{"id":2721,"date":"2026-10-14T17:20:47","date_gmt":"2026-10-14T09:20:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/?post_type=blog&#038;p=2721"},"modified":"2026-10-14T17:20:47","modified_gmt":"2026-10-14T09:20:47","slug":"maximum-continuous-operating-voltage-uc-for-pv-spds-explained","status":"publish","type":"blog","link":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/blog\/maximum-continuous-operating-voltage-uc-for-pv-spds-explained\/","title":{"rendered":"Maximum Continuous Operating Voltage (Uc) for PV SPDs Explained"},"content":{"rendered":"<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">Choosing a <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/blog\/spd-surge-protective-device-maximum-continuous-operating-voltage-uc-explained\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">surge protective device (SPD)<\/a> for a solar array starts long before the lightning impulse ratings. The single parameter that decides whether a PV SPD survives its daily duty cycle is the maximum continuous operating voltage \u2014 called Uc on the AC side and Ucpv on the DC side. At Britec Electric our engineering team has manufactured IEC \/ EN 61643-31 compliant PV surge protection devices in Wenzhou, Zhejiang since 2003, with ISO 9001, T\u00dcV, CE and Intertek SEMKO certifications. This guide explains what Uc \/ Ucpv means for PV SPDs, the IEC 61643-31 sizing rule, the temperature effect that catches most designers out, and how to match Britec products to 600V, 1000V and 1500V systems.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">What Is Maximum Continuous Operating Voltage (Uc) for a PV SPD?<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">Maximum continuous operating voltage (Uc) is the highest AC rms voltage an SPD can withstand indefinitely without degradation. For DC photovoltaic applications the equivalent rating is Ucpv \u2014 the maximum continuous operating DC voltage \u2014 defined in IEC 61643-31, the product standard for SPDs connected to photovoltaic installations. The two symbols describe the same design intent: the SPD must stay stable while the protected circuit is energised at its normal, non-surge voltage, day after day, across the full site temperature range.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">For an AC SPD, Uc is stated in volts rms (for example 275V or 320V). For a <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/product_category\/pv-surge-protection-type-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">PV surge protection device<\/a> the figure is a DC value such as 600V, 1200V or 1500V. If the applied voltage ever exceeds Ucpv for a sustained period, the metal-oxide varistor ages prematurely, leakage current climbs, and the protector can enter thermal runaway \u2014 exactly the failure mode you install an SPD to avoid.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">Why Uc \/ Ucpv Matters More on the DC Side of a PV System<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">A PV string does not sit at a fixed voltage. Its open-circuit voltage (Voc) is set by the module count and shifts with temperature: it rises as the array gets colder and falls as it gets hotter. Because the SPD is connected in parallel across the DC bus and energised whenever the sun is up, Ucpv is a true continuous-duty limit, not a one-second impulse rating. Three consequences follow for specifiers:<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf A PV SPD sees its maximum voltage at the coldest hour of the year, not at standard test conditions, so the sizing voltage must use the low-temperature Voc.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf Ucpv is independent of the surge current rating (In, Imax) and the clamping level (Up); a high In rating does not compensate for an under-sized Ucpv.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf Undersizing Ucpv to save a few cents typically trades a 20-year service life for a failure inside the first winter on a cold site.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">The IEC 61643-31 Sizing Rule and the 1.2 \u00d7 Voc Shortcut<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">IEC 61643-31, together with the PV array design standard IEC 62548, requires the SPD's Ucpv to be equal to or greater than the maximum open-circuit voltage the PV source circuit can present at the lowest expected ambient temperature. In formula form, using the module temperature coefficient of Voc (\u03b2):<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">Voc(Tmin) = Voc,STC \u00d7 [1 + \u03b2 \u00d7 (Tmin \u2212 25)]<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">where Voc,STC is the string open-circuit voltage at 25\u00b0C, \u03b2 is the negative temperature coefficient (commonly around \u22120.30 %\/\u00b0C to \u22120.35 %\/\u00b0C), and Tmin is the lowest array temperature expected on site. Because \u03b2 is negative, a lower Tmin makes the bracket larger, so Voc rises in the cold \u2014 and that cold-weather peak is the number Ucpv must beat.