Photovoltaic module outdoor exposure test system

The Photovoltaic Module Outdoor Exposure Test System is designed to simulate real-world environmental conditions for accelerated aging and performance evaluation of PV modules. It combines precise temperature, humidity, and solar irradiance control with advanced data acquisition and AI-based diagnostics, enabling rapid assessment of long-term durability, degradation modes, and energy harvesting efficiency.

Application

(1) Accelerated aging and performance testing of photovoltaic (PV) modules

(2) Qualification and type approval for PV modules under IEC 61215 and IEC 61730 standards

(3) Outdoor exposure simulation for desert, tropical, polar, and marine conditions

(4) R&D of solar module materials and encapsulation technologies

(5) Assessment of PID (Potential Induced Degradation), delamination, and hotspot formation

Standards

(1) IEC 61215 – Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules: Design Qualification and Type Approval

(2) IEC 61730 – Photovoltaic (PV) Module Safety Qualification

(3) UL 61730 – Safety Standard for Photovoltaic Modules

(4) ISO 9060 – Solar Energy: Classification of Pyranometers

(5) CE Certification – Conformité Européenne

(6) Optional: IEC 60904 series for solar simulator calibration

(7) Optional: UL 1699B – Arc-Fault Detection

Features

Real-World Accelerated Aging: Achieves 10–15 year equivalence within 6 months using IEC-compliant damp heat and UV exposure.

Spectral Matching: AM1.5G filtered solar simulation ensures standardized irradiance.

Multi-Environment Testing: -40°C to +85°C chamber range with ±1°C stability and 95% RH for tropical/marine simulation.

Energy Harvesting Capability: Grid-tied system with MPPT tracking offsets up to 70% of power consumption.

Smart Data Acquisition: 16-channel logging of I-V curves, EL imaging, and thermal mapping.

AI-Powered Diagnostics: Machine learning predicts module degradation, including delamination and hotspots.

Safety Features: UL 1699B-compliant arc-fault detection and dual redundant emergency shutoff circuits.

Product Flexibility: Dual-axis tracker (±60° tilt, ±180° azimuth) for precise solar alignment, modular design expandable from 5 kW to 50 kW.

Parameters

Accessories

(1) IEC 60904-4 compliant reference cells (4 pcs)

(2) Type T thermocouples with ceramic insulation (10 pcs)

(3) Software Suite: SolarTest Pro license (Windows/Linux), 1-year cloud-based PV simulation access

(4) Calibration & Safety: NIST-traceable irradiance meter, arc-flash protective gear (Class 2, 3 pairs)

(5) Maintenance Kit: Spare fuses, surge protectors, chamber cleaning solution (non-corrosive)

(6) Documentation: Multilingual quick-start guide (printed + digital), compliance certificates for IEC/UL/ISO standards

Test Procedures

Install PV modules on the dual-axis tracker and connect reference cells and thermocouples.

Configure test parameters via the 10” sunlight-readable HMI or select preloaded IEC/UL test sequences.

Set solar irradiance, temperature, humidity, and cycle duration as required.

Initiate the test sequence; the system automatically performs environmental cycling and data acquisition.

Monitor real-time measurements of I-V curves, thermal mapping, and EL imaging through HMI or remote access.

Upon completion, return chamber to ambient conditions before sample removal.

Export data reports via the software interface for analysis and documentation.

Maintenance Information

Clean solar simulator lamps, chamber surfaces, and tracker mechanisms regularly to ensure accurate irradiation.

Replace thermocouples, reference cells, and fuses as recommended by the manufacturer.

Perform annual calibration of irradiance meters and data acquisition channels.

Verify arc-fault detection circuits and emergency shutoff functionality before each test cycle.

Maintain chamber and tracker in a dry, ventilated environment when not in operation.