Installation and Operation Manual

Table of Contents

• 1 Introduction
• 2 Planning
  • 2.1 Technical Specifications
  • 2.2 Requirements
  • 2.3 Mounting Options
  • 2.4 Electrical Layout
• 3 Installation
  • 3.1 Safety and Transport
  • 3.2 Preparation of Installation
  • 3.3 Module Installation
• 4 Electrical Connection
  • 4.1 Safety
  • 4.2 Electrical Installation Safety
  • 4.3 Connection of Modules
  • 4.4 After Installation
• 5 Grounding
• 6 Faults and Defects
• 7 Disposal
• 8 Maintenance and Cleaning

1 Introduction

With solar modules from Hanwha Q CELLS GmbH (hereafter referred to as "Qcells") you can directly transform the sun's limitless energy into environmentally-friendly solar electricity. In order to ensure the maximum performance of your Qcells solar modules, please read the following instructions carefully and observe all guidelines. Non-compliance may result in damage and/or physical injury.

This installation and operation manual (hereafter also referred to as the "Manual") provides instructions for the safe installation and operation of crystalline solar modules.

• Please read these instructions carefully before proceeding with your installation.
• Please retain these instructions for the life of the solar modules.
• Please ensure that this Manual is available to the operator at all times.
• This Manual should be given to all subsequent owners or users of the solar modules.
• All supplements received from the manufacturer should be included.
• Please observe all other applicable documents.
• 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.qcells.com.

Intended Use

This manual is valid for Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and South America. These instructions contain information regarding the safe handling and use of quality crystalline solar modules from Qcells and their installation, mounting, wiring, maintenance and disposal.

Symbols and Labels

The following symbols and labels are used throughout the Manual for ease of use:

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

Safety Regulations

In particular, the installer as well as the operator of a module is responsible for compliance with all applicable statutory requirements and regulations.

Unless otherwise specified by any laws or regulations, the following stipulations must be upheld at all times during the installation, operation, and maintenance of the solar modules:

• This manual.
• Other applicable stipulations (such as country-specific regulations for pressure equipment, operational safety, hazardous goods, and environmental protection).
• Regulations and requirements specific to the system.
• Any applicable laws and requirements, in particular international, country specific, regional laws and stipulations governing the planning, installation, and operation of solar power systems and work on roofs.
• Any 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.
• Any international, country specific and regional accident-prevention regulations.
• Other applicable stipulations provided by the relevant national institutions regarding safety in the installation and operation of electrical items.

Qualified and Skilled Personnel

Both, the installer and operator are responsible for ensuring that the installation (including connection to the grid), maintenance and dismantling are carried out by trained and qualified specialists with approved training certificates (issued by a state or federal organization) for the respective specialist trade. Electrical work may only be performed by an officially certified tradesperson in accordance with the stipulations applicable in the relevant country with regard to standard and regulations (in Germany e.g. DIN standards, VDE regulations) and the stipulations of the local grid operator and/or energy provider.

DOCUMENT REVISION 02 This Manual is valid for Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and South America as of June 1st 2022 for Q.PEAK DUO ML-G11.X solar modules, and replaces all earlier versions.

DISCLAIMER: This manual is 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, as far as no updated document is provided.

2 Planning

2.1 Technical Specifications

For additional information see the relevant datasheet of the module provided at www.qcells.com.

¹ Test and design load in accordance with IEC 61215:2016, depending on mounting options (see section "2.3 Mounting options")

Diagram: External dimensions and components for Q.PEAK DUO ML-G11.2

A diagram showing the external dimensions and components of the Q.PEAK DUO ML-G11.2 solar module. Key dimensions include length (2054 mm), width (1134 mm), and frame height (32 mm). It indicates four grounding holes (Ø 4.5 mm), a label area, four mounting slots (DETAIL A), and eight drainage holes (3 x 6 mm). The diagram also shows the overall frame dimensions and internal mounting points.

2.2 Requirements

Installation Site

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

• Solar modules are not explosion-proof and are not suitable for use in explosive environments.
• Do not operate solar modules near highly flammable gas and vapors (e.g. gas tanks, gas stations).
• Do not install modules in enclosed space.
• Do not install modules in locations where they may be submerged in water (e.g. floodplains).
• Do not use modules as a substitute for the normal roofing (e.g. modules are not watertight).
• Do not install modules in close proximity to air conditioning systems.
• Do not install modules above 4000 m (13120 ft) altitude above sea level.
• Contact with saline water (e.g. spray water from the sea) and salt aggregation on the modules must be avoided.
• Do not bring any chemical substance (e.g. oil, solvent etc.) into contact with any part of the panel. Only substances, which are released by Qcells, are allowed to be used during installation, operation and maintenance.
• Any installation of modules on surfaces of water is prohibited. This includes installations on floating as well as pile-based platforms. Qcells may extend the coverage of its warranty to such installations, based on a case by case assessment of the system design and location. A prior written consent by the warrantor is required in any case.

