Over 255 GW of solar power have now been installed with the original MC4 connector. This corresponds to the power of 332 nuclear power plants and means that almost half of the solar modules installed around the world are equipped with Stäubli connectors.
The MC4-Evo AC concept represents a promising addition to the MC4 family. Originally developed for power inverters, this product is now used in other applications such as exterior lighting and charging solutions. Its flat design, the high IP rating, and a locking mechanism to prevent accidental opening are key features for many design engineers and take all relevant standards into account. To ensure the fast and error-free installation, the connectors are provided pre-assembled, including cables.
Another field of the solar market undergoing rapid growth is the PV tracker segment. With these systems, the solar modules are automatically aligned to the sun in order to further increase the energy yield. The individual components, from control units, to actuators, to radio links, can be reliably equipped with the various Stäubli connectors and set a uniform quality standard within solar power plants.
In the innovation department, intelligent connectors are being tested to expand the digital ecosystem of the PV industry. The analysis and processing of the additionally captured data promise a new era in the operation and maintenance of solar power plants. Such new connectors are also playing a key role in safety concepts: the Stäubli InterRaptr is a rapid shutdown receiver integrated in the cabling that immediately reduces the power to a safe voltage level in case of an emergency. Several countries such as the USA have already included rapid shutdown devices in the relevant safety standards to protect the rescue forces.
Stäubli’s comprehensive portfolio is represented at all relevant trade fairs and worldwide, a network of experts is available to provide individual application engineering, as well as on-site support as needed.
Stäubli offers innovative mechatronic solutions in three core areas including Connectors, Robotics and Textile. Founded in 1892, today Stäubli is an international group headquartered in Pfäffikon, Switzerland with more than 5,500 employees worldwide. Stäubli has a presence in 29 countries with production companies, sales and service subsidiaries and is supplemented by agents in 50 countries. As a world market leader in the field of connectors, Stäubli manufactures quick connector systems for all types of fluids, gases and electrical energy. The Electrical Connectors product portfolio (formerly Multi-Contact) ranges from miniature connectors to high-performance connectors for power transmission, industrial automation, transportation, test and measurement. In Photovoltaics, Stäubli is the global market leader with its MC4 connector components. The core of all Stäubli electrical connectors is the unique MULTILAM technology.
https://www.staubli.com/electrical
Stäubli Electrical Connectors AG
Stockbrunnenrain 8
CH4123 Allschwil
Telefon: +41 (61) 3065555
Telefax: +41 (61) 3065556
https://www.staubli.com/global/en/electrical-connectors.html
Business Development Manager Alternative Energies
E-Mail: b.horn@staubli.com
