What are PV Cables?
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Understanding Normal Cables
Conductors and Insulation
Current-Carrying Capacity
Voltage Ratings
Durability and Weather Resistance
Fire Safety
Installation Considerations
Cost Analysis
Application Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
When it comes to electrical installations, choosing the right type of cableis crucial. The market offers a variety of options, and one common comparison is between PV cables and normal cables. In this comprehensive blog, we will dive deep into the world of PV cable vs normal cable, exploring their differences, benefits, and specific use cases. Whether you're an electrician, a homeowner, or a renewable energy enthusiast, understanding these cables' characteristics will empower you to make informed decisions for yourprojects. So let's get started!
PV cables, also known as solar cables or photovoltaic cables, are specifically designed for use in solar power systems. These cables are responsible for connecting solar panels to other system components, such as inverters and charge controllers. PV cables are engineered to handle the unique demands of renewable energy installations, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
PV cables feature several characteristics that set them apart from normal cables. Let's explore the key differences between the two.
Normal cables, often referred to as general-purpose cables, are widely used for various electrical applications. They are commonly found in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, providing power distribution for lighting, appliances, machinery, and more. Normal cables are designed to meet the general requirements of electrical installations, considering factors like current-carrying capacity, voltage rating, and insulation.
While normal cables are versatile and reliable, they may not be the ideal choice for specific applications like solar power systems. Now, let's dig deeper into the specific areas where PV cables differ from normal cables.
PV cables typically employ tinned copper conductors with high conductivity. Tinning involves coating the copper strands with a layer of tin, which enhances corrosion resistance and solderability. The use of tinned copper conductors minimizes the risk of oxidation and ensures long-term reliability in outdoor environments, where exposure to moisture and other elements is common.
On the other hand, normal cables may use either copper or aluminum conductors, depending on the application and the cable's rating. Copper conductors offer superior electrical conductivity but come at a higher cost compared to aluminum conductors. The choice between copper and aluminum conductors for normal cables depends on factors such as current requirements, voltage drop considerations, and budget constraints.
In terms of insulation, PV cables utilize materials like cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) or ethylene propylene rubber (EPR). These insulation materials offer excellent resistance to heat, UV radiation, and harsh weather conditions, ensuring the long-term reliability of solar power systems.
Normal cables, depending on their application, may feature a wide range of insulation materials, including PVC (polyvinyl chloride), rubber, or thermoplastic compounds. Each insulation material has its own set of characteristics and suitability for different environments and operating conditions.
The current-carrying capacity of a cable refers to its ability to handle and transmit electrical current without excessive heating or voltage drop. PV cables are designed to meet the specific current requirements of solar power systems, considering factors such as the maximum power output of solar panels and the expected load on the system.
Normal cables, on the other hand, are designed to handle a broad range of current capacities, catering to diverse electrical applications. The current-carrying capacity of normal cables depends on factors such as the cable size, conductor material, insulation type, and installation conditions. It is essential to carefully calculate the current requirements of your electrical system and select cables that can safely handle the anticipated loads.
PV cables are rated for direct current (DC) voltage, which is the type of electrical current produced by solar panels. These cables typically have voltage ratings of 600V or V, allowing them to safely transmit the generated power from solar panels to the rest of the system. The voltage ratings are selected based on the system design and the maximum voltage that the cables will encounter.
Normal cables, on the other hand, are rated for both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) voltage. AC voltage is the type of electrical current commonly found in residential and commercial buildings, while DC voltage is commonly used in low-voltage applications. The voltage ratings for normal cables depend on the specific electrical codes, regulations, and standards applicable to the installation.
When it comes to solar power installations, durability and weather resistance are critical considerations. PV cables are engineered to withstand the challenges posed by outdoor environments, including exposure to sunlight, rain, temperature variations, and harsh weather conditions. The insulation materials used in PV cables provide excellent resistance to UV radiation, moisture, and temperature extremes, ensuring long-term reliability and performance.
