Oct 22 2009
Accreditation provides manufacturers faster access to global markets and reduces certification costs
Intertek (LSE: ITRK), a global leader in testing, inspection and certification services has announced that its Lake Forest, California facility has successfully expanded its IECEE CB Scheme Testing Laboratory (CBTL) capabilities. The new capabilities include product safety and conformity assessment testing and certification of Photovoltaic (PV) modules to IEC Standards. This accreditation allows Intertek to conduct one set of tests that will provide manufacturers with market access to more than 40 countries that participate in the IECEE’s CB Scheme. This will save manufacturers money and reduce their overall time-to-market. Intertek now delivers the broadest scope of testing and certification services to the PV industry.
“Since expanding our solar testing capabilities in 2008, Intertek has built a leadership position based on fast project turnaround and our high level of customer service,” said Sunny Rai, Program Director, Photovoltaic & Semiconductor at Intertek. “Providing global certifications complements Intertek’s portfolio of services for renewable energy manufacturers which includes safety and performance testing, design review, field evaluation and more.”
The new accreditation allows Intertek to test and issue IECEE CB Scheme Test Certificates to IEC 61730, 61215, 61646, 60891 and 60904 standards for Mono & Poly Crystalline and Thin Film Photovoltaic modules. Certification to these standards demonstrates acceptable safety and performance levels for long term use of the modules.
Intertek’s state of the art testing laboratory in Lake Forest is equipped with Solar Simulator, Environmental Chambers, Rain & Hail Testers, Impact and Mechanical Loading apparatus, among other equipment. The laboratory is also accredited by the State of California, Energy Commission (CEC) for the Solar Home Program, CEC certifications and has mutual agreements with Florida State Energy Centre for data acceptance.
Intertek’s Lake Forest laboratory has been an accepted IECEE CBTL for more than 12 years under the categories of OFF (IEC 60950), MEAS (IEC 61010), MEC (IEC 60065), HOUS (IEC 60335), LITE (IEC 60598) and EMC.