What must devices used for mounting PV modules also be able to do?

Devices used for mounting photovoltaic (PV) modules must provide bonding to ensure electrical safety and system performance. Bonding is the process of connecting various conductive components to establish a low-resistance path for fault currents. This is critical in PV systems to ensure that if any part of the mounting system, such as the frames or racks of the solar modules, becomes energized due to a fault, it can help prevent electric shock hazards and reduce the risk of fires.

Bonding also helps to minimize the potential difference between the different parts of the system, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the electrical installation. Properly bonded systems ensure that any stray currents are safely directed, enhancing the overall safety of the electrical installation by reducing risks associated with lightning strikes or other electrical faults.

While insulation, grounding, and derating are important considerations in the design and installation of PV systems, bonding is specifically related to the functional requirements of the mounting devices to ensure they prevent electrical hazards. Insulation primarily prevents unintended electrical contact, grounding protects against fault currents, and derating relates to the calculation of electrical components under certain conditions, which does not directly pertain to the function of PV mounting devices. Therefore, the requirement for mounting devices focuses on their ability to bond effectively.