Ground-mount systems are the literal foundation of solar projects, so choosing not just the right product, but the best manufacturer for each site or portfolio is crucial. In our Ground-Mount Buyer’s Guide this year, EPCs and developers building C&I and utility-scale sites can get a snapshot of the fixed tilt products, tracker systems and turnkey services offered by 14 of the top providers. Click on products listed under each company to read more about their design, installation methods and advantages.
OMCO Solar is a premier manufacturer of solar racking and tracker solutions for community, commercial & industrial, and utility scale projects. Their expertise in fixed tilt and single-axis tracker systems stems from decades of steel manufacturing, beginning in 1955 when OMCO Holdings was founded. OMCO developed the first American steel fabrication and assembly facility specific to the utility-scale solar market. As a major manufacturer, OMCO has been driving innovation for solar structures and construction for over 20 years.
Posts per row: Dependent on soil conditions, type of posts and row length—average is 11 to 13 per row Row lengths: While 96 modules per row is most common, OMCO Solar can customize to accommodate up to 112 Slope tolerances: Can accommodate a North-South slope of up to 15% Certifications: Several, including UL3703 and ASCE7-10
Design: The OMCO Origin Bifacial Tracker is constructed of cast aluminum and galvanized steel with high-strength and self-lubricating Delrin. Its balanced design allows for more accurate targeting and reduced energy consumption. The module frame and bearing are factory preassembled and shipped as single units for labor, time and cost savings. The unique bearing adjusts to accommodate post misalignment. Customers benefit from more backside production with a tracker optimized for bifacial modules with a 2-in-landscape design. The tracker also includes foundation options of driven C posts and driven I or W posts.
Advantages: • Factory Preassembled – bearing and module frame is supplied as single, preassembled units for installation labor savings • Balanced Design – axis of rotation at the center of mass of the table improves targeting • Long Wear Life – tested to more than 40 years equivalent life • 7 Dimensions of Adjustment – bearing adjusts to accommodate post misalignment to avoid project delays • Up to 20% More Back Side Production – open back allows uniform backside irradiance, critical for long cell and module life • Short Lead Times – Customers benefit from expedited delivery due to OMCO Solar’s four strategically-located U.S. manufacturing plants
Number of pieces: Typically 11 components plus hardware
Posts per row: As few as 11 posts per 120-module length tracker
Row lengths: Row lengths can vary up to 120 framed silicon modules per row (up to 122 meters long)
Slope tolerances: North-South Slope = ± 15%, East-West Slope = ± 20%
Certifications: UL3703, ASCE7-10; Motor, Drive, and Tracker Controller are IEC IP65
Design: The foundation piles are driven into the ground followed by the installation of the bearing, as follows:
Advantages: The OMCO ORIGIN tracker has many proven operational benefits and economic value that can only be realized when dealing directly with the manufacturer. The universal module mount is designed to make the installation process fast and easy while also allowing for last-minute module adjustments. There are also fewer trackers per MW because the design allows for longer rows -- up to 120 modules long. This helps minimize the number of trackers, thus reducing the capital cost of the project, due to fewer controllers, drives and motors, lower O&M cost, and fewer spare parts.
Number of pieces: Each rack typically consists of five to seven pre-assembled components. Structural components are made from Galvanized U.S. Steel, Per ASTM A653 - Latest Edition
Certifications: ISO 9001:2015 Standard, UL 2703 Ed. 1, CPP Wind Tunnel-Tested, NEC Compliant
Pre-Assembled components and assembly optimizes packaging & shipping, reduces on-site labor requirements, accelerates total build time, and eliminates loose hardware along with third party grounding devices. This in turn accelerates the assembly process. The module clamps can be fastened from below, eliminating the need for any overhead lifting of the equipment for safe installation. All of the structural components are manufactured by OMCO at our four strategically located US manufacturing locations, further reducing shipping costs and lead times.
Number of pieces: 8 Typical Components + Hardware
Certifications: ISO 9001:2015 Standard, UL 2703 Ed. 1, CPP Wind Tunnel-Tested, NEC Compliant
Pre-Assembled tilt assembly optimizes packaging & shipping, reduces on-site labor requirements, accelerates total build time, and eliminates loose hardware along with third party grounding devices. This in turn accelerates the assembly process. All the structural components are manufactured by OMCO at our four strategically located US manufacturing locations, further reducing shipping costs and lead times.
www.omcosolar.com | Sales: info@omcosolar.com
APA has been in the fixed-tilt solar space since 2008. For the past 13 years, APA has built its reputation on providing the right foundation and racking system for project sites with extreme topography and unfavorable soil conditions. To prove it, APA has completed almost 2GW worth of projects throughout every region in the United States, including islands such as Hawaii and Puerto Rico.
