Maintenance Guide

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Maintenance Guide Version 1.4

Solyndra LLC • 47488 Kato Road • Fremont CA 94538 • www.solyndra.com

English. 0920-30094-003Release Date: 2011-04-30

Visit http://www.solyndra.com for the most-current version of this document.

2 Maintenance Guide SolyndraLLC•47488KatoRoad•FremontCA94538•www.solyndra.com

GENERAL DISCLAIMER

The information contained in Solyndra’s instructions, guides, application notes, or any other document is advisory in nature only. Solyndra makes no representation or warranties that any referenced techniques or methods are necessarily safe, legal, or compliant with applicable codes and regulations. The customer must work with qualified system designers, installers and other professional personnel as required to ensure that all Solyndra photovoltaic system designs and installations are safe and in compliance with all applicable codes and regulations. Solyndra assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information or pro-cesses disclosed herein. Reference herein to any particular commercial products, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise, does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by Solyndra.

WARRANTY DISCLAIMER

The warranty terms for Solyndra’s photovoltaic products are governed solely by the express terms of the Solyndra Limited Warranty provided to the purchaser of Solyndra products as may be transferred there under. Solyndra ex-pressly disclaims any and all other express warranties and any and all implied warranties, including but not limited to those relating to the sale and/or use of Solyndra photovoltaic products, fitness for a particular purpose, merchant-ability or non-infringement or infringement of any intellectual property right. Solyndra may make changes to speci-fications, guidelines, and products at any time without notice. Purchasers or potential purchasers, designers and installers should contact their local Solyndra representative or the Solyndra website to ensure that they have and are working with the most up-to-date information and documentation relating to Solyndra’s photovoltaic products.

Trademarks /Patents/Copyright Notice

ThefollowingtermsaretrademarksorservicemarksofSolyndraLLC:Solyndra;TheNewShapeofSolar.Allothertrademarksandregisteredtrademarksarethepropertyoftheirrespectivecompanies.

SolyndraproductsarecoveredbypatentsintheUSandmanyothercountries.

Copyright(circlelogo©)SolyndraLLC2011.PrintedintheUnitedStatesofAmerica.AllRightsReserved.

UB.EN.20110317.V1-1.

Contact Information

Headquarters Regional Support Contacts

Solyndra LLC47488KatoRoadFremontCA94538USA(+1)510440-2400(+1)510-662-4877fax

US&Canada 877-511-8436 English [email protected]

EMEA 35361791124 DE,EN,FR,IT [email protected]

Belgium 080050735 English [email protected]

France 0800942896 French,English [email protected]

Germany 08000004366 German,English [email protected]

SolyndraInternationalAGLindenstrasse166340Baar,Switzerland

Greece 0080039734547 English [email protected]

Italy 800125604 Italian,English [email protected]

Spain 900800566 English [email protected]

UAE 800039734547 English [email protected]

UK 0800368-0423 English [email protected]

0920-30094-003 Maintenance Guide 3

Contents

Chapter 1 Inspection 41.1. Inspection Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41.2. Checking Electrical Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41.3. Physical and Mechanical Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41.4. Determining the Need to Clean. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Chapter 2 Cleaning 72.1. Cleaning Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72.2. Cleaning Tools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Chapter 3 Snow Removal 14

Appendix A. Weight of Snow 17

Appendix B. Panel Removal and Spill Cleanup 19B.1 Spill Cleanup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20B.2 Panel Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

What’s New in This ManualVersion 1.4 of this manual has additional information on cleaning techniques and snow removal.

•Custom cleaning heads are shown in Section 2.1.3 and in Figure 9.•An example of snow removal from an array is shown in Figure 15.•There are also additional examples and sources for cleaning tools and snow removal tools.


Insp

ectio

n Chapter 1 Inspection

For Solyndra 100 Series, 150 Series, and 200 Series, routine inspection includes:

•Monitoring electrical energy output.• Inspecting the panels and mounting structure for damage, corrosion, or wiring problems.•Determining the cleanliness of the panels and roof.

1.1. Inspection Schedule

Daily•Record electrical performance. Note that most inverters can do this automatically.•Record temperature, wind speed, and insolation.

Monthly•Review electrical performance relative to weather and insolation.

Semi-AnnuallyPhysical inspection should be done twice yearly. Spring and fall are the preferred times. Inspections in the spring reveal any damage caused by winter weather, and help insure maximum energy generation during the summer months. This is also a good time to clean the panels and the roof, to remove soiling accumulated with winter snow.

Late autumn inspections are the last chance to detect problems before winter weather makes inspection more difficult. This is a good time to clear leaves away from drain areas.