Normal cables, although reliable for general electrical applications, may not possess the same level of weather resistance as PV cables. Depending on the specific insulation material and construction, normal cables may have limitations when used in outdoor or extreme weather conditions. It is important to assess the environmental factors of your installation and select cables that can withstand the anticipated challenges.
Fire safety is a crucial aspect of any electrical installation, and PV cables are designed with fire resistance in mind. PV cables often meet or exceed the requirements of fire safety standards such as UL and IEC -1. These standards ensure that PV cables exhibit low smoke emission and do not propagate flames when exposed to fire. The fire-resistant properties of PV cables provide an added layer of safety and protection in solar power systems.
Normal cables, depending on the insulation material and construction, may have varying levels of fire resistance. It is important to consider fire safety regulations and standards applicable to your specific installation and select cables that comply with those requirements.
Installing cables in a solar power system requires careful planning and consideration of various factors. PV cables, being specifically designed for solar installations, often come with features that simplify the installation process. For example, some PV cables have unique marking systems that facilitate correct cable routing and connection identification. Additionally, PV cables may have specific connectors designed for easy and secure connections to solar panels, inverters, and other system components.
Normal cables, being more versatile in their applications, may require additional considerations during installation. Factors such as cable routing, cable management, and proper termination techniques play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and performance of the electrical system. It is important to follow industry best practices, local electrical codes, and the manufacturer's instructions when installing normal cables.
Cost is always an important consideration when selecting cables for electrical installations. PV cables, due to their specialized design and unique characteristics, may come at a higher cost compared to normal cables. The cost of PV cables includes factors such as the specialized materials used, manufacturing processes, compliance with standards, and certifications specific to solar power systems.
Normal cables, being more commonly used and widely available, often have a lower upfront cost compared to PV cables. However, it is crucial to consider the long-term costs and benefits when making a decision. Factors such as the expected lifespan of the cables, maintenance requirements, and the specific needs of the installation should be taken into account.
It is worth noting that the cost of cables is just one component of the overall cost of an electrical installation. Considering the critical role cables play in the safety and performance of the system, it is important not to compromise quality for cost savings. Engaging with reputable suppliers and manufacturers ensures the provision of high-quality cables that meet industry standards and offer long-term reliability.
PV cables find their primary application in solar power systems, connecting solar panels to inverters, charge controllers, and other system components. These cables are designed to handle the specific requirements of solar installations, including outdoor use, exposure to sunlight, and the transmission of DC voltage.
Normal cables, with their versatility, are used in a wide range of electrical applications. They can be found in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, providing power distribution for lighting, appliances, machinery, HVAC systems, and more. Normal cables are suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations, depending on the specific insulation and construction.
Low power losses: PV cables are designed to minimize power losses in solar systems. The tinned copper conductors used in PV cables reduce resistance, resulting in efficient power transmission from solar panels to the rest of the system. This helps maximize the overall performance and output of the solar power installation.
Longevity: PV cables are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor environments and have a longer lifespan compared to normal cables. The insulation materials used in PV cables provide excellent resistance to degradation caused by UV radiation, heat, and other environmental factors. This ensures that the cables can reliably operate for the expected lifespan of the solar system.
Safety: PV cables undergo rigorous testing to meet strict safety standards and regulations specific to solar power systems. They are designed to be flame retardant and self-extinguishing, minimizing the risk of fire hazards. Additionally, PV cables have low smoke emissions when exposed to high temperatures, reducing potential harm in the event of a fire.
Ease of installation: PV cables often come with features that simplify the installation process in solar systems. These features include color-coded or numbered insulation, making it easier to identify and connect the cables correctly. Some PV cables also have flexible designs, allowing for easier routing and connection in tight spaces.
Wide availability: Normal cables are readily available in various sizes, lengths, and specifications, making them easily accessible for different projects. This availability allows for greater flexibility when sourcing cables for general electrical applications.
Compatibility: Normal cables are compatible with a wide range of electrical components and devices. Whether it's connecting lighting fixtures, appliances, motors, or other electrical equipment, normal cables can be used effectively in diverse settings.