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">For a fast, conservative check many designers apply a 1.2 \u00d7 margin to the standard-test-condition Voc (Ucpv \u2265 1.2 \u00d7 Voc,STC). This shortcut rarely under-sizes a string built from mainstream modules, but on very cold sites or with long series strings the temperature-corrected calculation above is the one that keeps the SPD inside its continuous rating.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">Worked Example \u2014 Sizing Uc for a 1000V PV String<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">Take a 1000V-class string with Voc,STC = 720V at 25\u00b0C, \u03b2 = \u22120.32 %\/\u00b0C, on a site where the array can reach \u221220\u00b0C. The cold-weather open-circuit voltage is Voc(\u221220) = 720 \u00d7 [1 + (\u22120.0032) \u00d7 (\u221245)] = 720 \u00d7 1.144 = 824V. The 1.2 \u00d7 shortcut gives 1.2 \u00d7 720 = 864V. Either way the SPD needs Ucpv comfortably above ~824\u2013864V, so a 1000V-class device rated at Ucpv 1200V is the correct choice.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">The <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/product\/brpv3-1000-type-2-surge-protection-device-for-pv-upto-1000v\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">BRPV3-1000 Type 2 PV surge arrester<\/a> is built for exactly this duty: Ucpv 1200V, In 20kA (8\/20 \u00b5s), Imax 40kA, Up \u2264 4.0kV, response time \u2264 25ns, \u221240\u00b0C to +80\u00b0C, 35mm DIN rail, UL94 V-0, IP20, with a green\/red status window and plug-in modules for fast field replacement. Full options are listed on the PV Surge Protector Type 2 product pages.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center; margin: 0 0 18px 0;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/product\/brpv3-1000-type-2-surge-protection-device-for-pv-upto-1000v\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img style=\"max-width: 100%; height: auto; border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BRPV3-1000.webp\" alt=\"BRPV3-1000 Type 2 PV surge arrester up to 1000V for solar SPD\" \/><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 24px 0; text-align: center;\"><a style=\"display: inline-block; max-width: 640px; background-color: #009292; padding: 22px 26px; border-radius: 10px; text-decoration: none; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/contact-us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"display: block; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0 0 8px 0; color: #ffffff;\">Not sure which Ucpv your PV array needs?<\/span><span style=\"display: block; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.6; color: #ffffff;\">Send Britec engineers your string open-circuit voltage and site climate \u2014 we will size the correct PV SPD and share the IEC 61643-31 calculation.<\/span><span style=\"display: inline-block; margin-top: 14px; background-color: #ffffff; color: #009292; padding: 10px 20px; border-radius: 6px; font-weight: bold; font-size: 15px;\">Request a PV SPD quote<\/span><\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">Ucpv Reference by PV System Voltage<\/h2>\r\n<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0 0 18px 0; color: #333333;\">\r\n<thead>\r\n<tr style=\"background-color: #009292; color: #ffffff;\">\r\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px; text-align: left;\">PV system voltage<\/th>\r\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px; text-align: left;\">Typical string open-circuit (Voc)<\/th>\r\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px; text-align: left;\">Recommended Ucpv<\/th>\r\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px; text-align: left;\">Britec PV SPD<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr style=\"background-color: #f4fbfb;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">Up to 600V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">\u2264 600V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">600 V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">BRPV2-600 (Type 2)<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">Up to 1000V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">\u2264 1000V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">1200 V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">BRPV3-1000 \/ BRPV3-1000-20 (Type 2 \/ T1+T2)<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"background-color: #f4fbfb;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">Up to 1500V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">\u2264 1500V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">1500 V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">BRPV3-1500-12.5 (T1+T2)<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">These pairings follow the IEC 61643-31 rule that Ucpv must exceed the cold-weather string Voc. If you want the full selection method mapped to your inverter, our guide on how to <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/blog\/how-to-select-solar-spd-according-to-pv-inverter-specifications\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">select a solar SPD by inverter specifications<\/a> walks through the rest of the ratings (In, Imax, Up and type).