CST 117/M Solar Module Soiling Test System
Laboratory system for evaluating dust-soiling and cleaning behaviour of solar module glass and other surfaces according to VDI 3956-1 under controlled dust, temperature, humidity and airflow conditions.
Model Overview
| Model | System role | Primary measurements | Standards / application fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| CST 117/M | Solar-module and surface-soiling test system | Controlled dust deposition, temperature/humidity conditioning and wind-cleaning simulation | Laboratory evaluation of photovoltaic glass and other exposed surfaces |
Key Features
VDI 3956-1 workflow
Designed for laboratory investigation of dust-soiling behaviour on solar-energy surfaces.
Adjustable sample angle
The specimen holder can be set between 0° and 60° to represent installation conditions.
Controlled environment
Temperature and relative humidity can be regulated for condensation and adhesion studies.
Selectable dust dosing
A SAG 410 dust disperser and positionable nozzles create repeatable dust exposure.
Wind-cleaning simulation
A movable air blade supports controlled blow-off and cleaning investigations.
Contained operation
An air lock and negative-pressure chamber reduce release of test dust to the laboratory.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Unit | Value / Description |
|---|---|---|
| TEST CONDITIONS | ||
| Air-flow velocity | m/s | ≤ 15 |
| Specimen holder | — | 200 × 200 mm base; 0–60° setting angle |
| Maximum specimen thickness | mm | ≤ 10 |
| Controlled conditions | — | Temperature and relative humidity |
| SYSTEM | ||
| Test chamber | mm | 700 × 720 × 700 |
| Dust generation | — | SAG 410 dust disperser |
| Compressed-air supply | bar | 6–10; ISO 8573-1 quality class 6:4:2 |
| Power supply | — | 400 VAC, 50 Hz |
| System dimensions | mm | 2,107 × 890 × 1,647 |
Values shown are based on the standard system configuration. Confirm the final test method, specimen fixtures, instrumentation, utilities and calibration scope before order placement.
Applications
Photovoltaic glass soiling
Controlled dust deposition and cleaning studies on solar-module surfaces.
Surface contamination research
Comparison of coatings and glass surfaces under dust and humidity exposure.
Condensation effects
Study of dust adhesion under changing temperature and humidity.
Wind and blow-off simulation
Evaluation of air-driven dust removal at controlled velocity.
