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Summary of Contents for First Solar FS-380
- Page 1 User Guide User Guide: FS Series 3 PV Module North America REV 2.1 PD-5-200-03 NA | 02811_UG_NA_24OCT12...
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Page 2: Table Of Contents
FS Series 3 PV Module User Guide—North America | Page i of 13 Table of Contents Introduction ...................................1 Before You Begin ..............................1 Key Product Features ............................1 Safety ................................2 Regulatory Compliance ..............................3 Electrical Specifications ..............................4 3.1 System Derating Factors...........................4 Installation ..................................5 4.1 Mounting ................................5 4.2 Location, Angle and Tilt ............................6 4.3... -
Page 3: Introduction
FS Series 3 PV Module User Guide—North America | Page 1 of 13 Introduction First Solar Series 3 PV Modules are manufactured in state-of-the-art facilities using a highly innovative process that rapidly deposits thin films of semiconductor on glass. The modules have been designed to have a long operating life and high energy yield—if installed, operated, and serviced in accordance with the instructions in this User Guide as well as in the System Design and Application Document (PD-2-303). 1.1 Before You Begin This document provides guidelines and information on First Solar FS Series 3 PV Modules for system designers, installers, and maintenance personnel. Read this User Guide thoroughly before beginning any work related to the installation, operation, or maintenance of the First Solar Series 3 PV Module. Only qualified personnel should install, operate, or maintain a PV module or system. Failure to follow installation and handling instructions may result in injury. Failure to maintain proper operating condition requirements for the modules will void the warranty (refer to First Solar FS Series Module Warranty Terms & Conditions PD-5-102). This guide pertains to modules installed within North America only. If a module is being installed outside of North America, contact First Solar or visit www.firstsolar.com for the User Guide appropriate for other geographic areas. Keep this User Guide for future reference. Guidelines related to system construction are beyond the scope of this document and are not covered in this document. -
Page 4: Safety
Do not work on modules or systems when the modules or wiring are wet. Reverse currents higher than the rated values for a First Solar module (reverse current overload), may result in module failure, including module breakage. Extreme and continuous reverse current overload conditions may cause a fire or create electrical shock hazards. -
Page 5: Regulatory Compliance
FS Series 3 PV Module User Guide—North America | Page 3 of 13 Regulatory Compliance It is the responsibility of the installer and/or system integrator to ensure compliance with all local electrical codes which may be applicable to the installation and use of First Solar Series 3 PV Modules. • Before beginning the PV system design and installation, contact appropriate local authorities to determine local code, permit, and inspection requirements. • In the United States, refer to Article 690 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) which applies to “Photovoltaic Systems.” • For systems installed in Canada, installation shall be in accordance with CSA C22.1, Safety Standard for Electrical Installations, Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1. First Solar FS Series 3 PV Modules are Listed by a Nationally Recognized Test Laboratory to UL 1703, the standard for Flat- Plate Photovoltaic Modules and Panels. To maintain the modules’ application as a UL Listed product: • Use only components that have been Recognized or Listed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for their intended purpose. • Ensure the PV array open-circuit voltage does not exceed 1000VDC. •... -
Page 6: Electrical Specifications
FS Series 3 PV Module User Guide—North America | Page 4 of 13 Electrical Specifications MODEL NUMBERS AND RATINGS AT STC* Nominal Values FS-380 FS-382 FS-385 FS-387 FS-390 FS-392 Nominal Power (±5%) 80.0 82.5 85.0 87.5 90.0 92.5 Voltage at P 48.5 48.3... -
Page 7: Installation