Cost-effectiveness: Normal cables often have a lower upfront cost compared to PV cables, making them a cost-effective choice for general electrical projects. The affordability of normal cables can be advantageous when working within budget constraints.
Different insulation options: Depending on the specific application and environment, normal cables offer a variety of insulation options. From PVC to rubber or thermoplastic compounds, different insulation materials provide suitable protection against electrical hazards and environmental factors.
System requirements: Understanding the specific requirements of the electrical system is crucial. Consider factors such as current-carrying capacity, voltage ratings, environmental conditions, and installation considerations. This ensures that the selected cable meets the demands of the system effectively.
Compliance with standards: Ensure that the chosen cables comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and electrical codes. Adhering to these standards helps maintain the safety and performance of the electrical installation.
Long-term costs: While the upfront cost is an important consideration, it's essential to evaluate the long-term costs and benefits. Consider factors such as the expected lifespan of the cables, maintenance requirements, and the overall reliability and performance of the system.
Consultation with professionals: When in doubt, seek advice from professionals, such as electrical engineers or installers. Their expertise and experience can provide valuable insights and help make an informed decision based on the specific requirements of the project.
> Now, let's address some commonly asked questions regarding PV cables and normal cables.
Yes, PV cables are specifically designed for outdoor installations in solar power systems. They are engineered to withstand sunlight, moisture, temperature variations, and other environmental challenges. The insulation materials used in PV cables offer excellent resistance to UV radiation and provide long-term durability.
While normal cables can be used for solar power systems, it is important to ensure that they meet the specific requirements of the installation. Normal cables should have the appropriate current-carrying capacity, voltage ratings, and weather resistance to handle the demands of the solar power system. Consulting with a professional and considering the manufacturer's specifications is crucial when using normal cables for solar installations.
PV cables often utilize tinned copper conductors with high conductivity. The tinning process enhances the conductive properties of copper and minimizes the risk of oxidation. Normal cables may use either copper or aluminum conductors, with copper being the more conductive of the two. Copper conductors offer superior electrical conductivity compared to aluminum conductors, but they also come at a higher cost.
PV cables are specifically designed to withstand UV radiation and are engineered with insulation materials that offer excellent resistance to sunlight. These cables are built to last in outdoor environments where exposure to UV radiation is inevitable. Normal cables, depending on the specific insulation material used, may have varying levels of resistance to UV radiation. It is important to check the manufacturer's specifications and select cables with suitable UV resistance for outdoor applications.
PV cables often use connectors specifically designed for solar power systems. These connectors are engineered to ensure proper and secure connections, minimizing the risk of voltage loss, heating, or disconnection. The connectors used with PV cables are typically designed to be weatherproof and offer protection against moisture, UV radiation, and other environmental factors.
When comparing the costs of PV cables and normal cables, several factors should be considered. The specific requirements of the installation, including current-carrying capacity, voltage ratings, and weather resistance, play a significant role. Additionally, the expected lifespan of the cables, maintenance requirements, and long-term reliability should be taken into account. While PV cables may have a higher upfront cost, they offer specialized features and durability that are crucial for solar power systems. Normal cables, although more cost-effective initially, may require additional considerations to meet the specific needs of the installation.
In conclusion, the choice between PV cables and normal cables depends on the specific requirements of the electrical installation. PV cables are specifically designed for solar power systems, offering characteristics such as high conductivity, weather resistance, fire safety, and specialized connectors. Normal cables, on the other hand, are versatile and widely used for general electrical applications.
Understanding the differences and benefits of PV cables and normal cables empowers individuals to make informed decisions when it comes to electrical installations. Whether it's a solar power system or a general electrical project, considering factors such as current-carrying capacity, voltage ratings, durability, weather resistance, fire safety, installation requirements, and cost analysis is crucial.
By selecting the right cables from the best manufacturers like Frcable for the job, individuals can ensure the safety, performance, and longevity of their electrical systems.