1.2. Checking Electrical Performance

Regular monitoring of system output is the best way to determine if there is an electrical problem with the array. Array performance varies from day to day, but over periods of a month or more a clear pattern will emerge. By comparing system energy output with weather and insolation, the overall performance of the array can be tracked. Significant variations from this pattern indicate a problem.

Weather data should include, as a minimum, temperature, wind speed, and insolation. A record of rainfall is useful in determining the need for cleaning.

Review the data monthly or quarterly. Whenever unusual data is found, contact the system integrator or other qualified photovoltaic service personnel.

1.3. Physical and Mechanical Inspection

During the visual inspection phase, ensure that:

•Array mounting components are in place and securely fastened.• Panel series and parallel connections are secure and in good condition.•Other wiring and electrical equipment appears intact and undamaged. In particular, look for signs of

rubbing between wires and any other materials. Repair or replace as required, and secure wires to prevent further rubbing.

• Equipment grounding connections (where applicable) are securely bonded and in good condition.


Inspection1.3.1. Array Inspection

• Physically inspect the array for damage. Look for signs of broken modules. This can be done by sighting along the length of the tubes, at a low angle. Cracked modules are more visible from this angle. Also look for signs of OCA fluid on the roof surface, as this indicates the presence of broken modules.

If there are broken panels, or if panels need to be removed to gain access to an area of the roof, refer to “Appendix B. Panel Removal and Spill Cleanup” on page 19.

• Lateral clips are used on 100 and 150 Series panels to connect the frames. Look for missing or loose lateral clips.

• Look underneath the array, along the lines of the mounts, for signs of damaged mounts.

1.3.2. Roof Inspection

• Inspect the roof surface for cleanliness. In areas with heavy soiling, inspect the roof surface more fre-quently to assess soiling.

• Look for leaves or other debris that can block roof drains.• Look for low points on the roof, under the panels, where water can pool. These may require additional

or more frequent cleaning.• If there are any other problems with the roof, contact a professional roofer for an evaluation.

NOTELookforsignsofpoordrainage.(SeeFigure2onpage6)Standingwatercollectsdirtandallowsmoldandalgaetogrow.Keepingdrainsclearwillreducetheneedtocleantheroofsurface.

1.3.3. Electrical Inspection

Examine the wiring for signs of worn, damaged or burned insulation. Examine the combiner boxes and other equipment for loose, corroded, or burned connections. Inspect panel series and parallel connections to verify they are in good condition and are free of excessive corrosion.

WARNINGDamagedwiringisanelectrocutionhazard.Disconnectpowerandwearinsulatinggloveswhenworkingondamagedwiring.

1.3.4. Grounding System Inspection

Solyndra 100 Series and 150 Series panels have metal frames. For safety reasons, particular attention should be paid to ground wires and other components of the grounding system. Inspect ground straps between panels to verify that they are in place, securely fastened, and in good condition. Visually inspect the equip-ment ground attachment points to the panel frames to ensure the wire is securely bonded and that the wire and bonding hardware is in good condition.

Solyndra 200 Series panels are double-insulated and do not require ground wires.

1.3.5. Balance of System (BOS) Inspection

In addition to inspecting the Solyndra panel array, the balance of the photovoltaic system should be in-spected to ensure the system remains in good operating condition and in compliance with local codes. Refer to the equipment manufacturer for specific recommendations and procedures.


Insp

ectio

n 1.4. Determining the Need to Clean

In most installations, the Solyndra panels and the roof will be naturally cleaned as a result of rainfall. How-ever, in some cases, additional cleaning may be required to maintain optimum energy output.

Figure 1. Self-Cleaning Action of Solyndra Panels

Waterrunsofftubes,removingdirt. Waterpoolsonflatpanel;accumulatesdirt.

The panels and roof should be cleaned when the value of the energy recovered as a result of cleaning exceeds the cost of cleaning. There are several ways to estimate the amount of energy that will be recovered by clean-ing. Use the Solyndra albedometer (Figure 2) to make roof reflectance measurements and thereby determine the degree of roof soiling. Roof soiling can often be calculated from a precise analysis of the system energy yield output.

Soiling on the panels can reduce energy yield by as much as two percent. Soiling on the roof affects energy by reducing reflected light. For 100 and 150 Series panels, a 4-point reduction in roof reflectance reduces energy by about one percent. For the 200 Series, a 3-point reduction reduces energy by about one percent. Soiling can also contribute to panel mismatch loss; panels over a dirty section of roof do not match well to panels over a clean section. Therefore, while it may not be cost-effective or practical to clean the entire roof, cleaning heavily soiled areas of the roof may significantly increase the energy yield of the entire array.

The examples shown in Figure 2 are extreme cases. For the majority of roofs, rain or manual rinsing has a very attractive cost-benefit ratio. It removes most of the soil at low cost.

