Safety and Installation Instructions

Electrical characteristics of the modules are described in Table 1 below. For all modules, the maximum series fuse rating is 15A. Under normal conditions, a photovoltaic module may experience conditions that produce more current and/or voltage than reported at Standard Test Conditions. Accordingly, the values of ISC and VOC marked on the modules should be multiplied by a factor of 1.25 when determining component voltage ratings, conductor capacities, fuse sizes and size of controls connected to the module output. Refer to Section 690‐8 of the NEC for an additional 1.25 Safety factor which may be applicable.

Rated electrical characteristics are within 10% of measured values at Standard Test Conditions of: 1000W/m2, 25°C cell temperature and solar spectral irradiation of AM 1.5 spectrum.

The terminals, wires and/or connectors used in these panels allows for modules to be connected in series or parallel. However, connecting the panels in this manner can put the by‐pass diode in the panel and the battery at risk for damage and could create a safety issue. Please read the WARNING! note below.

IMPORTANT – ONLY CONNECT IN SERIES OR PARALLEL THE SAME MODEL OF SOLAR MODULE. THE EXACT SPECIFICATIONS MUST MATCH ON ALL PANELS CONNECTED IN SERIES OR PARALLEL, INCLUDING WATTS, VOLTS AND CURRENT. WIRES AND CONNECTORS SHOULD ALSO BE IDENTIAL IN MAKING ALL CONNECTIONS BETWEEN MODULES IN SERIES AND/OR PARALLEL. 

Series Connection: 

Connecting the panels in series increases the voltage of the system, so the two panels produce double the voltage as compared to one panel. This high voltage can cause damage to the battery and could cause safety issues. Please read the WARNING! note below.

To connect panels in series, connect the Negative (‐) TERMINAL of panel #1 to the Positive (+) TERMINAL of the panel #2. See Figure1 left.

Parallel Connection: 

Connecting the panels in parallel increases the current of the system, so the two panels produce double the current as compared to one panel. This high current may cause damage to the battery and by‐pass diode in the junction box and cause a safety issue. Please read the WARNING! note below.

To connect panels in parallel, connect the Positive (+) TERMINAL of panel #1 to the Positive (+) TERMINAL panel #2 Connect the Negative (‐) TERMINAL of panel #1 to the Negative (‐) TERMINAL of panel #2. See Figure 1 Right. In this configuration, cable adapters will be needed.

Figure 1: Schematic of two panels in series and parallel. 

WARNING! 

• Connecting panels in series will increase the voltage output of the panels.
• DC voltages may reach levels greater than 40 V DC, in high illumination conditions (>1000 W/m2).
• If attached to a low voltage battery, e.g. a 12 V battery, this high voltage could cause damage to the battery and could cause a safety issue. MAKE SURE TO USE THE CORRECT PV CHARGE CONTROLLER (CCU) WITH RUGGEDSOLAR® MODULES.
• The charging characteristics of any battery and the PV charge controller (CCU) should always be checked for compatibility with the current and voltage output of the panels prior to use.

For models not shown here, please contact RUGGED Solar technical support or visit www.ruggedsolar.net. Electrical parameters are measured at Standard Test Conditions (STC). The series fuse must have an interrupting rating that is equal to or greater than the maximum fault current that the fuse is required to interrupt, including contributions from all connected sources of energy.

• Manufacturer does not recommend connecting these panels in parallel without proper system and safety protection.
• Connecting panels in parallel will double the current output of the panels. DC Currents may be greater than 12 amps for 100 W or higher panel output and greater than 6amps for 50 W panels, in high illumination conditions (>1000 W/m2).
• If shading occurs without additional electronic components, such as a blocking diode, the by‐pass diodes may be damaged leading to further panel damage and unsafe conditions including fire.
• If Paralleled panels are attached to a PV charge controller (CCU) and battery for charging, the high current may cause damage to the PV charge controller (CCU) and battery and subsequent safety issues.
• The charging characteristics of any battery should always be checked for compatibility with the current and voltage output of the PV charge controller (CCU) and PV panels prior to use.

The Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty for PV Modules is contingent upon modules being mounted in accordance with the requirements described in this section.

