ASTM E1597-10(2019)
(Test Method)Standard Test Method for Saltwater Pressure Immersion and Temperature Testing of Photovoltaic Modules for Marine Environments
Standard Test Method for Saltwater Pressure Immersion and Temperature Testing of Photovoltaic Modules for Marine Environments
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The useful life of photovoltaic modules deployed in marine applications (such as floating aids-to-navigation) may depend on the ability to withstand repeated exposure to salt atmosphere, immersion in seawater, and the temperature changes associated with seawater splash falling on modules operating in sunlight. The effects of these exposures may be physical or electrical changes in the module, or both.
4.2 This test method describes a procedure for positioning the test specimen, conducting a cyclical combined pressure, immersion, and temperature (PIT) test, and reporting the results. It also references methods for conducting module electrical performance and insulation integrity tests.
4.3 Data generated by this test method may be used to evaluate and compare the effects of a simulated marine environment on test specimens. This test method requires recording of visible effects as well as electrical performance.
4.3.1 Effects on modules may vary from none to significant changes. Some physical changes in the module may be visible when there are no apparent electrical changes in the module. Similarly, electrical changes may occur with no visible changes in the module.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method provides a procedure for determining the ability of photovoltaic modules to withstand repeated immersion or splash exposure by seawater as might be encountered when installed in a marine environment, such as a floating aid-to-navigation. A combined environmental cycling exposure with modules repeatedly submerged in simulated saltwater at varying temperatures and under repetitive pressurization provides an accelerated basis for evaluation of aging effects of a marine environment on module materials and construction.
1.2 This test method defines photovoltaic module test specimens and requirements for positioning modules for test, references suitable methods for determining changes in electrical performance and characteristics, and specifies parameters which must be recorded and reported.
1.3 This test method does not establish pass or fail levels. The determination of acceptable or unacceptable results is beyond the scope of this test method.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 31-Mar-2019
- Technical Committee
- E44 - Solar, Geothermal and Other Alternative Energy Sources
- Drafting Committee
- E44.09 - Photovoltaic Electric Power Conversion
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2012
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2012
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2011
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2008
- Effective Date
- 15-Jul-2008
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2007
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2006
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2005
- Effective Date
- 10-Aug-2003
- Effective Date
- 10-May-2003
Overview
ASTM E1597-10(2019), "Standard Test Method for Saltwater Pressure Immersion and Temperature Testing of Photovoltaic Modules for Marine Environments," is an internationally recognized standard developed by ASTM International. This test method outlines procedures for evaluating the durability and performance of photovoltaic (PV) modules when exposed to harsh marine environments, which include repeated immersion in seawater, exposure to salt atmospheres, and temperature fluctuations. The standard is particularly relevant for solar modules installed in marine applications, such as floating aids-to-navigation, where the risk of corrosion, material degradation, and electrical failures are heightened by the presence of saltwater and extreme temperature changes.
Key Topics
- Simulated Marine Exposure: Describes cyclical testing that combines pressure, immersion in simulated saltwater, and temperature changes to closely replicate the challenging conditions found in marine environments.
- Physical and Electrical Assessment: Specifies visual inspections to document physical changes such as corrosion, delamination, or cracking, along with pre- and post-test electrical performance and insulation integrity tests.
- Test Procedure: Addresses the selection and preparation of PV modules, including positioning within a specialized test chamber, preparation of simulated seawater, and detailed steps for conducting pressure-immersion-temperature (PIT) cycles.
- Data Recording and Reporting: Outlines the essential outcomes to document, such as module construction details, test conditions, visual observations, electrical test results, and any procedural deviations.
- No Pass/Fail Criteria: Provides comparative data for durability, leaving acceptance judgment to end-users or relevant regulatory entities.
Applications
The ASTM E1597-10(2019) standard is critical for manufacturers, testing laboratories, and operators of solar technologies deployed in coastal or offshore applications. Its practical uses include:
- Qualification of PV Modules for Marine Use: Ensures solar modules intended for marine environments can withstand corrosion from saltwater, mechanical stresses from water pressure, and thermal cycling from seawater splashes and sunlight.
- Research and Development: Aids in the design and selection of robust materials and encapsulation systems for new PV module models, targeting enhanced longevity and performance in harsh coastal conditions.
- Product Comparison and Certification: Provides a consistent test method for comparing different PV modules or tracking degradation over time, supporting quality assurance, and product certification processes.
- Inspection and Maintenance Planning: The documented visual and electrical changes observed during testing can guide maintenance protocols and predict service lifetimes for existing solar installations in marine environments.
