Use VHB to Attach Your Solar Panel to an Enclosure

It is amazing how many times we suggest 3M VHB and other high bonding tapes as a method to attach a small solar panel to an enclosure. At first look, you think this is just double sided tape, but it is really so much more.

Below, we show examples of waterproof gaskets, how to properly apply the tape and which electronic enclosures match up best with each of our solar panels.

Use of High Bonding Tapes on Solar Panels

Voltaic provides waterproof gaskets for our 0.3 and 0.6 Watt solar panels. A continuous perimeter of high bonding tape, if properly applied, will securely bond and and create a waterproof seal between the solar panel and enclosure. You might have seen them on GoPro cameras, but VHB is used to attach windows to buildings and also by a large number of our customers in high vibration, industrial environments.

VHB can be purchased in rolls to be cut into thin strips or sheets to be cut into gaskets. You can cut VHB to almost any shape via a fabricator or your own laser cutter.

High Bonding Tape Examples

Here is an example of a large gaskets for sealing the panel to the enclosure.

This is a smaller piece we made for creating a waterproof seal between a custom plug and enclosure.

If you do not need the waterproofing element, using simple VHB strips will significantly reduce the costs.

Applying a High Bonding Gasket

Here are the steps we use to attach the VHB gasket to one of our panels.

1. Clean the surface with a 50/50 isopropyl alcohol and water mix

2. Peel back one edge of the backing paper

3. Apply the exposed edge to the panel

4. Slide the paper backing out from underneath the gasket, ensuring smooth and even application without wrinkles or air bubbles

Other Tips for Using VHB on Solar Panels

1. When applying pressure to the panel insert very soft foam between your press and the panel – this will distribute the weight evenly and prevent damage to the panel. The 3M VHB design guide recommends briefly applying 15 psi of pressure to activate the chemical bond. The bond will gradually strengthen over time, reaching 100% after 72 hours.

2. While there are many different VHB tapes suited for a variety of applications, we have extensively tested 5952 and achieved strong waterproof seals between our panels and a variety of substrates.

3. For low-surface energy materials or critical applications, be sure to use the recommended surface primers.

4. Take some before / after EL images of the solar panel (Voltaic can help with this) to confirm your process works.

Get a Custom Solar Panel Quote

Recommended Enclosures for our Solar Panels

Hammond Enclosures are well made and several of them come with handy mounting flanges and a recessed inlay. The panels fit neatly inside that inlay. Depending on which panel you choose and the dimensions of your electronics, there are several good options to choose from.

Enclosure Compatibility