2.1.5 Conductors & Wiring Hardware
2.1.5.a. Module Interconnect Cables and Connectors
Specifications:
- Multi-Contact, MC4-type PV module connector system
- Assortment of solar cable (USE-2 and PV wire), M/F cable connectors, branch plugs and sockets, and cable assemblies tool case MC4, part #32.6019
- Tyco Electronics – SOLARLOK PV connector system
- Example products for cable couplers, crimping, and assembly tools; combiner and junction box assemblies; solar (PV) cable; and SOLKLIP grounding connectors and SOLKLAMP SS grounding bolts
Suggested Quantity: One set of demonstration equipment per class.
Importance Rating: Desirable.
Comments: You can contact the manufacturer for training kit sample pricing and view product certification videos online. Tyco is not as popular as Multi-Contact but is less expensive.
2.1.5.b. Grounding Hardware
Specifications:
- Samples of electrical equipment bonding washers and lay-in grounding lugs
- SS cable “S” clips for wire management (10)
- Bonding jumpers for module support rails (as required)
- Other grounding hardware (such as lay-in lugs, star washers, and 10/32 stainless bolts tapped for threading)
Suggested Quantity: One set of samples per class.
Importance Rating: Essential
Comments: Get samples from local system integrator.
2.1.5.c. Terminals and Connectors
Specifications: Determine as needed.
Suggested Quantity: Based on other equipment and configurations.
Importance Rating:Desirable (as needed)
Comments: These are used for demonstration purposes. Insulated splice blocks are often necessary to complete installations (such as Polaris connectors).
2.1.5.d. PV Wire and Cable
Specifications: Wire racking and storage system for supply of various standard conductors – #6, #8, #10, # 12 AWG THWN/XHHW general purpose building wire, 500 feet rolls, both white and black colors for #10 and #12 AWG; #6 AWG bare stranded copper wire for grounding (500 feet); #12 AWG listed PV wire or USE-2 (500 feet)
Suggested Quantity: One set per class.
Importance Rating: Essential
Comments: With PV Wire being specified for transformer-less inverters in the 2011 NEC, it is essential to include during lab activities. Additional wiring is required for system assembly.
2.1.5.e. Conduit and Benders
Specifications:
- Supply of ½”, ¾”, 1”, 1½”, and 2” PVC and EMT conduit, couplers, adapters and fittings
- Supply of ½“ and ¾” flexible, liquid-tight non-metallic conduit and fittings
Suggested Quantity: As needed.
Importance Rating:Advanced.
Comments: This is an optional purchase used for advanced installation training.