Mitsubishi Electric Corp has announced ten models of photovoltaic (PV) modules -- five for the European market and five for North America and Asia. The lineup comprises modules with outputs of 210W, 220W, 225W, 230W and 235W. The PV-TJ235GA6 and PV-UJ235GA6 is the represent models of PV module offered in Europe, and for North America/Asia, respectively.
The high-output modules use lead-free solder and incorporate PV cells with four bus bars. Using the new cells in combination with an increased module size achieves a power output of up to 235W per module. Larger output means that fewer modules are needed to build a system, helping to reduce total system cost.
By increasing the number of bus bars from two to four, the internal resistance in each PV cell has been reduced, increasing individual cell output by 3% compared to those used in the company's previous models. To use four bus bars, however, each bus bar needs to be narrowed so that the cell can collect enough sunlight, which makes it difficult to connect each cell in the interconnecting wire soldering process with automated equipment. Mitsubishi Electric has overcome this difficulty by developing a high-quality graphic sensing technology that increases the accuracy in cell alignment.
According to Mitsubishi, in addition to the use of four-bus-bar cells, the number of cells used in each module has increased from 50 to 60, this helps to increase module output power by up to 24% per module compared to the company's 190W module. As a result, the number of modules needed to build a system can be reduced, saving on installation parts and labor costs.
These modules feature an optimized frame design, which the company claims can endure the force of approximately double that of the company's previous models. Even with their larger size, the new models have passed the IEC static load test of 5400Pa, a standard for PV module performance established by the International Electrotechnical Commission. The new frame has also been designed to facilitate a wider variation of installation methods.
Overall safety and reliability of these modules are enhanced by using the company's 4-layer junction box based on the current triple-layer junction box design. UL V-0 certified potting material, a metal barrier cover, and a plastic resin cover were used to cover the electrified area inside the junction box. In the new design, a 4th layer, an extremely heat-resistant and flame-retardant sheet, was added to the inside of the metal cover.
Shipments of these high-output PV modules will begin on January 15, 2010.
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