The solution ARCOSTOP is developed through a targeted risk analysis, applying electric arc detection equipment that does not modify the existing systems and mitigating the greater risk due to the presence of the photovoltaic system.
ARCOSTOP allows the opening of the direct current lines (string cables) ensuring the interruption of the DC arc. Alternatively, it is possible to interrupt the ongoing arc by unhooking the AC side of the inverter.
ARCOSTOP is an AFD photovoltaic arc detection system (ARC FAULT DETECTOR) consisting of a toroidal sensor and a detection card placed inside a container.
The solution ARCOSTOP allows you to anticipate the ignition of fire caused by electric arcs.
ARCOSTOP it is an innovative system for the protection of photovoltaic systems as a technical mitigation solution, also useful, where required, for obtaining the favorable opinion of the Fire Brigade.
Insurance bodies appreciate this solution and can apply better policies against fire risks on the roofs of buildings where PV panels are present.
The system ARCOSTOP it can be applied both in retrofit without modifications to the existing wiring (simply insert the strings into the DC side toroids), and for new photovoltaic systems.
Photovoltaic technology has evolved rapidly following the incentives available at the time and many systems today do not fully comply with the Fire Brigade Regulations and Circulars.
Fires in photovoltaic systems have intensified in recent times, drawing the attention of the Fire Brigade. (see Technical Report on Photovoltaic Fires of NIA Fire Investigation Unit Oct. 2015).
From the studies carried out to date, the fires are "in fact" mainly attributable to electric arcs also due to the deterioration of the insulators, exposed to atmospheric agents (terminals, cables, junction boxes, etc...), to poor maintenance, all contributing causes that lead to the possible onset of fires.
ARCOSTOP is to be considered capable of carrying out the main action of reducing the risk of fire starting and this also in application of Circular 04/05/2012 annex B to point 3/b. See Italian legislation currently in force.
This device, in the presence of PV systems installed on and off the roof, is a useful protection for preventing fires and therefore also applicable for all activities subject to the control of the Fire Brigade.
ARCOSTOP is supplied equipped with:
User Manual, Installation Sheet, Technical Data Sheet, External Sensors Insertion Diagrams
IMPORTANT: For the application of the ARCOSTOP System, NO MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXISTING PV CIRCUITS ARE NECESSARY as the toroid sensors directly take the signal to be monitored, simply by inserting the relevant strings into them. No electrical contact or other derivation is therefore necessary.
It is not even necessary to take PV voltages from the existing system, nor to modify the DC side circuits to take the signal. No reports for changes to schemes must therefore be sent to the Control Body.
