Basics Modules About Solar Modules
Solar Modules
Solar modules have one or more solar cells, usually 36 cells or more. The cells are usually laminated to a sheet of glass to make an environmentally protected package. The modules usually have an aluminum frame around them to protect the glass and provide a place to mount them. The glass is usually tempered to make it strong and safe. If it breaks, it will break in tiny harmless pieces rather than long knife-like shrouds. The back is protected with a special sheet of plastic which keeps out moisture, air, and is abrasion resistant. You cannot take a module apart without ruining it.
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Modules types are named after the cells that they are made with. Polycrystalline silicon modules have polycrystalline cells. The same for single-crystal modules, amorphous silicon modules, cadmium telluride modules, and copper indium gallium selenide modules. The exception is concentrator modules which use optical elements to concentrate the sunlight on the cells.
Modules are reliable and durable. They are meant to be used outdoors for 25 years or more. and there is no reason they will not last 50 years or more. They are built for freezing temperatures, one-inch hail balls, temperature cycling, and 50 pounds per square foot loading. However there are certain things that can ruin them. The glass can shatter if hit by a hammer or shot at, or if the edge of the module is dropped on a sharp object like a curb. The modules should not be lifted by the wires. They should be kept clean.
Read about maintenance and safety. More information is in the Solar Basics book.