Qcells Q.Pro-G3, Q.Peak BLK-G3, Q.Pro BFR-G3, Q.Peak-G3, Q.PLUS-G3 Installation And Operation Manual

InstallatIon and
operatIon Manual

Q.PRO-G3 · Q.PRO BFR-G3 · Q.PEAK-G3 · Q.PEAK BLK-G3 · Q.PLUS-G3

Valid for North America

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION

1 INTRODUCTION 3

2 PLANNING 5

2.1 Technical specications 5

2.2 Requirements 7

2.3 Mounting options 8

2.4 Electrical layout 10

3 INSTALLATION 11

3.1 Safety and transport 11

3.2 Preparation of installation 13

3.3 Module installation 14

4 ELECTRICAL CONNECTION 15

4.1 Safety 15

4.2 Electrical installation safety 16

4.3 Connection of modules 17

4.4 After installation 18

5 GROUNDING 19

6 FAULTS AND DEFECTS 19

7 DISPOSAL 19

8 MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING 20

With solar modules from Hanwha Q CELLS GmbH (hereafter referred to
as "Q CELLS") you can directly transform the sun’s limitless energy into
environmentally-friendly solar electricity.

In order to ensure the maximum performance of your Q CELLS solar
modules, please read the following instructions completely and care­fully and observe all guidelines. Non-compliance may result in damage
and/or physical injury.

This installation manual provides instructions for the safe installa­tion of crystalline solar modules.

Ä Please read these instructions carefully before proceeding with

your installation.

Ä Please retain these instructions for the life of the solar modules.
Ä Please ensure that this installation manual is available to the

operator at all times.

Ä

This installation manual should be given to all subsequent owners

or users of the solar modules.

Ä All supplements received from the manufacturer should be

included.

Ä Please observe all other applicable documents.

Intended Use

This manual is valid in North America for Q CELLS solar modules.
These instructions contain information regarding the safe handling
and use of quality crystalline solar modules from Q CELLS and for
their installation, mounting, wiring, and maintenance.

Symbols and Labels

The following symbols and labels are used throughout the
installation manual for ease of use.

SYMBOL DESCRIPTION

Ä

• Lists of items

Procedure with one or more steps.

Ensure that when carrying out a pro­cedure, you check the results of said
procedure.

Units

Where both metric and U.S. units (for example inches) are shown,

metric units are denitive. References to “Data Sheet” or “Module
Data Sheet” refer to the Module Data Sheet applicable to the module

being used.

Safety Regulations

The installer and solar module operator are responsible for
compliance with all applicable statutory requirements and
regulations.

Ä The following regulations and standards must be upheld at all

times during the installation, operation, and maintenance of the
solar modules:

• Installation and Operation Manual.

•

Other applicable documents (such as country-specic regulations

for pressure equipment, operational safety, hazardous goods,
and environmental protection).

• Regulations and requirements specic to the system.

• Applicable country-specic laws, regulations, and provisions

governing the planning, installation, and operation of solar
power systems and work on roofs.

•

Valid international, national, and regional regulations governing
work with direct current, especially those applicable to the
installation of electrical devices and systems, and regulations
issued by the respective energy provider governing the parallel
operation of solar power systems.

• Accident-prevention regulations.

Certied Personnel

Both, the operator and installer are responsible for ensuring that
installation, maintenance, connection to the grid, and dismantling

are carried out by trained and qualied electricians and engineers
with approved training certicates (issued by a state or federal

organization) for the respective specialist trade.

Electrical work may only be performed by an ofcially certied

tradesperson in accordance with the applicable safety standards,
accident prevention regulations, and the regulations of the local
energy provider.

Prohibited.

Beware of possible danger or damage.
Categories:

• Danger: Risk of fatal injury

• Attention: Risk of serious injury

or damage to property

• Note: Risk of damage to product

Document Revision 03
This Installation Manual is valid for USA and Canada as of January 2015 for Q.PRO-G3, Q.PRO BFR-G3, Q.PEAK-G3, Q.PEAK BLK-G3 and Q.PLUS-G3 solar modules, and replaces
all earlier versions.

Technical parameters and the design are subject to change. The data sheets and customer information valid at the point in time when the relevant module was manufactured apply
to the installation, mounting, and maintenance procedures for the respective solar modules.

