Existin typ a proval stan ard do not con ider mec anical stres es that may oc ur d rin tran p rtation to the PV in tal ation destination.. This stan ard is desig ed so that its test seq
General
Performance measurements, insulation testing, and wet leakage current testing must adhere to IEC 61215:2005 and IEC 61646:2008 standards These tests serve as relative initial and control measurements Additionally, electroluminescence and thermal imaging can be utilized to assess the initial and intermediate conditions of the samples, identifying issues such as microcracks and defects.
The initial and visual inspection in accordance with IEC 61 21 5:2005, 1 0.1 or IEC 61 646:2008,
1 0.1 for PV modules and IEC 621 08:2007, 1 0.1 for CPV modules shall also be part of the assessment
The transportation tests for PV modules are illustrated in Figure 1, while Figure 2 presents a potential test sequence for CPV modules These combined transportation stress tests aim to identify early failures in PV modules, assessing the potential impacts on their longevity under future stress conditions.
Manufacturers can integrate testing to this standard with type approval testing by utilizing sequence A from Figure 1 alongside IEC 61215 and IEC 61646 testing However, this combined testing may elevate the risk of failure during type approval, as the transportation tests introduce extra stress on the samples.
Sequence B of Figure 1 could be extended with the UV preconditioning test and then also be coordinated with IEC 61 21 5 respectively IEC 61 646
The proposed test sequence for CPV modules, as illustrated in Figure 2, can be modified to align with IEC 621 08 standards Adjustments to the sequence are necessary based on whether receivers or modules are being tested For receivers, the thermal cycling test specified in IEC 621 08:2007, 1 0.8 may replace the pre-thermal cycling and humidity freeze test.
Modules that have not been subjected to transportation testing will still undergo stress tests in sequences A and B The aim is to identify failures caused by transportation simulations and any exacerbated defects resulting from environmental stress tests, comparing these results to those of modules tested without prior transportation damage.
* See 6.2 for details on measurements
Figure 1 – Test sequences for PV modules
* See 6.2 for details on measurements
Figure 2 – Test sequences for CPV modules
Measurements 1 1
The electrical performance of PV modules will be characterized through initial, intermediate, and final measurements, which will also document the impact of stress tests.
• Visual inspection according to IEC 61 21 5:2005, IEC 61 646:2008, respectively IEC 621 08:2007, 1 0.1
• Maximum power determination according to IEC 61 21 5:2005, IEC 61 646:2008, respectively IEC 621 08:2007, 1 0.2
• Insulation test according to IEC 61 21 5:2005, IEC 61 646:2008, 1 0.3 respectively IEC 621 08:2007, 1 0.4
• Ground continuity test according to IEC 61 730-2:2004,1 0.4 respectively IEC 621 08, 1 0.3
• Wet leakage current test according to IEC 61 21 5:2005, IEC 61 646:2008, 1 0.1 5 respectively IEC 621 08, 1 0.5
• Optionally electroluminescence (only for PV modules) or infrared imaging can be used for analysing modules for cracked or broken solar cells, etc
While the maximum power determination is only a relative measurement, some PV technologies may require preconditioning according to their respective type approval standard to arrive at meaningful data.
Transportation testing 1 1
General 1 1
Conducting random vibration and shock tests on the complete package system of modules effectively simulates the mechanical impacts experienced during road transportation, ensuring the integrity of the shipping units and the (C)PV modules inside.
NOTE Sequence B of Figure 1 can be extended by the UV preconditioning test to be able to coordinate with IEC 61 21 5 or IEC 61 646 if desired
While the (C)PV modules are carefully unpacked, the modules shall be marked: the original packaging situation and the module position within the package shall be adequately documented
After the initial measurements described in 6.2, the modules shall be restored to their original packaged condition in order to perform the tests described under 6.3.2 and 6.3.3.
Random vibration testing 1 1
Transportation simulation utilizes random vibration testing, with truck transportation recognized as the most rigorous method for long-distance goods shipping Consequently, the truck transportation test effectively encompasses the challenges faced by various other transportation modes.