Figure 2. The Solyndra Albedometer; Some Heavily-Soiled Roofs


CleaningChapter 2 Cleaning

In most locations, natural rainfall is sufficient to keep Solyndra panels clean and also keep the roof clean. Rain tends to act as a cleaning agent for the panels and the roof. However, the rate at which dirt accumu-lates and the degree to which the rain removes it is site-dependent. Some locations may require additional cleaning, either by simulating rainfall or other means.

The decision on whether and when to clean depends on energy production. Refer to “1.4. Determining the Need to Clean” on page 6 for more information.

New Cleaning Techniques and ToolsThe rapid growth of PV deployment has triggered a wave of activity in panel cleaning technology. Solyndra evaluates these products. Solyndra will update maintenance recommendations as new tools and techniques become available.

If there are questions beyond the contents of this guide, email [email protected].

2.1. Cleaning StepsIn most cases, panels can be cleaned effectively with real or simulated rainfall. Areas of heavy soiling may require additional cleaning steps.

2.1.1. Water Quality

Hard water can leave water spots on panels. In most cases, municipal water supplies contain enough min-erals to cause this problem. If this is the case, a water-deionization (DI) machine or a reverse-osmosis (RO) machine is required to remove the minerals. These machines are widely available through commercial window-cleaning equipment suppliers.

There are two ways to determine if the local water supply is sufficiently soft. One method is to spray water on a panel and allow it to dry. If there is a significant amount of water-spotting, a DI water machine will be required. The other method is to measure water hardness with a testing device or service. Low-cost test meters are available to measure Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). Refer to Table 2 on page 12 for sources. Water should be less than 50 mg/L.

BackgroundHardness can be quantified by instrumental analysis. The total water hard-ness is reported in parts per million (ppm) or mass/volume (mg/L) of minerals in the water. The dissolved minerals consist primarily of calcium, magnesium, and sodium, with some traces of iron, aluminium, and manganese. Simple water-hardness and TDS meters do not distinguish among these, but since all of them can leave water spots, this does not matter. Descriptions of hardness correspond roughly with ranges of mineral concentrations, as shown at right.

mg/L Hardness

0-50 Soft

51-120 Medium Hard

121-180 Hard

over 180 Very Hard

2.1.2. Cleaning the Panels with a Hose and Spray

Water can be sprayed on the panels and roof in a manner that simulates rainfall. Use a sufficient volume of water to ensure that all dust and soil is carried off the roof and down the gutter or roof drains. If dirty water remains on the roof, the dirt will remain behind when the water dries. In many cases, using a second hose to flood the roof and sweep the dirty water away is fast and effective.

Begin cleaning from the highest point on the roof and move towards the lowest point, where the drains are. Clean the array first. Continue spraying until the dirty water from the panels has been flushed to the drains.


Clea

ning Figure 3. Hosing to Simulate Rainfall

NoticeDo not use high-pressure water, such as supplied by a pressure washer, to clean panels. High pressure can corrode electrical connections. Never exceed 0.41 Mpa (60 PSI). Some pressure washers can be equipped with multiple-output, low-pressure spray heads. This is permissible if the pres-sure does not exceed 0.41 Mpa.

WARNINGPanels are always ‘live’; there is an electrocution hazard. Wear rubber boots when working on the roof. Wear Class 0 or higher electrically-insulating gloves when using conductive tools near panels.

2.1.3. Cleaning the Panels Mechanically

If necessary, panels can be cleaned with a custom panel-cleaning head attached to a water-fed pole. This should be done after rinsing the panels with a hose.

There are a number of types of brush and squeegee heads designed for use on water-fed poles, but many O&M companies prefer to develop specialized tools for cleaning applications. One such example is illus-trated in Figure 4. A foam head is notched to match the spacing of the tubes. Spray nozzles are added. Select a water-fed pole long enough to reach halfway across the array.

Figure 4. Specialized Cleaning Head; In Use on Array

To clean the panels:

•Move the cleaning head along the length of the tubes. After pushing the head along the array and pulling it back, move the head over its own width and make another pass. This is illustrated in Figure 5.

•When cleaning a large array, it is generally better to clean one panel, then move to the left or right to clean the next panel in the row, rather than attempting to clean the entire column. This avoids having to extend and retract the pole, or having a long length of pole behind the operator, where it is out of the operator’s field of view. and might hit something. Lift the brush head only as far as necessary to move it to the next cleaning area.

•Roof obstructions may make it necessary to move the cleaning tool at an angle to the tubes. This is ac-ceptable, but the angle must be kept to less that 45 degrees.

•When working at an angle, try to minimize any side force on the tubes.•Begin cleaning from the highest point on the roof and move toward the drains.


