Use and Care Manual

ManualsBrandsRamsond ManualsElectrical5-Watt 12-Volt Monocrystalline PV Solar Panel

STEP 2: PHYSICAL INSTALLATION

FOR MULTIPLE PANELS

Multiple panel systems use several panels connected together for higher

power output in groups called “arrays.” Solar modules

must always be

connected only to similarly rated modules (for example 100 watt

panels should only be connected with other 100 watt panels). This is to

avoid overload and damage to the system itself, as well as damage

caused by the system not operating correctly due to unblanced power

output from different types of panels. Because of this, it is

highly recom-

mended that only similar panels be physically grouped together.

This is not completely necessary, but it will simplify the process and help

make the electrical installation less complicated.

Also, when installing multiple panels together, there will likely be some

space left in between each of the panels; this will depend on your chosen

support system and the pressure clamps needed, if used. If your support

system will use simple bolts and washers to fasten the modules, they can

be as close to each other as desired.

The 100mm needed from the

back of each module is still required for airflow. If using clamps, the

space between the modules will be determined by the type of pressure

clamps used. All diagrams provided are for reference only and may not

reflect your specific support system.

If your support structure will use bolts and washers to mount the

modules, use the diagram to the right as a reference and follow the

same fastening instructions listed under

FOR SINGLE PANELS (Pg. 3) for

every module to be placed. The prepared mounting holes have been UL

evaulated to carry a maximum positive or negative load of 2400Pa

(50.12 lb/ft.^2); this should be enough for most uses, but if additional

support is needed, it can be added by using pressure clamps (if your

support structure uses them), as described below. If you do not need to

add additional support and all modules have been securely bolted, you

may skip to the

ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION section of this manual.

Most multiple panel systems will use pressure clamps instead of only

bolts. The initial steps for each module will be roughly the same as the

instructions

FOR SINGLE PANELS, but will differ slightly. Locate the four

mounting holes in the back of the first solar module’s aluminum frame.

These will be the ideal contact points for your clamps, but depending on

the design of your support system, clamps may be placed anywhere on

the longest sides of the modules to fit your support system.

Place the

first module squarely on the support structure for fastening. The

first module should be at one end of the array and it should use the

clamp intended only for end modules along the outer side. Using the

diagram shown at right for end modules,

place the clamp so that its

mounting hole aligns with the matching support structure hole.

Then, using high strength bolts and nuts,

fasten the module to the

support structure through a clamp at each mounting point along

the outer edge. This should be performed only on the edge that will not

be next to another module.

Next,

place the second module to be secured squarely next to the

first module. There should be a dual-sided clamp that will secure the

first module’s other edge and the second module’s first edge at the same

time. Using the digram at right - and depending on the exact style of

clamp used -

align the dual-sided clamp’s mounting hole to the

support structure’s mouting hole while ensuring that both module’s

edges are under the clamp. Pass a high strength bolt of appropriate

length through both holes, then

securely tighten the bolt with a

matching locking nut to fasten both edges of both modules to the

support structure. Now, the first module should be secure on both sides

and the second module will be fastened on one side. Repeat the above

process for each module within the solar array;

the final edge of the

last module should use an end module pressure clamp, like the first

side of the first module used. Once all modules are fastened, you may

continue to the

ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION section of this manual.

BOLT

CLAMP

LOCKING NUT

MODULE

SUPPORT STRUCTURE

FASTEN USING CLAMPS

(BETWEEN MODULES)

Note: Actual clamp design may vary

BOLT

CLAMP

LOCKING NUT

MODULE

SUPPORT STRUCTURE

FASTEN USING CLAMPS (END MODULE)

BOLT

FLAT WASHER

SPRING WASHER

LOCKING NUT

MODULE FRAME

SUPPORT

STRUCTURE

FASTEN USING BOLTS & WASHERS

EXAMPLES OF DIFFERENT SUPPORT STRUCTURES