. No. GBL4-DBT; rated for 600Volts; company: ILSCO;
UL number is E34440
）
when grounding. First strip the 16mm insulating jacket from the end
of the ground wire (4-14 STR.) carefully to avoid nicking or cutting conductors, insert the
wire into the slot of the lug (see the picture), and screw down the slotted screw.
Next, assemble the recommended ILSCO grounding lug to the aluminum frame using
stainless steel M3 or M5 screw and hardware as shown below. Note: there are two different
size grounding holes, the smaller of which is being phased out.
Further, buildup of hardware for mounting the grounding lug are the same—except for the
M3 screw, an added flat washer is mounted directly under the M3 screw head. The star
washer is fitted directly under the grounding lug and makes electrical contact by penetrating
the anodized coating of the aluminum frame, The screw assembly is further fitted with a flat
washer, then a split lock washer and finally a nut to secure the entire assembly, as shown.
Recommended torque of M3 or M5 screw assembly is 0.8NM or 1.5 NM.
If the support frame is made of metal, the surface of the frame must be electroplated and
have excellent conductivity.