CleaningFigure 5. Cleaning Direction

Clean entire row; then pull back to next row. Row 1

Row 2Row 3

Column 1

Column 2Move cleaning tool

parallel to tubes

WARNINGCarbon fiber and aluminum poles are electrically conductive, so there is a risk of electrocution when cleaning panels or removing snow. Use plastic or fiberglass poles, or wear electrically-insulating gloves.

Figure 6. Maximum Recommended Angle Relative to Tubes

45° - Maximum Angle Relative to Tubes

Long poles can be awkward to handle. To avoid panel damage, set up as shown in Figure 7:

Figure 7. Setting Up a Long Cleaning Pole

Place the pole in an aisleway next to the array. Extend the pole to the required length.

Place the cleaning head end on the array. Walk to the other end, pick up the handle, and begin cleaning.


Clea

ning 2.1.4. Cleaning the Roof

Tips•Begin cleaning from the highest point on the roof and move towards the lowest point, where the drains

are. Push the water towards the lowest point, leaving the higher elevation points clean.•Wet the roof with enough water to move the loosened soil toward the drains as the array is cleaned. If the

roof ’s top layer is made of an ‘advanced’ clean surface, rinse-water alone is often sufficient to move dirt from the surface towards the drains.

Light Soiling• Light soiling will usually be rinsed away by the water used to spray-clean the panels (“Cleaning the Panels

with a Hose and Spray” on page 7).

WARNINGPanels are always ‘live’; there is an electrocution hazard. Wear rubber boots when working on the roof. Wear Class 0 or higher electrically-insulating gloves when using conductive tools near panels.

Moderate Soiling•Moderate soiling can be taken care of with a soft squeegee combined with a water-fed pole.• Pulling the squeegee from higher elevations to lower ones may be more effective.

Figure 8. Squeegee with Water Feed; In Use Cleaning Roof

Heavy Soiling•Use a waterfed pole equipped with a soft brush or Squeegee to clean under the array.•Use a brush first to loosen heavily-soiled areas and then a squeegee to move the water. •Dirty water must be moved toward drains, either mechanically or by flooding. Note that in some jurisdic-

tions dirty water must be collected for proper wastewater treatment.•Note that soft or de-ionized water is not required for this phase of cleaning.

NoticeUse a soft-bristle brush. Stiff-bristle brushes may damage the membrane.

Figure 9. Examples of Custom All-In-One Cleaning Heads

Removing DebrisLarger debris, such as leaves, may accumulate on or under the panels. These can be removed with a leaf-blower, or a long pole with a push-broom head.


Cleaning2.2. Cleaning Tools

Cleaning lightly-soiled panels and roofs requires only a garden hose and a source of DI water. Cleaning in moderate or heavy soiling requires:

•A water-fed pole of suitable length.•A cleaning head for the pole (brush, squeegee, or other).• Electrically-insulating gloves.•A source of soft water to rinse panels. (Soft water is not required for roof cleaning.)

2.2.1. Poles

In recent years, lightweight carbon-fiber water-fed poles have revolutionized the window-cleaning industry, by extending the reach of cleaning tools. The use of a long pole allows the cleaning crew to effectively clean even a large array from the edge.

Poles are available in three materials and two types. The materials are aluminum, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. The types include telescoping and sectional. Carbon-fiber poles are the stiffest, and are best for very long applications. Telescoping poles and fiberglass poles are less stiff, and fiberglass poles are generally heavier. Thus they are suitable for shorter distances. Aluminum poles are not recommended.

Light-gauge poles are very affordable and are suitable for distances up to about eight meters. At greater distances, or with heavier cleaning tools, a high-stiffness carbon fiber sectional pole should be used. These poles resist bowing and whipping, and thus are easier to handle.

Figure 10. ABC Modular Carbon-Fiber Sectional Pole, Gardiner Fiberglass Telescoping Pole

Table 1. Recommend Pole Types

Pole Type Suggested Vendor(s)

Fiberglass,telescoping(good) IPCFlipLockIIFiberglassPolehttp://www.cwcsupplyusa.com/

CarbonFiber,telescoping(better) Gardiner CL-X™ Carbon Composite Polehttp://www.gardinerpolesystems.co.ukIPCFlipLockIICarbonFiberPolehttp://www.cwcsupplyusa.com/

Carbon fiber, sectional (best) ABCModularhttp://www.window-cleaning-supply.comEttoreAqua-CleanCarbonFiberPolehttp://www.ettoresupply.comAvailablethroughnumerousdistributors.


Clea

ning 2.2.2. EPDM Floor Squeegee and Brushes

Solyndra has found that soft EPDM rubber squeegees often work better than brushes for removing soiling from the roof. The soft conformable material adapts well to roof contours. Use only EPDM squeegees, not ones made from other materials.

