Solar panel tracking system axis

Types of solar panel tracking system axis

The solar panel tracking system axis is designed to change the direction of solar panels to obtain more sunlight. A single-axis solar tracker can rotate in one direction. It is usually installed in an east-west orientation to allow the solar panels to tilt from north to south throughout the day. This simple horizontal single-axis tracker can increase energy generation by 20% to 30%. Another version is the tilted single-axis solar tracker. It is installed along the diagonal of the east-west direction. It is often used in lower latitude areas where the sun's angle is higher. The tilted single-axis solar tracker can improve solar tracking in the summer and increase energy generation by 25% to 40%.

Double-axis solar trackers can rotate in two directions. They can move on a horizontal as well as a vertical axis. This enables the solar panel to receive sunlight at all times without any limitations. The efficiency of the dual-axis solar tracker is the highest of all solar trackers. However, the construction cost is also relatively high. Therefore, it is usually used in places where there is a critical need to increase solar energy in the fastness or in the cold region to prevent excessive snowfall on the solar panel.

Horizontal solar trackers have a horizontal axis that is perpendicular to the rays of the sun. They are supported on vertical columns. This design is simple and cost-effective. It is suitable for installation on solar panels of different sizes.

Azimuth solar trackers. Their axis is parallel to the earth's rotation axis. An azimuth tracker can mimic the sun's daily motion by rotating once every 24 hours with the help of a gear motor. Azimuth trackers are more suitable for large installations.

Inverted-v solar trackers. The design looks like the letter V. A frame supports the solar panels in the shape of a V. The configuration is very stable, and it is suitable for installation in areas with high winds and extreme weather conditions.

On-ground solar trackers are located on the ground. The axis is above the ground, and it is supported by solid columns to stand firmly on the soil surface. Ground solar trackers are more suitable for installation in places with massive solar energy demand.

Specification & Maintenance

Here are some specifications to consider for both single and dual axis solar tracker systems:

• Structure Materials: Most tracker mounts are made of carbon steel or aluminum alloy. The aluminum alloy dual axis solar panel support is usually lighter. That makes it more suitable for mounting on structures like rooftops.
• Length of the Tracker: This matches the length of the solar panel it supports. A typical single-axis solar tracker may be about 2 to 4 meters long. The dual-axis ones are longer because they have to support the panel from two horizontal axles.
• Weight: A carbon steel plate solar panel tracker can weigh anywhere from 50 kg to 100 kg or more. The more common lightweight aluminum ones can weigh between 10 kg to 30 kg. This weight varies based on the length and materials used in their construction.
• Wind Resistance: A solar tracker system should withstand wind speeds of 65 to 80 km/h. It should also support any solar structure it holds. In other words, it should not give way to the solar panels, even in a storm, causing the solar panels to topple.

Maintenance

Solar panel tracker systems do not require frequent maintenance. However, routine checks should be part of the scheduled maintenance plans.

• Weekly Inspection: Check for loose bolts or any damaged parts. Check the lubrication of the moving components too.
• Monthly Inspection: In addition to the weekly inspection tasks, check the alignment of the solar panels. Make sure they still align optimally with the sun’s path.
• Quarterly Inspection: Conduct a deep inspection of all components. Check the drive motors, gearboxes, control systems, and bearings. Conduct cleaning on all lubricated parts. You may also apply grease or lubricant to the bearings and moving parts.
• Hydraulic Systems: For solar trackers equipped with hydraulic systems, check the hydraulic fluid regularly. Ensure that the connections are not leaking. Also, inspect the seals and the condition of the system’s components.

Applications of the solar panel tracking system axis

There are several applications of solar panel tracking systems in different industries. Here are some of them:

• Solar Power Plant: At the moment, solar tracker systems are widely used in solar power plants. With the support of the solar tracker, the efficiency of the solar power plant is greatly improved.
• Agriculture: The Solar Tracking System can be used to build solar greenhouses in solar agriculture. The greenhouse can be heated by solar energy. Thus, the crops can have a suitable temperature to grow. Besides, the solar greenhouse also allows agriculture to be carried out in areas with less rain.
• Solar greenhouse construction: The solar tracking system can be used to build solar greenhouses in solar agriculture. The greenhouse can be heated by solar energy. Thus, the crops can have a suitable temperature to grow. Besides, the solar greenhouse also allows agriculture to be carried out in areas with less rain.
• Solar Desalination: The solar-powered desalination system can convert seawater into fresh water. Thus, it provides an affordable and sustainable water supply for communities in coastal areas.
• Solar Pavements: Solar tracking technology has been used in smart pavements to realize the function of energy self-supply. The smart road can supply solar energy for street lights and public charging stations, etc.
• Solar Transportation: The solar tracker has the potential to change transportation. Solar energy can supply power for vehicle air conditioning, lighting, and entertainment systems. Additionally, it can charge the vehicle's battery.
• Solar Communication Base Station: Communication base stations are set up in areas with weak electricity and a large need for electricity. Therefore, the foundation cannot depend on grid electricity. A solar tracker can provide a consistent power supply for communication foundation stations.

How to choose solar panel tracking system axis

• Energy generation requirement analysis:

  Investors should determine the desired energy generation amount before purchasing a solar tracker. They should calculate the needed solar power based on the solar panel's capacity,Tracker's energy conversion efficiency, and the present sunlight condition.

• Tracker type selection:

  Choose the appropriate solar tracker according to the installation location and investment budget. Dual-axis solar trackers can increase solar energy conversion efficiency. However, they also raise the initial investment cost and maintenance requirement. In some cases, a fixed bracket combined with regular solar panel tilt adjustment can be an alternative solution.

• Durability evaluation:

  Solar trackers will face various weather conditions. When selecting a tracker, consider its materials and manufacturing processes. Make sure they have good weather resistance and performance to provide long-term stable operation.

• System integration capability:

  Solar trackers need to be integrated with other solar system components, such as inverters and monitoring systems. When selecting a tracker, ensure that its integration capability corresponds to the other equipment to guarantee system stability and performance.

• Supplier selection:

  Choose a solar tracker supplier with a solid market presence and proven product reliability. Investigate the supplier's service network and support system to ensure timely assistance and maintenance during the later operational phase.

FAQ

Q1: What are the challenges of solar tracking systems?

A1: Solar panel trackers are subject to regular maintenance. In addition, there is limited knowledge, and the initial cost is high.

Q2: Can solar panels still work at night?

A2: Solar panels produce energy during the day; thus, they cannot generate power at night. However, they can store energy in batteries for use at night.

Q3: What is the lifespan of a solar tracker?

A3: If well maintained, solar trackers can last for 25 years.

Q4: Do solar trackers work in cloudy weather?

A4: Yes, they can, but the tracking systems will not function fully since the sun's intensity is low.