<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">Common Uc Mistakes That Cause Early PV SPD Failure<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf Using an AC Uc rating on a DC array \u2014 an AC rms figure is not comparable to a DC Ucpv and will under-protect the bus.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf Sizing from Voc,STC only and ignoring the temperature coefficient, which is the usual cause of winter failures on cold sites.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf Confusing per-module voltage with series string voltage \u2014 Ucpv must cover the whole series string, not one panel.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf Choosing Ucpv too close to the operating voltage to cut cost, leaving no margin for tolerance and component aging.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center; margin: 0 0 18px 0;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/product\/brpv3-1500-12-5-t1t2-1500v-12-5ka-pv-surge-protection-device\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img style=\"max-width: 100%; height: auto; border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BRPV3-1500-12.5.webp\" alt=\"BRPV3-1500-12.5 1500V T1+T2 PV surge arrester for solar SPD\" \/><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 24px 0; text-align: center;\"><a style=\"display: inline-block; max-width: 640px; background-color: #009292; padding: 22px 26px; border-radius: 10px; text-decoration: none; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/contact-us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"display: block; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0 0 8px 0; color: #ffffff;\">Designing a 1500V string?<\/span><span style=\"display: block; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.6; color: #ffffff;\">Tell us your module count and site temperature and we will confirm the Ucpv 1500V PV SPD that fits your combiner box and inverter.<\/span><span style=\"display: inline-block; margin-top: 14px; background-color: #ffffff; color: #009292; padding: 10px 20px; border-radius: 6px; font-weight: bold; font-size: 15px;\">Talk to our engineers<\/span><\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">Britec PV SPD Product Lines and Their Ucpv Ratings<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">The <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/product\/brpv3-1500-12-5-t1t2-1500v-12-5ka-pv-surge-protection-device\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">BRPV3-1500-12.5 1500V T1+T2 PV surge arrester<\/a> covers 1500V systems with Ucpv 1500V, 12.5kA nominal discharge, and combined Type 1+2 protection for sites with an external lightning protection system. For 1000V arrays that need combined protection, the <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/product\/brpv3-1000-20-1000v-20ka-t12-pv-surge-arrester\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">BRPV3-1000-20 Type 1+2 PV surge arrester<\/a> offers Ucpv 1200V and 20kA nominal in a plug-in module. All three families share the same DIN-rail footprint, green\/red fault window, and built-in over-current and over-heat open-circuit technology.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center; margin: 0 0 18px 0;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/product\/brpv3-1000-20-1000v-20ka-t12-pv-surge-arrester\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img style=\"max-width: 100%; height: auto; border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BRPV3-1000-20.webp\" alt=\"BRPV3-1000-20 1000V Type 1+2 PV surge arrester for solar SPD\" \/><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">For 600V PV systems the BRPV2-600 Type 2 device provides Ucpv 600V in a compact two-module body. Across the range, Britec PV SPDs are tested in our in-house laboratory (100kA 10\/350\u00b5s lightning impulse generator, 25kA 10\/350\u00b5s generator and 120kA 8\/20\u00b5s generator) so the Ucpv and impulse ratings you specify are the ratings shipped.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">Cz\u0119sto zadawane pytania<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 14px 0 4px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #1a1a1a; font-weight: bold;\">What is the difference between Uc and Ucpv for a PV SPD?<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">Uc is the continuous AC rms voltage rating used for AC SPDs (IEC 61643-11). Ucpv is the equivalent continuous DC voltage rating for photovoltaic SPDs (IEC 61643-31). They express the same idea \u2014 the highest voltage the protector can carry continuously \u2014 but Ucpv is a DC value sized to the PV string's cold-weather open-circuit voltage.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 14px 0 4px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #1a1a1a; font-weight: bold;\">How do I calculate the required Uc (Ucpv) for my PV system?<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">Use Voc(Tmin) = Voc,STC \u00d7 [1 + \u03b2 \u00d7 (Tmin \u2212 25)], then choose Ucpv \u2265 that value. As a quick check, Ucpv \u2265 1.2 \u00d7 Voc,STC is a conservative default, but the temperature-corrected figure is required on cold sites or with long series strings.