Homemade solar panels are more popular every day. Consumers use the internet to learn how to build these energy-saving devices. With a little research, anyone can learn to build these panels at home.
Pre-made panels are expensive; however, parts for a solar panel can be purchased separately, making it more affordable. The first thing to consider purchasing is the photovoltaic cells. Websites such as eBay are a good source. New solar cells are expensive. Blemished or damaged ones will still work and are more reasonably priced.
Hot Air Soldering
Sometimes they are dipped in wax to prevent breakage during shipment. All wax should be removed. Place cells in cold water and gradually increase heat until hot. Do not allow water to boil. Once wax is removed it is time to construct the panels. In this example, a set of 3 x 6 cells will be used. To generate 18 volts, a total of 36 are required.
The next step is building a shallow box to place the cells within. The sides should be quite shallow to not block sun. A 3/8 thick piece of plywood will do nicely. Place around the edges a ¾" trim. These edges should be glued and screwed into place. This box will now be capable of holding 36 cells. The dimensions of the box is 45 ¾ by 22 ¼ for reference. For easier installation, you can install two sub-panels consisting of 18 cells each. Place another ¾ trim piece right down the middle of the board. Vent holes are required to allow water drainage. The next step in building your homemade solar panels is to place peg-board within the two halves of the shallow box; this is where the cells will be attached. The last step is to paint the entire box to help protect it against the elements.
Draw a grid, first, for easy placement. All 18 cells will be soldered together in a series. Use a gentle touch when soldering. It is easier to work with a string of six cells at a time. You will need to solder the negative tab at the top of a cell to a positive tab near the bottom of the next cell. Place silicone on the middle of the cell and then glue to the panel. The three strings of six are connected together at this point and this is accomplished with wire, copper braid or tabbing material. The middle string is rotated 180 degrees to accomplish a series connection. A blocking diode is installed to prevent discharge of power during cloudy days and during the night. Mount this diode inside with silicone. Use the existing vent holes to run wires through to connect one half-panel to the next. A Plexiglass cover is recommended.
Homemade solar panels can be used to power just a few appliances or an entire house. The more panels you add, the greater energy you will produce. With help from the World Wide Web everything you need to know about solar panels is right at your fingertips.
Special Price!!! Weller P2KC Professional Self-igniting Cordless Butane Soldering Iron Kit
Nov 01, 2011 10:20:04
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Weller P2KC Professional Self-igniting Cordless Butane Soldering Iron Kit Feature
- Tips and accessories screw on easily
- Includes complete kit
- Soldering tips are iron plated for long life
- Gas capacity allows up to 1 hour of continuous use
- Automatic cut-off switch when cap is inserted
Weller P2KC Professional Self-igniting Cordless Butane Soldering Iron Kit Overview
The new Portasol® cordless soldering tool from Weller® gives you the ultimate in portable power and convenience for all your soldering jobs. Slide the fuel button forward, press the piezo switch, and the tool's super-fast heat-up lets you melt solder in under a minute. The Portasol® cordless soldering tool is powerful too, adjusting from the equivalent of 25 to 75 watts for temperatures up to 850°F. Refueled with standard butane in just 20 seconds, the Portasol® P2C lasts for up to an hour of continuous use. Kit includes tool with five tips (PPT6 3/32" double flat soldering tip, PPT12 flame tip, PPT10 hot knife tip, PPT9 hot air tip, and PPT11 hot air deflector tip), sponge and tray, tool holder, storage case, and instructions. Mfg. #P2KC. Replacement tips available.SAVE NOW on the special offers below!
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