I've heard that the entire array can build a surface static charge,
though I don't recall getting zapped by the array. Seems like better
grounding would take care of that. I get popped touching ungrounded
metal like my truck. It can be very alarming, much more voltage than you
might expect.
If the well has a steel casing, that makes an excellent grounding
electrode. Just tap a lug into the side of it, and bond to the array
racking, and pole.
R.Ray Walters
CTO, Solarray, Inc
Nabcep Certified PV Installer,
Licensed Master Electrician
Solar Design Engineer
303 505-8760
On 1/25/2014 9:25 AM, Larry Crutcher, Starlight Solar Power Systems wrote:
Hello Jay,
I'm in Yuma, Az where humidity is often under 5% and static discharge is a
severe pain in the….finger. Curious person that I am, I once measured the
distance of a static arc to estimate the voltage being generated from my lamb
skin slippers sliding on carpet. My best guess is it was above 20kV.
So, he may be experiencing quite a static shock but his mind is relating it to
the PV solar gear. A simple test is to hold onto the wire after the initial
discharge. If the shock stops, it was static discharge.
Thank you,
Larry Crutcher
On Jan 24, 2014, at 6:56 PM, jay peltz <j...@asis.com> wrote:
Hi all,
Here is a new question.
I believe it's static electricity.
System: standalone 2 x 44voc 165 watt modules in parallel
Powering a pump sq flex( yea installer didn't do it right) dry ground.
No batteries or any other power in the area, no LCB or other electronics.
Pole mount, dpw in concrete with galvy pole
Wires are not attached to pole/ rack in any way
It's been very low humidity 5-10%, with 10-20 mph wind
No rain totally dry
Here is what happened.
Person with one hand touched pole and and other hand touched the USE-2
insulated wire from the modules, got way shocked. Checked the wire no cracks
etc and again 44voc max
Happened a second time, but this time his sleeve brushed the pole while he was
moving the wires, again shocked.
Again, I think it's static as I have no other explanation. This kind of weather
is unknown where I live. I now live in a true desert vs a rain forest and never
moved.
Thoughts?
Thanks
Jay
Peltz power
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