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 14px 0 4px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #1a1a1a; font-weight: bold;\">Can I use an AC SPD Uc rating on a DC PV array?<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">No. An AC rms Uc is not equivalent to a DC Ucpv, and an AC-rated protector is not certified to IEC 61643-31 for PV duty. Always select a PV SPD whose Ucpv is stated for DC and matched to your string voltage.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 14px 0 4px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #1a1a1a; font-weight: bold;\">Why does cold weather increase the required Ucpv?<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">A crystalline PV module's open-circuit voltage rises as temperature falls (negative \u03b2). The lowest site temperature produces the highest Voc, so Ucpv must cover that cold-weather peak, not the 25\u00b0C nameplate value.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 14px 0 4px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #1a1a1a; font-weight: bold;\">What Ucpv do I need for a 1500V PV system?<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">A 1500V-class array needs a PV SPD with Ucpv 1500V, such as the BRPV3-1500-12.5 (T1+T2, 12.5kA). Verify against the cold-weather Voc of your specific string before finalising the order.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 14px 0 4px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #1a1a1a; font-weight: bold;\">Does a higher Ucpv reduce surge protection performance?<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">No. Ucpv sets only the continuous-voltage withstand; it is largely independent of the clamping voltage Up. A correctly sized higher Ucpv does not weaken protection as long as Up and In \/ Imax still meet the inverter's impulse withstand and the site's lightning level.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 24px 0; text-align: center;\"><a style=\"display: inline-block; max-width: 640px; background-color: #009292; padding: 22px 26px; border-radius: 10px; text-decoration: none; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/contact-us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"display: block; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0 0 8px 0; color: #ffffff;\">Need a PV SPD sized to your exact string?<\/span><span style=\"display: block; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.6; color: #ffffff;\">Share your module datasheet and site temperature with Britec \u2014 we return a written Ucpv calculation and a matched product recommendation within one business day.<\/span><span style=\"display: inline-block; margin-top: 14px; background-color: #ffffff; color: #009292; padding: 10px 20px; border-radius: 6px; font-weight: bold; font-size: 15px;\">Contact Britec Electric<\/span><\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">Related Resources<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/blog\/spd-surge-protective-device-maximum-continuous-operating-voltage-uc-explained\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Maximum Continuous Operating Voltage (Uc) of an SPD Explained<\/a> \u2014 the AC-side definition and how Uc differs from Ucpv.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/blog\/how-to-select-solar-spd-according-to-pv-inverter-specifications\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">How To Select Solar SPD According To PV Inverter Specifications<\/a> \u2014 map In, Imax, Up and type to your inverter nameplate.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/blog\/where-to-install-solar-spd-in-pv-combiner-box\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Where to Install a Solar SPD in a PV Combiner Box<\/a> \u2014 placement for lowest let-through voltage.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/blog\/how-solar-spd-protects-photovoltaic-systems-from-lightning-damage\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">How Solar SPD Protects Photovoltaic Systems From Lightning Damage<\/a> \u2014 the failure modes SPDs prevent.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/blog\/type-1-vs-1-2-vs-2-vs-3-dc-spd-which-to-choose\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Type 1 vs 1+2 vs 2 vs 3 DC SPD: Which To Choose<\/a> \u2014 pick the right SPD type for your PV site.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/blog\/1500v-vs-1000v-dc-spd-should-you-upgrade\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">1500V vs 1000V DC SPD: Should You Upgrade<\/a> \u2014 system-voltage trade-offs for new arrays.