Solarfam SZ-170-S 170W framed solar module170W shingled-cell framed module, 1,230×670mm

Overview

The SZ-170-S packs 170W into a 1,230×670×30mm aluminium frame weighing 8.4kg, a size that fits many motorhome and boat roofs. Its shingled monocrystalline cells give 23.82V and 7.14A at maximum power, 28.31V open-circuit and 7.57A short-circuit. The relatively high working voltage gives an MPPT controller good headroom when charging a 12V battery. Solarfam makes it with a black or a white frame; leads are 700mm long with MC4 or compatible plugs.

• 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