The immense potential of solar power as a renewable energy source is globally acknowledged, leveraging the abundant, clean, and accessible energy from the sun. To maximize sunlight capture throughout the day, solar panels need to be optimally oriented, a task achieved by solar trackers. Furthermore, these devices adjust solar panels or collectors to follow the sun’s path. Significantly, this enhances their efficiency and energy output by 25% to 40% over fixed installations.

What makes a well-designed solar tracker? What material can support the weight and movement of solar panels or collectors while resisting corrosion and rust from exposure to the elements? It’s simple. The answer is galvanized steel.

This blog will explore the role and benefits of galvanized steel for solar tracking and how it can help you achieve your green energy goals. Stay tuned and learn more about galvanized steel for solar tracking and how the leading steel service center, National Material Company, can enhance your sustainable energy projects.

Galvanized steel is an incredibly powerful material that should not be underestimated.

To produce galvanized steel, manufacturers apply a layer of zinc to the steel, which prevents rust and corrosion. In fact, the function of the zinc coating is to act as a sacrificial anode. This means the zinc layer will corrode before the steel layer beneath it. Various industries and applications widely use galvanized steel due to its low cost, long life, and resistance to mechanical damage.

A close-up image of a steel coil in an industrial setting.

Galvanized steel offers several advantages: 

  • Less expensive than stainless steel and does not require additional surface treatments or coatings.
  • It has a lengthy lifespan of more than 50 years in average environments and more than 20 years in severe water exposure.
  • The galvanization process controls the coating thickness and quality, making it reliable and consistent.
  • As a result of the zinc coating creating a metallurgical bond with the steel, its mechanical properties are improved, rendering it solid and long-lasting.

Some galvanized steel applications are:

  • Construction — People use galvanized steel for roofing, walling, foundations, and structural components such as beams, columns, and frames.
  • Automotive — Manufacturers use galvanized steel to make body panels, chassis, and other parts that must withstand corrosion and maintain strength.
  • Solar — Mounting systems, frames, and supports for solar panels are made with galvanized steel, capable of enduring severe weather and UV exposure.
  • HVAC — Ductwork, pipes, and fittings for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems often utilize galvanized steel due to its ability to prevent both condensation and corrosion.
  • Agriculture — Galvanized steel is used for fencing, silos, greenhouses, and animal shelters. This is because it can resist animal damage and chemical exposure.

Solar Trackers: Where Steel Shines

Photovoltaic solar power station with multiple panels outdoors. The panels are tilted at an angle to capture sunlight efficiently. They are mounted on metal structures and surrounded by grassy terrain. In the background, there is a clear sky and some trees.
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Some of the end products that use solar trackers are:

  • Solar power plants— Utility-scale solar projects widely use solar trackers for high-precision and efficient concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) and concentrated solar power (CSP) technologies.
  • Solar mounting systems — Solar trackers are used to mount solar panels on rooftops, ground, or other structures. Solar trackers can help optimize the space and performance of these systems.
  • Solar devices — Solar devices like solar cookers, solar water heaters, solar chargers, and solar lamps use solar trackers to enhance functionality and durability.

Now, let’s delve into the heart of this discussion — how galvanized steel empowers solar trackers in various capacities:

Galvanized steel for bearing housing for solar tracker manufacturers.

The robust nature of galvanized steel makes it perfect for bearing housings within trackers. These housings withstand immense rotational forces while protecting sensitive bearings, ensuring smooth panel movement.

Steel for solar tracker manufacturers.

Galvanized steel forms the backbone of many tracker components, from structural beams to support frames. Its corrosion resistance is crucial in diverse environments, from arid deserts to coastal regions.

Galvanized steel for torque tube solar trackers.

In these single-axis trackers, galvanized steel forms the central torque tube for rotating the entire panel array. Its strength and rigidity are paramount for precise panel positioning.

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Galvanized steel for tube applications for the solar industry and its solar tracker manufacturers.

Galvanized steel tubes serve numerous purposes in solar trackers. These purposes range from supporting individual panels to forming trusses and frames. This type of steel offers a range of sizes and shapes, as well as excellent surface quality and coating uniformity for tube applications. A versatile choice with top notch adaptability and strength.

National Material Company: Your Galvanized Steel Partner

The solar industry’s expansion into solar tracker manufacturing seeks to boost solar system efficiency and productivity, with material selection being key to the quality and performance of solar trackers. Leading steel service center, National Material Company, provides the best galvanized steel for solar tracker manufacturing. Also, they ensure the highest quality zinc coating adheres to industry standards through their sister company, National Galvanizing.

NMC extends beyond supplying steel to offering expert guidance and support to solar tracker manufacturers, underlining their commitment to quality control and detailed understanding of application needs. This positions them as a reliable partner in constructing durable solar tracking systems.

Therefore, if you’re looking for a U.S. steel processor with robust, reliable, and cost-effective galvanized steel solutions for your solar tracker needs, look no further than NMC. They have a wide selection of products, possess technical knowledge, and prioritize quality. NMC is more than capable of assisting you in achieving your goal of utilizing sustainable solar energy.

About National Material Company

NMC, established in 1964, excels in steel processing and supply-chain management. National Material Company serves the steel industry and major industrial and consumer product manufacturers globally. As part of the National Material Limited Partnership steel division, they are one of the largest independent steel service centers in the U.S.

National Material Company boasts extensive capabilities including state-of-the-art slitters, cut-to-length lines, and strategic locations. Additionally, NMC is recognized for its efficiency, innovation, performance, and is a top distributor of electrical and stainless steel, as well as pre-paint in North America. With their exceptional customer service and steel service industry-leading expertise, they’ll guide you every step of the way, from product selection to delivery.

Contact NMC now and take the first step toward a brighter, more sustainable future!