2 3INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA

1 INTRODUCTION

2 PLANNING

2.1 Technical specifications

Validity

These instructions are only valid for crystalline solar modules from
Q CELLS. Q CELLS assumes no liability for damage resulting from
failure to observe these instructions.

Ä Please observe the wiring and dimensioning of the system.
Ä The installer of the system is responsible for compliance with all

necessary safety regulations during set-up and installation.
Q CELLS assumes no liability on the basis of these instructions.
Q CELLS is only liable in the context of contractual agreements or
in the context of accepted guarantees. Q CELLS accepts no other
responsibility for the functionality and safety of the modules.

Ä

Please observe the instructions for any other system components

that may be part of the complete solar power system. It may be

necessary to carry out a structural analysis for the entire project.

Ä If your questions are not satisfactorily answered in the manual,

please contact your system supplier.

Additional information can be found on our website at:
www.q-cells.com.

Information for the Operator

Ä Please keep this manual for the entire life of the solar power

system.

Ä Please contact your system supplier for information concerning

the formal requirements for solar power systems.

Ä

Please be sure to contact the relevant local authorities and energy

providers regarding regulations and permit requirements prior

to installation of the solar power system. Your nancial success

depends on the fulllment of these requirements.

MISUSE OR INCORRECT USE OF SOLAR MODULES VOIDS THE
LIMITED WARRANTY AND MAY CREATE A SAFETY HAZARD
AND RISK PROPERTY DAMAGE. THIS INCLUDES IMPROPER
INSTALLATION OR CONFIGURATION, IM PROPER MAINTENANCE,
UNINTENDED USE, AND UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATION.

For the electrical data and additional information of the solar modules please refer to the respective currently valid data sheets available at
www.q-cells.com.

PRODUCT LINE Q.PRO-G3 / Q.PLUS-G3 Q.PRO BFR-G3

Type Polycrystalline / Q.ANTUM Polycrystalline

Length [in (mm)] 65.7 (1670) 65.7 (1670)

Width [in (mm)] 39.4 (1000) 39.4 (1000)

Height [in (mm)] 1.38 (35) 1.38 (35)

Area [yd² (m²)] 2 (1.67) 2 (1.67)

Weight [lb (kg)] 41.89 (19.0) 41.89 (19.0)

Max. system voltage V

[V] 1000 1000

SYS

Max. series fuse rating [A] 20 20

Permissible operating

–40 to +185 (–40 to +85)

temperature range [°F (°C)]

Junction box protection class IP67 with bypass diode

Connector protection class IP68 IP68

Fire protection class C C

Snow load [Pa]

Wind load [Pa]

1

1

5,400 5,400

5,400 5,400

Certicates UL 1703; VDE Quality Tested; CE-compliant; IEC 61215 (Ed.2) see page 9 et sqq.; IEC 61730

(Ed.1) Application Class A

PRODUCT LINE Q.PEAK-G3 Q.PEAK BLK-G3

Type Monocrystalline Monocrystalline

Other applicable documents

This installation manual is only valid in combination with the
following technical information.

DOCUMENT TYPE

Product data sheet

Packaging and transport of crystalline modules

Length [in (mm)] 65.7 (1670) 65.7 (1670)

Width [in (mm)] 39.4 (1000) 39.4 (1000)

Height [in (mm)] 1.38 (35) 1.38 (35)

Area [yd² (m²)] 2 (1.67) 2 (1.67)

Weight [lb (kg)] 41.89 (19.0) 41.89 (19.0)

Max. system voltage V

[V] 1000 1000

SYS

Max. series fuse rating [A] 20 20

Permissible operating

–40 to +185 (–40 to +85)

temperature range [°F (°C)]

Junction box protection class IP67 with bypass diode

Connector protection class IP68 IP68

Fire protection class C C

Snow load [Pa]

Wind load [Pa]

1

1

5,400 5,400

5,400 5,400

Certicates UL 1703; VDE Quality Tested; CE-compliant; IEC 61215 (Ed.2) see page 9 et sqq.; IEC 61730

(Ed.1) Application Class A

1

tested according to IEC 61215

4 5INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA

2 PLANNING

Product label

≥ 45.67" (≥ 1160 mm)

38.6" (980 mm)

5.91" (150 mm)

