Overview
IEC 62787:2021, established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), sets out the qualification requirements for concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) solar cells and cell on carrier (CoC) assemblies. It provides a standardized approach to assess the optoelectronic, mechanical, thermal, and processing characteristics of CPV cells and CoCs intended for integration into CPV receivers, modules, and systems. The standard ensures that these components can reliably withstand assembly and operational environments, as well as meet the requirements for downstream CPV module qualification (e.g., IEC 62108 compliance).
By defining comprehensive qualification tests at both the bare cell and CoC assembly levels, IEC 62787:2021 supports manufacturers, engineers, and quality assurance professionals in validating the robustness and performance of high-concentration PV components. It is a critical reference for stakeholders seeking to ensure longevity, safety, and efficiency in advanced solar energy systems.
Key Topics
- Scope of Qualification: Outlines minimum qualification criteria for both bare CPV solar cells and cell on carrier (CoC) assemblies.
- Optoelectronic and Mechanical Testing: Details tests for electrical performance (e.g., illumination I-V, dark I-V), physical durability (adhesion, bond strength, solderability), and thermal performance.
- Environmental and Process Resilience: Ensures CPV cells and CoCs can withstand high temperature, thermal cycling, humidity, and mechanical stresses typical of CPV operation.
- Sample Selection & Marking: Provides procedures for random sampling across production lots and requirements for product identification, ensuring traceability and quality control.
- Characterization Methods: Specifies accepted test methods including light/dark I-V measurements, scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM) for CoCs, visual inspections, and thermal resistance measurements.
- Performance Pass Criteria: Defines pass/fail metrics, including thresholds for power degradation, mechanical failures, and visual defects, in line with industry best practices.
- Documentation Requirements: Stipulates comprehensive reporting and traceability for all qualification tests, including modifications or requalification triggers.
Applications
IEC 62787 is essential for:
- Manufacturers of CPV components: To validate product quality before market entry or integration into CPV systems.
- System Integrators and Developers: For ensuring that components sourced and assembled meet international performance and reliability benchmarks.
- Quality Assurance and Certification Bodies: As the basis for product certification, conformity assessment, and compliance auditing in the CPV industry.
- Research and Development Teams: To support innovation in solar cell technologies where robust environmental and mechanical performance is critical.
- Procurement and Supply Chain Management: For specifying component requirements and establishing supplier qualification standards.
By adopting IEC 62787, stakeholders in the solar photovoltaic sector gain confidence in the durability and suitability of CPV solar cells and assemblies used in high concentration photovoltaic systems, especially where demanding outdoor and assembly conditions are prevalent.
Related Standards
- IEC 62108: Concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) modules and assemblies - Design qualification and type approval
- IEC 60904-1-1: Photovoltaic devices - Measurement of current-voltage characteristics of multi-junction PV devices
- IEC 60749 series: Semiconductor devices - Mechanical and climatic test methods (including bond strength, solderability, and storage at high temperature)
- IEC 62670-1: Photovoltaic concentrators (CPV) - Performance testing - Standard conditions
- IEC TS 61836: Solar photovoltaic energy systems - Terms, definitions, and symbols
- IEC 61000-4-2: Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Electrostatic discharge immunity test
- IEC 61193-2: Quality assessment systems - Sampling plans for inspection of electronic components and packages
For organizations working with CPV solar cells and CoC assemblies, adhering to IEC 62787:2021 not only supports compliance with industry-recognized benchmarks but also facilitates seamless integration with related standards across the photovoltaic industry.