Types of Photovoltaic (PV) Mounting Systems

PV mounting systems can be categorized based on their installation method, material, and structural design. Here’s an overview:

1. Classification by Installation Method

Fixed PV Mounts

• Features:

• Angle remains fixed after installation.

• Simple structure, low cost, and high stability.

• Applications:

• Suitable for regions with stable sunlight conditions and minimal seasonal changes in solar angles, such as southern China.

• Common in areas where cost efficiency is prioritized over maximizing energy output.

Tracking PV Mounts

• Features:

• Automatically adjusts the angle based on the sun’s position.

• Maximizes solar energy capture, enhancing energy generation efficiency.

• Higher cost, more complex structure, and requires regular maintenance.

• Applications:

• Ideal for regions with significant variations in solar angles, such as high-latitude areas.

• Common in large-scale PV power plants requiring high energy output efficiency.

2. Classification by Material

Aluminum Alloy PV Mounts

• Features:

• Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, easy to transport and install.

• Aesthetic appearance, but higher cost and limited load-bearing capacity.

• Applications:

• Small-scale distributed systems, such as residential rooftops or small commercial buildings.

• Particularly suitable for coastal regions with high corrosion risk.

Steel PV Mounts

• Features:

• High strength and load-bearing capacity at a lower cost.

• Heavier and prone to rust; requires proper anti-corrosion treatment.

• Applications:

• Large-scale PV projects, including ground-mounted solar farms and industrial facilities.

• Favored in inland regions with less corrosive environmental factors.

Composite Material PV Mounts

• Features:

• Lightweight, high strength, corrosion-resistant, and electrically insulated.

• Higher cost and more complex production processes.

• Applications:

• Used in specialized projects with high-performance requirements and ample budgets.

• Common in premium distributed systems or projects emphasizing environmental sustainability.

3. Classification by Structural Design

Single-Post Mounts

• Features:

• Simplistic design with a single post supporting the panel.

• Minimal land use but limited stability under wind or seismic loads.

• Applications:

• Small-scale rooftop systems or constrained spaces.

Double-Post Mounts

• Features:

• Two posts offer better stability, higher resistance to wind and snow loads.

• Can support larger panels but requires more space.

• Applications:

• Medium to large-scale rooftop or ground-mounted systems.

• Effective in regions with significant wind or snow.

Multi-Post Mounts

• Features:

• Multiple posts provide exceptional stability for complex terrains or harsh weather conditions.

• Highly scalable but higher cost and installation complexity.

• Applications:

• Large-scale ground-mounted systems, especially in mountainous or desert terrains.

Sloped Roof Mounts

• Features:

• Custom-designed to fit the slope of the roof.

• Firmly installed without damaging the roof’s waterproofing structure.

• Flexible installation but limited general compatibility.

• Applications:

• Residential or villa sloped roof PV systems.

Flat Roof Mounts

• Features:

• Designed for flat roofs with adjustable angles for optimal sunlight capture.

• Multiple installation methods (e.g., ballast, bolt fastening) with strict waterproofing requirements.

• Applications:

• Common in industrial buildings, schools, hospitals, and commercial flat-roof systems.

Selection Tips

• Project Scale: Larger projects benefit from robust materials like steel or multi-post systems.

• Environmental Factors: Coastal or corrosive areas favor aluminum or composite mounts.

• Budget and Performance: Fixed mounts are cost-effective; tracking systems maximize output in high-value projects.

• Roof Type: Choose sloped or flat roof systems tailored to the building's design.