Installation and Operations Manual 11343 REVA IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS 2071 Ringwood Ave, Unit C, San Jose, CA 95131 888-395-2248 This Manual contains important instructions for the following models that shall be followed during the installation and maintenance of this AC Module. AX-250-1-DC4-0-B AX-255-1-DC4-0-B AX-260-1-DC4-0-B AX-265-1-DC4-0-B AX-270-1-DC4-0-B 1. INTRODUCTON Thank you for purchasing the Andalay Instant Connect with Enphase M215-IG Microinverter photovoltaic module. This manual contains critical safety information for the electrical and mechanical installation of the photovoltaic module. Read this installation manual in its entirety before installing, wiring or using this product in any way. The information in this manual is described on the basis of Andalay Solar s knowledge and experience. However the information and suggestions do not constitute a warranty. Andalay Solar reserves the right to make changes to the product, the specifications, or this manual without prior notice. 2. DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY The installation techniques, handling and use of this product are beyond company control. Therefore, Andalay Solar does not assume responsibility for loss, damage or expense resulting from improper installation, handling or use. 3. REGULATORY INFORMATION This product meets or exceeds the requirements set forth by CSA 107.1 and UL 1741. These Standards cover General Use Power Supplies and Standard for Static Inverters and Charge Controllers for Use in Photovoltaic Power Systems. Installation shall be in accordance with NEC and for Canadian installations, CSA C22.1, Safety Standard for Electrical Installations, Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1. FCC COMPLIANCE The Module has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/tv technician for help. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance may void the user s authority to operate the equipment. FIRE RATING The Fire Rating of the Andalay-AX series modules has a Type 2 fire rating and Class C system rating. 4. WARNINGS & SAFETY Before installing or using the Andalay Instant Connect with Enphase M215-IG Microinverter, read all instructions and cautionary markings in this manual. Solar modules generate electricity when exposed to light and can cause lethal shock and burn hazards. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of fire, perform all electrical installations in accordance with all local electrical codes and the National Electrical Code (NEC), ANSI/NFPA 70. WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, do not connect to an ac load center (circuit breaker panel) having multiwire branch circuits connected. Page 1 of 6 Copyright Andalay Solar Inc. 2015
An AC disconnect will need to be provided by others, check with local code officials for AC disconnect requirements. Be aware that only qualified personnel should install, service and/or replace Andalay Instant Connect with Enphase M215-IG Microinverter. The system involves electricity, and can be dangerous if installation personnel are not familiar with the appropriate safety procedures. Do not attempt to repair the Andalay Instant Connect with Enphase M215-IG Microinverter Module; it contains no user-serviceable parts. If it fails, please contact Andalay customer service to obtain an RMA number and start the replacement process. Tampering with or opening the Andalay Instant Connect Module or Enphase Micro-inverter will void the warranties. Connect the Andalay Instant Connect with Enphase M215-IG Microinverter to the electrical utility grid only after receiving prior approval from the utility company. Be aware that the body of the Micro-inverter is the heat sink and can reach a temperature of 80 C. To reduce risk of burns, do not touch. Do NOT disconnect the PV module from the Micro-inverter without first removing AC power. Do not strike the glass surface of the module with heavy or sharp objects or walk on surface. The glass surface may fracture thus disabling the function of the Andalay Instant Connect module and voiding the warranty. Artificially concentrated sunlight shall not be directed on the module. 5. INSTALLING ANDALAY-AX SERIES MODULES Andalay-AX series modules may be installed in various applications, which are particular to the roof type and are defined by the system designer, utilizing a variety of support structure options and attachment methods. Modules are commonly supported parallel to the surface of the building wall or roof. Module support structures that are used to support Andalay-AX series module(s) should be wind rated and approved for use in accordance with local and civil codes, prior to installation. For optimal performance in all applications, a minimum 2 in. clearance between the module frame and the mounting surface is required to allow cooler ambient air to circulate around the back of the module. Additionally, the module assembly is to be mounted over a fire resistant roof covering, rated for the application. If