The solar modules are designed for the following applications:

• Operating temperatures from -40°C to +85°C (-40 °F to +185 °F).
• Pull loads up to max. 2,400 Pa and push loads up to max. 5,400 Pa (see chapter "2.3 Mounting Options").
• Installation using a mounting structure for solar modules.

Prevention of Shadowing Effects

Optimal solar irradiation leads to maximum energy output:

• For this reason, install the modules so that they face the sun.
• Avoid shadowing (due to objects such as buildings, chimneys or trees).
• Avoid partial shading (for example through overhead lines, dirt, snow).

Mounting Structure Requirements

The Modules shall be installed and operated on mounting structures that comply with any applicable laws and stipulations as well as with the following:

• Conform 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 sufficient rear ventilation of the module.
• Avoid the usage of different metals to prevent contact corrosion.
• Allows for stress-free expansion and contraction due to temperature fluctuations.

Ensure that no additional forces are applied through the mounting system into the module except for the wind and snow loads. Additional forces and moments of torque at the mounting positions caused by torsions, displacements or vibrations in the mounting system are not allowed. Ensure that the clamps and the mounting frame are compatible.

Clamp System Recommendations

Use customary clamps that satisfy the following requirements:

• Clamp width: ≥ 40 mm.
• Clamp height compliant with a 32 mm frame height.
• Clamp depth: 7-12 mm. (applicable for all CL clamping mounting options at section "2.3 Mounting options")
• Clamps are not in contact with the front glass.
• Clamps do not deform the frame.
• Clamps that satisfy the structural requirements based on the conditions of the installation site according to the applicable regulations and technical standards.
• Long-term stable clamps that securely affix the module to the mounting frame.

Module Orientation Requirements

• Vertical or horizontal installation is permitted.
• Ensure that rain and melting snow can run off freely. No water accumulation.
• Ensure that the drainage holes in the frame are not covered. No sealing.
• Maintain the permissible angle of inclination.
• Minimum angle of inclination: 3°
• Inclination angles above 75° may be limited by local regulations

Standing water on the modules glass needs to be avoided.

Diagram: Installation options for crystalline Qcells modules

A diagram illustrating various installation options for Qcells modules, including point mounting systems (using clamps like CL1a, CL3, CL5, FB1, FB2, IP1) and linear mounting systems. It shows different clamp positions and ranges, test loads, design loads, and safety factors. It also details requirements for different mounting options, such as minimum support depth and screw types. The diagram emphasizes that all dimensions are in millimeters and that users should observe maximum test loads and clamping ranges.

2.3 Mounting Options

* Distance between outer edge of module and middle of the clamp; consider further details below.
** Loads according to IEC 61215-2:2016 and UL 61730.
*** Test procedure according to IEC 61215-2:2016 and UL 61730. Loads for these mounting options do not fulfill the requirements of the standards.

The below mounting options are only possible under certain conditions.

Requirements for Mounting Options

2.4 Electrical Layout

Module Selection

For detailed key electrical data, please refer to the actual data sheet referring to the relevant Module (available at www.qcells.com).

For maximum energy yields, mismatches of specified electric current (I_MPP) of more than 5% should be avoided for all modules connected in series.

Safety Factor

During normal operation, a module may generate a greater current and/or higher voltage than that determined under standardized test conditions. Please use a safety factor of 1.25 for the following:

• Calculating the voltage measurement values (V_OC) of components
• Calculating the current measurement values (I_SC) of conductors
• Sizing of control systems connected to the outlets of the solar modules

Please follow the valid national guidelines for the installation of electrical systems.

Series Connection

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

• Take into account all possible operating situations and all relevant technical norms and regulations when designing the system. It has to be ensured that the maximum system voltage, including all necessary safety margins, is not exceeded.
• Take the voltage limit of the inverter into account when determining the maximum number of modules in the string.

Parallel Connection

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

• Ensure that the maximum reverse current load capacity indicated in the data sheet is met.

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 a single inverter or MPP tracker.
2. Layout with string fuses: Use overcurrent devices (e.g. fuses) according to the relevant standards in each string. Use gPV-fuses according to IEC 60269-6. Observe the maximum permitted number of strings as indicated in the specifications 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.

