Home
standards-for-bifacial-solar-panel-manufacturing

Standards for Bifacial Solar Panel Manufacturing

Standards for Bifacial Solar Panel Manufacturing: Ensuring Efficiency and Reliability

Bifacial solar panels have revolutionized the solar industry by allowing solar panels to generate electricity from both the front and back sides. This innovative technology has increased energy production, reduced costs, and enhanced system efficiency. However, with great power comes great responsibility, and manufacturers must adhere to strict standards to ensure the quality and performance of bifacial solar panels.

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has developed a set of standards for bifacial solar panel manufacturing, known as IEC 60904-9:2018. This standard specifies the requirements for bifacial photovoltaic devices, including materials, construction, testing, and labeling. Adherence to these standards ensures that bifacial solar panels meet the necessary performance criteria, safety regulations, and environmental standards.

Key Requirements for Bifacial Solar Panel Manufacturing

  • Material selection and quality control:

  • The standard requires manufacturers to select high-quality materials for the panels front and back surfaces, including photovoltaic cells, glass, aluminum frames, and EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) encapsulants.
    Manufacturers must also ensure that all components are properly tested and certified to meet IEC 61215:2016 and IEC 61730-1:2016 standards for single-crystal silicon photovoltaic modules.
    Regular audits and quality control measures are necessary to maintain material integrity throughout the manufacturing process.
  • Construction and assembly requirements:

  • The standard specifies the minimum thickness of the front glass, which must be at least 3.2 mm for bifacial solar panels.
    Manufacturers must also ensure that the back surface is properly coated with a reflective layer to enhance energy production.
    The standard outlines specific requirements for cell arrangement, busbar design, and frame construction to optimize panel performance.

    Additional Standards for Bifacial Solar Panel Manufacturing

    In addition to IEC 60904-9:2018, other relevant standards include:

  • IEC 61730-2:2013: This standard specifies the electrical requirements for bifacial solar panels, including surge protection and insulation resistance.

  • IEC 61550:2006: This standard outlines the mechanical requirements for bifacial solar panels, including wind load testing and mechanical robustness.


  • QA Section

    Q: What are the benefits of adhering to IEC standards in bifacial solar panel manufacturing?
    A: Adhering to IEC standards ensures that bifacial solar panels meet the necessary performance criteria, safety regulations, and environmental standards. This leads to increased energy production, reduced costs, and enhanced system efficiency.

    Q: Can I use non-IEC certified materials for my bifacial solar panels?
    A:
    No, using non-IEC certified materials can compromise the quality and performance of your bifacial solar panels. Adherence to IEC standards ensures that all components meet the necessary requirements for safety, reliability, and environmental sustainability.

    Q: How do I ensure compliance with IEC 60904-9:2018?
    A: To ensure compliance, manufacturers must:

    1. Review and understand the standards requirements.
    2. Develop a quality management system (QMS) to control material selection, testing, and inspection.
    3. Train personnel on the importance of following the standard.
    4. Regularly audit the manufacturing process to maintain conformity.

    Q: What are some common defects that can occur in bifacial solar panels?
    A:
    Common defects include:

  • Cell cracks or breaks

  • EVA encapsulant degradation

  • Frame corrosion

  • Glass breakage


  • Q: How do I prevent these defects from occurring in my bifacial solar panels?
    A: To prevent defects, manufacturers must:

    1. Select high-quality materials that meet IEC standards.
    2. Regularly inspect and test the manufacturing process.
    3. Implement a QMS to maintain material integrity throughout production.

    Q: Can I use existing equipment for bifacial solar panel manufacturing?
    A:
    While existing equipment can be adapted or modified for bifacial solar panel manufacturing, its essential to verify that all components meet the necessary requirements for safety and performance.

    Q: Are there any industry certifications for bifacial solar panel manufacturers?
    A: Yes, several industry certifications are available, including:

  • IEC 61646:2008

  • IEC 61730-1:2016

  • ISO 9001:2015 (quality management system)

  • OHSAS 18001:2007 (occupational health and safety management)


  • Q: What is the average lifespan of bifacial solar panels?
    A:
    The average lifespan of bifacial solar panels is around 25 years, with some manufacturers claiming a lifespan of up to 30 years.

    In conclusion, adhering to IEC standards for bifacial solar panel manufacturing ensures that products meet necessary performance criteria, safety regulations, and environmental standards. By understanding the key requirements and additional standards outlined in this article, manufacturers can optimize their production process, reduce costs, and enhance system efficiency. Regular audits, quality control measures, and adherence to industry certifications will ensure the long-term reliability and performance of bifacial solar panels.

    DRIVING INNOVATION, DELIVERING EXCELLENCE