All of the vendors and distributors of window-cleaning supplies offer water-fed brushed designed to work with their water-fed poles. A typical brush is shown in Table 2. Select a brush with soft bristles.

Soft cleaning materials allow the roof to keep any natural glossy surface, which helps resist dirt accumula-tion. Abrasive materials may roughen the surface and make it pick up more dirt. The smoother and more advance the roof surface, the lighter the cleaning tools required.

2.2.3. DI Water Systems & Water Quality Measurement

Panel cleaning requires soft water. A TDS meter can be used to determine water quality. If water quality does not meet the standards outlined in “Water Quality” on page 7, obtain a DI water cart. The system should be light weight, and have tires suitable for use on the roof surface. DI cart systems are available with on-board pumps to increase pressure. This is useful for large arrays, but costs more.

2.2.4. Other Sources for Equipment

Table 2. Cleaning Equipment Vendors, Models, & Sources

Item Soiling Level

Sources and Notes

Water Hardness Meter - HM Digital AP-1

LightMediumSevere

http://www.tdsmeter.com/products/ap1.htmlhttp://www.cleaningspot.co.ukAvailablefromnumerousonlinedealers.

Portable DI Water Cart

LightMediumSevere

http://www.window-cleaning-supply.comhttp://www.ungerglobal.comhttp://www.cleaningspot.co.uk

Water-fed Telescoping Pole*

Medium,Severe

http://www.window-cleaning-supply.comhttp://www.ungerglobal.comhttp://www.cwsupplyusa.com

Water-fed Adjustable Angle Adapter* or double arm pole Adaptor

Medium,Severe

http://www.window-cleaning-supply.comhttp://www.briarwoodproducts.com/index.html


CleaningWaterFed Soft Brush*

Severe Optimum brush width may vary depending on panel seriesandtheuseofsnowmountsorLDFs.http://www.window-cleaning-supply.comhttp://www.ungerglobal.comhttp://www.cleaningspot.co.uk

Squeegees*

Medium,Severe

Optimum squeegee width may vary depending on panel seriesandtheuseofsnowmountsorLDFs.http://www.ungerglobal.comhttp://www.grainger.comhttp://www.cleaningspot.co.uk

9 mm (5/16”) Water Tubing + Adapter

Medium,Severe

http://www.window-cleaning-supply.comhttp://www.ungerglobal.com

* When buying poles, adapters, and cleaning heads, be sure to select units with matching threads. There are two different thread standards in use. Consult vendor catalogs for details.

2.2.5. Removing and Preventing Microbial Growth

Some roof-cleaning products contain an anti-microbial component, which removes algae, mildew, and fun-gus. To date, Solyndra has not found an environmentally-friendly and roof-compatible product that works better than DI water, and DI water requires no rinse step.

Prior to using any cleaning solution, check with the roof manufacturer for compatibility between the clean-ing product and the roof. Some jurisdictions may have environmental regulations that affect the type of cleaning solution which can be used. Check with the facility environmental compliance manager for ap-plicable rules.

The method of cleaning is essentially the same regardless of whether water or cleaning solution is used, but the roof should be rinsed after the use of any cleaning solution.


Snow

Rem

oval Chapter 3 Snow Removal

Snow varies widely in both density and stickiness. Dry, light snow usually falls off the panel tubes and onto the roof. It often increases energy output slightly, because it is highly reflective.

Figure 11. Light Snow Falling Through Solyndra Panels

Light snow can accumulate enough to bury the panels, as shown in Figure 12. The picture on the left was taken when there was less than one centimeter of snow; the picture on the right was taken when there was more than thirty centimeters.

Figure 12. Snow Burying Panels

Heavier, wetter snow may bridge across the tubes, and this snow can be removed to restore panel energy output. It should also be removed before it gets deep enough to exceed the panel’s rated snow load.

Figure 13. Snow Beginning to Bridge; Fully Bridged Panels


Snow Rem

ovalRemoving the SnowIf heavy snow is forecast, it is best to begin removing snow before it accumulates. To avoid panel damage, use only snow rakes made from plastic, and which feature a wide (non-sharp) edge. Some examples are shown in Figure 14. The head can be removed and attached to a longer handle if necessary.

Use caution when the tool is in contact with the panels; even though the tool is plastic, heavy force or a blow could break a panel. If ice is frozen around the tubes, do not attempt to scrape or chip the ice away.

Figure 14. Sno-Brum, Sno-Rake, & Suncast Snow Removal Tools

Conventional plastic snow shovels will be needed to remove snow from walkways. Do not use metal snow shovels; they can damage roof surfaces.

WARNINGThereisadangerofelectrocution.Donotusemetalsnowshovelsortoolswhenworkingonornearthearray.

Figure 15. Typical Snow Removal

9:33-heavysnowfall.15-20cm(6-8in)ofsnowcoverspanels;30-45cmofsnowcoversroof.

