hello Wrenches,
Thanks to all for the tips. The cleaning is complete. Did not have a chance
to try WD-40, but that would have been interesting. I wonder why they don't
include the original intent in applications....water displacement, especially
for locks. I forgot to do it this Fall and am "paying the price"....frozen
locks. At any rate, here is the method we use with good success:
- wash with dish soap (Dawn) and rinse to remove bulk grit
- wipe face dry with towel
- apply Krud Kutter to face with scrubee (the kitchen all-surface type, blue in
this case with Scotch Brite one side, sponge other side). I applied the KK to
the sponge directly to avoid spray waste. In this way, a 16 oz. bottle cleaned
70+ modules.
- allow the KK to work for ~ 5 minutes. Be careful as KK contains phosphoric
acid.
- wash entire module with Dawn, rinse and dry.
Vinegar could probably have been substituted as a "safer" alternative to KK,
but in order to work on the most rust-coated modules, it would have taken more
soaking time and multiple applications.
I have before-and-after photos if anyone is interested.
My main concern was that this method did not compromise any coatings on the
glass. It appears that it did not as the glass still has the matte finish that
is typical. But I have no definitive way of telling. We tested Voc and Isc and
the modules test very well. But it got me to thinking that it would be nice to
know actual power rating. I took a look at the Soometric PVA as it will do
individual modules and strings. But in order to determine rated output, you
need to input irradiance and cell temp either with their sensor kit or other
means. I see that there was a thread on this instrument in late Sept. 2010. Any
feedback since then?
thanks again,
tom
Tom DeBates
Habi-Tek
524 Summit St.
Geneva,IL. 60134
630-262-8193
fax 630-262-1343
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