Inverters

Inverters with or without transformers may be used.

3 Installation

3.1 Safety and Transport

Ensure that all personnel are aware of and adhere to accident-prevention and safety regulations.

While working wear clean gloves.

Diagram: Safety warnings for electrical work and module handling

Illustrations depict safety precautions: a person wearing gloves and a hard hat, a warning symbol for electric shock, a symbol for inspecting packaging, a warning for fire risk, and instructions for storing modules.

Danger! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

• Do not install damaged modules.
• Inform your distributor of any damages immediately.

Diagram: Inspecting packaging

An illustration showing a person inspecting the packaging of solar modules for damage.

• Inspect the packaging for damages.
• Contact the transport company regarding any damage to the packaging and follow their instructions.
• Follow any instructions on the packaging.

Warning! Fire Risk!

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

Diagram: Module storage

An illustration showing modules stored in their original packaging in a cool, dry room.

• Leave modules in their original packaging until installation.
• Store the modules securely in cool and dry rooms. The packaging is not weatherproof.

3.2 Preparation of Installation

Diagram: Module handling and damage prevention

Illustrations show how to properly handle modules: carrying them upright and horizontally, not stepping on them, not dropping them, and not stacking them. It also warns against modifications and installation near flammable gas/vapors or air conditioning systems.

Note! Module damage may occur!

• Never lift or move the module with the connection cables or junction box.
• Carry modules upright and horizontally as shown.
• Never step on modules.
• Do not subject modules to any mechanical stress.
• Do not allow any objects to fall onto modules.
• Do not drop modules.
• Only make modifications to the module which have been confirmed in writing by Qcells.
• Do not stack modules.
• Do not install modules near flammable gas/vapors.
• Do not install modules in close proximity to air conditioning systems.

Danger! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

• Block off the installation zone.
• Keep children and unauthorized individuals away from the solar power system.
• Only use dry, insulated tools.
• Ensure that modules and tools are not subject to moisture or rain at any time during installation.

Warning! Risk of injury due to falling modules!

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

Note! Module damage may occur!

• Only install undamaged modules and components.
• Do not modify the module (e.g. do not drill any additional holes).

3.3 Module Installation

Diagram: Module installation options

Illustrations show three options for module installation: using clamps, using mounting points, and using mounting profiles. It also depicts the required spacing between modules.

Option 1:

• Fasten the module with 4 clamps in the specified clamping range, see Fig. 2, p. 7.
• Tighten clamps according to manufacturer's instructions.

Maintain an interval of at least 10 mm between two modules along the short side and 5 mm along the long side.

Option 2:

• Install the module at the 4 mounting points, see Fig. 2, p. 7.
• Tighten screws according to manufacturer's instructions.

Note! Module damage may occur!

• Do not subject modules to mechanical tension. Max. torsion 10 mm/m.

Option 3:

• Install the module using mounting profiles, see Fig. 2, p. 7.

4 Electrical Connection

4.1 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.

• Do NOT unplug the cable when under load.
• Do NOT connect any exposed cable ends.
• Electrical work may only be performed by qualified and skilled personnel (see page 3).

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 life-threatening injuries. The danger increases when several modules are connected in series.

• Please be aware that the entire open circuit voltage is active even at low levels of solar irradiation.
• Please follow the valid national regulations and safety guidelines for the installation of electrical devices and systems.
• Please make sure to take all necessary safety precautions. With module or phase voltages of more than 120V, the safety extra-low voltage range is exceeded.
• Carry out work on the inverter and the wiring with extreme caution.
• Ensure that the modules are disconnected at the inverter prior to separation.
• Be sure to observe the time intervals specified by the inverter manufacturer after switching off the inverter.
• Make sure that the plugs can not be connected unintentionally.
• Before working on the contacts, check them for safety extra-low voltage.

Danger! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

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

Danger! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

• Never touch live contacts with bare hands.
• Cover connectors by suitable protective caps until installation.

Danger! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

• Only use dry, insulated tools for electrical work.

Danger! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

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

4.2 Electrical Installation Safety

Danger! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

• Electrical work may only be performed by qualified and skilled personnel (see page 3).
• Ensure correct polarity.

Diagram: Switching off inverter and DC circuit breaker

Illustrations show the process of safely disconnecting modules: switching off the inverter, then the DC circuit breaker, measuring for no DC current flow, and finally disconnecting plugs.

Danger! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

• Never plug or unplug the cable when under load. Modules must not carry any current.

