WEEB grounding [RE-wrenches]

[Bill Brooks]

William,

Without a lot of time to go into details, manufacturer's directions are just
that--directions. Although UL may review the directions, it turns out they
do not normally use the hardware provided by the manufacturer to test the
module grounding. They do use the grounding point, but there is nothing to
say that another bonding method could not be equally good or superior.

The only problem you can run into with a manufacturer is if you drill new
holes for grounding. BP allows this in their modules provided it is in
specific locations that do not compromise the structural integrity of their
module frame. Most module manufacturers are silent on the issue (for far too
long). A few manufacturers have recently supplied predrilled grounding holes
on the module ends.

As it pertains to WEEB, the code accepts any listed grounding and bonding
method that is not specifically prohibited by the listing of the product, so
I can't see any way that WEEB could be a violation of the code. This is
essentially what local jurisdictions have been asking for when it comes to
grounding and bonding of PV module frames.

On a side note, only a few manufacturers have anything about using lay-in
lugs on frames for grounding. A lay-in lug should be attached with a
stainless nut, bolt, and star washers on at least one side, and probably
both for contact area, in order to be installed properly. This is often not
done.

Bill.


-----Original Message-----
From: William Miller [mailto:wrmiller at charter.net] 
Sent: Thursday, July 27, 2006 10:45 PM
To: RE-wrenches at topica.com
Subject: RE: WEEB grounding [RE-wrenches]



Bill:

Would this be UL compliant?  It does not follow manufacturer's
recommendations.

Thanks,

William



At 08:42 PM 7/27/2006, you wrote:

>Kirk,
>
>That only works if you are fastening the modules from the back side. 
>Top-down clips make it difficult to use star washers.
>
>Bill.
>
>
>-----Original Message-----
>From: Kirk Herander [mailto:kirk at vtsolar.com]
>Sent: Thursday, July 27, 2006 4:11 PM
>To: RE-wrenches at topica.com
>Subject: RE: WEEB grounding [RE-wrenches]
>
>
>
>Why not just use a star washer between module frame and rack? It would 
>appear to accomplish the same thing as the WEEB.I used to do this 
>before the Ilsco lay-in lugs became the rage.


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