INSTALLATION USING DOUBLE-SIDED ADHESIVE OR GLUE
Before commencing, the surface onto which the modules are to be installed must be perfectly clean and dry. The installation
of SolbianFlex modules using structural double-sided tape supplied by the manufacturer must be carried out carefully and with
precision, as this permanent method does not allow repositioning. The surface on which the modules are installed does not
necessarily need to be regular, but if it is not, the modules cannot be walked on. Similar results can be obtained with silicon
or polyurethane glue. In this case, Solbian is not responsible for the results, but may be consulted about the adhesive to use.
When using commercial glue, be careful not to create an irregular surface, if the modules are to be walked upon. The glue should
be applied uniformly with a thickness not exceeding 2mm.
Before proceeding with a permanent installation using glue or double-sided tape, we recommend that you check the performance
of the module by measuring Voc and Isc and comparing with the datasheet.
WARNING: The double-sided adhesive backing tape makes a very strong bond with the support material and does not allow
repositioning. Trying to remove a module, even if it is only partially attached, can seriously damage the cells.
INSTALLATION OF MODULES WITH RIBBON CONTACTS ON REAR SIDE
The metal ribbons on the back of the module are electrical contacts and are therefore live when the module is exposed to light.
Although the voltage is low, avoid short-circuiting the contacts which could lead to arcing and overheating.
The ribbons will break after repeated bending, so avoid unnecessary movement, beyond that strictly necessary to make the
electrical contact by soldering to a suitable cable for the installation.
Photovoltaic modules generate quite a high current, between 5A and 9A in full sunlight, therefore the soldering must be done to
high standards, to avoid overheating.
If you have chosen modules with rear ribbon contacts, they must be installed using double-sided tape or glue in order to insulate
the electrical contacts. The following method is advised:
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wall thickness and the same outside diameter as the holes, fixing them in position using silicon or glue spread on the outside
of the tubes. Once the silicon is dry, cut off the protruding parts and refinish the surface with specific products as required (Fig.
10–12). The internal diameter of the tube must be sufficient to accommodate the ribbon contacts and an outer insulating sheath
(heat-shrinking). The tubes are necessary in order to seal and protect the inner structure of the support, especially if this is a
sandwich or honeycomb structure. They are also required when the support is metallic (aluminium superstructures, car bodywork)
and must be electrically insulated. In the case of solid, compact insulating support material, they can be avoided and the holes
can be smaller (6-8 mm diameter).
The ribbon contacts must be electrically insulated. Heat-shrinking sheaths or silicon can be used. When using heat shrinking
parts, use a suitable heat-source and be careful not to heat the photovoltaic module, which could be damaged. Never use naked
flames. It is advisable to cover the whole area where the ribbons exit the module, using silicon, to ensure full electrical insulation.
If using double-sided tape for the installation, position the module as marked out previously, inserting the cables through the
holes. Then peel back part of the double-sided adhesive backing, starting from the side nearest the electrical contacts, and
proceed 20-30 cm at a time, making sure that the module adheres to the surface.
ATTENTION: The double-sided adhesive backing tape makes a very strong bond with the support material and does not allow
repositioning. Trying to remove a module, even if it is only partially attached, can seriously damage the cells.
PROTECTIVE FILM ON FRONT OF MODULE
The modules are shipped with a protective film on the front surface. We recommend that you remove this after the installation has
been completed. In any case, the protective film must be removed before using the module for the first time.
INSTALLATION MANUAL
4
Draw the outline of the module on the rigid surface where the module is
to be mounted (roof of boat, camper, etc.). Masking tape can also be used
to mark the outline of the module.
Mark the position where the positive and negative cables will pass
through the support. We recommend using a cardboard model of the
module, with holes cut out for the cable positions. The holes for the
cables can be 2 x 10mm diameter, or one larger hole to include both
cables.
Once the holes have been made, insert plastic or rubber tubes with 1 mm