For the first time, TÜV Rheinland has developed comprehensive test requirements for electronic components and micro-inverters on photovoltaic modules. The application scope of the new 2 PfG 2305 standard applies to devices with a system voltage of up to 1,500 V DC. These include connector sockets with integrated electronics, for example for the monitoring or power management of solar modules. "With these new test requirements, we go further than the existing standards for connector sockets and electronic components alike. This is because micro-inverters and monitoring elements are exposed to much harsher environmental loads when they are installed in the module," explains Ralf-Martin Müller, Head of the Solar Energy division at TÜV Rheinland. He added that this also applies in particular in relation to the major temperature fluctuations and high levels of heat.
The electronics in the connector sockets for photovoltaic modules are used for monitoring, general data transmission, anti-theft protection and fire-fighter protection. They are also required if micro-inverters have been installed. Electronic circuits in the connector socket must be checked for safety, electromagnetic compatibility and efficiency. Although connector sockets equipped with electronic systems were previously already covered at least in part by the numerous existing standards and test specifications, these standards have generally been developed for areas of application not specifically related to the field of photovoltaics.
The new test requirements now take into account all applicable requirements for photovoltaic connector sockets arising from EN 50548 and combine them, for example, with requirements from IEC 62109 as well as additional loads to which the electronics are exposed. For example, the test requirements cover, among other things, component tests in the climate chamber during temperature change tests from -40°C to +85°C that last 1,000 hours. Further mechanical load tests, insulation tests and tests with UV radiation are performed in the laboratory in order to monitor risks associated with overheating, corrosion or, for example, electric shock. The components must also satisfy the requirements of protection rating IP 55 so that they are protected against dirt, dust and moisture.
The new test standard also applies to inverters in accordance with the IEC 62109 series, components like the Maximum Power Point Tracker and equipment for monitoring in accordance with IEC 61010 with the applicable safety standards for measuring equipment.