37.76" (959 mm)

mounting slots and grounding holes

1.38" (35 mm)

6 × grounding holes
Ø 0.177" (4.5 mm)

65.7" (1670 mm)

39.4" (1000 mm)

Junction bo×

4 × mounting slots
DETAIL A

8 × Drainage holes

Cable with
connectors

Frame

DETAIL A

0.630" (16 mm)

0.315" (8 mm)

0.799" (20.3 mm)

2.1 Technical specifications

Fig. 1: External dimensions in inch (mm) and components for Q.PRO-G3, Q.PRO BFR-G3, Q.PEAK-G3, Q.PEAK BLK-G3, Q.PLUS-G3

2 PLANNING

2.2 Requirements

Installation Site

Please note the following guidelines that apply to the installation
site:

• The modules have been tested according to UL 1703 and IEC

61215 for operation in a temperate climate.

• Solar modules are not explosion-proof.

Ä Do not operate solar modules near highly ammable gas and

vapors (e.g. gas tanks, gas stations).

Ä Do not install modules in enclosed space.
Ä

Do not install modules in locations where they may be submerged

in water for lengthy periods.

Ä Do not use modules as a substitute for the normal roong

(e.g. modules are not rainproof).

Prevention of Shadowing Effects

Optimal solar irradiation leads to maximum energy output:

Ä For this reason, install the modules so that they face the sun.
Ä Avoid shadowing (due to objects such as buildings, chimneys or

trees).

Ä Avoid partial shading (for example through overhead lines, dirt,

snow).

Limitations

The solar modules are designed for the following applications:

• Operating temperatures from –40 °F to +185 °F.

• Wind and snow loads up to max. 5,400 Pa (as tested according

to IEC 61215).

• Installation using a mounting frame for solar modules.

• Long-term stable clamps that securely afx the module to the

mounting frame.

Module Orientation Requirements

• Vertical or horizontal installation is permitted.

• Installation with a junction box at the bottom is permitted for

modules with junction boxes classied as IP67.

Ä Ensure that rain and melting snow can run off freely. No water

accumulation.

Ä Ensure that the drainage holes in the frame are not covered. No

sealing.

Ä Maintain the permissible angle of inclination.

• Minimum angle of inclination: 3°

• Maximum angle of inclination: 80°

• > 20°: self-cleaning effect.

Mounting Frame Requirements

Requirements for the mounting frame:

• Conforms to the necessary structural requirements.

• Compliant with local snow and wind loads.

• Properly fastened to the ground, the roof, or the façade.

•

Forces acting on the module are relayed to the mounting substructure.

• Ensures sufcient rear ventilation of the module.

• Guarantees long-term stability.

•

Has electrochemical series that prevent corrosion among different

metals.

•

Allows for stress-free expansion and contraction due to temperature

uctuations.

Ä Ensure that no mechanical stresses (e.g., caused by vibrations,

twisting, or expansion) are generated on the module.

Ä Ensure that the clamps and the mounting frame are compatible.

Clamp System Requirements

Use customary clamps that satisfy the following requirements:

• Clamp width: ≥ 1.50 in (38 mm).

• Clamp height compliant with a 1.38 in (35 mm) frame height.

• Clamp depth: 0.20–0.47 in (5–12 mm).

• Clamps are not in contact with the front glass.

• Clamps do not deform the frame.

•

Clamps that satisfy the structural requirements of the installation site.

Inverter

Inverter

6 7INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA

• A module with 45.67 in long (1,160 mm) cable

can be wired as a "2nd next neighbor".

"2nd next neighbor" - Wiring without a return

cable.

 Standard wiring with a return cable

1

2

2 PLANNING

0 - 11.81
(0 - 300)

0 - 11.81
(0 - 300)

9.65 - 17.52
(245 - 445)

7.09 - 14.96
(180 - 380)

4 x mounting
slots

4 x mounting
slots

4 x mounting
slots

4 x mounting
slots

2.3 Mounting options

2 PLANNING

2.3 Mounting options

Fig. 2: Installation options for crystalline Q CELLS modules. All dimensions are given in inch (mm). Also observe the allowed static

loads and clamping range as specied on the following page.
The illustrated installation options apply for both horizontal and vertical module orientation.

