What are Polycrystalline Solar Panels

written by: Roel Freriks; article published: year 2010, month 04;

In: Root » Home and family » Appliances

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Polycrystalline solar panels are made from silicon wafers cut from multi-crystal silicon (they are also known as multicrystalline panels) and are also more efficient than amorphous panels. Polycrystalline panels are usually smaller than monocrystalline panels but are slightly less efficient. These panels are used for small-medium scale solar applications.

Polycrystalline panels are excellent for all small solar applications like RV's and 4WD's. Larger polycrystalline modules are also suitable for domestic and business solar installations. Their efficiency is around 12% and do suffer from reduced output when partially covered by shade. Polycrystalline panels are produced by a range of brands and come in a variety of wattage to suit various applications.

Polycrystalline modules come in both 12 volt modules to cater for 12V power systems and 24 volt modules for larger installations. They can be linked in parallel to maintain a 12V/24V system or can be linked in series to create a higher voltage system. These modules have proven performance at high temperatures and generally feature a robust design makes the product durable in the field and easy to install.

A polycrystalline solar panel is made from a block of silicon that has multiple crystals. These panels are square in shape, and may have a surface that looks somewhat like a mosaic due to all of the different crystals that make up the panel. Other types of panels may appear smooth and even, because they are made up of only silicon crystals, whereas the Polycrystalline looks fragmented and angular. The lifespan of a polycrystalline cell is a minimum of twenty-five years and can be more than fifty, making them a worthwhile investment for long term use.

You can find more information on solar panels in general or polycrystalline solar panels online.

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