Photovoltaic support steel type

Which material should be used for photovoltaic (PV) support structures?

When it comes to selecting the material for photovoltaic (PV) support structures, it generally adopts Q235B steel and aluminum alloy extrusion profile AL6005-T5. Each material has its advantages and considerations, and the choice depends on various factors. Let’s compare steel and aluminum for PV support structures:

What are the different types of PV support systems?

At present, there are three main types of PV support systems: fixed mounted PV, flexible mounted PV, and float-over mounted PV systems. Fixed mounted PV systems are the traditional and most widely used PV system. They are usually mounted on the ground and building roofs.

What is cable-supported photovoltaic (PV)?

Cable-supported photovoltaic (PV) modules have been proposed to replace traditional beam-supported PV modules. The new system uses suspension cables to bear the loads of the PV modules and therefore has the characteristics of a long span, light weight, strong load capacity, and adaptability to complex terrains.

What is a PV support structure?

Support structures are the foundation of PV modules and directly affect the operational safety and construction investment of PV power plants. A good PV support structure can significantly reduce construction and maintenance costs. In addition, PV modules are susceptible to turbulence and wind gusts, so wind load is the control load of PV modules.

How do I choose a steel or aluminum PV support structure?

Ultimately, the selection of steel or aluminum for PV support structures depends on project-specific factors such as the size of the installation, load requirements, budget, site conditions (e.g., wind and snow loads, corrosive environments), and sustainability goals.

What is a supporting cable structure for PV modules?

Czaloun (2018) proposed a supporting cable structure for PV modules, which reduces the foundation to only four columns and four fundaments. These systems have the advantages of light weight, strong bearing capacity, large span, low cost, less steel consumption and applicability to complex terrain.