Module Temperature Sensor – 3S-MT-PT1000

What is Module Temperature Sensor?

Module temperature is a significant factor influencing overall field performance in solar power plants. It uses uses a PT1000 probe, and it measures the back-side temperature of solar panels in degrees Celsius (°C).

This measurement is critical because photovoltaic panels generate electricity when exposed to solar radiation, but they also generate heat. This means that some of this radiation is converted into electrical energy, while the rest is released as heat, increasing the temperature of the PV cells. As cell temperature increases, the module’s short-circuit current increases, but its open-circuit voltage decreases, resulting in a decrease in electrical efficiency. Therefore, monitoring panel temperature is vital for monitoring and managing these efficiency losses.

What is the working principle of Module Temperature? What is the technical specifications of Module Temperature?

The unit is a temperature measuring transmitter with PT1000 sensor output, specifically designed for monitoring PV module back-side temperature. Measurement values are provided as ohmic resistance signals in accordance with PT1000 characteristics. The transmitter supports connection to SEVEN Irradiance Sensor and Sensor Box models via a 5-pin IP67-rated connector, ensuring environmental protection and reliable operation under outdoor conditions. Additionally, the PT1000 output can be directly interfaced with data loggers, monitoring systems, or other acquisition devices equipped with compatible resistance input channels.

Technical Specifications of Module Temperature Sensor

How should Module Temperature be installed?

According to IEC 61724-1:2021, “the module temperature sensor shall be placed at the center of a cell near the midpoint of the module, avoiding cell boundaries.”

This means that Module Temperature Sensor must be installed at the exact midpoint of back of the PV module. The sensor should be positioned on the center of the cell nearest to this midpoint, ensuring it does not overlap cell boundaries. Furthermore, the installation area must be completely dry and free of contaminants to guarantee accurate measurement and secure attachment. Dew residues on the PV modules during the winter months may prevent the Module Temperature Sensor from sticking.

What are the advantages of Module Temperature?

In photovoltaic (PV) systems, module temperature sensors are essential because they guarantee optimal efficiency, guard against overheating, and allow for weather adaption. Here is a summary of their significance:

PR Calculation: Module temperature must be precisely measured in order to calculate the Performance Ratio (PR) accurately. A module temperature sensor is necessary since temperature has a direct effect on electrical output and accurate temperature data is necessary for accurate PR calculations.

Overheating Protection: Excessive heat reduce efficiency and may cause long-term damage to PV panels. By providing real-time temperature data, sensors enable control systems to activate cooling strategies or adjust panel tilt to mitigate overheating. This not only safeguards the system but also improves sustainability, extends service life, and reduces maintenance costs.

Weather Adaptability: PV modules operate under continuously changing weather conditions, further influenced by climate variability. Temperature sensors allow the system to respond dynamically, optimizing performance across different seasons and environmental conditions to maximize energy yield.

Why Seven Sensor Solutions?

SEVEN products are built with reliable, high-quality components to deliver precise meteorological data for both environmental and industrial applications. A key advantage of the module temperature sensor lies in its design, which closely replicates the structure of a PV module’s backside. This ensures that the sensor and the PV module exhibit similar heat transfer behavior—an essential requirement for accurate measurement.

The sensor is specifically engineered to meet the requirements of photovoltaic plant monitoring systems, in compliance with IEC 60751:2022 and IEC 61724-1:2021 Annex B. For example, IEC 61724-1:2021, Section 9.1 specifies that for bifacial modules, rear-side temperature sensors and wiring must not obscure more than 10% of any cell area, and cabling should be routed between cells whenever possible. In addition, temperature sensors must provide a measurement resolution of ≤ 0.1 °C and an uncertainty of ±1 °C or better.

The SEVEN 3S-MT module temperature sensor fully satisfies these requirements. Our module temperature sensor delivers a resolution of ≤ 0.1 °C with an uncertainty of ±1 °C, fully aligning with the IEC standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1- What is the Class?

All 3S-MT-PT1000 sensors are Class A according to IEC 60751:2022 and IEC 61724-1:2021.

2- What is the warranty?

All 3S-MT-PT1000 sensors come with a 2-year warranty.

3- What is the price of module temperature sensor?

Between 50 and 80 EUR.

4- What are the delivery times?

Small Orders (up to 20 pcs): approx. 1-2 weeks

Bulk orders (20 pcs – 100 pcs): approx. 4-5 weeks

5- Does the sensor include a cable?

Each unit comes with a 3 m LIYYC11Y PUR cable (UV and weather resistant). Other lengths are available on request.

6- How do I set up the sensor?

Follow our user manual which include step-by-step instructions. The user manual link is https://www.sevensensor.com/files/d/en/Module_Temperature_Sensor_User_Manual.pdf