Frameless PV Modules from Trina Solar Optimized for Harsh Environmental Conditions
Trina Solar Limited has announced the 60-cell PDG5, the first in Trina Solar's new line of dual rated frameless modules. The PDG5 is resistant to potential induced degradation (PID) and micro-cracking, and does not require grounding. The PDG5 is optimized for reliable performance under stressful environmental conditions and is among the most durable modules on the market.
The PDG5 features front and back layers of special heat-strengthened glass, and is among the first such crystalline silicon (c-Si) modules. By replacing the traditional backsheet materials of conventional solar modules with heat-strengthened glass, the PDG5 provides a heavy-duty solution for environments of high temperature and humidity, conditions that can accelerate performance degradation. The resulting module has increased resistance to micro-cracking, potential induced degradation (PID), module warping, and degradation from UV rays, sand, alkali, acids and salt mist.
By reducing the module's glass thickness from the industry standard of 3.2mm to 2.5mm, and applying an antireflective coating to the front glass, transmission is enhanced by an estimated 2.5%. MC4PLUS photovoltaic connectors increase system reliability. Additionally, the modules are designed for higher 1000V IEC and 1000V UL applications, which enables longer installation runs to enable improve cabling, hardware and labor installation costs. Additionally, by eliminating the aluminum frame of conventional modules, grounding requirements are eliminated, which can extend Balance of System (BoS) cost savings for Trina Solar's customers. The new modules are backed by the Company's 25-year linear power warranty.
"The new PDG5 continues the Company's commitment to provide better solutions for Trina Solar's commercial and utility partners," said Zhiguo Zhu, Module Business Unit President of Trina Solar. "Our customers have expressed significant interests in PDG5 due to its numerous value propositions."
The dual-rated PDG5 has been designed to meet the requirements of both commercial rooftop and utility-scale applications in all major markets. PDG5 is being readied for worldwide shipments in the second half of 2013.
