The IEC 61215-1 standard is a critical international standard established by the Electrotechnical Commission for evaluating design qualification and type approval of terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules. This standard outlines a series of tests to assess the performance and durability of PV modules, with the UV test specifically focusing on how well they withstand ultraviolet (UV) radiation.estrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules UV Test
The UV test serves as a vital element of the IEC 61215-1 standard, guaranteeing the resilience of PV modules against UV radiation in practical settings. This testing ensures long-term functionality and prevents performance degradation caused by natural UV exposure. The success of the UV test hinges on whether the PV module’s post-exposure performance adheres to the stipulated standards. If the module maintains functionality after the test, it demonstrates its ability to withstand real-world UV exposure without significant performance decline.
Expanding on the significance of this test, It is crucial to emphasize the link between successful UV resilience and wider industry application. PV modules that pass the UV test with a post-exposure performance that aligns with the specified standards instill confidence in manufacturers, installers, and end-users alike. This assurance stems from the knowledge that the modules have been thoroughly tested and proven capable of withstanding the adverse effects of UV radiation without experiencing significant deterioration in performance. Such resilience is of paramount importance in ensuring the longevity and reliability of PV systems in practical settings.
| Equipment Model | PV-UVT-IEC-61215-1 |
| Test Room Size(L×W×H)MM | 1100×600×500 |
| Outside Dimension(L×W×H)MM | 1300×700×1650 |
| Chamber Materials | SUS304# Stainless Steel |
| Temperature Range | RT+20℃ ~70℃ |
| Temperature Uniformity: | ±1 ℃ |
| Temperature Fluctuation: | ±0.5℃ |
| Temperature Control | PID SSR Control |
| Humidity Range | ≥90 %RH |
| Controller System | OYO 1000 Controller, Touch Screen, Lcd Display |
| Control Mode | Balance Temperature Humidity Control (BTHC) |
| Communication Function | Be Able To Control The Machine Via Computer Using Temi Control Software Through Rs-232 Port On The Machine |
| Test Cycle Setting | Illumination, Condensation And Water Spray Test Cycle Is Programmable |
| Distance from Specimen to Lamp | 50mm ±3mm (Adjustable) |
| Center Distance Between The Lamps | Distance: 70 mm |
| Lamp Power & Length | 40W/Piece, 1200mm /Piece |
| Lamps Amount | 8 Pieces of UVA-340 or UVB-313 Imported Lamps |
| Lifetime of Lamp | 1200 ~ 1600 Hours |
| Irradiance Range | 1.0W/m2, adjustable directly on OYO 1000 Touch Screen Controller |
| Wavelength of Ultraviolet Light | UVA is 315-400nm and UVB 280-315nm |
| Effective Irradiation Area | 900×210mm |
| Irradiation Black Panel Temperature | 50℃ ~70℃ |
| Standard Specimen Size | 500×350mm/ 2 Pieces |
| Water Depth For Water Channel | 25mm, Automatically Control |
| Water Consumption | 8 Liters/day, Tap Water Or Distilled Water |
| Testing Time | 0~999 Hours, Adjustable |
| Power Voltage | 1 phase, 220V/50Hz /±10% 5KW |
| Protection System | Overload Short Circuit Protection, Over Temperature Protection, Water Lacking Protection |
| 1. The UV test follows these essential steps: Place the PV module within a UV radiation source. | IEC 61215-1 UV Test Procedure: |
| 2. The radiation source emits UV light within the 280 -385nm wavelength range, with an intensity not exceeding 250W/m2 and a non-uniformity of less than ±15%. | |
| 3. Expose the PV module to the UV radiation for 15kw/h.m-2, with at least 5kw/h.m-2 within the 280-320nm wavelength range. | |
| 4. Please note that the IEC 61215:2005 test conditions also apply to the relevant test requirements of the IEC 61345 test standard. |
The UV test, a crucial element of the IEC 61215-1 test, evaluates the performance of PV modules under UV exposure. As a significant component of sunlight, UV radiation can potentially damage the materials and connections within PV modules. The primary purpose of the UV test is to ensure that PV modules can handle real-life UV exposure without experiencing detrimental performance loss or damage. The UV test is conducted prior to thermal cycling and damp heat tests to validate the ability of PV module materials and connections to endure UV degradation.