9:47-60cm(24in)aisleisclearedaroundpanelsforac-cess.

10:10–A2x5-panelsectionofthearrayisclearedofsnow.

10:22-Only6panelsremaintobecleared.

10:24–All30panelsarecleared.

10:31–Residualsnowissweptoff.

Remove snow from above the panels by moving the snow rake along the line of the tubes. For heavy ac-cumulations, scrape off a few inches at a time, until the level of the panel is reached. Roof obstructions may make it necessary to move the cleaning tool at an angle to the tubes. This is acceptable, but the angle must be kept to less that 45 degrees.

Figure 16. Snow Removal TechniqueRemove Snow

Along This Axis

45° - Maximum Angle Relative to Tubes


Snow

Rem

oval Table 3. Sources for Snow Removal Tools

Vendor and Model Source

Sno-Brum http://www.snobrumusa.com/Availablefromnumerousonlinesources

Sno-Rake http://www.snorake.com/Availablefromnumerousonlinesources

Suncast Widelyavailableonlineandatmanyretailers.

Total Weight of SnowSnow varies in density from as little as five percent of the weight of water to as much as fifty percent. Solid ice is 93% the weight of water.

Solyndra 100 Series and 150 Series panels are rated for 2400 Pascals (50 PSF). Solyndra 200 Series panels are rated for 1850 Pascals if the snow mounts (center mounts) have been used; and 1200 Pascals if not. “Ap-pendix A. Weight of Snow” on page 17 has a table of snow depths and the resultant pressures.

Determine the pressure based on the amount of snow on top of the panel; regardless of whether there is snow beneath the panel or not.


Appendix A. Weight of Snow

The weight of a given depth of snow depends on the density, or water content, of the snow. Meteorologists have developed a standardized method of defining and measuring snow density. It is called Snow Water Equivalent (SWE).

SWE is defined as the amount of water contained within the snowpack. It can be thought of as the depth of water that would theoretically result if the entire snowpack were melted. For example, if 24 cm of snow were captured and melted, and the resulting depth of water was 6 cm, the SWE would be 6/24 or 25%.

SWE can be measured by using a section of pipe to collect a core sample of the snow, all the way to the ground (or roof ), and then allowing the snow to melt. The water depth (in the same pipe) gives the SWE.

The density of powdery new snow ranges from about 5% when the air temperature is 14°F, to about 20% when the temperature is 32°F. After the snow falls its density increases due to gravitational settling, wind packing, melting and recrystallization. In some regions, snowpack densities are around 20-30% in the winter to 30-50% in the spring. Heavily-packed snow can approach the density of ice; 93% that of water.

Table 4 lists the snow load ratings for Solyndra panels.

Table 4. Snow Load Rating for Solyndra Panels

100/150 Series 200 Series

Load Rating, Pascals 2400 Pascals 1850 Pascals with snow mount1200 Pascals without snow mount

Load Rating, Kg/m2 245 Kg/m2 189 Kg/m2 with snow mount122 Kg/m2 without snow mount

Load Rating, PSF 50 PSF 38.6 PSF with snow mount25 PSF without snow mount

Table 5. Snow Pressure, Pascals, for Various Snow Depths and Densities

Snow Depth, cm

10 20 30 40 50 75 100 125 150 175 200 250 300

Sno

w D

ensi

ty (a

s SW

E)

5% 49 98 147 196 245 367 490 612 735 858 980 1,225 1,470

10% 98 196 294 392 490 735 980 1,225 1,470 1,716 1,961 2,451 2,941

15% 147 294 441 588 735 1,103 1,470 1,838 2,206 2,574 2,941 3,677 4,412

20% 196 392 588 784 980 1,470 1,961 2,451 2,941 3,432 3,922 4,903 5,883

25% 245 490 735 980 1,225 1,838 2,451 3,064 3,677 4,290 4,903 6,128 7,354

30% 294 588 882 1,176 1,470 2,206 2,941 3,677 4,412 5,148 5,883 7,354 8,825

35% 343 686 1,029 1,372 1,716 2,574 3,432 4,290 5,148 6,006 6,864 8,580 10,296

40% 392 784 1,176 1,568 1,961 2,941 3,922 4,903 5,883 6,864 7,844 9,806 11,767

45% 441 882 1,323 1,765 2,206 3,309 4,412 5,515 6,619 7,722 8,825 11,031 13,238

50% 490 980 1,470 1,961 2,451 3,677 4,903 6,128 7,354 8,580 9,806 12,257 14,709

Ice 93% 911 1,823 2,735 3,647 4,559 6,839 9,119 11,399 13,679 15,959 18,239 22,798 27,358

The area shaded in yellow represents snow loads that exceed the 1850-Pascal rating of the 200 Series panel when used with snow mounts.


