IEC 61701:2020

Overview

IEC 61701:2020 is an International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard that specifies procedures for salt mist corrosion testing of photovoltaic (PV) modules. This standard provides guidance on evaluating the resistance of PV modules to corrosion in environments with high concentrations of dissolved salt, such as marine locations and regions where de-icing salts are used. By simulating harsh, saline atmospheric conditions, IEC 61701:2020 helps manufacturers, testing agencies, and installers ensure the long-term reliability and durability of PV modules exposed to aggressive, corrosive climates.

Key Topics

• Salt Mist Corrosion Testing: IEC 61701:2020 describes the test sequences used to assess corrosion resistance of PV modules to salt mist containing chloride compounds (such as NaCl and MgCl₂).
• Test Method Selection: The standard provides guidance, including a normative annex, on selecting the appropriate salt mist test method, as described in IEC 60068-2-52, based on the intended installation environment.
• Harmonization and Updates: The 2020 edition aligns salt mist test methods with recent revisions of related standards (IEC 61215-1, IEC 61215-2, IEC 61730-2, IEC 60068-2-52), and removes previous distinctions between crystalline silicon and thin-film PV technologies.
• Bypass Diode Testing: Includes a modified procedure for assessing bypass and blocking diode functionality following salt mist exposure, ensuring continued operational safety and performance.
• Applicability: Addresses both flat plate PV modules and concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) modules with tailored test sequences.
• Comprehensive Test Reporting: Outlines minimum requirements for documenting test procedures, results, deviations, and environmental conditions to facilitate traceability and compliance.

Applications

The IEC 61701:2020 standard is practically valuable across multiple use-cases including:

• PV Module Manufacturers: Incorporate salt mist corrosion resistance testing into product certification and quality control processes to meet international benchmarks, especially for modules marketed for coastal or salt-prone environments.
• Testing Laboratories: Accredited facilities use these procedures to provide third-party validation of PV module resilience, aiding manufacturers and project developers in risk mitigation.
• System Designers and Installers: Reference IEC 61701 when specifying module requirements for installations jeopardized by salty, wet atmospheres-such as in marine, lakeside, or areas with heavy use of de-icing salts.
• Procurement and Regulatory Compliance: Purchasers and regulatory bodies can mandate IEC 61701 testing as part of procurement specifications and incentive programs in regions of high corrosivity.
• Research and Development: Supports innovation in PV module design by identifying vulnerabilities and improving material selection for harsh environmental exposures.

Related Standards

Several international standards are referenced by or closely aligned with IEC 61701:2020:

• IEC 60068-2-52: Environmental testing - Salt mist, cyclic (sodium chloride solution); describes salt mist exposure methods.
• IEC 61215-1 / IEC 61215-2: Test requirements and procedures for the design qualification and type approval of terrestrial PV modules.
• IEC 61730-2: Safety qualification requirements for PV modules, including electrical safety characteristics.
• IEC 62108: Design qualification and type approval for concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) modules and assemblies.
• ISO 9223: Classification, determination, and estimation of corrosivity of atmospheres.
• ISO 9227: Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres-Salt spray tests.

Conclusion

IEC 61701:2020 ensures photovoltaic modules are robust and reliable in corrosive saline environments, supporting global adoption of solar technologies in challenging climates. Adhering to this salt mist corrosion testing standard minimizes the risk of long-term degradation, safeguards power output, and underpins credibility in international PV module supply chains. For anyone involved in the production, testing, procurement, or installation of PV modules in coastal or saline settings, IEC 61701:2020 is a key reference for quality assurance, certification, and product longevity.