Solar Panel flexible 20W

Solar Panel 20W flexible

At just 3.5mm thin NASA weather proof panels are tough enough to withstand being stepped on when wearing soft soled shoes

A solar panel can provide a near maintenance free solution to keeping batteries charged when unattended. An occasional wipe with a damp cloth is all that is necessary to ensure the panel continues to trickle energy into the battery. Keeping the battery topped up will improve its reliability and can extend its useful working life. Whilst solar panels give their maximum output in direct sunlight, even an overcast day can provide a useful level of charge.

The Nasa marine 12 volt, semi flexible solar panels are robustly constructed on a fibre glass substrate and are protected by a scratch proof transparent Tedlar polymer. Only 3.5mm thick and lightweight, they have no metal outer components to make contact with the surface to which they are fitted.  The efficient and stable polycrystalline cells are encapsulated between two tough outer layers so the whole panel is weatherproof and carries a limited one year warranty.

The panels can be gently flexed (in one dimension.) to follow a smooth curve, such as a coach roof, by up to 2.5cm per 100cm of panel length. Four, grommet finished, holes are provided for screw fixing. Alternatively panels can be glued into position using mastic.
A sealed junction box is fitted with 2.5m of output cable, a connector and fuse protected crocodile clips. Electrical connection is simple though the use of a solar regulator is recommended to prevent overcharge if the system is to be left unattended for long periods or the solar panel to battery ratio exceeds the minimum of 10W to 100Ah.  An internal blocking diode prevents reverse current drain at night. The panel is protected with an inline 3 Amp fuse.

The 10W panel measures 370 x 280mm

The 20W panel measures 510 x 360mm