The CSIR PV Module Quality and Reliability Lab

The lab operates according to international standards to fully characterize PV modules, provoke real-world failures in sub-standard modules through accelerated stress tests, and quantify the impact on performance and safety. The accelerated stresses highlight issues that can impact long-term performance of PV modules in a matter of weeks rather than years. The test results are used to inform procurement decisions and define contract requirements with suppliers. The capability includes an indoor sun simulator for electrical performance tests across a range of temperature and irradiance levels, a thermal cycling chamber to test the quality of the interconnections, a damp heat chamber to test the quality of the lamination, a mechanical load tester to check the strength of the module, and high-voltage safety equipment to check the insulation properties under wet and dry conditions.
About the CSIR:
The CSIR, an entity of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, is one of the leading scientific and technology research, development and implementation organisations in Africa. Constituted by an Act of Parliament in 1945 as a science council, the CSIR undertakes directed and multidisciplinary research and technological innovation and industrial and scientific development to improve the quality of life of all South Africans. For more information, visit www.csir.co.za/
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