Solar Panel Damage Inspection Device "Socrates Portable"

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Socrates Tester Portable (Portable) SCT-81P

last updated：Jul 04, 2023

電子工学センター

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Notify you of invisible wounds with sound and light!!

The "Socrates Portable" is the world's first device that conducts crack detection in solar panels using the eddy current magnetic induction method. If cracks in solar panels are left unattended, there is a possibility that the cracks will spread from that point, allowing moisture to enter, which can eventually lead to patterns known as snail trails appearing on the surface, potentially reducing power generation efficiency. Additionally, if the electrode pattern is broken due to cracks, hot spots can occur, which may lead to fires. Traditionally, crack detection in solar panels required stopping power generation, removing the panels, or flowing a large current while the panels remained installed, capturing the luminescence phenomenon of the panels through photography. The determination of the presence of cracks was also done visually, requiring experience. This product allows for crack detection before installation, after installation (during operation), regardless of daytime or sunset. Moreover, there is no need to flow a large current, so it does not put a burden on the panels. Furthermore, since it is a battery-operated handheld type, it is easy to operate and enables quick crack detection in solar panels.

Related Link - http://www.eec.co.jp/product/socratester/

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basic information

Product Name: Socratester Portable Order Start Date: February 1, 2016 Selling Price: Open Price Size: Width 85.5mm, Depth 170mm, Height 74mm Weight: Approximately 720g (including battery weight) Power Source: Battery-operated (4 AA alkaline batteries) Operating Time: Approximately 10 hours Options: Extension rod (sold separately) Detection Method: Eddy current magnetic induction method Detection Target: Cracks in the rear electrode (length of approximately 20mm or more) Display: 10-segment LED light bar Alarm Sound: Piezoelectric buzzer Operating Temperature Range: 0℃ to +40℃ *2: This device detects cracks in the rear electrode and does not detect cracks or scratches in the front cover glass or back sheet. *3: The information published on this site (product prices/specifications, etc.) may change without notice, so please be aware in advance. *4: This device is precision equipment. Please be careful of sand, dust, condensation, and water exposure as they may cause malfunctions or failures. For details, please refer to the instruction manual.

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Applications/Examples of results

Target for Investigation Silicon crystal type (monocrystalline, polycrystalline) solar panels only (excluding some products) ◎ Case Studies ◎ In recent years, the reuse business for used solar modules has become active. To ship them back to the market as reuse products, pre-inspection is essential, and various inspection processes and costs arise, including cleaning, insulation testing, output measurement, and EL testing. The Socrates Tester demonstrates its power in pre-inspection (sorting) within the reuse cycle. With user-friendly operability that anyone can easily use and the advantages of a handheld type, it quickly sorts out solar modules that are not suitable for reuse. It has also been introduced to a major reuse business company, Company N, and has received positive evaluations.

Detailed information

The world's first! A handheld device that can be used in any exploration scene. Weighing 720g (including battery weight), it operates on four AA alkaline batteries and is compact enough to be held with one hand. There is no need to prepare an exploration space or power supply. You can immediately conduct panel damage inspections wherever you want to explore.
Invisible wounds are notified by LED and buzzer. By passing high-frequency current through the sensor part of the Socratester, eddy currents are generated in the solar panel. The sensor reads the changes in the magnetic field lines from the panel and notifies you of the areas with damage. Even cracks (microcracks) that are not visible to the eye can spread into larger wounds if left unattended. With the easy-to-use Socratester, early prevention is possible.
Crack Inspection Scene The operation is simple. Just place the Socratester on the glass surface of the solar panel and slide it lightly. When a crack (damage to the panel) is detected at the electrode area on the back of the panel, it will notify you with an LED and a buzzer. Anyone can perform damage inspection without relying on specialized technicians. Additionally, by using a separately sold extension pole, you can efficiently conduct inspections on large panels or over extensive areas.
There is also a rental service. Overview of the rental service: In response to customer requests to easily use the "Socrates Tester Portable" for crack inspection of solar panels anywhere by anyone, we have started equipment rental. Rental fee (excluding tax): 40,000 yen per month per unit (main unit + extension pole) Rental area: Nationwide in Japan.
Solar Panel Crack On-Site Inspection Service Overview of Solar Panel Crack On-Site Inspection We will visit your location and conduct crack inspection of solar panels using a Socratic tester, and submit a report. *Transportation and accommodation costs will be charged at actual expense. *Please inquire about inspection fees.