[RE-wrenches] Microfractures in PV Modules

[jay peltz]

Hi Chris,

There are a number of test methods, but the best two are.
Electroluminescence imagining   ELI
thermal imaging  IR

From what I read at Photon, the ELI is the best for micro cracks before they really happen.
After they are visible, thermal imaging can be helpful.

As to it being a real issue, I believe so.  The cause has not been confirmed, but contributing factors are:
cell thickness
manufacturing handling
shipping/packing
field handling.

For example I've seen IR photos that show a hand print damage in the middle of module.  Or damage that sure looks like it would have been from a shoulder pressing on a cell area ( carrying it like a sheet of plywood).  

If you are looking for someone who can do these field tests, contact me off site,

jay

peltz power


On Oct 4, 2014, at 10:46 AM, Christopher Warfel wrote:

> No, this is a third party quality assurance inspector for a rate payer funded program. The issue is most likely proper use of ratepayer funds towards these projects.  I would think that the AHJ wouldn't be concerned unless there was a safety issue My question is more along the lines of: is this a real issue, and if so, how does one see the defect?
> On 10/4/2014 12:21 PM, jay peltz wrote:
>> Hi Chris,
>> 
>> Do you mean the AHJ?
>> 
>> jay
>> 
>> 
>> On Oct 4, 2014, at 8:20 AM, Christopher Warfel wrote:
>> 
>>> Recently a inspector raised the issue of microfractures in pv modules, and that the existence of such fractures would require replacement of the modules and a failing of the system inspection. I found information from NREL confirming the existence of microfractures in poly crystalline.  However, I have not seen any information on how to detect them (ie, what they look like).  Does anyone have a reference that shows this, and is this a valid concern for the industry?  Thank you, Chris
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
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> 
> -- 
> Christopher Warfel, President
> ENTECH Engineering, Inc.
> PO Box 871, Block Island, RI 02807
> 401-466-8978
> 
> _______________________________________________
> List sponsored by Redwood Alliance
> 
> List Address: RE-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org
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