Hail Impact Test Machine

The Hail Impact Test Machine is a specialized laboratory device designed to evaluate the hail resistance of photovoltaic (PV) modules. By launching artificially prepared ice balls at controlled velocities toward the module surface, it simulates hailstorm conditions to assess mechanical impact resistance and structural reliability. The system provides precise positioning, speed measurement, and controlled impact, ensuring compliance with international standards for PV module type testing and certification.

Application

The Hail Impact Test Machine is suitable for a variety of testing and research scenarios:

Type testing and certification of PV modules

Factory inspection and quality control of PV modules

R&D evaluation of PV modules’ hail resistance

Impact durability testing of wind power and other photovoltaic building components

Climate simulation laboratories for mechanical impact studies

Safety and reliability assessment of solar PV systems

Standards

The machine is designed to meet the following key standards:

(1) GB/T 9535 – Crystalline Silicon Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules – Design Qualification and Type Approval

(2) IEC 61215 – Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules – Design Qualification and Type Approval

(3) IEC 61646 – Thin-Film Photovoltaic Modules – Design Qualification

(4) UL 1703 – Standard for Safety of Photovoltaic Modules

Parameters

Features

Automated X/Y-axis positioning ensures precise ice ball impact on designated areas

High-precision infrared speed measurement system monitors real-time ice ball velocity

Simulates realistic hail diameters and impact speeds according to IEC and UL standards

Ice ball mold precision guarantees diameter and weight deviation ≤5%

Replaceable barrel design adapts to different ice ball sizes

Upper computer control executes automated impact sequences, enhancing repeatability and safety

Accessories

(1) Launch device – includes pneumatic system and barrel

(2) X/Y-axis positioning device – dual-axis servo system, rails, and control modules

(3) Ice ball speed measurement system – infrared sensor and data acquisition module

(4) Upper computer control system – automates impact and positioning

(5) Ice ball storage box – maintains low temperature storage

(6) Consumable ice ball molds – 1 mold 6 balls, at least 2 sets per size

(7) Consumable ice balls – 25. 35. 45 mm diameters, prepared as needed

(8) Optional replacement barrels – supports different calibers or worn barrel replacement

Test Procedures

Prepare ice balls according to standard and store in the low-temperature storage box.

Fix the PV module on the testing platform with the surface perpendicular to ice ball flight.

Configure the upper computer with ice ball size, impact speed, target location, and number of impacts.

Launch ice balls according to the set program.

After impact, measure PV module appearance and electrical parameters (short-circuit current, open-circuit voltage, etc.).

Compare results against IEC 61215. IEC 61646. and UL 1703 standards to determine pass/fail.

Automatically record and save test data for analysis and comparison.

Maintenance Information

Ensure ice ball storage box and module platform temperatures meet requirements before testing.

Inspect X/Y-axis rails, barrels, and molds regularly to maintain positioning precision.

Verify infrared speed sensors and data acquisition modules for accuracy.

Clean rails and control surfaces to prevent ice contamination or obstruction.

Check pneumatic systems and replace air filters periodically.

Inspect barrels and molds for wear or deformation before each experiment.

Conclusion

The Hail Impact Test Machine provides precise, reliable, and repeatable evaluation of PV module hail resistance. Automated positioning, high-accuracy speed measurement, and adjustable ice ball parameters allow realistic simulation of natural hail impact. It supports R&D, type testing, factory quality control, and certification labs, ensuring PV module safety, durability, and compliance with international standards.

FAQ

1. What is the main purpose of the Hail Impact Test Machine?

The Hail Impact Test Machine is designed to evaluate the impact resistance of photovoltaic modules against hail. By firing artificial ice balls at controlled speeds and diameters, it simulates hailstorm conditions to assess mechanical damage, module durability, and structural reliability under extreme weather conditions.

2. How are ice ball speeds controlled and measured?

Ice ball speeds are controlled using a pneumatic launch system powered by compressed air at 6–8 bar. A high-precision infrared sensor measures the flight time of the ice ball, calculating velocity as V=S/t. The system achieves a speed accuracy of ±5% and allows simulation of natural hail velocities across different diameters (25 mm, 35 mm, 45 mm).

3. What safety precautions are required during testing?

Operators must wear protective equipment to prevent injury from high-speed ice balls. No personnel should enter the impact zone during testing. Ice ball molds must be handled carefully to avoid breakage, and X/Y positioning and speed measurement systems must be calibrated before each experiment to ensure precision.

4. Can this machine simulate different ice ball sizes and impact positions?

Yes, the machine uses interchangeable molds and barrels, allowing ice balls of 25 mm, 35 mm, and 45 mm diameters. Automated X/Y-axis positioning ensures precise impact locations, and the upper computer control system executes impact sequences, enabling consistent testing for certification or quality control purposes.