In this post, I will introduce another essential element of solar energy to all homeowners in the Philippines. I am talking about the structures for solar panels. Although it seems that it is a component that can go unnoticed, most photovoltaic installations in the Philippines need them to, for example, increase their performance.
We are entering a very versatile market niche with diverse solutions. However, what types of structures for solar panels do we find on the market? Which one do I need for my home or business?
As I have said, the multiple cases mean no fixed answer. However, I will cover this topic as broadly as possible so you all have a solid answer. Let’s go there!
What are solar panel structures?
For photovoltaic solar energy to fulfill its purpose well, a pervasive element in the market is needed: Structures for solar panels. Its primary function is to fix these elements to a surface so that the sun’s radiation hits correctly and increases efficiency and production.
In short, it is as if it were the skeleton. As we will see later, depending on the surface type, I will place one type or another of structure for the solar panels. Most of them use aluminum as the primary material. However, we can also regularly see structures made of concrete blocks.
What are the advantages of structures for solar panels?
In addition to fixing the panels to a surface, structures for solar panels carry another series of advantages for those who decide to invest in a system of this type. It does not matter if it is an installation connected to the network or isolated. The benefits are equally expected for all customers. Let’s see a summary of the strengths:
1. They orient the modules correctly: Depending on the position of our home or business, we can include a structure for the solar panels with the inclination we want.
2. They avoid mechanical problems: Its fixing function prevents us from suffering problems in case of very gusty winds. This way, these structures avoid or dodge the possibility of our panels being blown away.
3. They protect against deterioration: A correct structure choice for solar panels should avoid future performance problems in the modules. It seems like a no-brainer, but not all installers perform this function correctly.
What types of solar panel structures can we find?
As there are many types of photovoltaic installations, the variety of structures for solar panels is different. We will use one type or another depending on the roof, surface, or place where they are placed. Let’s see which ones we can find on the market:
1. Inclined structures: They are the most common way to incorporate solar panels. It usually occurs on flat surfaces and provides the height and inclination the photovoltaic modules need.
2. Coplanar structures: They are those that are consistent with the surface of the installation. In other words, the inclination of the roofs is used, for example, and it is not necessary to make such a high investment.
3. Structures on poles: They are typical of small installations with one or two solar panels. We can find them in parking meters or lampposts, and they are attached to a post anchored to the ground that serves as a base.
4. Structures on walls: Like the previous ones, this type of structure for solar panels is made in small facilities. Specifically, these are usually built in isolated houses or without a terrace. They are anchored to the wall and can be placed in buildings with poor orientation.
What structure for solar panels do I need for my installation?
As we have seen throughout the entry, depending on the place of installation, we will need a solar panel structure or another. However, a significant factor comes into play: The inclination of the modules. It is usually done to the south to use solar radiation better. But the problem comes when we do not have that orientation.
It is recommended that the inclined structures of the solar panels have an angle of 180º and always face south.
Here, the different types of structures for solar panels come into play. We will always use the inclined structures to orient the modules where we want. If the roof does not meet the needs, installing it on the ground can be considered.
What parts do we find in the structures for solar panels?
Differentiating the elements of a structure for solar panels is very important for us to get the most out of them. By this, we mean that all elements that make it up are vital. Next, we detail the following:
1. Profiles and support: The profiles will be the guides on which the solar panels will be placed. The supports will be placed vertically if it is an inclined structure and will support the modules.
2. Anchors: These are the elements that join the structure of the solar panels to the roof or the surface to which they are attached. They are critical so that it does not suffer any movement and can withstand all situations.
3. Clamps: A fixing element placed at the end of each guide is used to hold a photovoltaic module correctly. We can also find them intermediate to fix two panels together.
4. Guide joints and fixings: Component used to join various profiles together. When two guides meet, we use a union to make the structure of the solar panels more resistant. The fixings fix the guides.
5. Screws: To avoid future problems, it is recommended that screws with stainless material be used. Let us remember that the installation is outdoors and is exposed to all climatic phenomena.
How is the assembly of the structures for solar panels?
If you are thinking of installing solar panels, do not know how, and do not want to hire an installer, I will give you a few small steps. In this case, we will be talking about a leaning structure and will need the components mentioned above. Attentive!
1. First, we join the different profiles using the guide joints. There must be no space between them.
2. By default, the supports that tilt the structure are already pre-assembled. However, assembling them with the screws we provided will be necessary.
3. Immediately afterward, placing the fixings at the ends of the inclination triangle will be necessary. In this way, we will join the support of the profiles we made in the first step.
4 Once it is fixed precisely and to the millimeter, we will carefully place the photovoltaic modules and anchor them with clamps.
Conclusion
Whether in a house, in the countryside, or on the sea, a structure for solar panels is always needed so that all the installations do their job efficiently and correctly.
In principle, its primary function is to fix it, but what many do not know is that it is important to take into account the quality of the materials so as not to have future mechanical problems.
There are different types of structures for solar panels. The most common is usually the inclined ones, which heightens the structure.
However, we also have coplanars, those that take advantage of the inclination of the roof and it is not necessary to incline them. As you can see, there are many secrets behind these elements. Find more about photovoltaic solar energy on SolarLab.ph.