Grounded for two weeks...hopefully longer [RE-wrenches]

[Rob Harlan]

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----- Original Message -----
> We just finished a 20 kW ground mount and my installer called me to say he
found a "better way to attach the modules, faster and cheaper, come take a
look". Fearing the worse I hustled on over and found that they used #10 SS
drill point screws w/SS washers up through the slotted channel and into the
frame wherever they could hit (no, not the manufacturers intended holes, but
within an inch or so). The first thing I noticed is that we now have a good
electrical connection between the module frame and the strut, bonding all
module frames to the entire structure. It looks like a reasonable direction
to consider as we explore ways to ground zillions of module frames together
on an array. I know we all want to see this get to the point of one ground
point per array. We still bonded all frames with lugs and #10 CU. We all
agree - there just has to be better way than this silliness.
> -jeff o

We have been grounding our (Sharp) modules in many of our installations in
the following manner:
Remove one of the four frame end screws and replace with a #8 X 1"stainless
steel pan head tapping screw with two stainless washers. The copper ground
wire gets looped around the screw sandwiched between the washers and then on
to the adjacent module. We are aware that in a pinch this may technically
void the module warranty but we feel that replacing one screw on the frame
does not compromise the structural integrity of the module.   We have had no
problems with inspectors with this system.  (Although, compared with some of
the rediculous stories we hear from other areas, our inspectors do seem like
a solar installer's dream come true.)  We have found this system to be a
very solid, ecconomical, efficient solution that addresses the duribility,
sufficient contact and corrosion issues that most grounding schemes face.
Has anyone tried this one out?

Then again, of course,  it would be great if the module manufacturers would
pick up the ball on this one.

-Rob Harlan
Mendocino Solar Service
mendosol at mcn.org



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