IEC 61345-1998 PDF

Full title and description

IEC 61345:1998 — "UV test for photovoltaic (PV) modules". Defines a laboratory test method to determine the ability of a photovoltaic module to withstand exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the spectral range 280 nm to 400 nm, and to evaluate the UV resistance of module constituent materials (polymers, coatings, encapsulants, backsheets, etc.).

Abstract

This standard specifies procedures for exposing complete photovoltaic modules or representative materials to controlled ultraviolet radiation and for assessing effects such as optical and electrical degradation, material embrittlement, discolouration and loss of protective function. It is intended to support durability and qualification testing of PV modules, typically used alongside other environmental and mechanical tests in PV qualification programmes.

General information

• Status: Withdrawn (withdrawal recorded in June 2017).
• Publication date: 26 February 1998 (Edition 1.0).
• Publisher: International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
• ICS / categories: 27.160 — Solar energy engineering / Photovoltaic systems.
• Edition / version: Edition 1.0 (1998).
• Number of pages: National publication listings vary (common publisher listings show 10–11 pages depending on national adoption). For example, the IEC national adoption listing shows 11 pages for the English text.

Scope

The scope covers a laboratory UV-exposure test procedure for photovoltaic modules and module materials intended to simulate the effects of sunlight UV radiation in the 280–400 nm band. The procedure includes guidance on sample preparation, recommended preconditioning (typically after or in conjunction with preconditioning procedures from IEC 61215 or IEC 61646), exposure parameters (spectral range, irradiance, temperature control) and assessment of resulting degradation. The test is intended to be one element in a broader qualification or type-approval programme for PV modules.

Key topics and requirements

• Definition of the UV spectral range for the test (280 nm–400 nm) and general irradiance requirements.
• Sample preparation and recommended preconditioning — guidance to perform UV testing after appropriate pre-exposures such as those specified in IEC 61215 / IEC 61646.
• Test cycle and duration principles (controlled, repeatable laboratory exposure to simulate long-term UV ageing).
• Assessment criteria and measurements to detect material and module degradation (visual inspection, optical properties, and electrical performance where applicable).
• Application notes on using UV test results as part of a combined environmental qualification programme rather than as a standalone pass/fail in all cases.

Typical use and users

Used by photovoltaic module manufacturers, independent test laboratories, certification and conformity assessment bodies, research organisations studying long-term PV durability, and standards committees developing and harmonising PV qualification procedures. Typical use is as one of several environmental tests to evaluate material and module resistance to sunlight-driven UV degradation.

Related standards

Commonly referenced together with PV qualification and durability standards such as IEC 61215 (crystalline silicon PV modules — design qualification and type approval) and IEC 61646 (thin film PV modules). National/adopted variants exist as EN/BS/SS/ÖNORM versions (EN 61345 / BS EN 61345 / SS‑EN 61345, etc.). Note: IEC 61345:1998 was withdrawn in 2017 and its UV test content may have been incorporated or superseded by later or consolidated PV testing documents and national adoptions — users should check the latest PV qualification standards and national adoptions for current UV-testing requirements.

Keywords

UV test, ultraviolet, photovoltaic modules, PV modules, UV ageing, polymer degradation, encapsulant, backsheet, IEC 61345, module qualification.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: IEC 61345:1998 specifies a laboratory ultraviolet (UV) exposure test for photovoltaic (PV) modules to assess resistance to UV radiation (280–400 nm).

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers test method parameters, sample preparation, recommended preconditioning (typically in conjunction with IEC 61215 / IEC 61646 procedures), exposure conditions and assessment of material and module degradation after UV exposure.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: PV module manufacturers, independent test labs and certification bodies use the test to evaluate materials and finished modules as part of durability and type‑approval programmes. Researchers studying long‑term PV reliability also use the method.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: IEC 61345:1998 was withdrawn in June 2017. Users should consult current IEC/EN national publications and the latest PV qualification standards for the present state of UV testing requirements and any successor documents.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It is associated with the family of PV qualification and durability standards (for example IEC 61215 and IEC 61646). National adoptions (EN/BS/SS/ÖNORM listings) exist under EN 61345 in several countries.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: UV test, ultraviolet, PV module, photovoltaic, ageing, encapsulant, backsheet, IEC 61345.