Class A Fire Rated Solar Panels

In the absence of a fire rating for pv systems it may seem appropriate to use the fire rating of the pv modules in order to ensure the desired result of retaining the roof assembly s original fire classification.

Class a fire rated solar panels.

In particular these tests were initiated in response to questions from stakeholders about the language in the ul guide card that stated that pv modules. Are to be performed for the fire resistance qualification of pv modules in the roof area. Required tests for system fire class rating of pv module or panel with mounting system in combination with roof coverings table 31 2 test tests over representative roof coverings class aclass bclass c spread of flame on top surface of module or panel section 31 1 2 a flame spread less than. The pv system consists of the racking system and the pv solar panels module as an assembly.

I ve heard that several ahjs are now going in this direction. In the article the author states that racking systems from solardock and solar panels. Ul 1703 fire classification requirements. Is it true that solar panels must have a fire rating that is equal to what is required of the roofing material.

Solar abcs research investigates whether and how the presence of stand off mounted pv arrays may affect the fire class rating of common roof covering materials. This is what some authorities having jurisdiction ahj have done. Some solar panels for example include a backing of highly combustible plastic. The general requirement for roofing systems in the ibc refers to a class c fire rating.

Several people involved in the creation of the new fire regulations respond to this article. Fire class rating of pv systems. We are writing to address several statements in the recent solar power world article titled new class a fire regulations closer than you think published aug. In laboratory based fire tests of roof assemblies 1 2 the maximum allowable fire spread is between approximately 20 and 40 ft 2 1 9 and 3 7 m 2 depending on whether an a b or c rating is desired.

Class a fire rating background all roofing products are tested and classified for their ability to resist fire. The pv modules are rated in classes a b or c whereby class c comprises the minimum requirements. I understand that there has been a change in the requirements for california regarding the fire ratings pv panels modules are required to be minimum class b fire rated. Specifically this requires the modules mounting hardware and roof covering to be tested together as.

Recently these fire resistance standards were expanded to include solar equipment as part of the roof system. Class a or b is required for areas such as wildland urban interface areas wui and very high fire severity areas. 19 2014 that we believe are inaccurate.