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Racking Systems
The support structures that are built to support PV modules on a roof or in a field are commonly referred to as racking systems. The manufacture of PV racking systems varies significantly depending on where the installation will occur. Ground-mounted racking is made from steel, which is typically coated or galvanized to protect from corrosion and requires concrete foundations. Large ground-mounted systems typically use a one-axis tracking mechanism, which helps solar panels follow the sun as it moves from east to west. Tracking requires mechanical parts like motors and bearings. Stationary racking (referred to as “fixed tilt”) can be used as well. Roof-mounted racking depends on the type of roof. For flat roofs, like those on large commercial or industrial buildings, fixed-tilt steel racking is used. It is commonly attached to heavy blocks that sit on the roof. For pitched residential roofs, racking is designed to attach securely to the rafters and hold the modules a few inches above the roof. This allows airflow to cool the rear of the modules, improving their performance.
Power Electronics
Power electronics for PV modules, including power optimizers and inverters, are assembled on electronic circuit boards. This hardware converts direct current (DC) electricity, which is what a solar panel generates, to alternating current (AC) electricity, which the electrical grid uses. Learn more about how inverters work.
Assembly starts with a circuit board template. A solder-paste is printed where small components, like transistors and diodes, are placed using robotics. Sometimes, larger components such as capacitors and transformers are placed by hand on the board. Once all components are in place, the board passes across a solder bath in a furnace to connect the components. The entire board is coated with lacquer and sealed into a waterproof housing with ports for external connections.
Learn more about how solar works, SETO’s research areas, and solar energy resources.
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