ASTM E1462-00(2006),Standard Test Methods for Insulation Integrity and Ground Path Continuity of Photovoltaic Modules.
ASTM E1462-00(2006) cover procedures for (1) testing for current leakage between the electrical circuit of a photovoltaic module and its external components while a user-specified voltage is applied and (2) for testing for possible module insulation breakdown (dielectric voltage withstand test).
ASTM E1462-00(2006) does not establish pass or fail levels. The determination of acceptable or unacceptable results is beyond the scope of this test method.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 Insulation Integrity-Two procedures are provided for testing the isolation of the electrically active parts of the module from the accessible conductive parts and the exposed nonconductive surfaces. This isolation is necessary to provide for safe insulation, use, and service of a photovoltaic module or system.
4.1.1 Dielectric Voltage Withstand Procedure-A ramped voltage is applied between the photovoltaic circuit and the accessible parts and surfaces of the module outside of the photovoltaic circuit while monitoring the current, or by deter- mining whether the leakage current exceeds a predetermined limit. The module is then inspected for evidence of possible arcing.
4.1.2 insulation Resistance Procedure-The insulation re sistance is measured between the photovoltaic circuit and the accessible parts and surfaces of the module outside of the photovoltaic circuit, using a high-impedance ohmmeter.