[RE-wrenches] CA Fire code

[Bill Brooks]

All,

 

Since Mr. Brearley called me out, I guess I need to jump in. UL 1703 has
been substantially changed as to how modules are fire rated. Basically,
modules will no longer receive a direct fire rating unless they are
installed in a fire-rated mounting system. I current module with a Class C
or Class A rating will no longer have that rating. The mounting system will
carry the fire rating. Modules will have specific "types" based on their
construction. This way a rack manufacturer can get a fire rating on modules
of a particular module construction type and not have to rerate their rack
with every module that has that same construction.

 

All these changes in the UL1703 standard are going to require education so
that fire officials and building code enforcement officials understand how
to enforce the new building code rules in light of the new version of the UL
standard.

 

Bill.

 

From: re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of David
Brearley
Sent: Monday, January 06, 2014 11:34 AM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] CA Fire code

 

Lars,

 

Back in October, UL was in the process of finalizing a new fire test method
for for roof-mounted PV systems. This new test method will bridge the gap
between the fire tests for roofing coverings (UL 790) and those found in UL
1703, the standard for flat-plate PV modules. Long story short, Class C PV
modules installed over a Class A roofing system will result in a Class A
fire-rated roof-mounted PV system.

 

At least that's how I understood the presentation delivered by Christopher
Flueckinger from UL during the "Fire Safety" session at SPI in Chicago. I'm
sure Bill Brooks will chime in shortly and provide more clarity.

 

Best regards,

 

David Brearley

Senior Technical Editor, SolarPro magazine

NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional

david.brearley at solarprofessional.com
<mailto:david.brearley at solarprofessional.com> 

Direct: 541.261.6545

 

 





 



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