Criterion 6.5.5 Building Penetrations

Criterion text:
Penetrations of the building through which piping or wiring is passed shall not reduce or impair the function of the enclosure. Penetrations through walls or other surfaces shall not allow intrusion by insects and/or vermin. Required roof penetrations shall be made in accordance with applicable codes and also by practices recommended by the National Roofing Contractors Association.

Comments:
The installation of control wiring and flashing (especially their penetrations) by the installer must not impair the function of the enclosure. In other words, flashing must be well constructed and sealed.

This criterion is similar to the collector and transport penetration requirements and the same installation guidelines should be followed.

Installers must be familiar with the manufacturer's SRCC approved methods of structure penetrations, flashing, and proper sealing methods and materials. Note that manufacturers and installers must also be familiar with unique solar industry acceptable practices as well as those recommended by the National Roofing Contractors Association.

There are a variety of flashing materials and designs customized for the solar industry. Figure 1 shows one of the more popular copper flashing devices that provides routing and sealing for both pipe and sensor wiring.

Figure 1

In contrast to the above, the installation in Figure 2 has the sensor wiring being fed through a hole in the roof. The method illustrated in Figure 1 will provide much greater long term sealing capabilities.

Figure 2

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