A photovoltaic system installation project involves several components, from solar panels, micro inverters or inverters, to cabling and connectors, and of course, to the fixing structures. Today, fixing structures represent around 10% of the equipment cost of a photovoltaic system and play an essential role, as they are what fix the solar panels to the roof.
For Pablo Larrieux, Marketing Director at Solar Group, among the types of fasteners, those made of aluminum are an advantageous option for photovoltaic systems installed on roofs and slabs, as they have natural resistance to the corrosion process and protection against oxidation.
“Aluminum creates a layer of protection against corrosion spontaneously, a phenomenon known as passivation, as it is a light metal, aluminum has a structural advantage, since the lighter the installation, the less weight the roof will have to support”, explains Larrieux.
The expert also highlights that the material has a useful life of 30 years, which is essential in a long-term investment such as the implementation of a photovoltaic system.
Fastener for each roof
There are currently several models of panel fasteners available to meet the needs of the photovoltaic market. These include fasteners for ceramic roofs, fiber cement roofs, metal roofs (seamed, trapezoidal, corrugated), shingle roofs and slab roofs. “It is important to note that each roof has different structural characteristics, which is why it is essential that each project is designed by a responsible engineer, who ensures that the project is suitable for the roof,” highlights the director.
For a ceramic roof the option is a hook or stud fastener. For a metal roof it is a continuous or segmented flat profile fastener, a fastener in which the profile and fastener are together in the same piece, and stud screw for metal as well.
On a fiber cement roof, the only option is a stud screw. On standing seam and shingle roofs, the fasteners are, respectively, standing seam brackets and shingles. On slabs, it is necessary to use triangular brackets to hold the panels. In the case of roofs with two fastener options, the decision is up to the installer, based on the taste and needs of the project.
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Very good!!!!