Table 6. Snow Pressure, Kg/m2, for Various Snow Depths and Densities

Snow Depth, cm

10 20 30 40 50 75 100 125 150 175 200 250 300

Sno

w D

ensi

ty (a

s SW

E)

5% 5 10 15 20 25 37 50 62 75 87 100 125 150

10% 10 20 30 40 50 75 100 125 150 175 200 250 300

15% 15 30 45 60 75 112 150 187 225 262 300 375 450

20% 20 40 60 80 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 500 600

25% 25 50 75 100 125 187 250 312 375 437 500 625 750

30% 30 60 90 120 150 225 300 375 450 525 600 750 900

35% 35 70 105 140 175 262 350 437 525 612 700 875 1050

40% 40 80 120 160 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 1000 1200

45% 45 90 135 180 225 337 450 562 675 787 900 1125 1350

50% 50 100 150 200 250 375 500 625 750 875 1000 1250 1500

Ice 93% 93 186 279 372 465 697 930 1162 1395 1627 1860 2325 2790

Table 7. Snow Pressure, PSF, for Various Snow Depths and Densities

Snow Depth, Inches

4 8 12 16 20 30 39 49 59 69 79 98 118

Sno

w D

ensi

ty (a

s SW

E)

5% 1.0 2.1 3.1 4.1 5.1 7.7 10.3 12.8 15.4 18 21 26 31

10% 2.1 4.1 6.2 8.2 10 15 21 26 31 36 41 51 62

15% 3.1 6.2 9.2 12 15 23 31 38 46 54 62 77 92

20% 4.1 8.2 12 16 21 31 41 51 62 72 82 103 123

25% 5.1 10 15 21 26 38 51 64 77 90 103 128 154

30% 6.2 12 18 25 31 46 62 77 92 108 123 154 185

35% 7.2 14 22 29 36 54 72 90 108 126 144 179 215

40% 8.2 16 25 33 41 62 82 103 123 144 164 205 246

45% 9.2 18 28 37 46 69 92 115 138 161 185 231 277

50% 10.3 21 31 41 51 77 103 128 154 179 205 256 308

Ice 93% 19.1 38 57 76 95 143 191 238 286 334 381 477 572

The area shaded in yellow represents snow loads that exceed the 1850-Pascal rating of the 200 Series panel when used with snow mounts.


Panel Removal and Spill Cleanup

Appendix B. Panel Removal and Spill Cleanup

The Solyndra panel contains a silicone-based Optical Coupling Agent to improve its performance. While this fluid is not toxic, it is slippery. If a panel is broken, clean up the spill immediately. The OCA Manufac-turer’s MSDS is available from Solyndra, or from Dow Corning.

Solyndra supplies a Clean-Up Kit designed expressly for this purpose. The kit is pre-packed in a blue bucket, which can be used to hold the material after clean-up. Replacement materials and additional kits are available from Solyndra. The kit and contents are shown in Figure 17.

CAUTIONFor personal and equipment safety: before working with the panels, read, understand, and follow all precautions in the Safety Advisory section of the Solyndra Installation Guide.

Figure 17. Solyndra Clean-Up Kit

Item 0240-30833 Qty Unit

Plastic container 1 each

Plastic bag 2 each

Plastic tie wraps (for bags) 4 each

Plastic dustpan 1 each

Brush for dustpan 1 each

Absorbent mats 40 each

‘Simple Green®” cleaner, spray bottle .946 liter

Safety glasses 1 pair

Nitrile (plastic) safety gloves 10 pair

Cut-resistant gloves 1 pair

WARNINGA broken tube still produces voltage, and the glass pieces can cut. DO NOT insert fingers or any metal object inside a broken tube. BE CAREFUL when picking up pieces. Wear cut-resistant rubber gloves.

CAUTIONSpilled Optical Coupling Agent is a slip hazard. Immediately isolate spill and clean it up. Use absorbent mats and the recommended cleaning fluid to remove residue on all surfaces that came into contact with spilled OCA.


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CAUTIONFor safety reasons, a panel must be carried by a minimum of two people, so removal crews should have a minimum of two people. Panels should be touched and carried by the side rails.

If a panel is broken while being carried1. Immediately stop all other work in the area and isolate the spill area to protect people from the slip

hazard. Avoid stepping in spilled OCA if possible.2. Using at least two people, pick up the panel by its rails and set it aside. Place a mat (or mats) underneath

it to catch any fluid.3. Put on the safety glasses, nitrile gloves, and cut-resistant gloves.4. Pick up all large pieces of broken glass. Temporarily place them in the drum, or another suitable plastic

or metal container. (Don’t put broken glass in the plastic bags; it will cut the bag.) ˏ Be careful; the gloves are cut-resistant but not cut-proof. ˏ Broken tubes still produce voltage. DO NOT insert fingers or any metal object inside a broken tube.

