Solar Panel Hail Impact Test Machine – IEC 61215 Compliant

HTPV-09 Solar panels PV photovoltaic modules test hail impact testing machine IEC 61215

Why Hail Testing Matters

Solar panels installed on rooftops or in open fields face more than just sunlight—they also face hailstorms. Hailstones falling from hundreds of meters can strike with significant force, potentially cracking tempered glass, creating hidden cell fractures, or even breaking internal connections. The result? Reduced power output or complete panel failure.

The IEC 61215 standard addresses this threat through MQT 17 (Hail Impact Test), which verifies that solar modules can withstand real-world hail strikes. After testing, panels must show no serious appearance defects, less than 5% power degradation, and pass insulation resistance tests.

How the Machine Works

Think of it as a precision "air cannon" that fires artificial ice balls at solar panels to simulate hailstorms. Here's how it operates:

Pneumatic Launch System

Compressed air (6–8 bar) stored in a tank powers the launch. An electromagnetic valve releases the air instantly, propelling the ice ball through the barrel. Speed is controlled by adjusting air pressure.

Ice Ball Production & Speed Measurement

Special molds (available in sizes from 25mm to 75mm) are filled with water and frozen at around -10°C. Before impact, the speed is measured using infrared sensors—the system calculates velocity by timing how long the ice ball blocks the light beam. Typical speed: 23.0 m/s (±5%) for 25mm ice balls.

Precision Positioning Platform

The launcher moves automatically on X/Y axes via PC control, with positioning accuracy within ±1mm—ensuring each impact hits the exact target point specified by the standard, such as the center, corners, or junction box area.

Key Capabilities at a Glance

This machine is built to meet multiple international standards including IEC 61215, IEC 61646, and UL1703. It supports ice ball diameters ranging from 25mm to 75mm, with interchangeable barrels for quick switching. The impact speed range covers 23.0 to 39.5 m/s with a tolerance of ±5%, and the system can accommodate panels up to 2000×2000mm (custom sizes available upon request). Speed measurement accuracy is maintained within ±5%, and the entire unit operates on standard compressed air at 6–8 bar.

From "Passing Grade" to "Extreme Protection"

While basic IEC 61215 certification requires withstanding 25mm ice balls at about 80 km/h, many manufacturers now test beyond the standard. Some have successfully challenged panels with 45mm ice balls (43.9g mass) at speeds up to 110 km/h—representing 10 times the kinetic energy of the baseline test. The result? Panels survived with just 0.2% power loss, far exceeding requirements.

For regions with severe hail risks, newer guidelines like IEC TS 63397:2022 provide additional testing frameworks specifically for "enhanced hail resistance" panels.

Why Choose Our Machine

Full IEC 61215 compliance built specifically for MQT 17 testing. Multi-caliber support lets you switch between 25–75mm ice balls with interchangeable barrels. The automated positioning system allows you to program up to 9 impact points per test cycle. Infrared targeting with laser spot positioning ensures precise aiming. Safety features include a debris collection trough and protective shielding. All critical components use imported guide rails, servo motors, and CNC-machined molds for long-term reliability.

Who Needs This Equipment

Solar panel manufacturers use it for quality assurance and certification. Testing laboratories rely on it to offer IEC 61215 certification services. R&D departments employ it to develop hail-resistant panel designs. Utility-scale project developers verify reliability for severe weather regions.