Kyocera quality concern [RE-wrenches]

[Matt Lafferty]

Ken / Wrenches:

 >Ken wrote:

> We recently received our first shipment of Kyocera 120 modules for an
upcoming
> job. We were a little concerned when we opened the boxes up and inspected
> the modules. The back Tedlar sheet has many, many sharp peaks probably at
> the solder junctions between cells. When we were at PVUSA training we seem
> to recall that many of the module failures were caused by these sharp
points
> puncturing the rear backing and allowing moisture into the module.
>

We are installing the KC-120 (~360 kW) right now.  When I inspected the
shipment, I found the same condition you describe and have/had the same
concern.

As is our normal procedure, we sent a small sample to ASU for testing and
evaluation.  This is an ongoing, long-term program that is very
comprehensive in the information we receive back.  As of right now, we have
had no derogatory reports on the modules (approx. 2 months).

I requested an opinion from Kyocera.  (I know....like asking the fox if
he'll babysit your hens)  I was verbally told that they hadn't had any
failures due to this and that the Tedlar in use now is tougher than it used
to be.  (My "touch test" agrees.  I sense that the Tedlar backing on the
KC-120 is thicker and better adhered than on other modules I've played
with.)

I did a little "heat-gun" experiment with two of the modules.  (Direct heat
at several points on the back of the module - At the sharp points and
directly behind the cells.  Allowed to cool, repeated 5 times.)

I then performed a wet-meggar test at 1kV on the modules.  The modules
passed the meggar testing fine.  While this is by no means a scientifically
conclusive test, I did feel better about deployment.

I would encourage you to inform Kyocera Solar, Scottsdale, of your concerns.
Perhaps as yourself, myself & others let our voices be heard, the
"Omnipotent" mentality of the Manufacturers will be modified to one of
humility and honest communication leading to better products and service.

Your post of this topic to the Wrenches is the essence of why the Wrenches
exists!

Best of Luck and . . .

Pray for Sun!

-Matt Lafferty
pvpro at attbi.com

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