Harrisburg, Pa.-based Tyco Electronics (TE) has developed the SOLARLOK slim junction box. This junction box, measuring 15.5 mm by 52 mm, distributes DC power to a solar panel in a compact design with low visibility on the back of a panel, the company says.
The TUV Rheinland-approved product meets stringent industry requirements and offers a 20-year product-life performance. Targeted applications include two-rail crystalline PV modules and two-rail thin-film PV modules, with a 12 A current rating for crystalline applications and a 3 A current rating for thin-film applications.
The junction box reduces purchasing costs by offering a total assembly that includes solar-rated cables, which are available in various lengths to suit a wide variety of applications, TE adds. The assembly also includes IP67-rated SOLARLOK connectors, which produce an audible click to ensure proper installation and include a locking latch feature that meets code requirements.
A key feature of the junction box assembly includes a spring clamp for termination of the foil leads, which clamps to the contact rail inside the box for increased overall reliability and ease of termination. This feature also eliminates the labor-intensive task of soldering, TE notes.
SOURCE: Tyco Electronics
