Arc Faults For Solar Panels

Combine the dc arc with a combustable material and fire is the result.

Arc faults for solar panels.

Unless alternative environmental factors are at play solar panel fires are caused by one thing dc arc faults. Damaged pinched or abraded conductors. An arc fault is an arc between two wires. Dc arc faults are quite simply electrical energy flowing through an air gap which in turn creates an electrical arc.

What are the causes of arc faults. An arc fault differs from a ground fault. When the sun rises the solar panels start producing power the bare conductors become live causing a dc arc fault and building fire. Arc faults in pv systems may be the result of faulty components installation errors or mechanical damage and aging occurring after installation.

The causes are quite varied and is one of the most difficult solar repair problems to find. It is practically impossible for a solar installer to check all of the seals are waterproof preventing water ingress and to also check that all of the cable joints are not corroded and subject to high impedance. Conduit or a metal box. It s worth understanding the 3 main types of.

A ground fault is an arc between a wire and a metal object i e. Loose or separated connections or terminations. This arcing translates to heat which can break down the insulation surrounding individual conducting.