Module Clamp Subconstruction Mounting prole

TYPE OF

MODULE POINT MOUNTING SYSTEM LINEAR MOUNTING SYSTEM

INSTALLATION

INSTALLATION WITH
CLAMPS

Q.PRO-G3
Q.PRO BFR-G3
Q.PEAK-G3
Q.PEAK BLK-G3
Q.PLUS-G3

9.65 - 17.52
(245 - 445)

CL1

9.65 - 17.52
(245 - 445)

CL3 CL4

0 - 11.81
(0 - 300)

Specications

MODULE TYPE MOUNTING OPTION CLAMPING RANGE1 [IN (MM)]

Q.PRO-G3
Q.PRO BFR-G3
Q.PEAK-G3
Q.PEAK BLK-G3
Q.PLUS-G3

CL1 Push 9.65 - 13.58 (245 - 345)

13.62 - 17.51 (346 - 445)

Pull 9.65 - 13.58 (245 - 345)

13.62 - 17.51 (346 - 445)

CL3 Push 9.65 - 17.51 (346 - 445) 4000

Pull 9.65 - 13.58 (245 - 345)

13.62 - 17.51 (346 - 445)

CL4 Push 0 - 11.81 (0 - 300) 1800

Pull 0 - 11.81 (0 - 300) 1600

FB1 Push 3500

Pull 3100

FB2 Push 4000

Pull 3100

IP1 Push - 3700

Pull - 3700

ALLOWED STATIC
LOAD2 [PA]

3500
2400

4000
3400

4000
3400

TEST LOAD
ACC. IEC 61215 [PA]

5400

INSTALL ATION
ON
MOUNTING
POINTS

INSTALLATION WITH
INSERTION PROFILES

Q.PRO-G3
Q.PRO BFR-G3
Q.PEAK-G3
Q.PEAK BLK-G3
Q.PLUS-G3

Q.PRO-G3
Q.PRO BFR-G3
Q.PEAK-G3
Q.PEAK BLK-G3
Q.PLUS-G3

13.58
(345)

not permitted

FB1

4 x mounting
slots

13.58
(345)

FB2

IP1 IP2

4 x mounting
slots

IP2 Push - 1800

Pull - 1800

1

Distance between outer edge of module and middle of the clamp.

2

Describes the maximum module surface load (vertical to the module surface) regarding safety factors (e.g. EUROCODE). For this purpose,

2400

the load value determined by load tests according to various criteria: laminate overlay, plastic deformation, module failure, and were
divided with a safety factor. The minimum calculated load value corresponds to the maximum permitted load.

8 9INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA

2 PLANNING

2.3 Mounting options

2 PLANNING

2.4 Electrical layout

SPECIFICATION OF THE CLAMPING RANGE

Ä In case of varying clamping range for push and pull loads the smaller clamping range must be applied.

DISTANCE BETWEEN MODULES

Ä Maintain an interval of at least 0.39 in (10 mm) between two modules along the short side.

Ä Maintain an interval of at least 0.20 in (5 mm) between two modules along the long side.

MOUNTING OPTION CL1

Ä Ensure, that the subconstruction does not run below the junction box.

MOUNTING OPTION CL4

Ä Ensure, that the subconstruction runs exactly below the frame, not below the laminate (module less frame).

MOUNTING OPTIONS FB1 AND FB2

• The fastening points are located on the backside of the module frame.

Module Selection

For detailed key electrical data, please refer to the product data
sheet for the respective product.

Ä Only connect modules of the same type and the same power

class.

Safety Factor

During normal operation, a module may generate a greater current
and / or higher voltage than that determined under standardized test
conditions. Accordingly, the values of I
module should be multiplied by a facot of 1.25 when determining:

• the component voltage ratings,

• conductor ampacities,

• fuse sizes,

• size of controls connected to the PV output.

Refer to Section 690-8 of the National Electrical Code for an
additional multiplying factor of 125 percent (80 percent derating)
which might be applicable.

Ä Please follow the valid national guidelines for the installation

of electrical systems (refer to section 690-8 of the NEC for an

additional multiplying factor of 125 percent [80 percent derating]

which may be applicable).

and VOC marked on the

SC

Parallel Connection

Modules may be damaged by the occurrence of reverse currents
(caused by module defects, ground leaks, or defective insulation).