<\/p>","protected":false},"featured_media":2655,"parent":0,"menu_order":4,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false},"blog_category":[9],"class_list":["post-2721","blog","type-blog","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","blog_category-industry-news"],"acf":{"des":"Maximum continuous operating voltage (Uc \/ Ucpv) decides whether a PV SPD survives daily DC duty. Learn the IEC 61643-31 sizing rule, the temperature effect, and how to match Britec PV SPDs to 600V, 1000V and 1500V systems.","txt":"<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">Choosing a <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/blog\/spd-surge-protective-device-maximum-continuous-operating-voltage-uc-explained\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">surge protective device (SPD)<\/a> for a solar array starts long before the lightning impulse ratings. The single parameter that decides whether a PV SPD survives its daily duty cycle is the maximum continuous operating voltage \u2014 called Uc on the AC side and Ucpv on the DC side. At Britec Electric our engineering team has manufactured IEC \/ EN 61643-31 compliant PV surge protection devices in Wenzhou, Zhejiang since 2003, with ISO 9001, T\u00dcV, CE and Intertek SEMKO certifications. This guide explains what Uc \/ Ucpv means for PV SPDs, the IEC 61643-31 sizing rule, the temperature effect that catches most designers out, and how to match Britec products to 600V, 1000V and 1500V systems.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">What Is Maximum Continuous Operating Voltage (Uc) for a PV SPD?<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">Maximum continuous operating voltage (Uc) is the highest AC rms voltage an SPD can withstand indefinitely without degradation. For DC photovoltaic applications the equivalent rating is Ucpv \u2014 the maximum continuous operating DC voltage \u2014 defined in IEC 61643-31, the product standard for SPDs connected to photovoltaic installations. The two symbols describe the same design intent: the SPD must stay stable while the protected circuit is energised at its normal, non-surge voltage, day after day, across the full site temperature range.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">For an AC SPD, Uc is stated in volts rms (for example 275V or 320V). For a <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/product_category\/pv-surge-protection-type-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">PV surge protection device<\/a> the figure is a DC value such as 600V, 1200V or 1500V. If the applied voltage ever exceeds Ucpv for a sustained period, the metal-oxide varistor ages prematurely, leakage current climbs, and the protector can enter thermal runaway \u2014 exactly the failure mode you install an SPD to avoid.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">Why Uc \/ Ucpv Matters More on the DC Side of a PV System<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">A PV string does not sit at a fixed voltage. Its open-circuit voltage (Voc) is set by the module count and shifts with temperature: it rises as the array gets colder and falls as it gets hotter. Because the SPD is connected in parallel across the DC bus and energised whenever the sun is up, Ucpv is a true continuous-duty limit, not a one-second impulse rating. Three consequences follow for specifiers:<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf A PV SPD sees its maximum voltage at the coldest hour of the year, not at standard test conditions, so the sizing voltage must use the low-temperature Voc.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf Ucpv is independent of the surge current rating (In, Imax) and the clamping level (Up); a high In rating does not compensate for an under-sized Ucpv.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf Undersizing Ucpv to save a few cents typically trades a 20-year service life for a failure inside the first winter on a cold site.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">The IEC 61643-31 Sizing Rule and the 1.2 \u00d7 Voc Shortcut<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">IEC 61643-31, together with the PV array design standard IEC 62548, requires the SPD's Ucpv to be equal to or greater than the maximum open-circuit voltage the PV source circuit can present at the lowest expected ambient temperature. In formula form, using the module temperature coefficient of Voc (\u03b2):<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">Voc(Tmin) = Voc,STC \u00d7 [1 + \u03b2 \u00d7 (Tmin \u2212 25)]<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">where Voc,STC is the string open-circuit voltage at 25\u00b0C, \u03b2 is the negative temperature coefficient (commonly around \u22120.30 %\/\u00b0C to \u22120.35 %\/\u00b0C), and Tmin is the lowest array temperature expected on site. Because \u03b2 is negative, a lower Tmin makes the bracket larger, so Voc rises in the cold \u2014 and that cold-weather peak is the number Ucpv must beat.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">For a fast, conservative check many designers apply a 1.2 \u00d7 margin to the standard-test-condition Voc (Ucpv \u2265 1.2 \u00d7 Voc,STC). This shortcut rarely under-sizes a string built from mainstream modules, but on very cold sites or with long series strings the temperature-corrected calculation above is the one that keeps the SPD inside its continuous rating.