UV Weathering Systems & Operational Mastery
Explore Wewon’s industry-leading UVA/UVB accelerated weathering testers and UVC sterilization equipment. Empower your laboratory with our comprehensive hardware specifications alongside expert safety, installation, and daily maintenance protocols.
UV Test Chambers Catalog
Discover our complete lineup of accelerated weathering hardware. Accurately simulate years of outdoor UV degradation, rain, and dew in just days.
Accelerated UV Tester
Industry-standard weathering equipment ensuring 100% reproducible irradiance control for polymers, coatings, and critical outdoor textiles.
UVC-254 Sterilization Tester
High-intensity 254nm UVC irradiation equipment specifically engineered for medical, optical, and material sterilization impact validation.
UV Chamber Safety Protocol
Crucial operator precautions and PPE guidelines to ensure a secure, hazard-free laboratory environment during intense ultraviolet testing cycles.
Daily Maintenance Guide
Step-by-step cleaning routines, water purity checks, and lamp lifespan management to maximize your UV chamber’s operational reliability.
Installation & Setup Notes
Comprehensive site preparation guidelines covering spatial layouts, electrical voltage inputs, and water supply requirements before deployment.
This ensures that, under normal operating conditions, UV radiation doesn’t compromise the module’s performance or integrity. In addition to validating the endurance of PV module materials and connections against UV degradation, The UV test serves a critical role in ensuring the long-term performance and integrity of photovoltaic systems. By subjecting the modules to controlled UV radiation, manufacturers can simulate the effects of prolonged exposure to sunlight, which is crucial considering the typical lifespan of PV installations. Through this test, Potential weaknesses or vulnerabilities in the module’s design or materials can be identified and addressed.
Moreover, By demonstrating the module’s ability to withstand UV radiation without compromising performance, Manufacturers can provide assurance to end-users that their investment in solar energy will not be hindered by degradation or failure due to exposure to UV rays. This test also underscores the industry’s commitment to delivering reliable and durable PV modules, instilling confidence in consumers and promoting the adoption of sustainable energy sources.
| The X-axis represents wavelength in nm. | UVA340 Light Source Test | |
| The Y-axis represents irradiance in W/m2/nm. | ||
| 1 is the curve generated by the sunlight source. 2 is the curve produced by UVA340 lamp. | ||
| The X-axis represents wavelength in nm. | UVB313 Light Source Test | |
| The Y-axis represents irradiance in W/m2/nm. | ||
| 1 is the curve generated by the sunlight source. 2 is UVB313 |
| Information regarding UVA340 lamps under “UV radiation with a wavelength of 280-385nm”: | UV Test with UVA 340 Lamps |
| When the irradiance is set to 0.68W/m2, It is equivalent to a total irradiance of 35.2W/m2 in the wavelength range of 280 ~385nm. Among them, The total irradiance in the range of 280 ~320nm is 3.1W/m2. Assuming the UVA340 lamp operates for X hours, The component /test specimen is exposed to a total irradiance of 15kWh/m2 in the range of 280 ~385nm, and the lamp operates for Y hours, the component is exposed to a total irradiance of 5kWh/m2 in the range of 280-320nm, The required time can be calculated as: | |
| X≈426 hours. Y≈1613 hours (Taking This Value). | |
| Let’s analyze UVB313 lamps under “UV radiation with a wavelength of 280-385nm”. | UV Test with UVB 313 Lamps |
| When the irradiance is set to 0.68W/m2 at 313nm, It is equivalent to a total irradiance of 31.3W/m2 in the wavelength range of 280 ~385nm. Among them, The total irradiance in the range of 280 ~320nm is 18.8W/m2. Assuming the UVB313 lamp operates for X hours, The component is exposed to a total irradiance of 15kWh/m2 in the range of 280 ~385nm, and the lamp operates for Y hours, The component is exposed to a total irradiance of 5kWh/m2 in the range of 280-320nm, the required time can be calculated as: | |
| X≈479 hours (taking this value). Y≈266 hours. | |
| From the above analysis, It can be seen that using UVB313 lamps can shorten the testing time. Of course, You can also first use UVA340 lamps for a period of time, and then use UVB313 lamps for another period of time. | Suggestions and Summary |