Electrical balance of system (eBOS) components can make or break a solar project — either in upfront expenses and install efficiency or by preventing longer-term O&M issues. To better inform your procurement plans, we reached out to eBOS product providers to learn more about their various systems for both rooftop and larger scale ground-mount solar projects. We asked what each product is made of, how it installs and a key differentiator to consider. As you’ll see, wire and cable management products continue to evolve. They are getting stronger and finding more ways to meet both code and the needs of specific racking systems, modules and MLPE.
It includes mounting, racking and wire management
Cable Management | CAB Solar Cable Management is exceptionally quick and easy to install, resulting in lower overall costs for both project labor and material. The CAB Integrated Grounding option can further reduce costs as it can provide both the EGC and GEC. The patented CAB design includes a custom engineered messenger wire, clamps and mid pier brackets, and now includes #2 and #3 Equivalent Options. The system meets NEC and IEEE standards, and is ETL Safety listed by Intertek.
CAB ground-mount cable support is offered in a wide range of hanger sizes and styles to safely separate large bundles of cables. All CAB Solar Hangers are manufactured from high tensile strength spring steel with a thick protective coating of high dielectric grade PVC which has a breakdown strength is 400 volts per mil (.025mm). The coating is flame retardant, chemical resistant and UV stabilized for long service life.
Torque Tube Hangers | CAB Solar has now introduced Multi-Carrier Torque Tube Hangers for under-panel cable management. These offer a tight, snap-on fit over most torque tubes or fixed tilt structures. The low profile is especially beneficial for reduced shadowing with bifacial panels. The innovative spiral design holds large bundles of cable safely and securely, while simplifying upgrades, maintenance and troubleshooting.
CAB Solar Products are manufactured in the United States by the Cambria County Association for the Blind and Handicapped. This non-profit provides numerous services as well as employment opportunities for over 350 persons with disabilities in Cambria County, Pennsylvania. Purchase of CAB Products helps support this mission.
Contact: CAB website
Solar Snake Max XL
Material: Manufactured from Lexan 940, Solar Snake Max XL has a 40-plus year lifespan and can withstand extreme wind and hot/cold temperatures. This patented, trenchless cable management system holds a quantity of 36 cables from 350 to kcmil (the first cable manager in the industry with that capability).
Install: Install this trenchless system using messenger wire or hard rails mounting to any style vertical piling or poles. This safer and less labor-intensive solution can install as fast as 22,000 ft in a day with snapped together components – all above ground – for easy installation. Snap together components require fewer tools. No field fabrication is required, and it easily adapts to a wide variety of elevations and terrains. Made in the United States to be quickly delivered to the jobsite. Over 1.2 GW successfully installed worldwide.
Key feature: The open-air design maintains NEC 310.15 code compliant cable separation and keeps cables cooler for up to 6 percent more harvesting of power for huge cost savings. This trenchless solution requires no derating of cables with quick and safe installations.
The company is the world’s best pv cable compounds supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.
More info: Snake Tray website
Heavy Duty Lockit P Clamp
Material: The Heyco Heavy Duty Lockit P Clamp is insert-molded beginning with either a zinc plated steel or 304 stainless steel mounting platform. The mounting platform is then insert-molded to a Nylon 6/6 cable clamp. The steel mounting platform provides reliable, long-lasting hold in harsh environments while the Nylon 6/6 cable clamp provides exceptional cable retention (and some axial retention) while reducing concerns of cable abrasion that many all-steel products raise.
Install: While many existing solutions require the clamp to be installed at the same time as the cable, the Heyco Heavy Duty Lockit P Clamp design allows for pre-assembly. Clamps can either be preassembled to the cable prior to installation, or clamps can be pre-installed to the fixture/racking prior to cable assembly – they are independent of one another. This is ideal in applications or environments where it is challenging or time-consuming to install both the clamp and the cable simultaneously because of space constraints, environment, weather, etc.
Key feature: Besides allowing for pre-assembly, the Heyco Heavy Duty Lockit P Clamp is releasable. Unlike many solutions that are one-time-use only, the Heyco Heavy Duty Lockit P Clamp allows for cables to be serviced/replaced without having to replace the clamp or any hardware.