Test equipment as described in ASTM D4728:2006, section 5 – Apparatus, shall be used
The transportation simulation shall be performed in accordance with ASTM D41 69 with one complete stack of modules:
The applied test profile must adhere to specific criteria, including a frequency range of 5 Hz to 200 Hz, a minimum test severity of 0.49 g RMS as outlined in Annex A, a test duration of at least 180 minutes, and vertical excitation axis.
Following the random vibration test, a series of shock tests shall be carried out on the shipping unit.
Shock testing 1 2
A shock test in accordance with IEC 60068-2-27 is essential to simulate the stresses that may occur from potholes or unprotected sidewalk edges, which are not addressed by the random vibration test.
Test equipment as described in IEC 60068-2-27:2008, Clause 4 shall be used
The following deviations will be tolerated, if the applied variations are explained and clearly documented in the report:
• Extension of the mounting table in order to fit larger package units in an appropriate way 6.3.3.1 3 Procedure
1 00 half sinusoidal shocks with duration of 1 1 ms shall be applied vertically (z direction)
The incline impact test shall be performed to simulate stress potentially caused by forklift transportation
Test equipment as described in ASTM D880 shall be used
The procedure as described in ISTA 3E, Test Block, 2 shall be followed
To assess the integrity of the shipping unit and the stability of goods on the palette, an incline impact test must be conducted following ASTM D5277 standards This test effectively simulates the effects of sudden deceleration and lateral acceleration that occur during truck transportation on curved paths.
Test equipment as described in ASTM D5277 shall be used
A test in accordance with ASTM D5277, known as the "test method for performing programmed horizontal impact using an incline impact tester," must be conducted Unlike the standard incline impact test, this method involves decelerating the shipping unit on a transport sledge or vehicle.
The impact will exhibit a half sinusoidal shock profile, characterized by a deceleration of 1 g and a duration of 350 ms, applied to each horizontal side.
The process typically begins with an initial value of 0.3 g, gradually increasing the deceleration in steps until either the shipping unit's integrity is compromised or the final value of 1 g is achieved.
A rotational edge drop test shall be performed to test the integrity of the shipping supporting units pallet
Test equipment as described in ISTA 3E, Test Block 3, shall be used
The procedure as described in ISTA 3E, Test Block 3, shall be followed.
Environmental stress tests 1 3
PV modules 1 3
The transportation test is succeeded by a thermal cycling test as per IEC 61215:2005 and IEC 61646:2008, conducted for 200 cycles This thermal cycling test does not require current flow unless it is combined with an IEC 61215 or IEC 61646 type approval However, continuity through the module must still be measured with a current flow of less than 0.5% of the module's short circuit current.
For path A, the sample allocation includes: a) one module exhibiting the highest power loss compared to the initial measurement following transport simulation; b) one module demonstrating the lowest power loss relative to the initial measurement after transport simulation; and c) one module sourced from a separate shipping unit.
The thermal cycling test simulates extreme temperature variations typical in temperate climates, highlighting the potential stress on PV modules, which are composed of multiple layers Each layer's distinct thermal expansion can lead to strain, particularly affecting the cells, joints, and cell/string connectors during thermal cycling.
The transportation test is succeeded by a dynamic mechanical load test in accordance with IEC 62782, followed by a thermal cycling test as per IEC 61215 and IEC 61646, which includes 50 cycles Additionally, a humidity freeze test is conducted according to IEC 61215 and IEC 61646 The sequence concludes with a mechanical load test based on IEC 61215 and IEC 61646.
The dynamic mechanical load test for photovoltaic modules is outlined in IEC 62782 It is essential to install the module following the manufacturer's installation manual, and in cases where multiple mounting techniques are available, the most unfavorable mounting scenario should be utilized.
For path B, the sample allocation includes: a) one module exhibiting the highest power loss compared to the initial measurement following transport simulation; b) one module demonstrating the lowest power loss relative to the initial measurement after transport simulation; and c) one module sourced from a separate shipping unit.
