PD CLC/TS 51643-32:2020 - Low-voltage Surge Protective Devices

In the rapidly evolving world of renewable energy, ensuring the safety and efficiency of photovoltaic installations is paramount. The PD CLC/TS 51643-32:2020 standard provides comprehensive guidelines for the selection and application of surge protective devices (SPDs) connected to the DC side of photovoltaic systems. Released on August 3, 2020, this standard is an essential resource for engineers, designers, and technicians working in the field of solar energy.

Key Features

• Standard Number: PD CLC/TS 51643-32:2020
• Pages: 48
• Release Date: 2020-08-03
• ISBN: 978 0 539 11924 4
• Status: Standard

Comprehensive Guidance for Photovoltaic Installations

This standard is specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by photovoltaic installations. It provides detailed instructions on how to select and apply surge protective devices to safeguard the DC side of these systems. By following the guidelines set forth in this standard, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage caused by electrical surges, ensuring the longevity and reliability of your solar energy systems.

Why Surge Protection is Crucial

Photovoltaic installations are particularly vulnerable to electrical surges due to their exposure to environmental factors such as lightning strikes and power fluctuations. These surges can cause significant damage to the system's components, leading to costly repairs and downtime. Implementing effective surge protection is crucial to maintaining the integrity and performance of your solar energy systems.

Selection and Application Principles

The PD CLC/TS 51643-32:2020 standard provides a clear framework for selecting the appropriate surge protective devices for your photovoltaic installations. It covers various aspects, including:

• Understanding the types of surges that can affect photovoltaic systems
• Criteria for selecting suitable SPDs based on system requirements
• Installation guidelines to ensure optimal performance and protection
• Maintenance and testing procedures to ensure ongoing reliability

Benefits of Adhering to the Standard

By adhering to the PD CLC/TS 51643-32:2020 standard, you can enjoy several benefits, including:

• Enhanced Safety: Protect your photovoltaic installations from potential hazards caused by electrical surges.
• Increased Reliability: Ensure the continuous operation of your solar energy systems by minimizing the risk of damage.
• Cost Savings: Reduce the likelihood of costly repairs and replacements by implementing effective surge protection measures.
• Compliance: Meet industry standards and regulations, demonstrating your commitment to quality and safety.

Who Should Use This Standard?

The PD CLC/TS 51643-32:2020 standard is an invaluable resource for a wide range of professionals involved in the design, installation, and maintenance of photovoltaic systems, including:

• Electrical Engineers
• Solar Energy Technicians
• System Designers
• Project Managers
• Maintenance Personnel

Conclusion

Incorporating the guidelines provided in the PD CLC/TS 51643-32:2020 standard into your photovoltaic projects is a proactive step towards ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of your solar energy systems. With its comprehensive coverage of surge protection principles, this standard is an essential tool for anyone involved in the renewable energy sector.

Invest in the future of your photovoltaic installations by embracing the best practices outlined in this standard. Protect your systems from the unpredictable nature of electrical surges and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your solar energy investments are secure.

PD CLC/TS 51643-32:2020

This standard PD CLC/TS 51643-32:2020 Low-voltage surge protective devices is classified in these ICS categories:

• 29.120.50 Fuses and other overcurrent protection devices
• 27.160 Solar energy engineering

This document describes the principles for selection, installation and coordination of SPDs intended for use in Photovoltaic (PV) systems up to 1500 V DC and for the AC side of the PV system rated up to 1000 V RMS 50/60 Hz.

The photovoltaic installation extends from a PV array or a set of interconnected PV-modules to include the associated cabling and protective devices and the converter up to the connection point in the distribution board or the utility supply point.

This document considers SPDs used in different locations and in different kinds of PV systems:

• PV systems located on the top of a building;

• PV systems located on the ground like free field power plants characterized by multiple earthing and a meshed earthing system.

The term PV installation is used to refer to both kinds of PV systems. The term PV power plant is only used for extended free-field multi-earthed power systems located on the ground.

For PV installations including batteries additional requirements could be necessary.

NOTE 1 The HD 60364 series, EN 62305 series and CLC/TS 61643-12 also apply.

NOTE 2 This document deals only with SPDs and not with surge protective components integrated inside equipment (e.g. inverters, (PCE) power conversion equipment).