4.0 Electrical Connections
Modules must only be connected using the correct Enphase AC cable and
integrated connectors. Do not alter any connectors.
Maxeon Solar Technologies recommends a conservative minimum cable bend
radius of equal to or greater than 60mm and must not be bent on the direct exit
of the connector or junction box. The AC Module cable system features locking
connectors which, after connected, require the use of a tool to disconnect. This
defends against untrained personnel disconnecting the modules when under
load. Enphase AC cable connectors are rated and tested to interrupt load current;
however, Maxeon Solar Technologies recommends that you always open the
utility dedicated branch circuit protector to remove power before plugging or
unplugging any connectors; install an AC isolator in accordance with local codes.
4.1 Equipment Grounding
Module grounding is required as per IEC 60364-7-712 and where deemed
mandatory within the local regulatory framework. The purpose of the module
grounding is both for protection and functional reasons. The functional aspect of
this requirement is to enable the Inverter or power conditioning device to provide
earth fault detection and any alarm indication. Maxeon Solar Technologies
recommends using one of the following methods of grounding the module frame.
In addition, to avoid corrosion due to dissimilar metal interfaces, Maxeon Solar
Technologies recommends stainless steel hardware between copper and
aluminum. Testing should be done to validate grounding with temperature, salt
environment and high current.
1)
Grounding using specified grounding holes: Use the mounting frame
provisioned grounding holes for connecting the module to the racking with
a suitably sized earthing conductor.
2)
Grounding with clamp / claw: Clamp or claw can be installed between the
module and racking system. Align a grounding clamp to the frame hole, and
place a grounding bolt through the grounding clamp and frame. Ensure the
clamp used when is fastened, will effectively pierce the anodized coating of
the module and ensure suitable conductivity.
3)
Modules may be grounded by attaching a lay-in lug to one of the grounding
holes on the module frame, and attach the ground conductor to the lug. Use
stainless steel hardware (bolt, washers, and nut). Use an external-tooth star
washer between the lug and the module frame in order to pierce the
anodizing and establish electrical contact with the aluminum frame. The
assembly must end with a nut that's torqued to 2.3-2.8 Nm (for a M4 bolt).
A lock washer or other locking mechanism is required to maintain tension
between the bolt and the assembly. The conductor must be attached to the
ground lug using the lug's set screw.
4)
Modules may be grounded using a ground clip or ground washer or as part
of a module clamp. These grounding clips/washers must be able to
effectively pierce the anodized coating of the module frame and establish
suitable electrical conductivity.
All above solutions are possible but should be tested with the mounting structure
for grounding purpose.
4.2 Connection to AC Circuits
It is the installer's responsibility to verify grid compatibility (240/380 or 4-wire 2-
pole). Maxeon Solar AC modules must be connected to a utility source at the
correct voltage and frequency in order to operate and produce power. They are
not standalone generators and do not create AC voltage thus are not capable of
operation independent of a utility-generated AC signal. The AC Modules must be
connected only to a dedicated branch circuit. The AC cables and connectors are
certified and rated for the maximum number of AC units in parallel only. When
connecting modules, DO NOT exceed the following single AC branch circuit
maximum number of modules.
The maximum number of microinverters that can be installed on each AC branch
circuit can be found in the Product's datasheet. This circuit must be protected by
overcurrent protection. Plan your AC branch circuits to meet the following limits
for maximum number of AC Module per branch when protected with a 20 amp
(maximum) over current protection device.
©2021 Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd. All rights reserved. Specifications included in this document are subject to change without notice.
Maximum* IQ 7A Micros per
AC branch circuit (240 VAC)
Region: EU
10
Limits may vary. Refer to local requirements to define the number of
microinverters per branch in your area.
CAUTION! To reduce the risk of fire, connect only to a
circuit provided with 20 A maximum branch circuit
overcurrent protection.
Below are the major installation step:
1.
Install the Field-wireable connector pair, optional J-Box
2.
Position the Enphase Q Cable
Per module:
3
Position AC module and pop-out Micro
4
Connect microinverters to Q Cable connector
5
Install AC modules
6
Manage Q cable to module frame and rail
Per row:
7
Create installation map
8.
Terminate Q cable at last microinverter
9.
Connect to J-Box
10. Energize system
4.3 Cable Management:
Use cable clips or tie wraps to attach the cable to the racking. The cable must be
supported at least every 1.8 m.
Dress any excess cabling in loops so that it does not contact the roof. Do not form
loops smaller than 12 cm in diameter.
4.4 Microinverters Connection
Connect the microinverter. Listen for a click as the connectors engage.
Inspect the AC connectors to ensure that they are not broken, misshapen, or
otherwise degraded prior to connection.
Cover any unused connectors on the AC cable with Enphase Sealing Caps. Listen
for a click as the sealing caps engage.
CAUTION! Install sealing caps on all unused AC connectors
as these connectors become live when the system is
energized. Sealing caps are required for protection against
moisture ingress.
MAXEON SOLAR TECHNOLOGIES, LTD.
537620 Rev.C
Maximum* IQ 7A Micros per
AC branch circuit (230 VAC)
Region: APAC
11
4