PV Diode

A bypass diode, also known as a solar diode or continuation diode, is connected inside the PV module to provide AC power when the battery or panel is blocked or fails. The diode itself is simply a device that allows current to flow in one direction.

PV solar diodes are designed to meet the growing demand for reliable and efficient solar energy solutions. With over three decades of experience and an annual production capacity of 6 billion semiconductor devices, we are committed to providing advanced components for the renewable energy sector.

How PV Diodes Work

PV diodes function as one-way valves for electric current within solar energy systems.
They are strategically placed in solar panels, inverters, and energy storage circuits to control current direction, prevent reverse flow, and protect sensitive components.

• In a solar panel, each group of solar cells generates current when exposed to sunlight.
  If one or more cells become shaded or damaged, they can cause a reverse bias, leading to hot-spot formation and reduced power output.
  A bypass diode connected in parallel across these cells automatically conducts, rerouting current around the affected section to maintain consistent power generation.

• In battery-connected or hybrid systems, blocking diodes are used in series to prevent current from flowing backward from the battery into the solar panel during nighttime or low-light conditions.
  This protection ensures energy is stored safely and that the system operates efficiently.

Applications of PV Diodes

• Solar Panels:
  PV diodes—commonly used as bypass diodes—help prevent hot-spot formation caused by shaded, damaged, or contaminated solar cells. By allowing current to bypass the affected cells, these diodes maintain consistent energy output and protect the module from overheating.

• Solar Inverters:
  Within solar inverter systems, PV diodes ensure stable and reliable current flow, enabling efficient DC-to-AC conversion. Their low forward voltage drop reduces power loss, improving the overall energy conversion efficiency of the solar system.

• Energy Storage Systems:
  In hybrid solar and battery systems, PV diodes support efficient power transfer between panels, batteries, and inverters. They prevent reverse current flow during nighttime or low-irradiance conditions, ensuring safe operation and optimal battery performance.

Key Advantages of PV Diodes

• Hot-Spot Protection
  Prevents local overheating in solar panels by allowing current to bypass shaded or damaged cells, protecting module integrity.

• Reverse Current Prevention
  Stops reverse current flow from batteries or other modules, avoiding potential damage and energy loss during low-light or night conditions.

• High Efficiency with Low Forward Voltage Drop
  Minimizes conduction losses, ensuring maximum energy transfer and improving overall system efficiency.

• Superior Thermal and Surge Performance
  Designed to handle high surge currents and operate reliably across a wide temperature range (−40°C to +175°C).

• Enhanced System Reliability
  Reduces electrical stress and component wear, extending the lifespan of solar modules, inverters, and storage systems.

• Flexible Packaging Options
  Available in various industry-standard packages such as TO-220, TO-247, DO-201AD, and SMD, for easy integration across multiple system designs.

• Global Quality Certifications
  Complies with IEC, UL, and RoHS standards, ensuring high safety, performance, and environmental reliability.

Why Choose Our PV Diodes?

High Efficiency

PV diodes manufactured by Hornby are engineered to minimize power loss in solar panel systems. With low forward voltage drop and excellent thermal performance, they maximize energy conversion efficiency.

Robust Protection

Designed to provide reliable bypass protection, PV diodes safeguard solar panels from hot-spot damage caused by partial shading or malfunctioning cells, ensuring system longevity.

Durability in Harsh Conditions

Manufactured using advanced processes and quality materials, PV diodes are built to withstand extreme environmental conditions, including high temperatures and humidity.

Customizable Solutions

With our flexible OEM/ODM services, we can tailor PV diodes to meet your specific requirements, including custom specifications and packaging options.