Related Standards
ASTM E1597-10(2019) references several related ASTM standards, including:
- ASTM D1141 - Practice for the Preparation of Substitute Ocean Water: Used for preparing the simulated saltwater solution for PIT testing.
- ASTM E1036 - Test Methods for Electrical Performance of Nonconcentrator Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules and Arrays: Applied in evaluating the electrical characteristics of PV modules before and after marine exposure.
- ASTM E1462 - Test Methods for Insulation Integrity and Ground Path Continuity of Photovoltaic Modules: Referenced for conducting insulation and grounding tests to ensure safe operation.
- ASTM E772 - Terminology of Solar Energy Conversion: Provides consistent terminology throughout the test method.
Summary
By following ASTM E1597-10(2019), stakeholders in the solar energy industry can rigorously assess the long-term durability and safety of photovoltaic modules intended for demanding marine environments. The standard ensures repeatable, objective evaluation procedures, supporting product improvement, risk management, and confidence in solar developments subject to saltwater, pressure, and temperature challenges. Using this standard helps promote reliable marine solar power solutions critical for navigation aids, offshore installations, and other coastal energy needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM E1597-10(2019) is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Method for Saltwater Pressure Immersion and Temperature Testing of Photovoltaic Modules for Marine Environments". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 The useful life of photovoltaic modules deployed in marine applications (such as floating aids-to-navigation) may depend on the ability to withstand repeated exposure to salt atmosphere, immersion in seawater, and the temperature changes associated with seawater splash falling on modules operating in sunlight. The effects of these exposures may be physical or electrical changes in the module, or both. 4.2 This test method describes a procedure for positioning the test specimen, conducting a cyclical combined pressure, immersion, and temperature (PIT) test, and reporting the results. It also references methods for conducting module electrical performance and insulation integrity tests. 4.3 Data generated by this test method may be used to evaluate and compare the effects of a simulated marine environment on test specimens. This test method requires recording of visible effects as well as electrical performance. 4.3.1 Effects on modules may vary from none to significant changes. Some physical changes in the module may be visible when there are no apparent electrical changes in the module. Similarly, electrical changes may occur with no visible changes in the module. SCOPE 1.1 This test method provides a procedure for determining the ability of photovoltaic modules to withstand repeated immersion or splash exposure by seawater as might be encountered when installed in a marine environment, such as a floating aid-to-navigation. A combined environmental cycling exposure with modules repeatedly submerged in simulated saltwater at varying temperatures and under repetitive pressurization provides an accelerated basis for evaluation of aging effects of a marine environment on module materials and construction. 1.2 This test method defines photovoltaic module test specimens and requirements for positioning modules for test, references suitable methods for determining changes in electrical performance and characteristics, and specifies parameters which must be recorded and reported. 1.3 This test method does not establish pass or fail levels. The determination of acceptable or unacceptable results is beyond the scope of this test method. 1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 The useful life of photovoltaic modules deployed in marine applications (such as floating aids-to-navigation) may depend on the ability to withstand repeated exposure to salt atmosphere, immersion in seawater, and the temperature changes associated with seawater splash falling on modules operating in sunlight. The effects of these exposures may be physical or electrical changes in the module, or both. 4.2 This test method describes a procedure for positioning the test specimen, conducting a cyclical combined pressure, immersion, and temperature (PIT) test, and reporting the results. It also references methods for conducting module electrical performance and insulation integrity tests. 4.3 Data generated by this test method may be used to evaluate and compare the effects of a simulated marine environment on test specimens. This test method requires recording of visible effects as well as electrical performance. 4.3.1 Effects on modules may vary from none to significant changes. Some physical changes in the module may be visible when there are no apparent electrical changes in the module. Similarly, electrical changes may occur with no visible changes in the module. SCOPE 1.1 This test method provides a procedure for determining the ability of photovoltaic modules to withstand repeated immersion or splash exposure by seawater as might be encountered when installed in a marine environment, such as a floating aid-to-navigation. A combined environmental cycling exposure with modules repeatedly submerged in simulated saltwater at varying temperatures and under repetitive pressurization provides an accelerated basis for evaluation of aging effects of a marine environment on module materials and construction. 1.2 This test method defines photovoltaic module test specimens and requirements for positioning modules for test, references suitable methods for determining changes in electrical performance and characteristics, and specifies parameters which must be recorded and reported. 1.3 This test method does not establish pass or fail levels. The determination of acceptable or unacceptable results is beyond the scope of this test method. 1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ASTM E1597-10(2019) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 27.160 - Solar energy engineering. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM E1597-10(2019) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM E1597-10(2015), ASTM E1036-15(2019), ASTM E1462-12(2018), ASTM E1036-15, ASTM E772-13, ASTM E1036-12, ASTM E1462-12, ASTM E772-11, ASTM E1036-08, ASTM D1141-98(2008), ASTM E1036-02(2007), ASTM E1462-00(2006), ASTM E772-05, ASTM D1141-98(2003), ASTM E1328-03. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM E1597-10(2019) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E1597 − 10 (Reapproved 2019) An American National Standard
