Compatible clamp selection

Compatible clamp selection means using only clamps that suit both the mounting structure and the modules, and following the module manufacturer's mounting instructions. It is a preventive action against Bad Module Clamping, where the clamp holds the module too loosely or damages the module or its frame. Reported causes include glass breakage from poor clamp design, clamps installed incorrectly, and clamps that do not match the modules. Field failure surveys list clamps that come loose or are installed incorrectly as a category of mounting failure. Module manufacturers specify clamps by frame thickness. For example, one installation manual gives separate aluminum-alloy end and middle clamps for 40, 35 and 30 mm frames. Choosing the right clamp is not enough by itself: you also need to check the local wind and snow loads for the site. Have an accredited test laboratory test non-standard mountings, such as facade installations, and inspect the system regularly. Replace any module that has a safety risk or the highest severity rating.

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• sentence 4: support check: partial - Survey category 'Clamp detachment/improperly installed' is listed, but nothing says the evidence is from field failure surveys beyond the list, and 'come loose' maps to detachment; mostly supported.
• sentence 5: support check: partial - Table shows aluminum-alloy end clamps for 40, 35, 30 mm and middle clamps grouped as 40&35 and 30 mm, so not fully separate per each thickness; the general claim that manufacturers specify by frame thickness is only implied from one manual. -->