ASTM E1596-99
Standard Test Methods for Solar Radiation Weathering of Photovoltaic Modules

Standard No.

ASTM E1596-99

Release Date

1999

Published By

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

Status

Withdraw 2008-05

Latest

ASTM E1596-99

Scope

1.1 The three radiant energy weathering procedures described in these test methods are intended to determine the effects of extended outdoor exposure-induced stress that may occur during service life of photovoltaic modules.

1.1.1 Because most accelerated weathering devices are not large enough to accept full-sized photovoltaic modules, the simulated weathering test procedures may be suitable only for smaller test modules. The construction of smaller test modules should be as close in design and function as possible to full-size modules.

1.2 The three solar weathering test methods are as follows:

1.2.1 Procedure A -Natural sunlight, real-time exposure testing,

1.2.2 Procedure B -Accelerated exposure testing concentrated natural sunlight, and

1.2.3 Procedure C -Accelerated exposure testing using simulated sunlight.

1.3 The test methods do not provide for weathering studies on individual components of photovoltaic modules.

1.4 There is no similar or equivalent ISO 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

ASTM E1596-99 Referenced Document

• ASTM E1036 Standard Test Methods for Electrical Performance of Nonconcentrator Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules and Arrays Using Reference Cells*， 2019-04-01 Update
• ASTM E1328 Standard Terminology Relating to Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conversion
• ASTM E1462 Standard Test Methods for Insulation Integrity and Ground Path Continuity of Photovoltaic Modules*， 2018-02-01 Update
• ASTM E772 Standard Terminology Relating to Solar Energy Conversion
• ASTM G26 Practice for Operating Light-Exposure Apparatus (Xenon-Arc Type) With and Without Water for Exposure of Nonmetallic Materials (Withdrawn 2000)*， 2021-02-18 Update
• ASTM G7 Standard Practice for Atmospheric Environmental Exposure Testing of Nonmetallic Materials
• ASTM G90 Standard Practice for Performing Accelerated Outdoor Weathering of Nonmetallic Materials Using Concentrated Natural Sunlight

ASTM E1596-99 history

• 1999 ASTM E1596-99 Standard Test Methods for Solar Radiation Weathering of Photovoltaic Modules