FS Series 3 PV Module User Guide—North America | Page 5 of 13 Installation 4.1 Mounting Physically damaged modules may cause ground faults and associated electrical hazards. To avoid these conditions: • Handle modules with care during installation, as heavy impact on the front, back, or edges could result in damage to the module. -
Page 8: Location, Angle And Tilt
FS Series 3 PV Module User Guide—North America | Page 6 of 13 Modules should not be installed in a way that restricts air circulation to the backside of the module. Modules generate heat and require adequate airflow for cooling. Installation locations and module support structures should be selected to ensure modules and connectors (open or mated) are never submersed in standing water. First Solar modules are tested and certified for applications involving pressures from snow/ice/wind up to 2400 Pa (50.13 lb/ft2) when mounted properly. Snow drifts could result in a nonuniform loading of the modules which exceeds the tested pressure. If it is expected that loads will exceed 2400 Pa (50.13 lb/ft2), it is recommended to clear snow from modules, and ensure that ice/thaw/freeze cycles under snow drifts do not result in excessive stresses on the module. Heavy construction and trenching should be completed prior to module installation to minimize debris and dust. Ensure any soil binding agents or salts used for on-site dust control do not spray, splash, or drift onto the surface of the modules. The UL approved design load of FS Series 3 PV Modules is 30 lb/ft2 (1436 Pa). Maximum allowable pressure on modules may not exceed 2400 Pa (50.13 lb/ft2) without additional module support that must be tested and approved by First Solar. For rooftop mounting, modules must be mounted over a fire resistant roof covering rated for the application. The recommended minimum standoff height is 3.25 in (82.55 mm). Modules used in UL Listed rooftop applications must be installed with approved mounting systems as specified in First Solar Application Note PD-5-320 NA. If alternate mounting means are employed, this may affect the Listing fire class ratings. The fire rating of this module is valid only when mounted in the manner specified in the mechanical mounting instructions. 4.2 Location, Angle and Tilt To maximize performance, modules should be located in an area that receives direct sunlight from mid-morning to midafternoon (typically 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.). Installation must avoid locating the modules where shadows may be caused by buildings, trees, etc. PV performance modeling software should be used to determine the optimum orientation and tilt angle for each location. For tilted free-field applications where there is row to row shading, it is required to install the modules in landscape orientation. Please refer to First Solar Application Note PD-5-425-03 for additional information. - Page 9 FS Series 3 PV Module User Guide—North America | Page 7 of 13 • Limit module connectors to 10 or fewer plug cycles. • Do not pull lead wires tight at any time. After installation, the connected wire must not be under stress or tension. •...
- Page 10 FS Series 3 PV Module User Guide—North America | Page 8 of 13 Per the requirements of UL 1703, a module with exposed conductive parts is considered to be in compliance with UL 1703 only when it is electrically grounded in accordance with the instructions presented and the requirements of the National Electrical Code. First Solar FS Series 3 PV Modules have no exposed conductive surfaces and do not require equipment grounding as long as a clip length of 100mm for a standard 4 clip mounting is not exceeded. In the U.S., the mounting structure must be grounded per the requirements of the NEC, sections 250 and 690. First Solar recommends negative pole DC electrical system grounding for large utility scale systems. 4.3.2 Overcurrent Protection FS Series 3 modules have a maximum series fuse rating of 3.5A as defined by UL 1703 test methods. FS Series 3 modules have a maximum overcurrent protection rating of 3.5A as defined by IEC 61730 test methods. PV systems should be designed to comply with and provide module overcurrent protection consistent with local codes as appropriate for the intended application class of the system. Please refer to FS Application Note PD-5-308 for additional information on module overcurrent protection. PD-5-200-03 NA | REV 2.1 | 02771_UG_NA_24OCT12...