CPV modules and receivers 1 4
The transportation test is succeeded by a dynamic mechanical load test in accordance with IEC 62782, followed by a pre-thermal cycle test and a humidity freeze test as specified in IEC 62108:2007, 10.8 The sequence culminates with a mechanical load test based on IEC 62108:2007, 10.13.
The dynamic mechanical load test for photovoltaic modules is outlined in IEC 62782 It is essential to install the CPV module following the manufacturer's installation manual In cases where multiple mounting techniques are available, the most unfavorable mounting scenario should be utilized.
The sample allocation for CPV modules and receivers includes three key components: one module exhibiting the highest power loss compared to the initial measurement following transport simulation, one module showing the lowest power loss relative to the initial measurement after transport simulation, and one module sourced from a separate shipping unit.
Each test report must contain essential information, including a title, the name and address of the test laboratory, and the location of the tests It should feature a unique identification for the report and each page, along with the client's name and address when applicable The report must describe and identify the tested item, its characterization and condition, and include the dates of receipt and testing Additionally, it should identify the test method used, reference the sampling procedure, and specify the applied standard for transportation testing and the test profile Any deviations or relevant information, such as environmental conditions, must be noted The report should present measurements, examinations, and results supported by tables, graphs, sketches, and photographs, particularly highlighting power loss or damage It should also include details about the camera properties used for electroluminescence and thermal imaging, the current applied to the PV module, and exposure time An estimated uncertainty statement for the test results is required where relevant, along with a signature or equivalent identification of the responsible person and the date of issue Finally, it should clarify that the results pertain only to the tested items.
IEC 62759-1 :201 5 IEC 201 5 – 1 5 – p) a statement that the report shall not be reproduced except in full, without the written approval of the laboratory
A copy of this report shall be kept by the manufacturer for reference purposes
Overview 1 6
This article presents and analyzes various PSD test profiles in accordance with the criteria outlined in Clause 6 The primary reference for transport testing is the PSD profile specified in the ASTM D4169 standard, although other profiles also meet the transportation testing requirements The examination focuses on a frequency range of 5 Hz to 200 Hz, with the analysis results detailed in Table A.1 All listed test profiles successfully comply with the requirements established in Clause 6.
Table A.1 – Severity of common transport test profiles: complete and in range (5 Hz – 200 Hz)
The resonance characteristics of photovoltaic (PV) modules are influenced by their construction, which includes factors such as mass, size, and stiffness Testing indicates that the lowest fundamental resonance frequency of a PV module is approximately 5 Hz Additionally, most transportation test profiles reveal that the majority of energy is concentrated within specific frequency ranges.
5 Hz and 200 Hz A reasonable benchmark for different transportation test profiles for PV modules should therefore only include vibrations between 5 Hz and 200 Hz.
Data points of appropriate PSD test profiles 1 6
The following Tables A.2 to A.5 identify the profile boundaries of the PSD excitation profiles analysed and shown in Table A.1 and Figure A.1
Name of test profile g RMS (5 Hz – 200 Hz) g RMS complete profile
Main reference: ASTM D41 69 (truck medium) 0, 499 0,520
Figure A.1 – Appropriate PSD test profile
6 Procédures d’essai 26 6.1 Généralités 26 6.2 Mesures 30 6.3 Essais de transport 31 6.3.1 Généralités 31 6.3.2 Essais de vibration aléatoire 31 6.3.3 Essais de chocs 31 6.4 Essais de contrainte environnementale 33 6.4.1 Modules PV 33 6.4.2 Modules et récepteurs CPV 34
7 Rapport 34 Annexe A (normative) Profils d'essai 35 A.1 Vue d'ensemble 35 A.2 Points de données des profils d’essai PSD appropriés 35
Figure 1 – Séquences d’essai pour modules PV 28 Figure 2 – Séquences d’essai pour modules CPV 30 Figure A.1 – Profil d’essai PSD approprié 37
Table A.1 presents the severity levels of common transport test profiles, specifically within the frequency range of 5 Hz to 200 Hz Table A.2 outlines the primary reference according to ASTM D4169 for truck transport Table A.3 details the ISO 13355 grid points, while Table A.4 provides information on IEC 60068-2-64 and MIL-STD-810G standards Lastly, Table A.5 discusses the ISTA 3E testing protocol.
