600 vdc arc testing [RE-wrenches]

[graham at solarexpert.com]

Hi Christopher,

Thanks for taking the time to test the arc length of 600 Volts DC as
well as making it available on your web site.  The potential for arcing
on my customers residential roof tops scares me.  There are quite a few
600 volt systems being installed in southern California at this time,
and almost all of these installations are using quick-connects between
the modules.  I have even heard of an individual installer that pulls
apart a quick connect to pull an arc to light his cigarette. 600 volts
systems with quick-connects are fast an easy to install but are they
truly safe for residential applications?

I have had problems at my house with squirrels gnawing on telephone,
cable TV as well as power lines.  Last year a squirrel chewed through
the line drop across my back yard and burning insulation was dripping
onto the lawn.  The Burbank Department of Water and Power came out and
found the dead squirrel and mentioned that this is a common occurrence.
This has kept me from installing high voltage systems with quick
connects.  

Would it be safer if the USE cable is armored and a clamping devise or
cover eliminates the chance of the connections pulling apart?

I would really appreciate advice from members of the wrenches list who
have been working with PV for a much longer time than the guys
installing systems locally who keep advising me that I am crazy
panelizing modules with conduit in the shop.

Graham Owen
GO Solar Company

- - - -
To send a message: RE-wrenches at topica.com

Archive of previous messages: http://www.topica.com/lists/RE-wrenches/

List rules & etiquette: http://www.mrsharkey.com/wrenches/etiquete.htm

Check out participant bios: www.mrsharkey.com/wrenches/index.html

Hosted by Home Power magazine

Moderator: michael.welch at homepower.com

==^================================================================
This email was sent to: michael.welch at homepower.com

EASY UNSUBSCRIBE click here: http://topica.com/u/?bz8Qcs.bz9JC9
Or send an email to: RE-wrenches-unsubscribe at topica.com

T O P I C A -- Register now to manage your mail!
http://www.topica.com/partner/tag02/register
==^================================================================