A Review of Models for Photovoltaic Crack and Hotspot Prediction

Abstract

The accurate prediction of the performance output of photovoltaic (PV) installations is becoming ever more prominent. Its success can provide a considerable economic benefit, which can be adopted in maintenance, installation, and when calculating levelized cost. However, modelling the long-term performance output of PV modules is quite complex, particularly because multiple factors are involved. This article investigates the available literature relevant to the modelling of PV module performance drop and failure. A particular focus is placed on cracks and hotspots, as these are deemed to be the most influential. Thus, the key aspects affecting the accuracy of performance simulations were identified and the perceived relevant gaps in the literature were outlined. One of the findings demonstrates that microcrack position, orientation, and the severity of a microcrack determines its impact on the PV cell’s performance. Therefore, this aspect needs to be categorized and considered accordingly, for achieving accurate predictions. Additionally, it has been identified that physical modelling of microcracks is currently a considerable challenge that can provide beneficial results if executed appropriately. As a result, suggestions have been made towards achieving this, through the use of methods and software such as XFEM and Griddler.

Recent Advances in Floating Photovoltaic Systems

“…PV cracking can be caused by a variety of factors, including a variation of the ambient temperature between day and night (thermal cycling), the humidity of the air or from the water bodies installed on it, variation of pressure due to wind, heavy hail, and mechanical stress due to PV transportation. Although larger cracks can be observed by the naked eye, microcracks need imaging techniques that are essential for detecting them [113] . Identifying these cracks can help in preventing further damage to PV materials.…”

“…Although larger cracks can be observed by the naked eye, microcracks need imaging techniques that are essential for detecting them. [113] Identifying these cracks can help in preventing further damage to PV materials. This damage may include oxidation and corrosion of the metallic contacts.…”

Photovoltaic Bypass Diode Fault Detection Using Artificial Neural Networks

“…In addition, the faulty conditions of PV modules, such as faults in bypass diodes or DC arcing, can result in current leakage. For example, in [20], the authors proposed a communication-assisted overcurrent protection scheme for photovoltaic (PV)-based dc microgrids, and in a recent review paper [21], it was summarized that PV defects such as hotspots or cracks can also lead to leakage of the PV modules and can be somewhat mitigated using integrable power electronics devices.…”

Effect of Solder Flux on Resistive Solder Bond Hotspot Generation in Photovoltaic Module Circuit Process and Restoration of Hotspot Module

“…[ 10,11 ] Shade, soiling, and broken cells or connection failures (metallization, interconnects) may all result in hotspots in areas where considerable currents flow through resistive zones. [ 12 ] Hotspots due to the resistive solder bond (RSB) between the interconnect wire (ribbon) and the lower bus bar are the most serious cause of power reduction and failure in PV modules. [ 13 ] Figure 1 depicts actual photographs of RSB hotspots created from the module's front (Figure 1a) and back (Figure 1b).…”