nonstandard mounting means are employed, the module Fire Class Rating may be affected. To attach the module to the roof mounting hardware, utilize 3/8" (9.5 mm) stainless steel G-bolt installed in the C-Channel of the module frame members and then through the support structure mounting hardware and secure with locking hex nuts. An applied torque of 20-25 footpounds (27-33 Newton-meters) should be used to secure the G-bolt to the module frame. The specific number of attachment points should be appropriate for the roof type, local building code, wind, snow, and seismic loading conditions as defined by the system engineer. The distance between mounting points should not exceed 48 O.C. per horizontal row of modules and end modules in a string should not have more than 16 of the module unsupported. Figure 1 Figure 2 Row to row (North South) mechanical connections are to be completed using a N-S Module Mount as shown in figures 1&2. The C Channel engages with the bracket latch and is secured using 3/8" (9.5 mm) stainless steel G-bolts with locking hex nuts. Torque as specified above for roof mounting hardware. Page 2 of 6 Copyright Andalay Solar Inc. 2015
6. BONDING Two threaded splices are used to create a bond path between interconnected modules. This inter-module bonding is achieved via the East-West sides. To ensure proper bonding between modules, each splice must be fully threaded into its adjacent panel and properly secured. To bond two modules, insert a splice through the hole on each end of one frame and begin threading each splice 1/2 turn in the frame rail (Figures 3&4). Position the adjacent panel so that the splices are aligned with the holes on each end of its frame. Slide the modules together until the splice threads can engage the frame threads on the adjacent panel. Tighten the splices to 5-7 ft-lbs. Inter-row bonding in the North-South direction is achieved via G-bolt assembly (Figure 2). The G-bolt replaces the need of grounding lug and copper wire in-between rows. 7. GROUNDING Figure 3 Figure 4 Proper grounding is achieved by assembling the module frame(s) contiguously using two bonding splices in the East-West direction. In the North-South direction, a stainless steel G-bolt secures to the frame by way of sharp edges is designed to cut through anodized coating. At the end of the array, the module frame is then attached to the grounding electrode, in accordance with Section 690 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) using one method as described below. Ensure positive electrical contact through the anodizing on the module's frame by attaching the grounding conductor to one of the 0.173 diameter (4.4 mm) holes on the frame marked ground using an ILSCO GBL4-DBT lug, star-washer and thread-rolling 10-32 X ½ Taptite II stainless steel screw using torque value 20 Lbf-in (Figure 5). Approved Wire Gauge: solid copper gauge AWG 4-12 Figure 5 Use solid copper gauge AWG 4-12 NOTE: The AC output neutral is not bonded to ground inside the Module. System grounding, if required by Sections 690-40 and 690-42 of the National Electric Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, is the responsibility of the installer. Page 3 of 6 Copyright Andalay Solar Inc. 2015
8. BYPASS DIODES All Andalay-AX series modules are supplied with factory installed (non user serviceable) bypass diodes. The purpose of bypass diodes is to provide a low-resistance current path around the shaded cells, thereby minimizing module heating and array current losses. The solar modules employ bypass diodes that have: Rated Average Forward Current [If (AV)] Above maximum system current at highest module operation temperature. Rated Repetitive Peak Reverse Voltage [Vrrm] Above maximum system voltage at lowest module operation temperature. 9. CONNECTING INSTANT CONNECT MODULE TO THE INTERCONNECT CABLE WARNING: DO NOT connect Andalay Instant Connect with Enphase M215-IG Microinverter to the utility grid or energize the AC circuit(s) until you have completed all of the installation procedures as described in the following sections. Andalay Instant Connect with Enphase M215-IG Microinverters are pre-wired and termination ready, for most attached or free standing building installations. Each module has a male and a female output connector (Figure 6). The male side of the branch is connected to an interconnect cable and is wired directly to the junction box at the head of the branch circuit. The female side of the branch is sealed with an Andalay End Cap. Figure 6 Front View of Module a. Andalay Instant Connect with Enphase M215-IG Microinverters is self-switching from 240 V and 208 V. Be sure to verify utility voltage, frequency, and whether utility is single or three phase and wire accordingly. AC Wiring Black - L1 Red - L2 White - Neutral Green - Ground b. As the modules are splice together, the male connector from one module will connect with the female connector of the adjacent module to form a continuous AC branch circuit. WARNING: Do NOT exceed the maximum number of Micro-inverters in an AC branch circuit, as displayed on the unit-rating label. Each Andalay Instant Connect Module AC branch circuit must be sourced from a dedicated branch circuit protected by a 20A maximum breaker. c. Install a protective end cap on any exposed female connectors. All exposed male connectors must be terminated in a junction box. Connect an interconnect cable to any exposed male connectors and wire directly to a junction box. WARNING: The male side connector is not touch safe and may be live when the system is energized by the utility system. Page 4 of 6 Copyright Andalay Solar Inc. 2015