Number of pieces: Titan: 1,154 per MW; Titan Duo 1,130 per MW
Certifications: ASCE 7-10 & CPP Wind Tunnel Tested
Installation: A pile driver installs the pile foundations for TITAN racking. APA screw machines are attached to skid steers to drive the ground screws. With the TITAN Duo, 100 percent pre-drilling is offered to ensure any bedrock or hard obstructions do not cause significant delays during installation. The racking attaches to the foundations and can be adjusted in the field to maintain the proper array height and design.
Advantages: The TITAN’s unique asymmetrical design and innovative features allow for flexibility in the field while streamlining the install process. It has the lowest part count per MW and integrated wire management. The patented Gravity Clip reduces module install time by 35 percent. The 3-rail design is an excellent solution for bifacial modules, providing low backside shading. The TITAN has the industry’s strongest C-pile with opportunities for adjustment. The screws are telescoping providing 18” of adjustability for topography.
Number of pieces: varies for each project – avg. 548 pieces for a 12KW project
Installation: The Ready Rack Pre-Engineered Kit is great for smaller projects and comes in two module increments. The kit has multiple foundation types and provides a solution for all subsurface conditions. It comes with everything needed to install the racking and is delivered on a 4’x12’ pallet. Additionally, there is no need to source any pipes or concrete with this product. The layout and dimensions are site specific and can be easily referenced in the provided plans. The helical and ground screw foundations are simply installed by using a skid steer and auger attachment.
Advantages: Designed specifically for smaller residential and commercial solar installations, it comes with all required components and has approved engineering documentation already completed and included; just pick your parameters and go. The design is a simple configuration that allows contractors to install the system fast. A 10 kW system, for example, can be installed in one day. Integrated features allow for onsite adjustment and anchors paired with quick-install bracing make this simple system extremely robust.
Three pieces: Ground screw or helical, leveling flange, A-Frame.
Design: The helical piles or ground screws are driven with a rotary head. Then the A-Frame is attached to the piles with four bolts. The A-Frame uses a standard I-beam section to the solar tracker system. This allows seamless transition from driven I-beams to the A-Frames, leaving connection hardware the same. The leveling flanges allow for up to 20 in. of height adjustment to keep the A-Frame plum and level. The dual post design allows for ground screws or micro helicals for the foundation and are driven using a rock drill.
Advantages: The A-Frame advantage is its dual post design, allowing developers to substitute the traditional pile-driven foundation for a dual ground screw or dual helical foundation to accommodate rocky or softer subsurface conditions. The adjustability in the A-Frame also aids in dealing with topography and managing in-field adjustments to maintain the design of the array. Helicals are designed for softer soils, while ground screws are best suited for rocky or harder subsurfaces that have cobbles or other obstructions.
apalternatives.com | Sales: melanieg@apalternatives.com
Cantsink offers a variety of products and services for your ground-mounted solar project. In the early stages of your solar project, Cantsink performs pull testing services and w-beam procurement. Their machines drive piles for the site or install helical piles to prevent any foundation failures onsite from heavy solar equipment. Once your project is complete, they can help improve your project’s efficiency with panel cleaning services. Contact us today to help with your next project.
www.brilliantrack.com | www.cantsink.com | Sales: dara@cantsink.com
Specialty: C&I, DG, utility scale, and community solar in any size range
With over 20GW of solar racking delivered as a contract manufacturer and backed by decades of engineering and global supply chain experience, Full Tilt represents an optimal fixed tilt racking solution. The system boasts an innovative yet straightforward design with fewer parts and rapid installation features along with manufacturer direct pricing.
Installation: The pre-galvanized roll formed sections are lightweight and can be handled by two installers. The rafter features a pivot point near the center of gravity, allowing the structure and loading of the modules in the flat position. Piles are driven with a pile driver, preferably a vibratory type. The balance of the system can be installed by hand with a 2-to-4-person crew using simple hand tools, battery powered tools speed up the assembly. Once the piles are driven and the components are properly staged, a 20-module table can be fully assembled in less-than one man-hour.
Advantages: The Full Tilt system has many cost and labor saving features and one the installers gravitate towards is the “Longhorn” panel rails that keep the modules perfectly aligned for quick fastening. The assemblers need not waste time adjusting the modules, alignment is automatically perfect. Another big advantage of the Full Tilt system is that it is designed to be built in the flat position. This means that all components can be assembled at a safe working height without need for ladders or workers climbing the structure. After the structure is assembled and panels fastened, the complete structure is easily and safely rotated to final position.
www.full-tilt.com | Sales: tim.fish@bci-engineering.com
IronRidge, an Esdec company, designs and manufactures structural hardware for residential and commercial solar systems. For nearly a quarter of a century, we have worked closely with solar professionals to build strong, streamlined, and cost-effective products. IronRidge is NSF Certified to ISO 9001, maintaining the highest of quality management standards.
