SoliTek Achieves Hail Resistance 5 Class Certification

SoliTek is proud to announce significant advancements in hail resistance certifications for its photovoltaic modules, further solidifying its reputation for durability and performance in extreme weather conditions.

Recent testing for the new generation of modules featuring half-cut cells has yielded two key updates:

1. Hail Class 5 Certification: SoliTek’s SOLID Bifacial Framed B.108 and SOLID Solrif D B.108 modules have successfully passed tests against 50mm-diameter hailstones, earning them Hail Class 5 certification — the highest hail resistance class achieved in the company’s history.

2. Updated Hail Class Definitions: To align with industry standards, the hail diameter classifications in SoliTek’s documentation have been updated. The new specifications are:

• Hail Class 4: 40mm diameter (previously 39 mm)
• Hail Class 3: 30mm diameter (previously 29 mm)

Certified Modules and Their Hail Resistance Levels (Module type, Hail Class, Hail Diameter):

SOLID Bifacial Framed; Hail Class 5; 50 mm

SOLID Solrif D: Hail Class 5: 50 mm

SOLID Bifacial; Hail Class 4: 40 mm

BLACKSTAR: Hail Class 3: 30 mm

SOLID Solrif N: Hail Class 3: 30 mm

SOLID Framed: Hail Class 3: 30 mm

Exceeding Industry Standards: Unlike some manufacturers that achieve high hail resistance through repeated testing, SoliTek’s modules deliver superior durability by design. Key factors include:

• Fully Tempered Glass: Offers significantly greater strength compared to heat-strengthened glass used by some competitors.
• Thicker Glass Layers: Enhance resistance to impacts while maintaining module longevity.

Independent studies highlight that 89% of 2.0 mm heat-strengthened glass modules fail under 50mm hail impacts, compared to only 40% for 3.2 mm fully tempered glass modules. This underlines SoliTek’s commitment to delivering robust solutions that endure real-world conditions.

Addressing Growing Climate Challenges: With hailstorms becoming more frequent and severe, as evidenced by reports of hailstones reaching up to 190mm in diameter in Europe, SoliTek’s advancements in hail resistance are particularly timely. The enhanced durability of its modules makes them ideal for regions at high risk of extreme weather events, ensuring greater peace of mind for end users.

The Hail Class 5 certification positions SoliTek as a leader in the European solar market, particularly in hail-prone regions such as Switzerland, where higher hail resistance classes are crucial for insurance eligibility. SoliTek will continue to prioritize innovation and durability in its products to meet the evolving needs of the global solar industry.