How do i repair a soler panel on my own?
Question:How do i repair one on my own getting someone else's fix is not possible?
Answers:
Here's what we've learned so far about repairing broken panels:
The are many possible ways to damage a solar panel. The most common seems to be broken glass, from rocks, bullets, a fall (loose bolts on the mount!) or large hail. If you are able to remove all the broken glass, it might be possible to replace it with a new piece -- but the hard part will keeping water from condensing inside and fogging the new glass. It's also possible the panel will still work even with the broken glass in place, though with reduced output from the 'shade' from the broken glass edges. So don't just just throw the broken panel away -- at least check it for output first!
Another common problem is loose solder connections--some connections are intermittent and cut in and out as the panels heat and cool. You may notice cells cutting in and out if you sharply rap the panels with your hand. It may be necessary to cut through the soft silicone in which the cells are embedded to access the backs of the cells for repair. Windy Dankoff's report, reprinted below, shows how to diagnose which cells have bad connections that must be resoldered.
Individual solar cells are somewhat difficult to solder to. Self-adhesive metal stained-glass tape makes for the easiest soldering job--the tape holds itself in place while you solder. Use electronics solder that contains 2% silver. One side of the cell is (+), the other (-). Cells are connected in various combinations of series and parallel, depending on the intended use--our broken panels are made to be connected with 3 or 4 panels in series to charge 12 volt batteries.
I just wanted you to know that I had read your article dealing with solar cell repair using electrically conductive epoxy. You had one contributor who claimed it would not work. I can categorically assure you that it DOES work. I used a silver impregnated epoxy made by Chemtronics. It is called CircuitWorks Conductive Epoxy and I used it to attach the positive wire to the metallic film of my photo panel and it's electrical conductivity is equal to a normal solder joint, but it works where solder would not. It's strong and waterproof.
There is more on site below that maybe helpful to your needs, Good Luck!
you cant fix a thing if you doesnt even know what its problem.
if you can tell us whats the problem, then, maybe we can help you in a way
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