NOTE: Be sure to size the AC wire gauge to account for voltage drop between the AC branch circuit junction box and the point of utility inter-connection. 10. COMMISSIONING 1. Turn ON the AC disconnects or circuit breaker on each AC branch circuit. Check the voltages on the Engage Cable to ensure proper wiring. WARNING: Verify proper AC cable voltage and neutral conductors prior to connecting to live voltage or connecting the connector to the AC string. Failure to properly connecting the wires can result in severe damage and void the warranty. 2. Turn OFF the AC disconnects or circuit breaker and connect the System Interconnect Harness to the string/branch. 3. Repeat for each string/branch until each one is complete. 4. Turn ON the main utility-grid AC circuit breaker. Your system will start producing power after a five-minute wait time. The Andalay Instant Connect with Enphase M215-IG Microinverter will start to send performance data over powerline to the Envoy. The time required for all the micro-inverters in the system to report to the Envoy will vary with the number of micro-inverters in the system. The first units should be detected within 15 minutes but the entire system could take hours to detect. Please refer to the Envoy Installation and Operation Manual for information on the Envoy. 11. OPERATION The Andalay Instant Connect with Enphase M215-IG Microinverter is powered on when sufficient dc voltage from the photovoltaic cells is applied. The status LED will flash green six times indicating proper start up. NOTE: In the event of a GFDI failure, the status LED will display continuous red after the fault occurs. This will persist when AC and DC power are cycled to the Micro-inverter. 12. MAINTENANCE Andalay Instant Connect with Enphase M215-IG Microinverter are designed for long life and require very little maintenance. Under most weather conditions, normal rainfall is sufficient to keep the module glass surface clean. If dirt build-up becomes excessive, clean the glass surface only with a soft cloth using mild detergent and water. USE CAUTION WHEN CLEANING THE BACK SURFACE OF THE MODULE TO AVOID PENETRATING BACK SHEET. Modules that are mounted at 15 or less should be cleaned more often, as they will not "self clean" as effectively. Once a year, have qualified service personnel check the general condition of the wiring and check to be sure that mounting hardware is tight. Loose connections may result in a damaged module or array. 13. ANDALAY INSTANT CONNECT MODULE TECHNICAL DATA ANDALAY MODULE TECHNICAL DATA *STC: Irradiance 1000W/m², Module temperature 25 C, AM=1.5 (All Modules) Electrical Characteristics AX250 AX255 AX260 AX265 AX270 Maximum Power at STC* (Pmax) 250W 255W 260W 265W 270W Open-Circuit Voltage (Voc) 37.2V 37.5V 37.86V 38.04V 35.58V Optimum Operating Voltage (Vmp) 31.2V 31.56V 31.86V 32.16V 32.16V Short Circuit Current (Isc) 8.52A 8.56A 8.64A 8.68A 8.97A Optimum Operating Current (Imp) 8.03A 8.08A 8.19A 8.26A 8.44A Minimum Operating Temperature -40C -40C -40C -40C -40C Maximum Operating Temperature +85C +85C +85C +85C +85C Maximum System Voltage 600VDC 600VDC 600VDC 600VDC 600VDC Maximum Series Fuse Rating 15A 15A 15A 15A 15A Page 5 of 6 Copyright Andalay Solar Inc. 2015
Mechanical Characteristics Solar Cell Number of Cells Dimensions Weight Front Glass Frame DC Cable Rating Compliance Poly-crystalline 156 156mm (6 inch) 60 (6x10) 1656 1001 51mm (65.2 39.4 2.0 inch) 21.3kg (47.0 lbs) 3.2mm(0.13 inch) tempered glass Extruded Aluminum PV Wire, #12 AWG, to 90 ºC Wet or Dry UL1703 14. ENPHASE M215-IG TECHNICAL DATA Rated Max DC power (STC) Maximum AC output power 240W/245W/250W 215W Nominal output current 1.03 A, 0.9A Nominal voltage/range 208V/183V-229V 240V/211V-264V Nominal frequency/range 60.0/57-61 Extended frequency/range 60.0/57-62.5 Power factor >0.95 Maximum units per branch 15, 17 Peak inverter efficiency 96.5% CEC weighted efficiency 96.5% Static MPPTefficiency 99.4% Operating temperature range Night time power consumption Cooling Enclosure environmental rating AC Cable Rating Communication Warranty Compliance -40ºC to +65ºC *Full Power Output Up To +65ºC 65mW max Natural Convection No Fans Inverter - Outdoor NEMA 6 TC-ER, #12 AWG, -40 ºC to 90 ºC Wet or Dry, UV-resistant, crush-resistant, direct burial Powerline 10/25 year power output Andalay module 25 Year Standard Microinverter UL1741/IEEE1547 FCC Part 15 Class B Page 6 of 6 Copyright Andalay Solar Inc. 2012