How the new Hi-MO 5m 66C supports short side clamping and makes system planning more flexible

2023.04.14

Author: Dr. Peijun Shen (LONGi Solar Europe)

LONGi Solar has added another half-cell model to its Hi-MO 5 monocrystalline solar module series. This new module version is based on M10 wafers and features 66 solar cells and a newly designed frame. It was specially developed to optimize installation of the solar modules in photovoltaic DG systems. Numerous installation options are available for the new 66c modules, and the new design significantly increases flexibility during system planning.

The new 66c modules are compatible with standard mounting systems on the market; for example, the various clamping installation options described in Table 1.

The solar modules can be fixed to the short side of the frame, thus reducing installation and material costs compared with conventional solar modules of comparable size. As an example, six-row landscape format systems can be implemented using one dedicated clamp as shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, which would otherwise require significantly more mounting rails and module clamps. 

Table 1. CLAMPING METHODS FOR FRAMED MODULE
Table 1. CLAMPING METHODS FOR FRAMED MODULE
Figure 1. The option of fixing it to the short side of the frame reduces installation and material costs compared with conventional solar modules of comparable size.
Figure 1. The option of fixing it to the short side of the frame reduces installation and material costs compared with conventional solar modules of comparable size.
Figure 2. Clamp installation of monofacial module
Figure 2. Clamp installation of monofacial module

Mechanical loading test highlights the excellent performance of the Hi-MO 5m 66C

One aspect of the module’s reliability is its strength against external forces, typically in the form of human handling, snow and wind. Any crack in the cell would affect the power output of the module. To categorize these external forces, Mechanical Loading (ML) tests were carried out on the module using the installation method of clamping 400mm from the short edge with beam support and a loading pressure of +5400/-2400Pa. Following loading, the visual inspection, power loss, insulation, and wet leakage were further tested to verify if the module met the IEC and LONGi quality standards. The criteria for passing were as follows:

  • No intermittent open-circuit failure was detected during test;
  • No major visual defects;
  • Power loss: ≤3% for the monofacial modules or the front side of the bifacial modules, ≤3% for the rear side of the bifacial modules;
  • Insulation test confirmed;
  • Wet leakage current test confirmed
Figure 3. ML test setup using sand bags to achieve the desired downward force
Figure 3. ML test setup using sand bags to achieve the desired downward force

The test results were summarized in the following table. For more detailed results, please contact your LONGi representative.

The results show that the Hi-MO 5m 66C performs exceptionally well in terms of stiffness and resistance to extreme deformation. The module proved mature and reliable throughout the test, which effectively ensures the long-term reliability of the product. This offers multiple benefits to customers and ensures the safety of the power plants.

About LONGi

Founded in 2000, LONGi is committed to being the world’s leading solar technology company, focusing on customer-driven value creation for full scenario energy transformation.

Under its mission of 'making the best of solar energy to build a green world', LONGi has dedicated itself to technology innovation and established five business sectors, covering mono silicon wafers cells and modules, commercial & industrial distributed solar solutions, green energy solutions and hydrogen equipment. The company has honed its capabilities to provide green energy and has more recently, also embraced green hydrogen products and solutions to support global zero carbon development. www.longi.com