Solarfam SZ-100-36M 100W framed solar module100W shingled-cell framed module, 1,160×450mm, 19.28V Vmp

Overview

The SZ-100-36M is Solarfam's 100W aluminium-framed module in the slim 1,160×450×30mm format, which suits narrow roof areas on vans and motorhomes. Its shingled monocrystalline cells give 19.28V at maximum power and 5.19A, with 22.92V open-circuit voltage and 5.50A short-circuit current, so it pairs naturally with PWM or MPPT controllers for 12V batteries. The module weighs 5.5kg and comes with 700mm MC4 leads. Solarfam publishes its electrical data on the SZ-100-S 19.28V datasheet.

• Monocrystalline cells, 22% or higher cell efficiency
• Aluminium frame, tempered glass, EVA and backsheet
• IP67 junction box with bypass diode
• 700mm 2.5mm² MC4 leads on most models
• 500V maximum system voltage
• 5-year manufacturer warranty

How it works

Solarfam framed modules are compact monocrystalline panels sized for vehicle roofs, boats, cabins and other stand-alone battery systems. Their maximum-power voltage, between about 18V and 24V depending on the model, sits above the charging voltage of a 12V battery, so the module feeds the battery through a PWM or MPPT charge controller. Solarfam names uses such as keeping a parked vehicle's starter battery topped up and supplying on-board loads like fridges, fans and navigation units.

Two constructions share the same aluminium frame, tempered glass, EVA and backsheet build. The S-series (SZ-100-S, SZ-170-S, SZ-180-S, SZ-20-S) uses shingled cells joined without conventional busbars, which the manufacturer credits with lower internal resistance and a weaker hot-spot effect. The M-series (SZ-100-M, SZ-200-M) uses PERC cells; on the SZ-100-M a partial-cell layout and integrated bypass diodes keep the module producing when part of its surface is shaded.

Key features

Every model has an IP67 junction box with a bypass diode. Apart from the 20W SZ-20-S, which has a 400mm lead without a plug, the modules leave the factory with 700mm leads of 2.5mm² ending in MC4 or MC4-compatible connectors. The rated maximum system voltage is 500V. Each module is EL-tested before packing and power-tested; output tolerance is ±3% on the S-series datasheets and 0…+3% on the M-series.

Solarfam describes a frame profile designed to stop trapped water from freezing and deforming it, and ships each module in its own carton with protected corners. The M-series datasheets also stress stable output in low light, and Solarfam presents the SZ-200-M as suitable for balconies, motorhomes and building-integrated installations as well as small rooftop systems.

Installation and compatibility

Before wiring, compare the open-circuit voltage of the module, or of a series string, with the PV input limit of the charge controller, and the short-circuit current with the controller and cable ratings. Identical modules can be paralleled to raise current at the same voltage or put in series for an MPPT controller with a wider input range. The frame takes standard roof brackets, rails or ground stands; Solarfam also sells camper corner brackets and ground supports.

Solarfam gives a 5-year manufacturer warranty on the framed range. The power-output warranty is 8 years on the S-series and SZ-100-M datasheets, while the SZ-200-M datasheet states 90% of output after 10 years and 80% after 25 years. Every datasheet also lists packaging data, typically 30 modules per pallet, useful when ordering in volume.

Questions and answers