Ä

Ensure that the maximum reverse current load capacity indicated

in the data sheet is observed.
In order to limit reverse currents that may occur, we recommend
using the following safety options:

1) Layout with a limited number of parallel connected strings :

Without undertaking further current blocking measures, a maximum
of two module strings may be operated in parallel on an inverter or
MPP tracker.

2) Layout with string fuses :

place fuses for each string of modules at the plus and minus ends.
Observe the maximum permitted number of strings as indicated
in the specications provided by the respective string fuse manu­facturer and the technical guidelines.

NOTE!

When installing different product versions, the lowest minimum
permitted reverse current load capacity applies.

Series Connection

Connection of modules in series is only permitted up to the
maximum system voltage as listed in the applicable data sheet.

Ä

Take into account all possible operating situations and all relevant
technical norms and regulations when designing the system.
This will ensure that the maximum system voltage, including all
necessary safety margins, is not exceeded.

Ä

Take the voltage limit of the inverter into account when determining
the maximum number of modules in the string.

Inverters

Inverters with or without transformers may be used.

10 11INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA

3 INSTALLATION

3.1 Safety and transport

3 INSTALLATION

3.1 Safety and transport

Ä Ensure that all personnel are aware of and adhere

to accident-prevention and safety regulations.

Ä While working wear clean gloves.

I

§

Ä Inspect the packaging for damages.
Ä Contact the transport company regarding any

damage to the packaging.

Ä Follow any instructions on the packaging.

GB

D

§

§

DANGER! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

Ä Do not install damaged modules.
Ä Inform your vendor of any damages

immediately.

DANGER! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

Ä Cover the modules with an opaque material during

installation.

NOTE! Module damage may occur!

Ä Never lift or move the module with the connection

cables or junction box.

Ä Carry modules upright and horizontally as

shown.

NOTE! Module damage may occur!

Ä Do not drop modules.

NOTE! Module damage may occur!

Ä Never step on modules.
Ä Do not subject modules to any mechanical

stress.

Ä Do not allow any objects to fall onto modules

NOTE! Module damage may occur!

Ä Only make modications to the module which have

been conrmed in writing by Q CELLS.

Ä Leave modules in their original packaging until

installation.

Ä Store the modules securely in cool and dry rooms.

The packaging is not weatherproof.

12 13INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA

WARNING! Fire Risk!

Ä Do not install modules indoors.
Ä Do not install modules on moving objects.

NOTE! Module damage may occur!

Ä Do not stack modules.

NOTE! Module damage may occur!

Ä Do not install modules near ammable

gas / vapors.

3 INSTALLATION

3.2 Preparation of installation

3 INSTALLATION

3.3 Module installation

DANGER! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

Ä Block off the installation zone.
Ä Keep children and unauthorized individuals away

from the solar power system.

DANGER! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

Ä Only use dry, insulated tools.

WARNING! Risk of injury due to falling modules!

Ä Secure modules during installation.
Ä Do not install modules in windy or wet weather.

Ä Do not carry out the installation alone.

Option 1:

Ä Fasten the module with 4 clamps in the specied

clamping range, see g. 3, page 8.

Ä Tighten clamps according to manufacturer’s

instructions.

Option 2:

Ä Install the module at the 4 mounting points, see

g. 4, page 8.

Ä Tighten screws according to manufacturer’s

instructions.

Ä Maintain an interval of at least 0.39 in (10 mm)

between two modules along the short side and

0.20 in (5 mm) along the long side.

0.20 in

(5 mm)

0.39 in (10mm)

NOTE! Module damage may occur!

Ä Do not subject modules to mechanical tension.

Max. torsion 0.39 in/yd (10 mm/m).

DANGER! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

Ä Ensure that modules and tools are not subject to

moisture or rain at any time during installation.

• Only install undamaged modules and

components.

Ä Do not drill any other holes.

Option 3:

Ä Install the module using mounting proles, see g.

4, page 8.

15INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA14 INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA

4 ELECTRICAL CONNECTION

4.1 Safety

4 ELECTRICAL CONNECTION

4.2 Electrical installation safety

DANGER!
Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

When disconnecting an electric circuit carrying direct current,
electric arcs can occur that may result in life-threatening injuries.

Ä Do NOT unplug the cable when under load.
Ä Do NOT connect any exposed cable ends.
Ä Do NOT touch the poles at the same time.

