What is BS IEC 62548 - Design requirements of PV arrays about?
BS IEC 62548 is an international standard that discusses photovoltaic (PV) arrays.
BS IEC 62548 sets out design requirements for PV arrays including DC array wiring, electrical protection devices, switching and earthing provisions. The scope includes all parts of the PV array up to but not including energy storage devices, power conversion equipment or loads. An exception is that provisions relating to power conversion equipment are covered only where DC safety issues are involved.
The interconnection of small DC conditioning units intended for connection to PV modules are also included in BS IEC 62548.
In grid connected systems, the safety requirements of BS IEC 62548 are however critically dependent on the inverters associated with PV arrays complying with the requirements of IEC 62109‑1 and IEC 62109‑2.
Note 1: PV arrays of less than 100 W and less than 35 V DC open circuit voltage at STC are not covered by BS IEC 62548.
Note 2: PV arrays in grid connected systems connected to medium or high voltage systems are not covered in BS IEC 62548. Variations and additional requirements for large-scale ground mounted PV power plants with restricted access to personnel will also be addressed in IEC TS 627381.
Who is BS IEC 62548 - Design requirements of PV arrays for?
BS IEC 62548 on PV arrays is relevant to:
- Solar energy engineering industry
- Solar power plants
- Lighting equipment and electric generators
- PV module manufacturers
- PV power system manufacturers
- Product design engineers
Why should you use BS IEC 62548 - Design requirements of PV arrays?
The object of BS IEC 62548 is to address the design safety requirements arising from the particular characteristics of photovoltaic systems. Direct current systems, and PV arrays in particular, pose some hazards in addition to those derived from conventional AC power systems, including the ability to produce and sustain electrical arcs with currents that are not greater than normal operating currents.
BS IEC 62548 provides best industry guidance on PV array system configuration including mechanical design such that mounting requirements are met.
BS IEC 62548 also addresses safety issues and provides reference standards to ensure the necessary protection against electric shock, overvoltage, heat, effects of insulation faults, etc, is taken into consideration before installation of PV systems.
Requirements for different system types based on PCE isolation and PV array functional earthing, is also covered in BS IEC 62548.
Overall, compliance with BS IEC 62548 can ensure PV arrays and systems are fit for purpose and its wiring and components are capable of withstanding damage from exposure to UV, wind, water, snow and other environmental conditions. As a result, incidents of product failures and hazards can be minimized.
