The quality of solar power system mounting equipment and associated installation can sometimes play second fiddle to other aspects. This can result in an expensive and potentially fatal situation.
A chain is only as strong as its weakest link – and if that weak link is in mounting hardware installation, the results can be dramatic and catastrophic.
The following images show a tilt frame installed in Queensland that became detached from a rooftop during a storm this month (images used with permission).
The screws on the front feet of the frame ripped out from the roof and the upper halves of the rear legs also parted ways from the lower halves.
As dramatic as the damage is, it could have been far worse. If the storm had lasted much longer and the array totally dislodged, it then could have become a lethal weapon propelled by storm force winds; causing damage to neighbouring properties or even a fatality should someone have been unfortunate enough to be in its path.
According to the team at SunLock (which is not the brand of the affected mounting system) who are familiar with the incident, this situation could have been avoided if the installer had been provided with the correct number of parts and a full manual detailing correct installation procedures.
Tilt frame solar mounting systems do not need to be storm victims. A SunLock tilt frame will withstand once in 500 year wind events when properly installed.
Designed by engineers at Apollo Energy, sister company of national solar provider Energy Matters, SunLock offers robust and fully documented racking solutions for rooftop, ground and pole mount solar panels. SunLock is included as standard with all Energy Matters’ solar panel systems.
Australian made and designed SunLock solar panel racking systems achieved over 6% market share during the last financial year; with 418 kilometres of SunLock rail sold – enough to support approximately 50 MW of solar panels.
Installation and solar panel mounting system quality are just two aspects that solar buyers should be aware of before deciding on a provider. Energy Matters’ comprehensive free Solar Power Consumer Guide helps consumers select the right solar power system and avoid potential pitfalls.