A solar module generates electrical current and voltage even at a
low intensity of illumination. Sparks and electric arcs may result
from the separation of a closed circuit. These can result in life­threatening injuries. The danger increases when several modules
are connected in series.

Ä Please ensure that the entire open circuit voltage is active even

at low levels of solar irradiation.

Ä

Please follow the valid national regulations and safety guidelines
for the installation of electrical devices and systems.

Ä Please make sure to take all necessary safety precautions. With

module or phase voltages of more than 120 V, the extra-low
voltage range is exceeded.

Ä

Carry out work on the inverter and the wiring with extreme caution.

Ä Ensure that the modules are disconnected at the inverter prior

to separation.

Ä

Be sure to observe the specied time intervals after switching off

the inverter. High-voltage components need time to discharge.

DANGER! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

Ä Never open the junction box.
Ä Do not remove bypass diodes.

DANGER! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

Ä Never touch live contacts with bare hands.
Ä Do not touch the poles at the same time.

DANGER! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

Ä Ensure correct polarity.

DANGER! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

Ä Be sure to maintain the time intervals as specied

by the inverter manufacturer between switching off
the inverter and beginning any further work.

DANGER! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

Ä Never unplug the cable when under load.

1. Switch off the inverter.

AUS

2. Cover the modules to be disconnected.

DANGER! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

Ä Only use dry, insulated tools for electrical work.

DANGER! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

Ä Insulate any exposed cable ends.
Ä Only connect cables with plugs.

3. Switch off the DC circuit breaker.

Ä Disconnect plugs by the use of appropriate

and qualied tools of the manufacturer Tyco or

Multicontact (adequate for PV4 plug type).

17INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA16 INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA

4 ELECTRICAL CONNECTION

4.3 Connection of modules

4 ELECTRICAL CONNECTION

4.4 After installation

Ä Use solar cables for the connection at the junction

box outlet.

Ä Use the same, inverter-compatible plugs.

SOLAR

DANGER! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

Ä Ensure that all electrical components are in a

proper, dry, and safe condition.

NOTE! Module damage may occur!

Ä Ensure that the cabling is not under stress.
Ä Ensure that the cables do not run between module

and subconstruction (danger of pinch).

Ä Do not connect modules with different orientations

or angles of inclination in the same string.

Ä Ensure that all necessary safety and functional

tests have been carried out according to current
industry standards.

Ä Integrate the system into the existing lightening

protection system in accordance with the
applicable local regulations.

NOTE! Module damage may occur!

Ä Ensure that the plug connections are not level with

a water-channeling surface.

WARNING! Fire Risk!

Ä Do not use light concentrators (e.g. mirrors or

lenses).

Ä Ensure for a tight connection between the plugs.

Plugs click together audibly.

click

• A module with 47.24 in -long (1,210 mm) cable

can be wired as a “2nd next neighbor”.

“2nd next neighbor” - Wiring without a return

cable.

 Standard wiring with a return cable

1

Inverter

2

Inverter

Ä Ensure that the cabling is not exposed and/

or hanging and is protected from dirt and
moisture.

19INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA18 INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA

5 GROUNDING

0.59”

8 ELECTRICAL CONNECTION

In order to prevent electrical shock or re, the frame of the module

as well as any non-current-carrying metal parts of the system must
be grounded. While this section provides some information about
grounding the Q CELLS frames and modules, reference should be

made to local statutes and regulations for specic requirements

on grounding. The U.S. National Electrical Code addresses these
issues in Article 250.

Proper grounding is achieved by bonding all exposed non-current­carrying metal equipment to the appropriately sized equipment
grounding conductor (EGC) or racking system that can be used for
integrated grounding.

Q CELLS frames are protected from corrosion with an anodized
coating, which has to be penetrated in order to ensure proper
bonding. The different methods listed below are suggested
methods for an appropriate bond between the frame and the EGC
or racking system (that will have to be properly grounded). The
method appropriate for any individual installation will depend on
multiple factors.

