Description
Portable Solar PV Isolation for Emergency & Maintenance Work
When working around solar PV during a fire, electrical incident, storm, flood or maintenance operation, one of the key challenges is that solar panels continue producing DC electricity whenever they are exposed to light. PVSTOP 4.5 Litre Solar Panel Block Out (EPVS45) is designed to address that problem by applying a water-based polymer coating directly onto the solar panels, blocking the light reaching the photovoltaic cells and helping to isolate power at the source. Jactone describes PVSTOP as coating the panels like a temporary “liquid tarpaulin”, allowing suitably trained users to quickly reduce the electrical hazard presented by the PV array.
The 4.5 litre EPVS45 contains PVSTOP water-based polymer, has an operating pressure of 15 barg at 20°C and provides approximately 35 seconds of discharge time with an effective application range of up to 10 metres. At around 440mm high and 160mm wide, with a total weight of approximately 7.85kg, this smaller unit provides a more compact option for solar PV safety teams who need a portable system that can be readily positioned close to the work area.
How PVSTOP Helps Make Solar PV Safer
Solar panels generate electricity by converting light into DC electricity, meaning that simply switching off an inverter does not necessarily remove the electrical generation occurring at the panels themselves. PVSTOP works by blocking the light reaching the panels, helping to isolate the power generation directly at the source rather than requiring access to the panels or their electrical connections.
Once applied, the polymer dries into a protective, non-flammable film which can be peeled away from the panels when the system is ready to be reactivated. Jactone also identifies the coating as non-conductive, anti-arcing, quick drying and insulating, with fire-retardant properties while wet. These characteristics are intended to support use during emergency incidents and maintenance by appropriately trained personnel.
Product Highlights
- 4.5 litre PVSTOP water-based polymer for solar PV isolation
- Up to 10 metre effective range for application while maintaining working distance
- Approximately 35-second discharge time at 15 barg operating pressure
- Forms a temporary protective film that can be peeled away without damaging the panels
- Designed for fire & rescue services, first responders, electrical technicians, PV owners and PV operators
A Compact Solution for Solar PV Safety
The 4.5 litre format is particularly useful where portability and equipment footprint are important. It provides the same fundamental PVSTOP approach in a smaller unit than the 9 litre model, making it easier to accommodate in service vehicles, maintenance equipment or emergency response kits while retaining the ability to apply the coating from up to 10 metres away.
PVSTOP is designed for use across different solar PV technologies and inverter systems, with Jactone stating that the product is effective on all types of solar PV systems and all types of inverter systems. This makes it a specialist safety product for organisations responsible for commercial rooftops, solar farms, industrial PV installations and solar maintenance operations.
A Specialist Safety Product — Not a Fire Extinguisher
It is important to understand exactly what PVSTOP is designed to do. PVSTOP is not a fire extinguisher and must not be used as one; it is a specialist solar PV isolation product intended to block the light reaching photovoltaic panels and help reduce the electrical hazard at the source. Jactone states that it should be used by suitably trained personnel.
The EPVS45 is supplied as a stored-pressure, single-use unit and incorporates a pressure gauge, hose and wall bracket. Its cylinder is constructed from mild steel with a polyester finish, with a brass valve, and the specified operating temperature range is +5°C to +60°C.
Why Buy from HSE Store?
At HSE Store, we understand that specialist safety equipment needs to solve a specific operational problem. Solar PV introduces particular challenges for emergency responders and maintenance teams, so we supply specialist products such as PVSTOP alongside our wider range of professional workplace and safety equipment. We offer free delivery on orders over £50, have 5-star customer reviews, and understand the requirements of businesses, technical teams and professional operators. Where available, we can also help with custom options and specific requirements.
