Canadian Solar Standard Series Installation Manual page 38

ANNEX D: MODULE CLEANINg gUIDELINE
This manual covers requirements for the cleaning
procedure of Canadian Solar Inc. photovoltaic
modules. The purpose of these cleaning guidelines
is to provide general information for cleaning
Canadian Solar modules. Professional installers
should read these guidelines carefully and strictly
follow these instructions.
Failure to follow these instructions may result in
death, injury or property damage to the photovoltaic
module. Damages induced by inappropriate
cleaning procedures will void Canadian Solar Inc.
warranty.
SAFETy wARNINg
· Cleaning activities create risk of damaging the
modules and array components, as well as
increasing the potential electric shock hazard.
· Cracked or broken modules represent an electric
shock hazard due to leakage currents, and the risk
of shock is increased when modules are wet.
Before cleaning, thoroughly inspect modules for
cracks, damage, and loose connections.
· The voltage and current present in an array during
daylight hours are sufficient to cause a lethal
electrical shock.
· Do not immerse the module, partially or totally, in
water or any other cleaning solution.
· Ensure that the circuit is disconnected before
starting the cleaning procedure as contact with
leakage of electrically active parts can result in
injury.
· Ensure that the array has been disconnected from
other active components (such as inverter or
combiner boxes) before starting with the cleaning.
· Wear suitable protection (clothes, insulated gloves,
etc.).
hANDLINg NOTICE
· Use a proper cleaning solution and suitable
cleaning equipment.
· Do not use abrasive or electric cleaners on the
module.
· Particular attention should be taken to avoid the
module backsheet or frame to come in contact
with sharp objects, as scratches may directly affect
product safety.
· Do not use de-greasers on the module.
· Do not use cleaning corrosive solutions containing
acid, alkali, acetone, or industrial alcohol.
· Canadian Solar Inc. recommends to avoid rotating
brush cleaning methods, as they could create
micro-cracks in the PV modules.
· Dirt must never be scraped or rubbed away when
dry, as this will cause micro-scratches on the glass
surface.
OpERATION pREpARATION
· Noticeable dirt must be rubbed away by gentle
cleaning-implement (soft cloth, sponge or brush
with soft bristles).
· Ensure that brushes or agitating tools are not
abrasive to glass, EPDM, silicone, aluminum, or
steel.
· Conduct the cleaning activities avoiding the hottest
hours of the day, in order to avoid thermal stress
on the module.
We recommend the following to be used:
· Water with low mineral content
· Near neutral pH water
· The maximum water pressure recommended
is 4 MPa (40 bar)
CLEANINg METhODS
Method A: Compressed Air
Canadian Solar Inc. recommends cleaning the soft
dirt (like dust) on modules just with compressed
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