4 Things You Need to Know about Fixed-tilt Solar Racking
Though tracking solar systems becomes a trend in recent years, still, a large proportion of large-scale utility solar capacity was installed with fixed tilt solar racking systems.
What is a fixed tilt system?
The fixed tilt angle solar racking system can be placed at a fixed tilt angle which is usually the optimum tilt to enable it can absorb the most sunlight. This solar racking system is suitable for ground or rooftop. It is easy to design, install and maintain.
The amount of electricity generated by a fixed-tilt solar racking system depends on the orientation of the solar panels relative to the sun. The solar array panels collect solar radiation more efficiently when the sun's rays are perpendicular to the panel. So, the tilt angle of fixed-tilt solar array should be designed according to the geographical location. For example, at lower latitudes, in states such as Hawaii, the sun is higher in the sky and solar panels do not require much direct sunlight; but at higher latitudes, in states like Minnesota, the sun is lower in the sky and solar panels are often installed at greater tilt angles to receive direct sunlight.
Fixed-tilt Solar Racking VS Tracking System
It has been witnessed that solar power plant has increasingly been installed with solar tracking systems in recent years. Solar tracking systems are more expensive than fixed-tilt systems, but they can generate more power by following the sun's path across the sky. Besides, the tracking system is suitable for large-scale solar power plants in low latitude areas while fixed-tilt racking systems are suitable for medium and large-scale solar power stations with a wide range of latitudes. Still, there is a large proportion of solar power plants installed with fixed-tilt racking systems, because it requires less maintenance cost, less manpower, and less installation cost.
Where can the fixed-tilt racking system be installed?
According to the installation place, fixed tilt racking system can be divided into two types: ground fixed-tilt solar mounting system or rooftop fixed-tilt racking system.
A ground mounting solar system is a kind of solar array that can be installed on the ground with posts or ground screws into the soil. It is easier to place than the rooftop solar racking system. Especially for large facilities, a fixed tilt system results in high-cost savings in terms of assembly time due to a smaller number of posts needing to be placed. Different frame various of different module arrangements also guarantees a cost-effective choice of materials optimized to the desired configuration. However, it may require more racking than rooftop solar racking systems.
Advantages of fixed tilt solar panel racking
The problems of rotating racks and high maintenance costs do not happen on fixed-tilt solar panel systems. They are simple, cheap, and strong; they are by far the most common choice for rooftops and ground applications. Let me tell you the advantages of fixed-tilt solar systems.
● Cost-Effective and Affordable
The cost of installing fixed solar racking is a fraction of installing similar scale solar tracking systems, which will save you tons of money in large commercial solar plants. Also, the fixed solar panel racking system requires less installation cost and maintenance costs, which can dramatically save your cost.
On the contrary, installing a solar tracker system is more complex, requires more equipment, as well as can be costly. The complexity of sun trackers makes installations more challenging and requires more maintenance, which increases the costs significantly in the long run.
● Easy to install and maintenance
The simple design of fixed mounts makes installation work easy and less costly. This allows the installer to install with fewer tools and take less time. Compared to fixed mounts, the tracking system is more complex in the structure design and components, which requires the installer to have professional installation knowledge and rich experience. On the other hand, trackers require regular maintenance or repairs, especially for the motorized part. For a fixed tilt solar racking system, annual inspection and maintenance are enough to ensure an optimal power output.
● More durable
The fixed racking system is more durable compared to the tracking system. Then can withstand harsh weather conditions such as heavy wind, snow, and rain.
Conclusion
The fixed tilt solar racking system is the most simple and durable solar mount. It can be installed on the ground or rooftop at a certain angle. If you have any need for fixed tilt solar panel racking, please feel free to contact us. We have various fixed tilt solar mounts for your options and the customized design is available also.
