FM Approvals offers Identified Component Recognition for photovoltaic modules and securement devices

FM Approvals’ Identified Component Recognition assesses critical, individual parts of larger FM Approved assemblies, devices, and systems. Within this new recognition initiative, identified components are not evaluated as complete, tested systems – however, they are evaluated to confirm compliance to selected performance requirements and all normal quality standards that are hallmarks of the fully FM Approved products.

Identified Component Recognitions can be granted to standalone photovoltaic modules or ground-mounted securement devices. In this offering, standalone items go through selected testing from our evaluation standards to determine the performance against the number one peril (hail) for photovoltaic modules. In addition, the manufacturing locations are audited and enrolled into FM Approvals’ surveillance program. Upon completion of the identified component recognition process, the modules or devices are not outright certified but rather carry selected certified performance ratings.

FM Approvals Examination Standards 4478 (Roof-Mounted Rigid Photovoltaic Module Systems) and
FM Approvals Examination Standard 4480 (Ground-Mounted or Elevated Photovoltaic Module Systems) both include Identified Component Recognition. One notable distinction is that Identified Component Recognition is available for ground-mounted securement devices, but not for roof-mounted securement devices.

The primary benefits of securing an Identified Component Recognition for a PV module or ground-mounted securement device – and carrying a certified performance rating – include FM Approvals’ confirmation that observed sample products, quality assurance procedures, and surveillance audit efforts at all manufacturing facilities. Additionally, all identified components for PV modules require the attainment of minimum requirements for hail damage resistance and electrical safety and performance.

Upon completion of Identified Component Recognition for any standalone, FM Approvals has validated that the component and production facilities meet quality control and performance standards. This offering is a unique path for manufacturers of photovoltaic modules, securement devices, or other products to be recognized by FM Approvals . One advantage of Identified Component Recognition is that listed panels that have completed this process can be evaluated as part of any assembly without having to put additional auditing requirements on the roof or securement manufacturer who uses the components.

Backed by nearly 140 years of property loss prevention testing and certification experience and scientific research, products tested and certified – as well as components recognized – by FM Approvals have been evaluated to perform under the toughest conditions presented by natural hazards and other threats faced by facilities that rely on photovoltaics.

Completing this process can expose a specification-tested material or device to a diverse group of prospective users around the world, all backed by the technical knowledge and experience of FM Approvals. Whether you manufacture a product or utilize these types of products in your facility, reach out to Kennie Thompson
(FM Approvals, Business Development Engineer) at [email protected] to learn more about the benefits of completing Identified Component Recognition.