Option A: Use of a grounding lug

A listed grounding lug can be bonded to the frame using the
grounding holes pre-drilled in the frame. These holes are marked
with a ground symbol, as shown below on the frame section drawing:

To install the grounding lug, follow the specied instructions of

the manufacturer. The grounding lug should be made of stainless
steel or tin plated metals such as aluminum to avoid corrosion. The
grounding lug should be attached to the frame grounding hole using
a stainless steel screw, toothed lock washer or KEPS nut (in order
to penetrate the anodized layer) and backing nut. Care should be
taken to avoid the use of grounding hardware of dissimilar metals,
which may lead to corrosion.

PV Laminate

Aluminum
Frame

Equipment
Grounding
Conductor

Backing Nut (Stainless Steel)

Toothed Lock Washer (Stainless Steel
or tin-plated metal)

Grounding Lug (Stainless Steel)

Screw (Stainless Steel)

Option B: Integrated grounding methods

The Q CELLS modules can be bonded with the racking system

using UL1703 or UL2703 certied integrated grounding methods.

The racking system will then have to be grounded so that the
overall system is properly grounded. The listed racking system
and grounding device should be installed in accordance with the
manufacturers’ instructions.

An example of such integrated grounding method is the use of a
washer recognized as meeting UL2703 requirements between the
module and the racking system, when mounting the module. For
example, WEEB washers are generally compatible with Q CELLS
modules, however each combination module / racking system

requires a specic WEEB washer size. Note that WEEB washers

are intended for single use only; they must not be reused after
removal or loosening. Refer to Wiley’s installation instructions for

the specic use of WEEB washers.

Q CELLS solar modules are known for a long operating
life and minimal maintenance effort and expense. Dirt
and grime are usually washed away by rain. If the module
is fully or partially shaded by dirt or debris (e.g., plants,
bird droppings), it needs to be cleaned to prevent a loss
of performance.

Maintenance

Ä

The system should be inspected by an installer annually
to check the following:

•

all system components sit securely and are corrosion
free.

•

the connection is secure and all electrical components
are clean and undamaged.

transfer resistances of the grounding

Cleaning

WARNING!
Risk of injury due to hot and
live modules!

Ä Only clean modules that have cooled down.
Ä Do not carry or wear any electrically conductive

parts.

WARNING!
Risk of falling due to unsecured
access!

Ä Never access the installation area alone or without

taking adequate security precautions.

Ä Please commission a trade specialist.

Clean the modules as follows:

NOTE!
Module surface damage may occur!

NOTE! Module damage may occur!

Ä Do not clean modules with water if there is a risk

of frost.

0°

Ä Remove dirt with lukewarm water, a broom, or a

soft cloth.

Ä Do not use tensides, scrapers, or any high-pressure

water cleaning equipment.

• Dimensions shown are in inches.

±0.02

0.80”

+0

0.18 - 0.008

±0.04

±0.04

0.39”

6 FAULTS AND DEFECTS

DANGER!
Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

Ä Do not attempt to x any problems yourself (e.g., glass cracks,

damaged cables).

Ä Please contact an installer or Q CELLS Technical Customer

Service Department.

7 DISPOSAL

Ä Do not disconnect modules yourself.

Ä Please commission a trade specialist.

Ä Dispose of modules in accordance with the local disposal

regulations.

Ä Remove snow and ice without force (e.g. with a very

soft broom)

Ä Do not scratch off dirt.
Ä Rinse dirt off with lukewarm water (dust, leaves, etc.)
Ä Use a soft cellulose cloth (kitchen roll) or sponge to

carefully wipe off stubborn dirt. Do not use micro eece

wool or cotton cloths.

Ä

Use an alcohol based glass cleaner. Do not use abrasive

detergents or tensides.

Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) can be used selectively to remove
stubborn dirt and stains within one hour after emergence.

Ä Please follow the safety guidelines provided by the IPA

manufacturer.

Ä Do not let IPA run down between the module and the

frame or into the module edges.

Ä Free the substructure from any dirt and debris

(leaves, bird nests, etc.).

21INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOLAR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA20 INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL SOL AR MODULES GENERATION 3 (G3) – HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH – NA

ContaCt

HanwHa Q CELLS USa Corp.

8001 Irvine Center Drive
Suite 1250
Irvine CA 92618
USA

tEL [phone]
FaX [phone]

EMaIL [e-mail]
wEB www.q-cells.us

Subject to change without notice. © Hanwha Q CELLS GmbH Installation manual G3 modules_2015-01_Rev03_NA