Glass-glass modules from SolarWorld withstand even extreme loads. Even the jumps of a cyclist left the cells undamaged. SolarWorld used the Sunmodule Protect as part of an unusual test in a bike show at the Intersolar Europe. The modules formed a nine-part obstacle course, which the rider had to overcome. Every jump subjected the module to a load of 170 kN/m². With a maximum allowable pressure load of up to 5.4 kN/m², this equals about 30x the weight of the permissible snow load.
To unambiguously check the condition of the cells, SolarWorld made electroluminescence (EL) images before and after the show. Electroluminescence images are made as the standard proof of quality for every module that leaves a SolarWorld production line. In a fully-automated process, the module is transported to the flasher, where electricity is applied. The resulting glow – the electroluminescence – is recorded by an extremely sensitive camera. This creates the EL image, making cracks or fractures visible which cannot be seen with the naked eye. Comparing images from the modules used at the bike show showed that the cells remained almost free of cracks even after the high load. The extreme pressure caused by the jumps did not affect module performance. “The results of the EL test show yet again that glass-glass modules are almost indestructible. They survived extreme loads in the bike show that would never occur in normal use. Our customers can be sure that glass-glass modules will deliver power for at least 30 years,” says Dr.-Ing. E.h. Frank Asbeck, CEO of SolarWorld AG.
The Sunmodule Protect has been on the market since 2013. In contrast to glass-film modules, the Protect is also equipped with a glass back. The double-sided glass composite provides extra protection for the cells. This makes the module last longer and achieves the deployment duration of over 30 years.