How to Determine the Type of Solar Racking System
Apr 22, 2024
Often referred to as solar racking or solar panel mounting systems, solar mounting frames are designed to support solar panels for up to 20 or 30 years. It is available in a variety of models, including rooftop solar systems, ground-mounted solar installations, and floating solar arrays. Choosing a particular solar mounting system depends on several important considerations.
Types of Solar Mounting Systems
For those considering a rooftop solar installation, there are several roof mounts to choose from. Due to the limited load-bearing capacity of most roofs, these mounts are primarily made of aluminum alloy. Aluminum alloys are lightweight and more suitable for rooftop applications. In addition, rooftop solar systems are designed to be mounted directly to the structural components of the roof. However, when installed on certain types of roofs, it may be necessary to penetrate the roof to install the racking. For roofs that are not suitable for penetration, such as metal or tile roofs, non-intrusive mounting solutions such as standing seams provide a viable alternative, along with waterproofing measures to prevent leakage.
For ground mounting, solar racking can be made from materials such as aluminum alloy, carbon steel, or stainless steel. Aluminum alloys are lightweight and easy to install and are suitable for both ground and roof mounting. They also feature minimal maintenance costs. Currently, hot dip galvanizing is the main method of protecting these ground mounts from corrosion, with coating thickness requirements typically ranging from 55-80µm. In highly corrosive environments, thicker coatings over 100μm may be required, along with regular maintenance.
Floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems are a unique solution where solar panels are mounted on a structure that floats on a body of water such as a lake or reservoir. This solution is ideal for those who lack available land or roof space for installation. Floating solar systems are highly regarded for their ease of installation and maintenance, requiring only an initial installation on shore and then moving to the water. The entire process is as simple as assembling Lego blocks. In terms of efficiency, floating solar systems typically outperform similarly sized ground-mounted solar arrays.
The above discussion outlines the various solar mounting systems available and the factors to consider when choosing the right type. We hope this information is helpful in your decision-making process. If you are looking for a reliable supplier or solution provider in the solar energy field, consider Wanhos, which has more than a decade of expertise in the solar industry.
