Today's global solar industry is tougher and more competitive than ever. Never before have efficiency and productivity, both in the production of modules and in the operation of photovoltaic systems, been so essential.
At the Intersolar Europe trade fair in Munich, Lapp Group and FPE Fischer introduced prototypes for a new connection system that will significantly increase efficiency, both for module manufacturers and for photovoltaic system operators. EPIC MAP SET represents a "total design change": this radical new approach by the two partners, achieves to cut part costs and operating costs substantially.
Named EPIC SOLAR MAP SET, the new technology consists of a range of components made of top-quality, weatherproof, impact-resistant plastic, which can be combined as required to create connections between photovoltaic modules – thereby rendering conventional junction boxes redundant. These standardized components can be mounted and welded onto modules automatically.
Customized solutions for different numbers of strings and varying cable lengths can easily be provided, even within a production line. Taking the automotive industry's principle of flexible production platforms as its model, the EPIC SOLAR MAP SET builds on existing technologies and modular parts. The modular injection moulded and stamped parts allow for an easy extension of the existing product portfolio.
The innovative "inside out" design means connector components can be equipped with various types of diodes or electronic components. It also allows finished systems to be modified or retrofitted with minimal effort at any time. Functional electronic components, such as electronic cut-off systems for individual modules and performance monitors can be accessed and exchanged quickly and cost-effectively in the event of service or maintenance work.
Even new technologies – MPP trackers, for example – can easily be retrofitted at a later date. All of which makes the EPIC SOLAR MAP SET a boon not only to module manufacturers, but to operators of photovoltaic systems too. Maintenance costs are reduced substantially as compared with conventional junction boxes, and new developments can be added to existing systems at any time, thereby keeping them fully up to date and ensuring optimum performance.
"The competition is heating up in the photovoltaic market: the only way to survive is to offer intelligent functionality combined with low costs all the way along the value chain. The EPIC SOLAR MAP SET represents a new benchmark in connection technology," says Michael Collet, Managing Director of Lapp Group. "It is our set goal to make our own contribution to increase the productivity of renewable energies. And this can only be achieved with a radical design change!" adds Thomas Hoffmeister, Managing Director of FPE Fischer.
The EPIC SOLAR MAP SET is suitable for connecting crystalline, thin-film and organic photovoltaic modules, and all its components comply with protection class IP68. The new products will be available to customers from the end of 2012. Text and image available for download at www.lappkabel.com/press
