6 REC Installation Manual - N-Peak - IEC 61215 /61730Rev C - 07.19 Ref: NE-06-22PaNEL INSTaLLaTIONREC solar panels are designed for capturing solar radiation and are not suitable for use as overhead or vertical glazing. The IP rating of the junctionbox provides a level of protection that allows panels to be mounted in any orientation (see product technical specifications for exact rating).Panels must be installed so that the cells are not shaded as this will drastically reduce electrical output. If partial shading is inevitableat certain times of the day or year, it must be kept to an absolute minimum.There are different options for securing REC solar panels depending on the design of the array. Ensure the mounting structure can withstandanticipated wind and snow loads. Mounting hardware is not supplied by REC. Follow the mounting hardware manufacturer’s instructions andrecommendations at all times.Remove any labels or stickers that may be on the front of the panels and ensure no residue is left on the glass.There must be a minimum clearance gap of 60 mm between the uppermost part of the installation surface (e.g., rooftop) and the lowestpart of the panel (i.e., underside of panel frame) to avoid any damage to the panel and to ensure sufficient airflow for cooling, helpingto improve performance. The surface below the panels must be kept clear of any objects that may cause damage to the panel.rail sPECifiCatioNsREC solar panels are typically installed on a rail-based mounting system. Rails must be suitable for the intended installation and able to withstandanticipated snow and wind loads. When using mounting rails, ensure they run underneath the panel to provide support to the frame. The positioningof the rail must ensure that the minimum clamp grip length and the central point of the fixation, e.g., the bolt, is fully within the required clampingzone as indicated on the following pages.ClaMP sPECifiCatioNsEnsure the clamps used are rigid and suitable for the planned installation and expected system design loads.• Minimum grip length of 40 mm; a grip depth of 5 - 10 mm (fig. 1). The grip area must not extend onto the panel glass and/or cause cell shading,• Each panel must be clamped at a minimum of four points, in each quarter of the panel, as illustrated on the subsequent pages,• Clamp installation must be carried out according to the manufacturer’s instructions, including specific hardware and torque requirements,• avoid the application of excessive pressure to prevent frame deformation.Fig. 1: Clamp specifications: End and mid-clampsIn areas of snow build-up panels can be subjected to forces in excess of the stated limit even when snow depth does not appear extreme,causing damage to the framework. If the installation is likely to be affected by this, further suitable panel support is recommended,especially on the lower row of panels.In the case of any questions regarding mounting systems, or if the mounting system to be used does not match any of the instructionsshown in this installation manual, please contact REC for further support.Min. grip depth: 5 mmMin. grip depth: 5 mmMin. grip length:40 mmMax. grip depth: 10 mmMax. grip depth: 10 mmMin. grip length:40 mm