Thermomechanical Optimization of PV Modules
In a PV module, stresses occur during production and operation due to temperature changes and mechanical loads. These stresses can lead to cracks in the solar cells, joints or fatigue of the cell interconnectors. Simulations help us to understand these stresses and develop strategies for stress reduction. In the manufacturing process, thermomechanical stresses occur mainly during the interconnection of the solar cells and module lamination. If the modules are installed in a PV power plant, mechanical and thermal loads act on the modules due to weather conditions.
In simulations, we reproduce the manufacturing processes and the load scenarios. For example, we simulate the mechanical load test and the thermal cycling test according to the requirements of the IEC 61215 test standard or use measured climate data to determine the thermal stresses that occur in real operation. From the FEM simulations we can derive how damage to the module can be avoided.