1. Switch off the inverter.
2. Switch off the DC circuit breaker.
3. Measure shutdown in DC String (no DC current flow).
4. Disconnect plugs by the use of appropriate and qualified tools of the manufacturer.
5. When connecting the modules proceed in reverse order.

Danger! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

• Be sure to maintain the time intervals as specified by the inverter manufacturer between switching off the inverter and beginning any further work.

4.3 Connection of Modules

• Use solar cables for the connection at the junction box outlet.
• Only interconnect connectors of the same type and manufacturer.
• Use minimum 4 mm² copper wires insulated for a minimum of 90 °C for field connections.

Note! Module damage may occur!

• Ensure that the cabling is not under mechanical stress (Comply with bending radius of ≥ 60 mm).
• Ensure that the cables do not run between module and mounting rail or structure (danger of pinch).

Diagram: Module connection and orientation

Illustrations show correct module connection, ensuring tight plug connections, and how to identify module orientation using serial numbers and barcodes. It also warns against connecting modules with different orientations in the same string.

Danger! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

• Ensure that all electrical components are in a proper, dry, and safe condition.
• Do not connect modules with different orientations or angles of inclination in the same string.

• Ensure for a tight connection between the plugs. Plugs click together audibly.
• To avoid complex cabling arrangements, it is often advantageous to rotate some modules 180°.
• Module orientation can clearly be identified from the front side by the serial number and barcode labelled behind the module glass on the side with negative connection cable.

4.4 After Installation

• Ensure that all necessary safety and functional tests have been carried out according to applicable standards.

Note! Module damage may occur!

• Ensure that the plug connections are secured away from any water-channelling surface.

• Integrate the system into the existing lightening protection system in accordance with the applicable local regulations.

Warning! Fire Risk!

• Do not use light concentrators (e.g. mirrors or lenses).

• Ensure that the cabling is not exposed and/or hanging and is protected from dirt, moisture and mechanical friction.

5 Grounding

Protective Grounding

The modules must be grounded in accordance with the local statutory regulations.

6 Faults and Defects

Danger! Risk of fatal injury due to electric shock!

• Do not attempt to fix any problems yourself (e.g., glass cracks, damaged cables).
• Please contact an installer or Qcells Technical Customer Service Department.

7 Disposal

• Do not disconnect modules by yourself.
• Please contact an installer or Qcells Technical Customer Service Department.
• Dispose of modules in accordance with the local disposal regulations.

8 Maintenance and Cleaning

Qcells 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

• The PV system has to be inspected regularly by certified personnel.
• The time intervals and extent of the inspection can depend on local circumstances (e.g. salt, ammonia content in the air, high humidity etc.). The customer/operator must inform himself about time intervals and extend of necessary inspections.
• Inspections have to be performed especially after extraordinary events (e.g. storm, hail, high snow loads etc.).
• During the inspections it has to be checked that the components are secure, undamaged and clean.

Cleaning

Diagram: Warning for hot modules and cleaning precautions

Illustrations show warnings about hot modules, the risk of falling, and module surface damage. It also depicts the use of isopropyl alcohol for cleaning and the importance of freeing the substructure from debris.

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

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

WARNING! Risk of falling due to unsecured access!

• Never access the installation area alone or without taking adequate security precautions.
• Please commission a trade specialist.

NOTE! Module surface damage may occur!

• Remove snow and ice carefully without force (e.g. with a very soft broom).
• Do not scratch off dirt.
• Module cleaning has to be done by qualified personnel according to the state of the art and taking into account all relevant safety issues and general product properties, e.g., but not restricted to:
  • electrical safety
  • mechanical stability (load limits depending on the actual mounting options)
  • chemical suitability (no effect to any of the module's components, e.g. cable, connector, silicone)
  • no abrasive materials.

NOTE! Dust and dirt are abrasive materials!

The situation for each individual project (or type of dirt) must always be professionally evaluated.

Wrong cleaning may cause damages such as, but not limited to, damages to the glass surface (e.g. scratches) and AR coating, power loss, delamination, loss of frame-to-laminate bond, reduced snow and wind load capability etc.

Apart from the above, each customer is free to choose the method of cleaning. However, possible damages, caused by the cleaning or related to the cleaning tools or agents shall not be covered by the module's Product and Performance Warranty. Therefore it is recommended to use only the tools and agents which have already been successfully tested and used with PV modules, to prevent possible damage.

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

Note! Module damage may occur!

• Do not clean modules with water if there is a risk of frost.

A diagram shows a thermometer indicating 0°C, symbolizing the risk of frost.

• Free the substructure from any dirt and debris (leaves, bird nests, etc.).