The Cleaning of Photovoltaic Panels (5)
In the previous articles, we have talked about the influence of dust on components, the degradation of components, and how to detect the component through the inverter. So, how to clean the component?
The first is by manual.
Manual cleaning is the most primitive way of component cleaning, which is done entirely by manpower. This cleaning method has low work efficiency, a long cleaning cycle, high labor cost, and potential personal safety hazards.
Manual dry-cleaning components: manual dry-cleaning is an oily electrostatic dust collector that uses a long-handled mop and a special detergent for cleaning. Mainly use the principle of electrostatic adsorption, which has the function of adsorbing dust and sand particles, which can enhance the dust absorption and decontamination ability of the cleaning tool, and effectively avoid flying dust and sand particles during cleaning. Due to the complete reliance on manpower, there are many surface residues, and the components may deform and crack due to uneven force. Compressed air purging is to blow out compressed air through a special device to remove dust on the surface of the components and is used in areas where water resources are scarce. This method is low efficiency and has the problem of high-speed dust friction components, which are currently rarely used in power stations.
Manual water washing of components: Manual water washing is spraying water on the surface of photovoltaic modules by a nozzle connected to a waterwheel (or water pipe) to achieve the purpose of cleaning. The pressure is generally not more than 0.4MPa. This cleaning method is better than manual dry cleaning. The cleaning efficiency is higher, but the water consumption is larger. However, excessive water pressure can cause hidden cracks in the photovoltaic module cells, resulting in a large-area short circuit, which will reduce the power generation efficiency. In addition, after the water-washed components are air-dried naturally, water stains will form on the surface of the components, forming micro-shadows, and affecting the power generation efficiency. The ice layer produced by using a high-pressure water gun in winter will seriously weaken the optical effect of the components, especially in the perennial cold regions.
To be continued…
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