Solar panels are arrays of photovoltaic (PV) cells that are assembled in a network to use sunlight as an input and produce electricity as an output. Solar panels are often installed on the roofs of buildings, vehicles, or as a part of solar farms. In the UK, the national energy capacity from solar energy has increased from 12 MW in 2006 to 13,000 M. Solar Panel InstallationAccording to experts, solar panel installation can account for up to 30% of the price of a solar panel system. Furthermore, within the installation process, roughly 50% of the costs can be accounted for by the manual labour involved. Therefore, one way to reduce the costs of solar panel installation is by enabling less-demanding labour. This can be achieved by using more efficient and less time-consuming bonding solutions, such as the high-performance adhesives and sealants offered further do. HVACOne common concern with solar panels attached to roofs is their tendency to heat up, and potentially degrade the roof. This is usually dealt with by acquiring extra HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) equipment to regulate temperatures. However, research from the Fraunhofer Center for Sustainable Energy Systems has shown that solar panels mounted with adhesives actually have a cooling effect on roofs; boosting solar panel efficiency in the long run. Adhesive-mounted solar panels. Solar Panel MaintenanceAlthough adhesives take up little space and time in solar panel installation, they contribute greatly towards solar panel efficiency, reliability and durability. Here is a range of factors that are important for bonding solar panels: 1. Ability to withstand extreme temperatures– all solar panels are exposed to harsh weather conditions in their life. The ProblemA manufacturer was seeking to reduce their costs by bonding PV panels to the base structure directly; removing the metal frame in the middle. The substrates that needed to be bonded were glass and galvanised steel. The requirements of the project were therefore: 1. Adhesion to glass and galvanised steel 2. Resistance to harsh weather conditions and forces exerted by the wind 3. Potential for automatic dispensingThe SolutionAntala representatives used DOWSIL EA-2626to meet the project specifications and satisfy the customer's needs. DOWSIL EA-2626 is capable of bonding glass to metal and offers excellent weathering, UV and heat resistance up to 190°C. In addition, this adhesive can cure quickly at room temperature; allowing rapid handling of bonded components in automatic production lines.The BenefitsAll strength tests performed on the bonded product were passed. Additionally.
