What Documentation Is Needed for NEC 690.12 Compliance Testing?

Question

Accepted Answer

Test Equipment and Configuration To achieve NEC 690.12 compliance, it is essential to select the correct test equipment and configure it properly. The testing setup should include a PV array simulator, a DC source, and a digital multimeter. The PV array simulator should be capable of generating a short circuit current (Isc) of at least 125% of the maximum DC output current of the PV system. The DC source should be set to the maximum DC output voltage of the PV system. The digital multimeter should be used to measure the voltage and current at the DC output of the inverter during the rapid shutdown testing.
Test Procedure and Documentation The test procedure should include pre-test and post-test equipment inspections, as well as a detailed description of the testing setup configuration. The testing procedure should be performed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the NEC 690.12 requirements. The test results should be recorded, including the voltage and current measurements at the DC output of the inverter during the rapid shutdown testing. It is recommended to document the test results in a table format, including the test setup configuration, test results, and any observations or issues encountered during the testing. The documentation should also include the certification of the test engineer and the certification of the testing equipment.
Record Keeping and Certification The compliance testing documentation should be retained for a minimum of 5 years, as specified in the NEC 690.12 requirements. The test results should be certified by a licensed electrician or a professional engineer. The certification should include the date of testing, the testing equipment used, and the test results. The certification should also include a statement that the testing was performed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the NEC 690.12 requirements. It is recommended to use a standardized certification template to ensure that all necessary information is included.