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">Worked Example \u2014 Sizing Uc for a 1000V PV String<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">Take a 1000V-class string with Voc,STC = 720V at 25\u00b0C, \u03b2 = \u22120.32 %\/\u00b0C, on a site where the array can reach \u221220\u00b0C. The cold-weather open-circuit voltage is Voc(\u221220) = 720 \u00d7 [1 + (\u22120.0032) \u00d7 (\u221245)] = 720 \u00d7 1.144 = 824V. The 1.2 \u00d7 shortcut gives 1.2 \u00d7 720 = 864V. Either way the SPD needs Ucpv comfortably above ~824\u2013864V, so a 1000V-class device rated at Ucpv 1200V is the correct choice.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">The <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/product\/brpv3-1000-type-2-surge-protection-device-for-pv-upto-1000v\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">BRPV3-1000 Type 2 PV surge arrester<\/a> is built for exactly this duty: Ucpv 1200V, In 20kA (8\/20 \u00b5s), Imax 40kA, Up \u2264 4.0kV, response time \u2264 25ns, \u221240\u00b0C to +80\u00b0C, 35mm DIN rail, UL94 V-0, IP20, with a green\/red status window and plug-in modules for fast field replacement. Full options are listed on the PV Surge Protector Type 2 product pages.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center; margin: 0 0 18px 0;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/product\/brpv3-1000-type-2-surge-protection-device-for-pv-upto-1000v\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img style=\"max-width: 100%; height: auto; border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BRPV3-1000.webp\" alt=\"BRPV3-1000 Type 2 PV surge arrester up to 1000V for solar SPD\" \/><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 24px 0; text-align: center;\"><a style=\"display: inline-block; max-width: 640px; background-color: #009292; padding: 22px 26px; border-radius: 10px; text-decoration: none; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/contact-us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"display: block; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0 0 8px 0; color: #ffffff;\">Not sure which Ucpv your PV array needs?<\/span><span style=\"display: block; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.6; color: #ffffff;\">Send Britec engineers your string open-circuit voltage and site climate \u2014 we will size the correct PV SPD and share the IEC 61643-31 calculation.<\/span><span style=\"display: inline-block; margin-top: 14px; background-color: #ffffff; color: #009292; padding: 10px 20px; border-radius: 6px; font-weight: bold; font-size: 15px;\">Request a PV SPD quote<\/span><\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">Ucpv Reference by PV System Voltage<\/h2>\r\n<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0 0 18px 0; color: #333333;\">\r\n<thead>\r\n<tr style=\"background-color: #009292; color: #ffffff;\">\r\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px; text-align: left;\">PV system voltage<\/th>\r\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px; text-align: left;\">Typical string open-circuit (Voc)<\/th>\r\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px; text-align: left;\">Recommended Ucpv<\/th>\r\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px; text-align: left;\">Britec PV SPD<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr style=\"background-color: #f4fbfb;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">Up to 600V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">\u2264 600V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">600V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">BRPV2-600 (Type 2)<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">Up to 1000V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">\u2264 1000V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">1200V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">BRPV3-1000 \/ BRPV3-1000-20 (Type 2 \/ T1+T2)<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"background-color: #f4fbfb;\">\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">Up to 1500V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">\u2264 1500V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">1500V<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #e3e8ef; padding: 10px 12px;\">BRPV3-1500-12.5 (T1+T2)<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">These pairings follow the IEC 61643-31 rule that Ucpv must exceed the cold-weather string Voc. If you want the full selection method mapped to your inverter, our guide on how to <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/blog\/how-to-select-solar-spd-according-to-pv-inverter-specifications\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">select a solar SPD by inverter specifications<\/a> walks through the rest of the ratings (In, Imax, Up and type).<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">Common Uc Mistakes That Cause Early PV SPD Failure<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf Using an AC Uc rating on a DC array \u2014 an AC rms figure is not comparable to a DC Ucpv and will under-protect the bus.