PV stands for Photovoltaic. The PV Bypass Diodes are used for solar panel protection when partial shading occurs across a solar panel due to leaves or trees.
Applications & Functions:
- Hot Spot Mitigation: When cells are shaded, they can act as resistors, drawing power from the unshaded cells and generating intense heat (hot spots) that damage the panel. Diodes bypass these cells, preventing overheating and fire risk.
- Reduced Power Loss: Instead of the entire string failing, diodes reroute current, minimizing energy loss and allowing the unshaded parts of the panel to continue producing power efficiently.
- Improved System Efficiency: By managing performance under partial shading, diodes ensure the array operates closer to its maximum power point, boosting overall energy yield, especially in complex urban environments.
- Enhanced Reliability & Lifespan: Protecting cells from reverse voltage and extreme heat reduces stress, contributing to the module’s longevity.
- Fault Tolerance: They make the system more resilient to localized issues like dirt, bird droppings, or minor cell damage, preventing system-wide shutdowns.