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Page 11: Mechanical Specifications & Drawings
FS Series 3 PV Module User Guide—North America | Page 9 of 13 Mechanical Specifications & Drawings Table 5.1: Mechanical Specifications Specifications FS Series 3 PV Module Length 1200 mm 47.25 in Width 600 mm 23.63 in Thickness 6.8 mm 0.27 in Area (total aperture) 0.72 m... -
Page 12: Proper Operating Conditions
FS Series 3 PV Module User Guide—North America | Page 10 of 13 Proper Operating Conditions The proper operating condition requirements listed below must be maintained. Important: Failure to maintain proper operating condition requirements for the modules will void the warranty (refer to First Solar FS Series Module Warranty Terms & Conditions PD-5-102). Requirements: • First Solar requires installers to use commercially reasonable efforts to grid-connect the modules as soon as practicable to prevent open circuit exposure or to use mitigation techniques (resistive load banks) to maintain conditions equivalent to normal loaded maximum power point (MPP) operation. First Solar must be notified in... -
Page 13: Service
FS Series 3 PV Module User Guide—North America | Page 11 of 13 Service • Periodically, annually at a minimum, inspect modules for any signs of damage or broken glass. • Broken modules should be replaced immediately. If broken modules are found, place material into a closed container for return to First Solar module collection and recycling program. • Check that all electrical connections are tight and corrosion free. • Large amounts of dust and dirt on the surface of the module can reduce the power produced. Natural rainfall will typically remove most dust. Should auxiliary cleaning be required, please refer to “FS Series PV Module Cleaning Guidelines” (PD-5-804) for additional information. The most common causes of lower than expected PV system power output are: • Inverter failure • Improper or faulty field wiring or connections • Blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers • Excessive amounts of dirt and dust on the modules •... -
Page 14: Notice
FS Series 3 PV Module User Guide—North America | Page 12 of 13 Notice Changes to certain components of the module are common as First Solar continuously strives for product improvements. Changes may be a result of component improvements or changes by a supplier, or by minor design modifications initiated by First Solar. All products within the same model classification remain functionally equivalent and fully compatible with one another, even though there may be slight differences. Modifications that do not impact the functionality of the product will typically be made without customer notification. Internal testing, and review or retesting by a certifying agency, will be completed before component or design changes are introduced into the manufacturing process. First Solar reserves the right to make changes in solar module design and/or specifications at any time without notice. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned to verify that data sheets are current before placing orders or finalizing system permitting and/or design. Information furnished by First Solar is believed to be accurate and reliable. However, no responsibility is assumed by First Solar or its subsidiaries for its use; nor for any infringements of patents or other rights of third parties which may result from its use. No license is granted by implication or otherwise under any patent or patent rights of First Solar or its subsidiaries. In the event of a conflict between this module User Guide and the instructions of one of the system component manufacturers, the system component instructions should prevail. For information regarding First Solar and its products, please visit www.firstsolar.com. For technical support, please contact technicalsupport@firstsolar.com. Global First Solar, Inc. P.O. Box 730 Toledo, OH USA 43697-0730 Tel: +1 (602) 414-9300 Fax: +1 (602) 414-9400 Web: www.firstsolar.com Email: info@firstsolar.com PD-5-200-03 NA | REV 2.1 | 02771_UG_NA_24OCT12... -
Page 15: Appendix
FS Series 3 PV Module User Guide—North America | Page 13 of 13 10 Appendix Electrical and Mechanical installation applications notes: PD-5-320 NA Rev. 1.4, October 19, 2012 – FS Series PV Module Mounting for UL Applications PD-5-308 Rev. 1.0, June 28, 2010 – FS Series PV Modules – Reverse Current Overload PD-5-435 NA Rev. 4.0, March 19, 2012 – FS Series PV Module System Operating Voltage PD-5-320 Rev. 5.1, January 17, 2012 – FS Series PV Module Mounting PD-5-310 Rev. 3.0, October 26, 2010 - FS Series PV Modules: Inverters with Demonstrated Compatibility PD-5-425-03 Rev. 1.0, April 5, 2010 - Response of First Solar FS series 3 PV Modules to Partial Shading PD-5-804 Rev. 1.3, January 17, 2012 – FS-Series PV Module Cleaning Guidelines PD-5-200-03 NA | REV 2.1 | 02771_UG_NA_24OCT12...
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