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf Sizing from Voc,STC only and ignoring the temperature coefficient, which is the usual cause of winter failures on cold sites.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf Confusing per-module voltage with series string voltage \u2014 Ucpv must cover the whole series string, not one panel.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf Choosing Ucpv too close to the operating voltage to cut cost, leaving no margin for tolerance and component aging.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center; margin: 0 0 18px 0;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/product\/brpv3-1500-12-5-t1t2-1500v-12-5ka-pv-surge-protection-device\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img style=\"max-width: 100%; height: auto; border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BRPV3-1500-12.5.webp\" alt=\"BRPV3-1500-12.5 1500V T1+T2 PV surge arrester for solar SPD\" \/><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 24px 0; text-align: center;\"><a style=\"display: inline-block; max-width: 640px; background-color: #009292; padding: 22px 26px; border-radius: 10px; text-decoration: none; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/contact-us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"display: block; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0 0 8px 0; color: #ffffff;\">Designing a 1500V string?<\/span><span style=\"display: block; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.6; color: #ffffff;\">Tell us your module count and site temperature and we will confirm the Ucpv 1500V PV SPD that fits your combiner box and inverter.<\/span><span style=\"display: inline-block; margin-top: 14px; background-color: #ffffff; color: #009292; padding: 10px 20px; border-radius: 6px; font-weight: bold; font-size: 15px;\">Talk to our engineers<\/span><\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">Britec PV SPD Product Lines and Their Ucpv Ratings<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">The <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/product\/brpv3-1500-12-5-t1t2-1500v-12-5ka-pv-surge-protection-device\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">BRPV3-1500-12.5 1500V T1+T2 PV surge arrester<\/a> covers 1500V systems with Ucpv 1500V, 12.5kA nominal discharge, and combined Type 1+2 protection for sites with an external lightning protection system. For 1000V arrays that need combined protection, the <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/product\/brpv3-1000-20-1000v-20ka-t12-pv-surge-arrester\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">BRPV3-1000-20 Type 1+2 PV surge arrester<\/a> offers Ucpv 1200V and 20kA nominal in a plug-in module. All three families share the same DIN-rail footprint, green\/red fault window, and built-in over-current and over-heat open-circuit technology.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center; margin: 0 0 18px 0;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/product\/brpv3-1000-20-1000v-20ka-t12-pv-surge-arrester\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img style=\"max-width: 100%; height: auto; border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BRPV3-1000-20.webp\" alt=\"BRPV3-1000-20 1000V Type 1+2 PV surge arrester for solar SPD\" \/><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">For 600V PV systems the BRPV2-600 Type 2 device provides Ucpv 600V in a compact two-module body. Across the range, Britec PV SPDs are tested in our in-house laboratory (100kA 10\/350\u00b5s lightning impulse generator, 25kA 10\/350\u00b5s generator and 120kA 8\/20\u00b5s generator) so the Ucpv and impulse ratings you specify are the ratings shipped.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 14px 0 4px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #1a1a1a; font-weight: bold;\">What is the difference between Uc and Ucpv for a PV SPD?<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">Uc is the continuous AC rms voltage rating used for AC SPDs (IEC 61643-11). Ucpv is the equivalent continuous DC voltage rating for photovoltaic SPDs (IEC 61643-31). They express the same idea \u2014 the highest voltage the protector can carry continuously \u2014 but Ucpv is a DC value sized to the PV string's cold-weather open-circuit voltage.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 14px 0 4px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #1a1a1a; font-weight: bold;\">How do I calculate the required Uc (Ucpv) for my PV system?<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">Use Voc(Tmin) = Voc,STC \u00d7 [1 + \u03b2 \u00d7 (Tmin \u2212 25)], then choose Ucpv \u2265 that value. As a quick check, Ucpv \u2265 1.2 \u00d7 Voc,STC is a conservative default, but the temperature-corrected figure is required on cold sites or with long series strings.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 14px 0 4px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #1a1a1a; font-weight: bold;\">Can I use an AC SPD Uc rating on a DC PV array?