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Wiring system for solar PV

lyledunn

Neat enough job and probably technically compliant, but is it sensible to put the DC side conductors in metallic trunking and conduit even if they do meet the class 2 or equivalent requirement? 

I am aware that there are SWA cables specifically for solar PV, so I guess there is not much difference if the SWA is earthed. However, on a slightly different point, if these SWA DC cables are buried, what is the point of earthing the wire armour?

  • 0

    Well from an EMC perspective, not having wires exposed so they can radiate is a very good thing, and the insulation is less likely to get damaged on the inside of a steel box than running the outside, as I assume the trunking would be needed anyway for the LV stuff. I also assume the batteries are themselves in an earthed metal box, this just extends that protection.

    The only thing I'd want to be sure of is how the DC cables leave the steel tube, to be sure that is not going to chafe.

    Mike.

  • 0

    Good points, by default, DC conductors in metallic trunking is standard for the majority of commercial installs, mechanical protection of the cable being the primary driving factor with little concern given to the risk level of insulation breakdown. On the point of buried SWA DC cables, most cable runs will have a portion that's touch accessible either at the inverter or panel end, which could be classed as a potentially exposed conductive part, hence the earthing consideration.  

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