ESSAIS DE TRANSPORT – Partie 1 : Transport et expédition d'unités d'emballage de modules
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La Norme internationale IEC 62759-1 a été établie par le comité d’études 82 de l'IEC: Systèmes de conversion photovoltạque de l’énergie solaire
Le texte de cette norme est issu des documents suivants:
Le rapport de vote indiqué dans le tableau ci-dessus donne toute information sur le vote ayant abouti à l'approbation de cette norme
Cette publication a été rédigée selon les Directives ISO/IEC, Partie 2
A comprehensive list of all parts of the IEC 62759 series, published under the general title Photovoltaic (PV) Modules – Transport Testing, is available on the IEC website.
The committee has determined that the content of this publication will remain unchanged until the stability date specified on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" for the relevant publication data On that date, the publication will be updated accordingly.
• remplacée par une édition révisée, ou
ESSAIS DE TRANSPORT – Partie 1 : Transport et expédition d'unités d'emballage de modules
Photovoltaic (PV) modules are electrical devices designed for continuous outdoor exposure throughout their lifespan Current certification standards do not account for the mechanical stresses that may occur during transportation to the PV installation site.
This section of IEC 62759 outlines the simulation methods for transporting all packaging units of modules and the resulting combined environmental impacts, but it does not include acceptance or rejection criteria.
The current standard is designed to ensure that its testing sequence can be coordinated with those of IEC 61215 or IEC 61646, allowing a single set of samples to be used for simulating transport and evaluating the performance of a photovoltaic module design This standard applies to flat-plate photovoltaic modules but can also serve as a basis for testing CPV modules and systems.
The following documents are referenced normatively, either in whole or in part, within this document and are essential for its application For dated references, only the cited edition is applicable For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document applies, including any amendments.
IEC 60068-2-27:2008, Essais d'environnement – Partie 2-27: Essais – Essai Ea et guide: Chocs
IEC 60068-2-64, Essais d'environnement – Partie 2-64: Essais – Essai Fh: Vibrations aléatoires à large bande et guide
IEC 61 21 5:2005, Modules photovoltạques (PV) au silicium cristallin pour application terrestre – Qualification de la conception et homologation
IEC 61 646:2008, Modules photovoltạques (PV) en couches minces pour application terrestre – Qualification de la conception et homologation
IEC 61 730-2:2004, Qualification pour la sûreté de fonctionnement des modules photovoltạques (PV) – Partie 2: Exigences pour les essais
IEC TS 61 836, Solar photovoltaic energy systems – Terms, definitions and symbols
IEC 621 08:2007, Modules et ensembles photovoltạques à concentration – Qualification de la conception et homologation
IEC 62782, Dynamic mechanical load testing for photovoltaic (PV) modules (disponible en anglais seulement)(à publier)
ISO 1 3355, Emballages – Emballages d'expédition complets et pleins et charges unitaires – Essais de vibration verticale aléatoire
ASTM D880-92:2008, Standard Test Method for Impact Testing for Shipping Containers and Systems
ASTM D41 69:2008, Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
ASTM D4728:2006, Standard Test Method for Random Vibration Testing of Shipping Containers
ASTM D5277:1 992, Test method for performing programmed horizontal impact using an incline impact tester
ISTA 3E:2009, Unitized Loads of Same Product
MIL STD 81 0G, Test Method Standard for Environmental Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests
Pour les besoins du présent document, les termes et définitions donnés dans l'IEC TS 61 836:1 999 ainsi que les suivants s’appliquent
The bandwidth is defined as the difference in Hz between the upper and lower limits of a frequency band For the purposes of the testing method described, the bandwidth can be regarded as equivalent to the frequency resolution of a spectral analysis.