Key Considerations For Photovoltaic Support System Design

Designing a safe and reliable photovoltaic support system requires rigorous calculations and evaluations, primarily considering the following factors:

 

1. Structural Strength and Stability

The support system must be able to withstand various external loads, including:

* Dead Load: The weight of the photovoltaic modules and the support system itself.

* Wind Load: This is one of the most important design loads, especially for rooftops and areas with high wind pressure. The support system must be able to withstand frontal pressure, back suction, and lateral forces from strong winds to prevent it from being blown over or damaged.

* Snow Load: In areas with snowfall, the weight of accumulated snow will be applied to the modules and support system. Sufficient compressive and bending resistance must be considered in the design.

* Seismic Load: In seismically active areas, the impact of seismic forces must be considered.

* Temperature Load: Materials expand and contract with temperature changes. Expansion/contraction space must be provided in the design, or compensation measures must be implemented.

 

2. Corrosion Resistance

Photovoltaic power plants are typically designed for a lifespan of over 25 years. The support structures are constantly exposed to wind, rain, humidity, salt spray (in coastal areas), or chemical pollution (in industrial areas), requiring excellent corrosion resistance. Hot-dip galvanizing and aluminum alloy materials are key to ensuring long-term corrosion resistance.

 

3. Installation Ease and Adaptability

A good support structure design should facilitate on-site installation, reducing construction difficulty and time. The support system should be adaptable to different ground conditions (such as slope and soil type) and roof structures, offering a degree of adjustment flexibility.

 

4. Cost and Economy

While meeting safety and durability requirements, it is necessary to comprehensively consider material costs, processing costs, transportation costs, and installation and maintenance costs to select the most economical solution. Although tracking supports offer significant power generation increases, their higher initial investment and maintenance costs need to be carefully weighed in the project feasibility analysis.