Standard Test Method for
Saltwater Pressure Immersion and Temperature Testing of
Photovoltaic Modules for Marine Environments
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E1597; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This test method provides a procedure for determining
D1141 Practice for the Preparation of Substitute Ocean
the ability of photovoltaic modules to withstand repeated
Water
immersion or splash exposure by seawater as might be encoun-
E772 Terminology of Solar Energy Conversion
tered when installed in a marine environment, such as a
E1036 Test Methods for Electrical Performance of Noncon-
floating aid-to-navigation. A combined environmental cycling
centrator Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules and Arrays
exposure with modules repeatedly submerged in simulated
Using Reference Cells
saltwater at varying temperatures and under repetitive pressur-
E1328 Terminology Relating to Photovoltaic Solar Energy
ization provides an accelerated basis for evaluation of aging
Conversion (Withdrawn 2012)
effects of a marine environment on module materials and
E1462 Test Methods for Insulation Integrity and Ground
construction.
Path Continuity of Photovoltaic Modules
1.2 This test method defines photovoltaic module test speci-
mens and requirements for positioning modules for test,
3. Terminology
references suitable methods for determining changes in elec-
3.1 Definitions—Definitions of terms used in this test
tricalperformanceandcharacteristics,andspecifiesparameters
method may be found in Terminology E772 and Terminology
which must be recorded and reported.
E1328.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
1.3 This test method does not establish pass or fail levels.
3.2.1 PIT, n—Pressure, Immersion, and Temperature.
The determination of acceptable or unacceptable results is
beyond the scope of this test method.
4. Significance and Use
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
4.1 The useful life of photovoltaic modules deployed in
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
marine applications (such as floating aids-to-navigation) may
standard.
depend on the ability to withstand repeated exposure to salt
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
atmosphere, immersion in seawater, and the temperature
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
changes associated with seawater splash falling on modules
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
operating in sunlight. The effects of these exposures may be
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
physical or electrical changes in the module, or both.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
4.2 This test method describes a procedure for positioning
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
the test specimen, conducting a cyclical combined pressure,
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
immersion, and temperature (PIT) test, and reporting the
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
results. It also references methods for conducting module
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
electrical performance and insulation integrity tests.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
4.3 Data generated by this test method may be used to
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
evaluate and compare the effects of a simulated marine
1 2
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E44 on Solar, For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Geothermal and OtherAlternative Energy Sources and is the direct responsibility of contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Subcommittee E44.09 on Photovoltaic Electric Power Conversion. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved April 1, 2019. Published April 2019. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 1994. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as E1597-10(2015). DOI: The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
10.1520/E1597-10R19. www.astm.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E1597 − 10 (2019)
environment on test specimens. This test method requires 6.3.2 Record the results of the visual examination using
recording of visible effects as well as electrical performance. photographs or a diagram of the specimen, or both, showing
the location and type of defect.
4.3.1 Effects on modules may vary from none to significant
changes. Some physical changes in the module may be visible
6.4 Sample Installation in PIT Chamber—Provide each test
when there are no apparent electrical changes in the module.
sample with a means of sealing any open junction box fittings
Similarly,electricalchangesmayoccurwithnovisiblechanges
or feedthroughs if equipped with pigtails. Position the module
in the module.
in the test chamber. Extend any module electrical leads above
the maximum expected saltwater depth.
5. Apparatus
6.5 Simulated Seawater Preparation—Prepare a simulated
5.1 In addition to the apparatus required for Test Methods
seawater solution of sufficient quantity to fill both holding
E1036 and Test Method E1462, the following apparatus is
tanks. An acceptable solution consists of a mixture of 3.63 kg
required.
of dry sea salt for every 94.6 litres of tap water, as in
5.1.1 PIT Chamber—A thermally insulated, pressure-
Specification D1141. The relative density of the solution
resistant test apparatus with a main chamber of sufficient
should be 1.025 6 0.005 at 15°C. Adjust and maintain the
volume to submerge the test modules in simulated seawater
solution temperatures in the two holding tanks to 6 6 3°C and
solution. A means of pressurizing the chamber with com-
45 6 5°C, respectively.
pr
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