Overview
ASTM E772-15(2021) - Standard Terminology of Solar Energy Conversion provides a comprehensive set of terminology related to the conversion of solar energy into other usable forms, including solar thermal and photovoltaic (PV) conversions. Developed by ASTM International, this standard supports consistency and clarity in technical communication for professionals working with solar energy systems and instruments. The terminology also encompasses instrumentation for measuring solar radiation and glass used in solar energy applications. This standard aligns with internationally recognized guidelines to facilitate global harmonization in solar energy technology.
Key Topics
ASTM E772-15(2021) covers essential concepts in the field of solar energy conversion:
- Solar Energy Conversion Methods: Definitions related to thermal absorption (solar thermal) and the photovoltaic effect (photovoltaics).
- Solar Radiation Measurement: Terms for instruments like pyrheliometers, pyranometers, and sunphotometers, including reference and standard types.
- Optical Properties: Concepts such as absorptance, reflectance, transmittance, extinction, and optical mass are clarified to ensure accurate discussions of solar energy performance.
- Glass for Solar Applications: Terminology for glass types, optical distortion, and surface quality for components used in solar collectors and PV modules.
- Radiometric Quantities: Definitions around electromagnetic radiation including spectral irradiance, radiant flux, air mass, and related measurement practices.
- Instrument Classes and Calibration: Standard terms for instrument calibration, classification, and reference standards to guarantee measurement traceability and reliability.
Applications
The standardized terminology in ASTM E772-15(2021) provides practical benefits across a wide range of solar energy activities:
- System Design and Engineering: Ensures designers and engineers use consistent terms when specifying materials, components, and measurement methods for solar energy systems.
- Performance Measurement: Facilitates accurate discussion and reporting of solar irradiance, collector efficiency, and photovoltaic module output.
- Component Testing and Quality Assurance: Guides laboratory and field settings for glass characterization, instrument calibration, and environmental exposure assessments to assess durability and performance.
- Data Sharing and International Collaboration: Encourages clear communication for research, manufacturing, and deployment of solar technologies by providing globally-recognized definitions.
- Instrument Calibration and Traceability: Establishes a reference for the calibration of radiometric instruments, supporting accurate solar resource assessment vital for PV and solar thermal project planning.
Related Standards
The content of ASTM E772-15(2021) is linked closely with several other standards, both within ASTM’s portfolio and internationally, which address specific aspects of solar energy systems and measurements:
- ASTM E490: Standard Solar Constant and Zero Air Mass Solar Spectral Irradiance Tables
- ASTM E491: Practices for Solar Simulation for Thermal Balance Testing of Spacecraft
- ASTM E948, E1036: Electrical Performance of Photovoltaic Cells and Modules
- ASTM E816, E1021, E1125, E1362, E1462, E2236, E2527: Test methods for calibration and performance of photovoltaic and solar measurement devices
- ASTM C162, C1048, C1651: Glass and glass product standards relevant to solar applications
- ISO 9060: Specification and Classification of Instruments for Measuring Solar Radiation
- WMO-No. 8: Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation
Conclusion
By employing the terminology defined in ASTM E772-15(2021), professionals in the solar energy sector can communicate more clearly and accurately. Ensuring consistent use of terms supports innovation, regulatory compliance, quality assurance, and the global adoption of solar technologies. This standard is essential for anyone involved in the design, measurement, manufacturing, or deployment of solar energy systems.