Where is Ground Clamps [RE-wrenches]

[Bill Brooks]

Jay and John,

Don't get me started on my pet pieve. Manufacturers have known for many
years that it is a total pain to use their stupid grounding hole for
roof-mounted systems. They have not lifted a finger to help us in the field.
They say "nobody is complaining"--that's only because many are not properly
grounding their arrays currently (sorry for the pun).

I believe that we need racking systems that provide for effective grounding
of all the modules. This is a very real safety issue. An energized module
frame without effective grounding is a huge hazard.

Bill.


-----Original Message-----
From: John Berdner [mailto:jberdner at sma-america.com]
Sent: Monday, April 21, 2003 11:35 AM
To: RE-wrenches at topica.com
Subject: RE: Where is Ground Clamps [RE-wrenches]


Jay:

I think that technically, according to the UL Listing of the module, you
have to use their hardware in the hole identified for the purpose.  That
being said, I don't think anyone will call you on it if you use other
holes or hardware.  I strongly suggest stainless hardware to avoid
galvanic corrosion issues even though SS is a terrible conductor.
Bronze grounding hardware is another choice - Ilsco (ilsco.com)makes
some nice stuff but it is spendy.  Be sure to use the stuff rated for
outdoor use if you go that route.

If you have any questions or if I may be of any further assistance,
please do not hesitate to contact me.

Best Regards,

John Berdner

SMA America, Inc.
12438-C Loma Rica Road
Grass Valley, CA  95945
530.273.4595 - Tel
530.274.7271 - Fax



-----Original Message-----
From: Jay Peltz, Peltz Power [mailto:jay at asis.com]
Sent: Monday, April 21, 2003 11:09 AM
To: RE-wrenches at topica.com
Subject: Re: Where is Ground Clamps [RE-wrenches]

Hi John and Bill,

OK, so here is my question.

I'm holding in my hand a "grounding screw" from Sharp/Schott.  This
screw is
SS, is machine thread, and is really really small.  It is so small that
it
will rattle around in the listed grounding hole.  Yes it has a star
washer.

How is using this any different than installing a star washer on the
frame
either under the mounting frame or a surface attachment for the top down
style?

And if the manufacture gives me a grounding screw, can I use anything
else
without voiding the UL warranty?  If so, can I install the ground
anywhere,
or do I have to use the approved grounding hole?

Thanks

jay.

-**snip**

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