Author(s)

Chao Wang, Zhenyang Feng, Yangdong Ni, Yubin Zhen

Corresponding Author

Chao Wang

ABSTRACT

The double-glazed photo-voltaic (PV) module has many advantages with comparing to traditional PV module in the solar industry. A PV module of a large area is going to bear large mechanical loadings from wind blowing and raining after installation. Therefore, the ultimate loading and failure criteria of the module are necessary to be investigated. In experiments, the loading was applied from the air cylinder squeezing machine. With experimental results by applying loadings on front or back sides, various finite element models were developed. The model with the EVA layer was conducted to be most accurate in predicting stress distribution and displacement. And a solid and shell combined model was further developed with considering clamping effect. Moreover, the stress predicted by the membrane element is more dependable. According to experimental and simulated results, the ultimate loading of the double-glazed PV module can be considered as +5400 Pa and -3200 Pa. And 60 MPa should be set at a critical point to a failure by developed FE model. With the established finite element model and ultimate loading tests, the failure criteria of double-glazed PV modules were well determined. Meanwhile, the method presented in this study could apply to design new products with various materials, dimensions of structure and fixture.

KEYWORDS

Double-glazed PV module, failure criteria, ultimate loadings, fixture contact