5. Use the brush and dustpan to sweep up smaller pieces of glass.6. Carefully spread the absorbent mats over the spill area.7. Allow the mats time to absorb the fluid. This only takes a few moments.8. Pick up the mats and place them in the plastic bags.9. If there are still puddles of fluid or standing liquid, repeat the mat application.10. Use the cleaning fluid to clean up any remaining fluid. Be sure to clean shoe soles, and anything else

that can in contact with the fluid. Wash the brush and dustpan as well.11. Dispose of the mats and other waste in a manner compliant with all applicable laws. 12. A broken panel cannot be re-used. Package up the broken panel; it can be returned to Solyndra for

recycling. Contact your distributor, Solyndra Solution Provider, or Solyndra Customer Support (refer to page 2 of this guide for contact information).

NOTICE Because the fluid is non-toxic, it is permissible for Simple Green-fluid mixtures to flow into sanitary drains in most jurisdictions. Check local laws to be sure.

If a panel is broken within an arrayRemove the broken panel from the array. Refer to “Panel Removal” on page 21 for details on panel re-moval procedures.


Panel Removal and Spill Cleanup

B.2 Panel Removal

It may be necessary to remove one or more panels for roof access, to replace a damaged panel, or to move the array entirely. To do so safely, remove the panels from load before disconnecting the interpanel connections.

B.2.1 General Instructions

Panels must be removed by columns, starting from the ‘bottom’ of the column - the last panel installed in that column - and working up to the ‘top’ of the column. Thus, before starting to remove panels, the ‘top’ and ‘bottom’ of the array must be determined.

B.2.2 Identifying the Array Orientation

While it is a common installation practice to begin installation at the north edge of the array, this is not a universal practice. The ‘top’ and ‘bottom’ of the array must be determined as follows:

100/150 SeriesThe ‘top’ of the array is the row of panels that have a ground lug and a bare ground wire routed through the lugs.

The panel at the ‘top’ of a column doesn’t make contact with any mount tab since mounts are screwed in place on both sides of the panel, whereas the panel at the ‘bottom’ of a column makes contact with a mount tab on only the inside frame member. The outside mounts are screwed in.

200 SeriesPanels at the ‘top’ of a column are captured on both sides by mount latches whereas panels at the ‘bottom’ of a column are captured by latches only on the outside frame member. This is because the last panel shares a mount with the second-to-last panel in a column.

B.2.3 Removing a Damaged Panel

If panels are being moved to facilitate replacement of a damaged panels or to access an area of the roof, the removed panels should be stacked flat in an area of the roof where they will not be damaged.

B.2.4 Removing the Entire Array

If large numbers of panels are to be removed, either temporarily or permanently, the panels should be placed in Solyndra crates. Empty crates can be obtained from a Solyndra Solution Provider, or from Solyndra.

B.2.5 Instructions for 200 Series

To remove a panel:

1. Disconnect the sub-array from its inverter.2. Disconnect the power cables.3. Disconnect the interpanel power connections.4. Unlatch the mounts. Tip the panel upward and lift away from the mounts.5. Two people must carry and place the panel where it will not be damaged. If possible, return it to the

original pallet or crate.6. Gather up the mounts before starting on the next panel to be removed.Repeat as required until the desired section of roof is reached, or until the array is disassembled.


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To remove a panel:

1. Disconnect the sub-array from its inverter.2. Remove the lateral clips.3. Disconnect the power cables.4. Disconnect the ground strap from the frame.5. Tip the panel upward and lift away from the mounts.6. Place the panel where it will not be damaged. If possible, return it to the crate.Repeat as required until the desired section of roof is reached, or until the array is disassembled.

Make sure that removing a panel will not break the ground path for other panels. Add ground wires if necessary.


Revision History

Version Part Num Date Notes

0.90 - 12 May 2009 Draft Release

1.00 - 7 July 2009 Initial Release

1.01 - 27 July 2009 Updated cover, edited for brevity.

1.02 - 2 Aug 2009 Further edits for clarity.

1.30 0920-30094-001 2011-12-10 Revised for snow removal, panel removal and cleanup

1.31 0920-30094-002 2011-04-01 LLC change

1.4 0920-30094-003 2011-04-30 Added additional cleaning tools, more snow removal.

Maintenance Guide SolyndraLLC•47488KatoRoad•FremontCA94538•

Solyndra Quality Policy

Solyndra provides state-of-the-art solar photovoltaic systems and expert support that meet customers’ expectations for quality, delivery, technology, and responsiveness. We are committed to continually improving the quality of our products and processes.

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