Evaluation of non-uniform mechanical loads on solar modules

Solar Modules are subjected to wind loads, leading to a non-uniform pressure distribution across the module. By means of CFD simulations the pressure profile was calculated. The pressure was transferred to a mechanical simulation calculating the stresses in the glass and solar cells. Applying a reliability concept for brittle materials the probability of failure of glass and cells was evaluated. A parameter study was carried out changing the inclination of the module as well as the wind direction.