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The cable industry has launched cables on the market which can be used in photovoltaic systems for longer periods of time. Nexans’ ENERGYFLEX™ belongs to this new generation. The incentive for the development of these types of cable were faults in the insulation of rubber-insulated conductors which were often used in the past for photovoltaics (PV) for conducting current from the PV module to the current inverter. These shortcomings impaired not only function, but also endangered both people and animals.
The causes were many and varied: the cables did not dry out so well in the shadow, which is why moss, lichens, worms, insects and also micro-organisms (mould, algae, bacteria) had free reign here. Damage then occurred, for example, due to metabolites as they destroyed the insulation chemically. Old-generation cables exposed to sun can also be damaged by visible sunlight and UV radiation. The latter has a negative influence on the molecular structure of the sheath. The influence of ozone is relevant both in the shade and in sunlight: the rubber sheath can become brittle. This effect was underestimated in the past.
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ENERGYFLEX™ is also resistant to UV light and ozone and is therefore suitable for use as a PV cable over more than 25 years.
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Protection against the effects of UV radiation and ozone
ENERGYFLEX™ from Nexans is also prepared for such influences. The cable was designed for use in PV equipment on the direct voltage side and is suitable for a maximum of 1.8 kV (conductor/conductor, non-earthed system). Different nominal cross-sections ranging from 1.5 mm² to 240 mm² are available. ENERGYFLEX™ is halogen-free, which provides added protection in the case of a fire, is flame-retardant and is easy to strip and lay in order to guarantee optimum handling.
The properties of ENERGYFLEX™ enable fault-free operation for over 25 years as the cable is not only protected against light, UV radiation and the effects of ozone, but also designed for a wider temperature range of between -40°C and 120°C. In addition, its sheath is resistant to the usual chemical influences as well as constant mechanical load, such as pinches at the assembly sockets. There is no need for concern about brittleness, hair-line cracks or corrosion even in the long term.
This improved property profile was made possible by the two-layer sheath. The core is encased by polyolefin insulation. This in turn is encased by a mix of polyolefins, which are also meshed and, due to additives, are resistant to chemicals, oil, ozone and UV light. The outer sheath is especially impervious and smooth and therefore offers little purchase for micro-organisms.
The fact that ENERGYFLEX™ will also retain the desired properties after two decades of use was tested by Nexans technicians in extensive laboratory tests and in the climatic chamber. In addition, the cable is TÜV II approved according to 2Pfg 1169/08-2007 (TÜV = German Technical Inspectorate) and is undergoing UL certification (US testing laboratory).
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