<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">No. An AC rms Uc is not equivalent to a DC Ucpv, and an AC-rated protector is not certified to IEC 61643-31 for PV duty. Always select a PV SPD whose Ucpv is stated for DC and matched to your string voltage.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 14px 0 4px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #1a1a1a; font-weight: bold;\">Why does cold weather increase the required Ucpv?<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">A crystalline PV module's open-circuit voltage rises as temperature falls (negative \u03b2). The lowest site temperature produces the highest Voc, so Ucpv must cover that cold-weather peak, not the 25\u00b0C nameplate value.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 14px 0 4px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #1a1a1a; font-weight: bold;\">What Ucpv do I need for a 1500V PV system?<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">A 1500V-class array needs a PV SPD with Ucpv 1500V, such as the BRPV3-1500-12.5 (T1+T2, 12.5kA). Verify against the cold-weather Voc of your specific string before finalising the order.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 14px 0 4px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #1a1a1a; font-weight: bold;\">Does a higher Ucpv reduce surge protection performance?<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">No. Ucpv sets only the continuous-voltage withstand; it is largely independent of the clamping voltage Up. A correctly sized higher Ucpv does not weaken protection as long as Up and In \/ Imax still meet the inverter's impulse withstand and the site's lightning level.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 24px 0; text-align: center;\"><a style=\"display: inline-block; max-width: 640px; background-color: #009292; padding: 22px 26px; border-radius: 10px; text-decoration: none; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/contact-us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"display: block; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0 0 8px 0; color: #ffffff;\">Need a PV SPD sized to your exact string?<\/span><span style=\"display: block; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.6; color: #ffffff;\">Share your module datasheet and site temperature with Britec \u2014 we return a written Ucpv calculation and a matched product recommendation within one business day.<\/span><span style=\"display: inline-block; margin-top: 14px; background-color: #ffffff; color: #009292; padding: 10px 20px; border-radius: 6px; font-weight: bold; font-size: 15px;\">Contact Britec Electric<\/span><\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 style=\"font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 24px; color: #1a1a1a; margin: 28px 0 12px 0; border-bottom: 2px solid #009292; padding-bottom: 6px;\">Related Resources<\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/blog\/spd-surge-protective-device-maximum-continuous-operating-voltage-uc-explained\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Maximum Continuous Operating Voltage (Uc) of an SPD Explained<\/a> \u2014 the AC-side definition and how Uc differs from Ucpv.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/blog\/how-to-select-solar-spd-according-to-pv-inverter-specifications\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">How To Select Solar SPD According To PV Inverter Specifications<\/a> \u2014 map In, Imax, Up and type to your inverter nameplate.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/blog\/where-to-install-solar-spd-in-pv-combiner-box\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Where to Install a Solar SPD in a PV Combiner Box<\/a> \u2014 placement for lowest let-through voltage.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/blog\/how-solar-spd-protects-photovoltaic-systems-from-lightning-damage\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">How Solar SPD Protects Photovoltaic Systems From Lightning Damage<\/a> \u2014 the failure modes SPDs prevent.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/blog\/type-1-vs-1-2-vs-2-vs-3-dc-spd-which-to-choose\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Type 1 vs 1+2 vs 2 vs 3 DC SPD: Which To Choose<\/a> \u2014 pick the right SPD type for your PV site.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 18px 0; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; color: #333333;\">\u25cf <a style=\"color: #009292; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/blog\/1500v-vs-1000v-dc-spd-should-you-upgrade\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">1500V vs 1000V DC SPD: Should You Upgrade<\/a> \u2014 system-voltage trade-offs for new arrays.<\/p>"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog\/2721","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/blog"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2655"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2721"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"blog_category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.britecelectric.com\/pl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog_category?post=2721"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}