A solar module's junction box and cable terminations are subjected to mechanical stress throughout its lifetime, during transport, installation, and routine maintenance. The IEC 61215 MQT 14 robustness of terminations test verifies that these components can withstand the forces likely to be applied during normal assembly and handling without compromising the module's electrical isolation. Here is a complete breakdown of what the test involves.
What is the MQT 14 Robustness of Terminations Test?
MQT 14, defined in IEC 61215-2:2021, evaluates the mechanical integrity of a module's electrical terminations. Its purpose is:
To determine that the terminations, the attachment of the terminations, and the attachment of the cables to the body of the module will withstand stresses that are likely to be applied during normal assembly or handling operations.
MQT 14 consists of two sub-tests, both performed in Sequence C after MQT 12:
• MQT 14.1 — Retention of junction box on mounting surface
• MQT 14.2 — Test of cord anchorage
MQT 14.1 — Retention of Junction Box on Mounting Surface
Purpose
This sub-test verifies that the junction box will not be displaced from the module surface under forces applied parallel and perpendicular to the mounting surface.
Apparatus
The required apparatus is a means for applying a force of 40 N to the centre of the test object, designed so that no torque is applied to the junction box. The means of applying the force must not impair the junction box's functions.
Procedure
A force of 40 N is gradually applied for (10 ± 1) seconds in each direction parallel to the mounting surface, parallel to the module edges, in steps of 90°.
A force of 40 N is then gradually applied for (10 ± 1) seconds without jerks in a direction perpendicular to the mounting surface.
The pull force is applied at the centre point of the junction box.
Final Measurements
After the force application, repeat the tests of MQT 01 and MQT 15.
Pass/Fail Criteria
• During the test: there shall be no displacement of the junction box at the mounting surface that impairs its isolating characteristics.
• No evidence of major visual defects, as defined in IEC 61215-1:2021.
• Wet leakage current must meet the same requirements as for the initial measurements.
MQT 14.2 — Test of Cord Anchorage
Purpose
This sub-test verifies that the cable anchorage within the junction box can withstand mechanical stress on the cord.
Procedure
The junction box, separate from the module, is tested to IEC 62790 "Test of cord anchorage" and must meet the requirements defined therein.
If the junction box has been pre-qualified prior to IEC 61215-2:2021 testing, the test report shall note the test lab name and the date when the requirement was met.
Note: The cord anchorage test cannot be applied to junction boxes with integrated connectors. Junction boxes with integrated connectors are therefore exempt from this requirement. This exemption must be noted in the test report.
Why MQT 14 Matters for PV Module Certification
Junction box detachment and cable pull-out are among the more common field failures in solar installations, particularly in modules exposed to wind loading, frequent maintenance access, or rough handling during installation. A junction box that shifts position or whose cables pull free compromises both the module's electrical isolation and its safety.
MQT 14 provides assurance that the adhesive bonding, mounting design, and cord anchoring of the junction box meet a minimum mechanical standard before the module reaches the field. Combined with the electrical isolation tests in MQT 15 and the environmental stress tests in MQT 11, 12, and 13, it forms part of the complete reliability picture that certification bodies, insurers, and project developers rely on.
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Source: IEC 61215-2:2021 — Terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules – Design qualification and type approval – Part 2: Test procedures, Section 4.14