Longstanding contributors to PES, Multi-Contact is one of the leading manufacturers of PV connector systems worldwide with more than 15 years of experience in the field, offering solutions for all kinds of installations. We take a look at the MC portfolio of original connectors.
MC is a true pioneer in PV connectivity; in 1996, the company introduced the MC3, the world‘s first PV connector in series production, followed by the MC4 in 2002. Since then, MC has developed a broad range of products for the PV industry such as connectors, solar cables and junction boxes, providing complete cabling solutions from the panel to the inverter.
The MC Multilam Technology ensures low contact resistance, minimal power loss, high corrosion resistance and long product life. Always aiming for the optimum approach, Multi-Contact specializes in customized solutions.
In an effort to limit both costs and time factor, the PV industry is asking for efficient, easy-to-install solutions. Multi-Contact answers to this demand without compromizing quality by offering optimally harmonized products ready for use. Multi-Contact‘s new MC4-EVO 3 (formerly MC4PLUS) connector comes pre-assembled with solar cables of cross sections 1,5mm², 2,5mm², 4mm² and 6mm². The snap-in lock can only be opened with a special tool, ensuring maximum safety for the connection.
The MC4-EVO 3 is IP65 and IP67 protected and recognized by TÜV (1000/1500V) and UL (600/1000V) and has recently been certified for IP68 (1m/1h). It has been designed for the use in high volume cable assemblies. Today it is the first PV connector globally which fulfills this new requirement.
The Westlake junction box (PV-JB/WL) is available as 10A and 12A version and has been designed for the use with connectors of the MC4- as well as of the MC3 series. It conforms to protection category IP65 and is both TÜV and UL recognized. The flat design of the box enables it to be installed directly underneath the module frame. This saves valuable time in the installation process by eliminating the need to bend over the ribbon conductors.
Connection can be accommodated by welding, or, optionally, by clips. The junction box is fixed to the panel with silicone. Extra protection for the cable sleeves is provided by the projecting lid construction, which prevents kinking of the cables at the sleeve outlet. A smart version of the Westlake is currently under development. The concept was first presented at Intersolar Europe 2011 and is meant to contribute to safer PV systems. Equipped with a special electronic component for arc detection, the box effects automatic shutdown in case of emergency, thus preventing possible damage or fire in the system.