Contact: Heyco |
Messenger Cable Hanger System
Material: Every component of the AWM messenger cable hanger system is made of durable alloys and is free of polymeric material, with a life expectancy exceeding 35 years. The products can withstand all weather conditions: temperatures from -40°C to +150°C, extreme ice and snow loads, and worst-case corrosive environments. All messenger cable hangers have a working load of at least 100 lbs, with each saddle rated for 25 lbs.
Install: The messenger cable hangers are fully installed with a simple crimp; there is no need for a secondary installation step after power cables are installed, saving valuable labor hours. A single socket size can install all hardware in the system. On average, the AWM system can be installed with two people at a rate of a 3 MW array per day. Break install speed records with their groundbreaking hex rod. Typically, the hangers are spaced at 4 ft intervals in the United States and 1 m intervals in Canada.
Key feature: AWM offers cable hanger systems for support of DC cabling up to mcm without the need to bundle the cables, and the system requires fewer hangers than others because of its higher strength. AWM also offers module level hangers in a variety of flavors, including bifacial-friendly hangers, which are fixed to module clamps and can be installed prior to module installation.
Contact: AWM website |
RC NEXT
Material: Designed with the safety of wires in mind. HellermannTyton’s RC NEXT is manufactured of heat and UV stabilized engineered polymers that won’t damage PV cables and will provide decades of service life in the field. The RC NEXT’s stainless-steel metal hanger secures the wire management device to the Nextracker MIB bracket, allowing safe routing of home runs just off the torque tube but also close enough to avoid direct contact with metal.
Install: With a tool-free, one-handed installation, the installer simply hooks RC NEXT over the Nextracker MIB bracket bolt. After the RC NEXT is installed, installer lifts the home run bundle and ratchets the RC NEXT in place. HellermannTyton’s patented Ratchet Clamp base comes in three sizes, providing an engineer with the right-sized part for the application. With RC NEXT, wire management on entire rows of modules can be done in minutes.
Key feature: Coming in Q2 , simply “check the box” by ordering the RC NEXT on every Nextracker single axis tracker platform project.
Contact: HellermannTyton website
Solar Wire Hangers
Material: The Panduit Solar Wire Hangers are made of stainless steel for long life and durability in varying climates and environments.
Install: No tools needed, simply hook the Panduit Solar Wire Hanger through a pre-drilled hole in the frame, lay in wires and then close the wire hanger. Typically, 1 to 2 installed per solar module. With a 1-in. saddle diameter, these hangers are sized to easily accommodate eight 8-gage PV wires.
Key feature: Many cable management solutions allow for just a single use application. For reworking any wiring, it would be typical to remove and replace the cable management device. Panduits solar wire hangers that can be re-used numerous times.
Contact: Panduit website
V and V In-line-Fuse
Material: The in-line-fuse PV-K/ILF with a crimping connection guarantees a long-lasting, stable connection in comparison to conventional clip-in clamps, featuring minimal energy loss and low heat generation, a robust housing and safety class IP68. The cable cross section is 10 AWG/6 mm² and is cTÜVus certified. PV-K/ILF is for applications up to 30A. Custom amperage and cable lengths are available upon request.
Install: The installation is just few seconds. Click in the MC4 connectors on both ends of the in-line-fuse PV-K/ILF and it is ready to go. When installing more than two strings in parallel, install one per string to protect modules and inverters from costly over current damage.
Key feature: Staubli’s in-line-fuse PV-K/ILF is UL listed. MC4 connectors come standard with the in-line-fuse PV-K/ILF, and installers can readily find matching MC4 connectors to avoid mating connectors from different brands together. O&M teams can have a handful of Staubli’s in-line fuses on site for quick and easy replacement.
