We've always used canned air for cleaning any connectors left exposed even overnight since condensation's always up before me.
And since connecting them causes a metal-to-metal interference fit a layer of dust would seem to be of little consequence unless disconnected and re-connected. Moisture of some sort might cause a problem too but the tin plating should be resistant to a corrosive reaction unless its electrical in nature. But all bets are off if it's non-compatible brands [MC compatible etc] like so many modules claim to be now. And while on the topic, Photon magazines article on connector testing a year or two ago shows we do have reasons to worry. It's a shame that some of the connector manufacturers haven't come forward on this site with more information on use and misuse of their products. Does MC.com still have their downloadable installation video that offered "certification" training? Jim Duncan North Texas Renewable Energy Inc <http://www.ntrei.com/> www.ntrei.com NABCEP PV 031310-57 TECL-27398 <mailto:[email protected]> [email protected] 817.917.0527 From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of benn kilburn Sent: Friday, November 23, 2012 11:56 PM To: RE-wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] Protecting/Cleaning un-connected MC Connectors Wrenches, Considering the (sometimes redundant) details that some areas of module and micro-inverter install manuals describe, I have never read mention of paying attention of the condition of the (connector type) regarding moisture or dirt/dust prior to connecting. Perhaps this just gets thrown into the 'common sense' department, but considering the probability of these connectors being exposed to the elements (morning dew/rain/snow, blowing dirt/dust, bugs.) prior to being connected, and the fact that these connections will most likely be then sealed for years to come, does it not warrant pointing out that one should make efforts to protect the connectors if they are not being connected promptly after removing the modules from their shipping packaging? When we have a project and we have installed the (micro-inverters and/or modules) and did not get to making the MC connections that day and have to go back, I always make sure that any un-made connectors are protected. It used to be with whatever plastic parts bags we had on hand and some electrical tape to hold them on, then I started keeping on the truck a small roll of packing shrink wrap which works great. I wonder, am I the only one who does this, or is this a common practice amongst Wrenches? Why do I bring this up??? I was recently asked to complete an installation where modules had already been mounted to a ground mount rack, and left unconnected. I'm not sure how long they have been sitting on the rack, I didn't ask but would guess a month or three. Upon inspection I noticed that the inside of the module connectors have accumulated a distinct layer of dust and by the amount of snow we have on the ground they have surely been exposed to some level of moisture. This leaves me with some hesitations and questions. Obviously the layer of dust will inhibit the electrical connection and result in some level of resistance, so what methods are available to thoroughly clean the contact points? (think getting inside/around both the "+" and "-" connector pins). I don't think that compressed air alone would be sufficient, but perhaps compressed air and a pretty small hose brush might work? Have any of you used contact cleaner in a situation like this? Comments/suggestions.. Cheers, benn DayStar Renewable Energy Inc. www.daystarsolar.ca * Ph: 780-906-7807 Construction Electrician Solar Photovoltaic Systems Certified Certificate # 0007S HAVE A SUNNY DAY
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