Arc Faults For Solar Panels

The term arc fault refers to a situation in which loose or corroded wiring connections create an intermittent contact that causes electrical current to spark or arc between metal contact points when you hear a light switch or outlet buzzing or hissing you are hearing arcing as it happens.

Arc faults for solar panels.

It s worth understanding the 3 main types of. Unless alternative environmental factors are at play solar panel fires are caused by one thing dc arc faults. This arc can be very small and exist anywhere in the solar circuit. Arc faults in pv systems may be the result of faulty components installation errors or mechanical damage and aging occurring after installation.

When the sun rises the solar panels start producing power the bare conductors become live causing a dc arc fault and building fire. An arc fault differs from a ground fault. The causes are quite varied and is one of the most difficult solar repair problems to find. Some common examples for arc fault causes include.

Conduit or a metal box. Loose or separated connections or terminations. A ground fault is an arc between a wire and a metal object i e. Combine the dc arc with a combustable material and fire is the result.

What are the causes of arc faults. 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. This arcing translates to heat which can break down the insulation surrounding individual conducting.