Quality control of PV modules constitutes now a necessary process taking place before the construction of an installation in order to ensure its maximum performance and to identify any failures and manufacturing defects.

But what is the quality control process and how can we confirm that the PV modules we received meet the characteristics mentioned by their manufacturer?

Visual inspection
Initially, the inspector should carry out a visual inspection on all pallets that have arrived at the site. If a problem is found in the packaging, an inspection should be carried out on all the PV modules of the pallet, not only on a sample of it.

Electroluminescence test – EL test EL test
The electroluminescence test constitutes the necessary check performed on the PV modules before their installation.
It can diagnose serious defects that are not visible during visual inspection and cannot be proven otherwise.
The electroluminescence test can detect microcracks with absolute accuracy, since these are a critical factor in the final performance of each PV module and the entire string.
In addition, the electroluminescence test can detect failures in PV cells, defects such as fingers and busbars delamination and confirm diode failure.

The specialised staff of Kmetrics with the Mobile PV Testcenter or the high-resolution portable Mobile EL 01  device can perform the EL test and deliver a certificate of inspection for each frame, highlighting the cells that present defects as well as their severity.

Power measurement – IV test IV test
PV module manufacturers guarantee a specific power in STC (stable conditions). It is therefore important to confirm, by random testing, the developing power of PV modules before their installation in order to avoid problems of reduced output in the future.