How to select a solar PV cable supplier meeting the TUV EN50618 standard.

  

Recently, the German Photovoltaic Energy Association stated that 162 PV fires occurred in Germany from 2016-2023.

The association's recent detailed study of PV fires reveals that the main causes of these incidents are electrical faults, module ageing, hot weather, improper installation, battery problems, etc.

Three main factors are of particular concern:

1. Electrical faults: Electrical faults cover problems such as damaged cables and loose terminals. These faults can lead to arc discharge, overheating and cable ignition.

2. Hot weather: High temperature conditions can cause PV wire and cable insulation to deteriorate or become damaged, potentially starting a fire.

3. Improper Installation or Maintenance: Improper installation or maintenance of solar systems is also a potential fire risk. For example, incorrect cable routing can lead to failure.

Of these three factors, solar cable failures play a key role. Worryingly, solar cables account for only 2 per cent of the cost of a PV project, yet they are a factor that cannot be ignored when it comes to the safety of the project.

Some data show that the factors leading to solar cable failures fall into two main categories:

1. natural ageing: natural ageing is unavoidable, but its effects can be mitigated by regular testing and maintenance.

2. Quality issues: Quality issues, on the other hand, are key points that can be addressed. The quality of solar cables needs to be considered comprehensively in many aspects such as flame retardancy, UV resistance, high and low temperature resistance of the sheath and insulation materials to ensure the reliability and safety of the system.

We need to focus on the quality and safety of cables to ensure the sustainability and long-term stable operation of PV projects.

The solar cable market has long been a key component of the global renewable energy industry. When purchasing solar cables, industry professionals are often faced with an important decision: should they choose a local brand from Europe, or should they look to a Chinese manufacturer with a price advantage?

Strict European Standards and Regulation

Local European brands pride themselves on their stringent manufacturing standards and regulatory systems, mainly referencing EN50617 and IEC62030 standards. In some European countries, the quality of cable products is regulated even more strictly to ensure that they comply with standards such as CPR fire rating requirements. These regulatory systems help to ensure the quality and performance of the products and meet the high demand for quality.

However, local European brands are usually more expensive due to factors such as raw material costs and labour costs. This has prompted many to turn their attention to the Chinese market for price advantages.

Manufacturers in China: Focus on quality and price/performance ratio

The Chinese market has also seen the emergence of many manufacturers who pursue quality and whose products can meet international standards, such as HUATONG and KUKA CABLE. These manufacturers have international certifications such as TUV, IEC, etc. and provide customers with cost-effective solar cables.

With the Chinese government advocating the shift from "Made in China" to "Created in China", all industries are actively innovating. solar cable manufacturing technology is also being optimised. Recently, for example, KUKA Cables has launched an innovative product based on a hybrid copolymer technology of EVA and EMA, which significantly improves the mechanical and electrical properties of photovoltaic cables.

The frequency of solar fires reminds us to pay extra attention to the safety and quality of solar cables. The development of the solar industry needs to be based on the cornerstone of safety and reliability to ensure the long-term sustainable operation of the projects.

At the same time, the choice of manufacturer becomes crucial in the procurement of solar cables. Local European brands are known for their strict manufacturing standards and regulatory systems, but at a higher price. Chinese manufacturers, on the other hand, excel in striking a balance between quality and value for money, constantly innovating and optimising.

Regardless of the brand you choose, it is important to adhere to the principle of quality first, and to regularly maintain and test your solar cables to ensure the sustainability and safety of your solar project.