Thermal infrared surveying of a solar fields is a great way to commission solar installations in-situ. After analyzing and commissioning over five gigawatts of solar panels, we have figured out what works, and importantly -what does not work.
All solar fields are not created equal. To successfully accomplish the testing under good conditions, many factors need to be predicted with accuracy. Before planning a site visit, the thermographer must consider the size, orientation and layout of the field, the types and condition of the panels, how the panels are wired, and the best timing of the survey -including the ambient weather conditions (such as rain, sun, clouds, wind speed), and the angle and intensity of the Sun, preceding and during the survey. Then infrared imager selection and the correct timing of the survey. Timing is a very important factor as solar insolation (the intensity of radiation striking the panels) is critical to successful testing. After the survey, imagery is saved, and the report of findings is created, customized to needs of the owner.
Categories of problems that typically found in solar installations:
A. During Commissioning Surveys
- Design Flaws
- Construction Defects
- Manufacturing or Transport Damaged Products
B. For Maintenance Surveys
- Improper Maintenance Practices
- Inaccurate SCADA data
- Deterioration of Hardware