5.1 Site Considerations 

RUGGEDSOLAR® RUGGEDFLEX™ modules should only be mounted in locations that meet the following requirements:

Operating Temperature: All RUGGEDSOLAR® modules must only be mounted in environments that ensure they will operate within the following temperatures:

Excluded Operating Environments 

Certain operating environments are not recommended for RUGGEDSOLAR® RUGGEDFLEX™ modules and are excluded from the Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty. These include but are not limited to contact with liquids with pH greater than 8.5 or less than 6.5, large hail and other projectiles, fire, meteorites, lava flow and volcanic eruptions. RUGGEDSOLAR® RUGGEDFLEX™ modules can withstand high wind, mild blunt-force impact, steady vibration associated with motorized equipment, and occasional submersion in water when securely attached to a flat or slightly curved (less than 30 degrees) along a single axis, rigid and fixed rigid surface so that the module does not move, is dislodged, is bent or twisted more than 30 degrees or on more than one axis, or otherwise experiences significant mechanical stress.

5.2 Mounting Configurations 

Modules may be mounted at any angle, from horizontal to vertical, but to reduce the buildup of dirt on the surface of the module, modules should be mounted at a minimum of 10 degrees, and to ensure proper operating efficiency, modules should not be installed at greater than 45 degrees other than in extreme latitudes.

Modules should be mounted using the grommet holes as attachment points and using an outdoor waterproofing adhesive on the panel backside. When using adhesive on the backside of the panel, the panel can no longer be removed without permanent damage and voiding of the Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty. If adhesive is not used on the backside of the panel for installation, and only screws are used to secure the panel through the grommet holes, then it can be removed and installed again, although doing so is not covered under the Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty and would void the Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty. 

5.3 Module Handling 

Use gloves when handling modules. The module is sensitive to oils and abrasive surfaces, which may lead to scratches and irregular soiling. Do not place modules such that the module encounters abrasive surfaces and minimize any contact with the module in general. Do not place anything on the modules. Never lift or move the module using the cables or the junction box under any circumstances. Remove any fingerprints by washing the module as described in Section 6.0 below.

Modules should be handled without bending or twisting of the panels prior to permanent installation on a fixed, rigid surface. The panels are designed to withstand a 30‐degree bend in the panel, top to bottom where the top is the side with the junction box and wires. Additionally, no sharp objects should be placed in contact with the panel. This can result in scratching or marring of the surface of the panel and/or damage to the solar cells or connectors in the panel, resulting in decreased power output and potentially a safety hazard, see section 2.

Junction boxes, cables and connectors should never be subjected to a sharp or blunt force. This can result in a broken or cracked junction box, cable or connectors such that the panel should not be used. See section 2.

Users should inspect all modules annually for safe electrical connections, sound mechanical connections, and freedom from corrosion.

Periodic cleaning of module has resulted in improved performance levels, especially in regions with low levels of annual precipitation; therefore, Manufacturer recommends periodic cleaning of the modules.

To clean a module, wash its surface with potable, non‐heated water and normal dishwashing soap (Do not use ammonia, bleach, alcohol-based solvents, high acidic or basic liquids.) Normal water pressure is adequate. Some fingerprints, stains, or accumulations of dirt and greasy grime on the surface may be removed with a 3% soap‐and‐water solution. Wet the module surface with the solution, let it stand for five minutes, and then wet them again and use a soft sponge or seamless cloth to wipe the surface in a circular motion. Do not use harsh industrial‐strength cleaning materials such as aggressive chemicals, scouring powder, steel wool, scrapers, blades, or other sharp instruments to clean the module - Use of such materials will void the product warranty. In extreme cases, mineral spirits applied to a clean cloth can be used to remove dirt and greasy grime.

RUGGEDSOLAR® modules should be disposed of in accordance with all national, state, and local laws, codes, ordinances, and regulations. Manufacturer takes no responsibility in the disposal of any modules, nor does it take responsibility for informing users of their legal obligations and potential liabilities associated with the ownership and disposal of any PV modules. It is the sole responsibility of the user to be informed of all national, state, and local laws, codes, ordinances, and regulations associated with the ownership, operation, and disposal of any PV modules.