What types of cables do solar panels use? Can I use a normal cable?

        Global investment in solar projects is growing faster than ever, and the ROI of individual projects remains a major concern. In some cases, contractors will specify generic PVC cables rather than cables specifically designed for solar PV to reduce costs. While money can be saved initially, doing so significantly shortens the useful life of the system.

What types of cables do solar panels use?

        Special insulation materials and cross-linked PE wraps used for cables give solar cables unique properties. The molecular structure of cable materials changes after exposure to radiation from radiation accelerators, which leads to special properties in hot environments.

        These cables work well at high temperatures, but they are also resistant to cold, oil, acid, and alkali, and overall, they will give the solar system a long service life. Both ordinary and solar cables use the same conductors. PV cables can be used in harsher environments with higher requirements for insulation and sheaths.

        PV cables in solar facilities are often subject to challenging environmental factors such as high temperatures and UV radiation, which can reach 100° C in the solar system in sunny areas. Due to the intense ultraviolet radiation that this brings, ordinary cables cannot withstand this environment for long. PV cables are necessary because ordinary cables cannot withstand such high DC voltages for long periods of time.

        Most of the problems in PV systems are caused by wrong cable selection and poor crimping procedures. PV system fires are usually caused by this, so the choice of cable should be carefully considered.

        The matching of cables and DC connectors is a key component of solar system design. Proper quad alignment ensures more accurate crimping, resulting in better contact between the wire and the DC plug. Inadequate crimp can lead to oxidation, which raises contact resistance and leads to fire.

        There are many kinds of copper conductors used in ordinary cable wiring, which have poor compatibility with DC connectors. After heavy use, oxidation will inevitably occur, increasing contact resistance.

        Most of the problems in solar systems are on the DC side, and more than 90% of these problems are caused by improper cable selection and crimping errors. Spending time and effort on compatible high-quality PV cables during the design phase is essential for long-lasting, trouble-free system operation.

        Solar photovoltaic cables are designed for the connection of photovoltaic solar power generation systems. They're only less than 15 years old, making them one of the newest cables available. They are flexible and resistant to moisture, sunlight and fire. The wires did very well in the heat. Solar PV cables are used for the entire life of the solar panel, usually 25 or 30 years, and the cable manufacturer will usually provide you with a warranty that lasts the entire period.

        Since solar PV cables are specifically placed for solar panels, their design is always in line with the latest developments in the solar energy field. Copper or aluminum conductors are optovoltaic lines of choice, with a variety of voltages to choose from.

        If you have more questions or need more information, please contact us and our professional team will be happy to support and answer you.