| By increasing the set irradiance value, The testing time can be shortened. For example, When using UVB313 lamps and setting the value to 0.76, X will be shortened to approximately 380 hours. | |
| For “non-uniformity less than ±15%”, The UV test chamber needs to be equipped with a “solar eye” during design to accurately measure and control the irradiance. |
The UV test can influence certain PV module performance parameters. Changes in open-circuit voltage, short-circuit current, and power output might occur. However, these variations are typically minimal and shouldn’t impact the module’s operational effectiveness. The UV test, as mandated by the IEC 61215-1 standard, plays a crucial role in assessing the performance of PV modules under UV exposure. By guaranteeing their resilience to sunlight’s UV component, the test contributes to the long-term functionality and reliable performance of PV installations.
With a focus on user-friendly design and efficient functionality, the UV test chambers from Wewon Tech offers a range of features that set it apart from other testing equipment. By prioritizing user experience and incorporating innovative features, our ultraviolet aging tester stands out as an exceptional choice for quality testing within a wide range of industries. Its efficient functionality, combined with the convenience of use, guarantees reliable and accurate results. Experience the difference today as you elevate your testing standards with our cutting-edge equipment.
| Taking users’ convenience into consideration, this tester is remarkably easy to operate, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Safety and reliability are key priorities, guaranteeing that operators can use it with peace of mind. | 1. Enhanced User Experience: |
| Our tester allows for adjustable thickness when installing specimens, catering to specific testing requirements. The installation process itself is swift and convenient, saving valuable time during testing procedures. | 2. Flexible Specimen Installation: |
| With its unique upward-opening door rotation, this tester ensures zero interference with operations while occupying minimal space. You can maximize your laboratory area without compromising the efficiency and accuracy of the testing process. | 3. Space-saving Design: |
| Equipped with a special condensating system, this tester efficiently utilizes tap water, eliminating the need for additional costly resources. This unique feature optimizes testing performance while minimizing expenses. | 4. Cost-efficient Condensating System: |
| Unlike conventional models, our tester positions the heater under the container rather than in the water. This innovative design not only ensures longevity but also simplifies maintenance, saving valuable time and effort. | 5. Long-lasting Heating Mechanism: |
| The water level controller, positioned conveniently outside the box, allows for effortless monitoring during testing. You can effectively keep track of water levels and make adjustments as needed, ensuring accurate and reliable results. | 6. Easy Monitoring: |
| Designed with truckles, our tester offers unparalleled mobility. You can effortlessly move it around the laboratory, adapting to various testing requirements and optimizing space utilization. | 7. Convenience in Mobility: |
| Our tester’s computer programming feature offers utmost convenience and reliability. It automatically alerts users in case of incorrect operations or faults, mitigating the risk of errors and ensuring smooth testing procedures. | 8. Intelligent Programming: |
| An essential component of the tester is the integrated irradiance calibrator, which significantly extends the life of the lamp tube beyond 1200 ~ 1600 hours. This longevity helps maintain precise testing conditions, ensuring consistent and accurate results. | 9. Extended Lamp Tube Life: |
| To cater to a wider clientele, we provide both Chinese and English instruction books. This thoughtful inclusion allows for easy consultation, ensuring a seamless user experience for individuals across different language backgrounds. | 10. Bilingual Instructions: |
| The tester is available in three distinct types: common, light irradiance controlling, and spraying. This versatility provides options suitable for various testing needs, allowing users to select the most appropriate configuration for their specific requirements. | 11. Versatile Options: |