Solar

Improve product performance and reliability at a fraction of the cost of hermetic sealing

In solar applications, electronics and other equipment are exposed to varying climate conditions that can that can impact the effectiveness of the product. Rapid changes in temperature due to component heat dissipation and environmental conditions cause dramatic pressure changes inside junction boxes, power inverters, thermo collectors or concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) modules. For example, rain or snow can easily cause the internal pressure to drop and create a vacuum of 200 mbar (3psi) or more inside the enclosure, resulting in extreme stress on the enclosure seals and deflection of the CPV panel lens. If the internal pressure is not equalized, the vacuum will draw in contaminants and moisture, eventually causing the seal and the unit to fail.

Venting for protection

GORE® Protective vents provide the best solution for equalizing pressure in solar applications. Key to that solution is the proprietary GORE® membrane used in the vents, which allows air to flow freely into and out of the enclosure. At the same time, its unique hydrophobic and oleophobic properties prevent dirt particles, salt, water, and other corrosive liquids from entering the enclosure. Due to their rugged design, these vents also provide an effective barrier against harsh weather conditions (e.g. rain, snow, high winds).

Cost Optimization

The unique characteristics of GORE® Protective Vents extend the service life of junction boxes, CPV modules, thermo collectors and other electronics in solar application by protecting them against the negative effects of pressure differentials and harmful contaminants. They help reduce maintenance costs and warranty claims  and thus reduce the total cost of ownership - an important competitive advantage in a highly cost sensitive market with a long depreciation time. They also help increase efficiency by reducing the likelihood of condensation and contaminate build-up on the CPV lens. At the same time, pressure fluctuations that could result in lens deflection are reduced.

Diverse Product Line Engineered for Simple Integration

GORE® Protective Vents are manufactured in a variety of sizes and shapes, making it easy to choose the right vent for any application. With a diverse product portfolio, these vents are easy to integrate into new or existing designs to meet the needs of a broad range of applications and markets. Their vesatility is apparent in both their range of protection and their ease of installation.

For example, these vents:

• Tolerate Temperatures ranging from -40°C to 125°C
• Comply with the protection standards up to IP69K
• Provide integrated mechanical protection for applications in harsh environments
• Install Easily - thread, snap,bolt or heat/ultrasonic - weld to variety of enclosure materials

Proven Application Expertise and Experience

With more than fifty years in membrane research and technology, W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc. has combined this expertise with an extensive understanding of electronic device design to create innovative, leading edge venting solutions. Gore continues to study the design and manufacturing needs of the electronic products industry in areas such as temperature and pressure fluctuations, reliability, testing methods, product standards and performance requirements.  You can rely on Sealing Devices to provide innovative materials to help equalize pressure and protect against fluids and contaminants.