In the context of World Lightning Protection Day, CITEL, a familiar name in the surge protection market, launched its latest GAK 12 XS series generator junction box. This product has been developed with an aim to mitigate the potential risk of surge or lightning strikes on the DC side of large PV installations.
For effective surge or lightning protection, surge protective devices (SPDs) with integrated metal oxide varistors (MOVs) must be closely matched to the PV system’s maximum continuous operating voltage. In line with this requirement, this junction box, equipped with 12 SPDs, each rated with maximum continuous voltages (Ucpv) of up to 1,200 V DC, is suitable for PV installations with a continuous operating system voltage of 1,000 V DC. Its integrated 12 SPDs indicate that 1 generator junction box can protect a similar number of MPPT channels of the connected inverters from lightning or surge pulses. Importantly, this product can be optimized depending on the PV installation configuration with varied lightning protection classes, aligning with IEC 62305-1 standard, such as type 2+3 or ground-mounted PV systems with type 1+2+3 class. This flexibility ensures safety for even the most sensitive components, like communication interfaces, against overvoltages.
Each SPD, featuring 2 inputs (+ DC and - DC) and 1 output for connecting the green earthing cable, incorporates spring-loaded terminals that support cables with a cross-sectional area between 6 mm2 and 10 mm2. Instead of punching holes, its cable passages are screwed tightly, simplifying the installation process, explained CITEL. The company says its patented VG technology prevents the risk of premature aging of the integrated MOVs.
"With the GAK12 XS, we have now succeeded in increasing performance by 20 percent, so that we can now protect twelve MPP trackers from overvoltages," says CITEL's Marketing Manager, Lars Strzeletz. He added, "At the Intersolar Europe trade fair, we presented the new series for the first time as a feasibility study. Due to the high demand, we are now starting series production - just in time for World Lightning Protection Day on 28 June."