Contact: ecs-ecart.com/mc4inlinefuses.html
Voltage LYNX – trunk bus system
Material: The aluminum conductor can be sized up to mcm. The connecting joint is 35kV-rated with anti-oxidation and anti-corrosion joint compound. The molding material is weather resistant and outdoor rated per the UL746C standard. The flame retardant molding material is UL94 flammability classified as V-1 approved and its operating temperature is up to 90°C. The design lifetime is a minimum 25 years. All cables are PV rated and designed to be exposed to sunlight for the lifetime of the product and is certified to UL .
Install: The fully customized Voltage Lynx trunk bus system utilizes a Reel PnP installation process. The pre-assembled reels are matched to specific rows on the project drawings. It is installed in a plug-and-play method and can be installed by a crew as small as three people (optimal crew numbers vary based on project needs). The Voltage LYNX consolidates string harnesses, minimizing the amount of wire needing to reach the disconnect box. It can handle up to 6 strings per overmold coming into the main trunk that runs to the load break disconnect box. The Voltage LYNX maximum trunk size can handle up to 845A on a MCM cable.
Key features: The Voltage LYNX reduces the amount of copper in an installation, thus lowering the overall budget. The LYNX’s customized design eliminates the traditional PV wire runs extending all the way to the combiner box, which isn’t needed anymore. Voltage utilizes 3D Modeling to ensure the quality of the wire design, simulating all gaps and slacks precisely. This technology improves pre-construction training, increases the overall accuracy of the estimate and manufacturing while decreasing resubmissions.
Voltage String Harness System
Material: The preassembled Voltage String Harness System contains components and wires that are made of stranded copper or aluminum housed in cross-linked polyethylene. The overmolds for inline fuses, and the various junctions are IP68 rated and UL listed. All major connectors are available per specific design requirements for module connectors, whips and jumpers. The design lifetime of the Voltage String Harness System is a minimum 25 years.
Install: The Voltage String Harness system employs the Reel PNP installation process for preassembled reels. Each custom designed reel is matched to its specific tracker/structure, and the crew installs the harness system utilizing a plug-and-play method. No onsite crimping or cutting is needed. This Reel PnP process averages 50 to 66 percent less installation time. A minimal crew of three can install the preassembled reels (optimal crew numbers vary based on project needs).
Key feature: Voltage uses leading edge technologies to provide new answers to old questions. Precision engineering, 3D renderings and custom manufacturing of the preassembled harness reels create fiscal advantages. From preconstruction through installation, Voltage is a complete solutions provider.
Contact: Voltage website |
WCH1
Material: The WILEY Cable Hanger (WCH1) is designed specifically to support cables via mounting or wire management holes. It is made of rounded 304-stainless steel which is a reliable solution for all environments. The 1-in. round bundle compartment securely holds runs of up to 8 wires up to 8 mm in diameter. The WCH models are compatible with all common module frame geometries including First Solar Series 6.
Install: The WCH1 is installed through a solar PV module’s cable or mounting holes. Bends in the design help to keep it in place while the wire bundle is gathered. Once the wires are laid in, it is hooked closed – an action that could be done with one hand. 1 to 2 units per module are sufficient to keep the wires tucked up high.
Key feature: The WCH1 also comes in a larger, 2-in. size (WCH2) which holds runs up to 20 wires up to 8 mm in diameter or can be configured to specific systems. Both feature the round bundle compartment, which prevents significant shifting from tracker movement or wind.
Contact: Wiley (Hubbell) website
HEYClip Stainless Steel SunRunner 4-2 and 4-2U Cable Clips
Material: Heyco’s HEYClip Stainless Steel SunRunner 4-2 and 4-2U Cable Clips are constructed from 410 Stainless Steel, offering years of protection and reliability – so much so they’re included in Heyco’s 20 Year Warranty.
Install: These clips install with fingertip pressure onto popular racking systems like Unirac, IronRidge, Everest/K2 and other similar profiles. The clips allow installers to neatly manage cables along the rail/racking system instead of along the backside of the solar panels, which is especially helpful when microinverters are present. Heyco typically recommends 1 clip per every 3 feet but other variables come into play like number of cables, weight and shape of the cables, etc.
