Without special tools, this problem is hard to detect in its early stages, but a special lamp can bring certainty: As in an X-ray image, it highlights the fine cracks where the back foils of the modules thin out until the material eventually gives way entirely.
And this is the final stage: The foils tear, the cells lose their hold, hang in the air freely and unprotected. In some modules, the cell strings have completely fallen through to the back, leaving a large hole in their place. As a result, module manufacturers are now increasingly faced with large-scale recalls – whether they want to or not.
See also:
Using lasers to detect faults in PV modules
Do you know of such problems with back foils from your own experience? Do you have experience how module manufacturers deal with them? What special features did your solar system have? How did you become aware of the problem? Please get in touch. If you like, we will treat your information confidentially. (HS/mfo)
Your contact person is our editor-in-chief Heiko Schwarzburger, who can be reached by e-mail: schwarzburger@photovoltaik.eu.
