Let’s talk about steel tubing for solar trackers.
In the world of renewable energy, solar power has emerged as a promising alternative to fossil fuels. With the increasing demand for solar energy, choosing suitable materials to construct the necessary components has become crucial. For instance, steel tubing plays a vital role in building solar panel mounting systems and supporting structures. However, not all steel tubing is created equal, and choosing a reputable metals processor specializing in steel processing for solar applications is essential.
What is a Solar Tracker?
A solar tracker is a device used in solar energy systems to orient solar panels or solar collectors toward the sun’s path, maximizing their exposure to sunlight throughout the day. Solar panels are typically installed on fixed mounts, which means they have a fixed orientation and receive sunlight at a certain angle. In fact, solar trackers increase the efficiency of solar panel systems by up to 40%, making them an essential part of large-scale solar energy projects.
Focus on Steel Tubing for Solar Panels
With the rise of solar power’s popularity, the use of steel tubing has become increasingly important. Steel tubing is a crucial component in solar tracker systems because it is often used to create the structural framework that supports the solar panels or collectors and allows for the tracking mechanism. It provides the necessary strength and durability to ensure that solar panels can effectively follow the sun’s path and maximize energy production.
There are several options manufacturers utilize in making the best steel tubing for solar panels, including using high-quality carbon or galvanized steel. For instance, carbon steel tubing is strong and durable, making it an ideal choice for solar panel mounts and trackers. Galvanized steel tubing is also popular, as it is resistant to corrosion and rust, making it a suitable choice for outdoor and harsh weather environments.
Steel tube manufacturers offer a full range of tube sizes and d/t ratios, including unique shapes, to meet the specific requirements of solar tracker designs. Also, they provide on-site laser processing capabilities to cut the tubes to length and ensure precise and accurate dimensions.
Exploring the Benefits of Steel Tubing for Solar Applications
Roof Mounted Racks
Steel tubing provides roof-mounted racks with the necessary strength and structural integrity to support the weight of solar panels while ensuring that the roof can bear the additional load. It is also thin and lightweight which minimizes the risk of overburdening the structure by distributing the load evenly across the roof. Additionally, the steel tubing ensures the longevity of the rack and, by extension, the solar panel system.
Ground Mounted Racks
Thick steel tubes make a solid metal frame, which firmly secures the solar panels to the ground. This level of sturdiness is important for the stability of the solar panel system. The long-term stability of the system gives the clients the option to make this installation permanent.
Top-of-Pole Mounted Racks
One great way to protect your solar panels is by placing them on a tall steel pole filled with nothing. This way, they are lifted off the ground and are less likely to get damaged by anything that might bump into them. However, choosing the right steel pole with the right thickness and strength is essential to withstand strong winds and tension stress. Steel tubing’s robustness ensures the system’s resilience against challenging weather conditions.
Side-of-pole Mounted Racks
Manufacturers design side-of-pole structures to provide solidity and sturdiness. They are built from steel and designed to be assembled quickly and easily, with as few parts as possible. Usually, people fit these constructions onto steel tubes ranging from 76mm to 114.3mm in size.
Tracking System Mounted Racks
Tracking system mounted racks use thin steel tubing for many advantages. One advantage is its lightweight mobility, which helps solar panels facilitate precise tracking of the sun’s path and ensure the panels receive the best possible exposure throughout the day—leading to increased energy exposure.
The U.S. Solar Market Saw Historic Growth in 2020
SEIA/Wood Mackenzie power and renewables U.S. Solar Market Insight reports that the solar market installed over 19 gigawatts (G.W.) of solar capacity in 2020, a 43% increase from 2019, despite COVID-19 challenges. This shows that the solar industry in the United States is snowballing and that the solar sector is becoming an increasingly important part of the country’s energy mix.
The growth of the U.S. solar market is good news for the environment and the economy. Solar power is a sustainable and eco-friendly source of energy that can help decrease our dependence on non-renewable fuels. Furthermore, solar energy creates jobs and boosts the local economy. The future of the U.S. solar market looks bright. Experts predict that solar energy will keep increasing in the coming years. The Biden administration has set a goal of achieving 100% clean energy by 2035. The United States can achieve its goal with the significant contribution of solar energy.
National Material Company is here to help with any solar project you may have. They offer diverse steel products that can bring your plans to fruition. NMC provides reliable steel for tubing used in solar applications. Moreover, their experts will work closely with you to ensure that your project succeeds from start to finish. So, why wait? Consider the North American steel service center, NMC, for your future solar projects!
About National Material Company
National Material Company (NMC) is integral to the National Material Limited Partnership (NMLP) steel division, a powerhouse independent U.S. steel processor. Shipping over 1.4 million tons of steel annually, NMC caters to customers’ manufacturing needs across various markets. Thanks to its extensive list of capabilities, the company prides itself on supplying, servicing, and processing steel with uncompromised efficiency and capacity.
NMC is a proud holder of ISO-9002 certification and leaves no stone unturned in upholding its safety standards for employees. With a culture that values innovation, performance, and efficiency, NMC stands tall as a leader in the industry.
To reach us and learn about our services, visit https://www.nationalmaterial.com/company/, give us a call at (U.S.) 847-806-7200, or email us at nmcquotes@nmlp.com