Key feature: All of Heyco’s stainless steel clips are rolled/tumbled, which means edges are dull, which reduces abrasion. The SunRunner 4-2 and SunRunner 4-2U cable clips were designed specifically for Enphase’s Q Cable but can be used with round PV cables as well.
Contact: Heyco |
Frame MLPE Mount
Material: Stainless Steel
Install: The Frame MLPE Mount attaches, mounts and fully bonds module level power electronics (MLPE) to the module frame using a single-bolt clip.
Key feature: This accessory can be used with any racking system to attach the MLPE to the module frame.
Contact:
Conduit Mount
Material: This mount features a 7/8-in. high EPDM Cylinder and Install Screw. Installers can use this in combination with their own shoulder clips for supporting conduit on the rooftop, no sealant required. Mount on Asphalt Shingle, TPO or EPDM roofs. Machine screws and shoulder clips are not included.
Install: The Conduit Mount can be attached anywhere on the roof deck to run conduit. Install in five seconds or less by simply inserting the mounting screw into your shoulder clip and the EPDM block, then drive until the block is compressed.
Key feature: By using the EPDM block to lift the conduit off the roof, this mount meets NFPA Code 310.15(B)(2) for raceways or cables exposed to direct sunlight on or above rooftops. This code requires conduit to be lifted 7/8 in. off the roof to combat heat rise from the rooftop, or a temperature adder is required to determine the applicable ambient temperature.
Contact: QuickBOLT website
CanDuit clamp
Key features: The CanDuit clamp is one piece in combination with any S-5! clamp or bracket that secures and supports chases and raceways, cable trays, gas piping, condensate lines and other round-shaped objects to metal roofs, in combination with any S-5! clamp or bracket, including the GripperFix utility mounting system. It is available in 14 sizes with outer pipe diameters ranging from .79″ (20 mm) to 4.6” (117 mm). Adjustability within each clamp enables minor size adjustment to secure most conduit and other piping.
Material: Made from electro-zinc coated steel, the CanDuit clamp features two halves that clamp around the pipe or conduit with an EPDM liner pad that protects against abrasion and a threaded M8 stud that allows for attachment to S-5! products.
Install:
Universal Wire Clamp
Material: All components to the Universal Wire Clamp are made of materials that have been selected for their ability to handle high UV exposure and extreme rooftop temperatures common under solar arrays in order to last the life of the system. It is backed by the SnapNrack 25-year Manufacturer’s Limited Product Warranty.
Install: A 1/2-in. socket is all you need to install the SnapNrack Universal Wire Clamp. The Universal Wire Clamp attaches to the rail channel by snapping in a channel nut and securing a single bolt with a 1/2-in. socket. The Wire Clamp installs with the same tool as the rest of SnapNrack’s Ultra Rail System.
Key feature: The Universal Wire Clamp has the capability of securing four PV wires or two Enphase Q cables, allowing a tight transition of wires from rail to rail and avoids wire hangers and cable clips.
Contact: SnapNrack website |
ACC-FF180
Material: The ACC-FF180 is a wire management clip made of 304 stainless steel, which is a reliable solution for all environments. It is manufactured with coined edges designed to help protect cable insulation from damage. It accommodates 1 to 2 PV cables up ranging from 5 mm to 8 mm in diameter.
Install: The ACC-FF180 installs without any tooling. It slides securely onto PV module frames ranging in thickness from 1 to 3 mm and can be installed either straight on or at 180 degrees. Two clips per frame are sufficient to soundly hold wires in place. This style clip can add extra protection in high vibration or movement environments by securing wires with openings pointed in alternating directions.
Key feature: The compact size makes this clip a perfect solution for shorter flanged panels with widths down to 12 mm.
Contact: Wiley (Hubbell) website
Tags: Affordable Wire Management, CAB Solar, EcoFasten, HellermannTyton, Heyco, Panduit, QuickBolt, Snake Tray, SnapNrack, Solar Builder Buyer's Guide, Staubli Electrical Connectors, Voltage, Wiley, wire management