Espacios de seguridad para equipos y personas
Todos los componentes eléctricos deben seguir los requisitos adecuados de espacio libre (espacio entre un componente y un otro objeto) dados por los fabricantes y por los códigos eléctricos. Los requisitos de espacios libres se dividen en dos categorías: espacios libres para ventilación y espacios libres para crear un entorno de trabajo seguro. A menudo, los requisitos de autorización que establece un fabricante en el manual de un producto serán más estrictos que los requisitos descritos en un código eléctrico; se debe seguir el mas exigente o estricto de los dos requisitos. En cualquier caso, es importante utilizar el juicio adecuado al realizar una instalación. El equipo debe colocarse en un lugar de fácil acceso, que proporcione una ventilación adecuada, esté libre de otros objetos (no se utilice para almacenamiento), proporcione suficiente espacio para trabajar y sea fácil de salir en caso de emergencia. El equipo debe instalarse a una altura y un lugar adecuados para el espacio y los usuarios.
Clearances for ventilation
All components used in off-grid PV systems generate heat when operating because they are not 100% efficient. The rated output or performance for a given component will always be measured at a specific temperature and temperatures in excess of that value will lead to reduced performance (lead acid batteries will temporarily have improved performance, but their cycle life will be shortened in compensation). This means that cooling, especially in warm climates, is very important and must be carefully considered to ensure that a system performs properly. If a particular component has clearance requirements they will be outlined in the manual or installation guide. Inverters and charge controllers will have specific required clearances, PV modules often do not give guidance, but there are guidelines available in the mounting systems page.
Example of manufacturer specified clearances on all sides.
Safe working space
It is necessary to provide adequate space between any equipment that must be accessed for service or that have operable parts and other objects (including other system components and parts of a building like a wall) to enable anyone working on the system to do so safely and to permit access/exit in case of an emergency. Clearances for a safe working environment will be outlined in a country's electrical code. In any case, it is important to use judgement during an installation. Equipment should not be installed in spaces that are used for storage or that do not permit easy access/exit. Below are some example minimum clearances for width, height, and reach from the US National Electrical Code, which are sensibly based upon the minimum space that a person would need to safely work.
Recommended minimum clearance for space in front of a component and a wall.
Recommended side to side clearance. The 762mm can include the width of the component.
If two components are located above and below one another. One should not extend more than 152mm beyond the other.
Any component with a door must be located such that its door can open at least 90° (view from above).
Any component The maximum height for any serviceable equipment or operable equipment (like a breaker or disconnect) is 2m.