Number of pieces: Variable Tools needed: Post Hole Digger or Powered Auger; Socket Drive (7/16”, 9/16”, and 1/2” Sockets); Torque Wrenches (0-240 in-lbs and 10-40 ft-lbs); Transit, String Line, or Laser Level; 3/16” Allen Head Certifications: UL 2703 Listed, Designed and Certified for Compliance with the International Building Code & ASCE/SEI-7
Installation: 1. Build the base 2. Connect the substructure 3. Place rails 4. Secure lugs 5. Secure modules
Advantages: The IronRidge Ground Mount System combines our XR100 or XR1000 rails with locally-sourced steel pipes or mechanical tubing, to create a cost-effective structure capable of handling any site or terrain challenge. Installation is simple with only a few structural components and no drilling, welding, or heavy machinery required. In addition, the system works with a variety of foundation options, including concrete piers and driven piles. Compatible with soil classes 2-4.
www.ironridge.com | Sales contact | Distribution list
RBI Solar Inc, a Gibraltar Industries Company, is a market leading provider of solar mounting systems. RBI designs, engineers, manufactures and installs solar mounting systems for commercial and utility scale projects, specializing in fixed-tilt ground mount, carport, ballasted landfill, roof mount and garage canopy solar systems. As part of Gibraltar’s Renewable Energy group, RBI is joined to empower results. In merging strengths from market leaders like TerraSmart, RBI Solar, and SolarBOS; combined with smart new project design software from Sunfig, we are able to serve all sectors in the growing utility, community, and C&I solar market, helping make solar energy readily available anywhere.
Number of pieces: 7 different structural components and brackets Certifications: UL 2703, Wind Tunnel Tested
Installation: GM-2 is a fixed-tilt ground mount system engineered to be the most cost effective and efficient design for any project condition. Installation begins with foundation installation, which typically consists of a driven structural post. Various other alternate foundations may be used on a project-by-project basis. The key component to the GM-2 system is the adjustable bracket connecting the racking system to the foundation posts. This bracket allows the GM-2 to be installed on East/West slope tolerances up to 18% before additional materials or design modifications need to be made.
Advantages: The GM-2 is engineered to follow the rolling topography of a given site. Designing the system to accommodate for natural grade changes, greatly reduces the amount if civil work required to construct the system.
Specialty: Projects of all sizes, 20-50 MW sweet spot
RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) provides turnkey design, structural engineering, procurement/supply, mechanical installation, and specialty services to EPCs, developers, and municipal utilities. As the nation’s leading contractor and Array Technologies single-axis tracker expert, RPCS has completed more than 700 projects, totaling over 2GW, and helps customers meet their renewable energy goals with simple, seamless project execution. RPCS has approximately 300 employees and is headquartered in Monterey, California, and maintains facilities in California, Mississippi, and Kansas.
Number of pieces: 30 individual part types per row
Posts per row: Up to 26 (varies based on design criteria)
Row lengths: 100+ module row lengths, up to 126 meters long (varies based on module size and weight)
Slope tolerances: 15 degrees N/S; 37 degrees E/W
Design: The Array tracker can be custom designed, supplied, and installed by RPCS, Array’s trusted partner and leading Array tracker installer. RPCS is dedicated to offering customers the best overall experience, with a team of over 300 tracker experts to offer support. Linked rows are powered by an AC motor, an articulating driveline, and a rotating gear drive. Up to 32 rows can be controlled by just one motor.
Advantages: The DuraTrack boasts up to 25% energy gain over fixed-tilt systems and has an unparalleled track record of high uptime (99.996%), 7% lower LCOE, and 31% lower lifetime O&M with zero scheduled maintenance. The Array tracker utilizes the fewest motors per MW, with 167 times fewer components, and is the most adaptable tracker in terms of terrain, with low grading and the ability to be readily deployed on the most challenging parcels. In addition, the tracker is designed to mitigate high wind loads, snow loads, and inclement weather like hail.
www.rpcs.com | info@rpcs.com
Specialty: Commercial and utility-scale / 1-100+ MW
Solar FlexRack, a division of Northern States Metals, is an integrated solar company that offers custom-designed, fixed tilt ground mount and single-axis solar tracking systems in the commercial and utility-scale solar mounting industries. Solar FlexRack also offers project support services, including engineering, geotechnical, load testing, field, layout, and installation services to address the actual site conditions of an installation and provide integrated services from design to delivery and installation. Solar FlexRack has completed over 2.5 GW of solar racking installations in 40 states across America and five countries globally.
Installation: Solar FlexRack Series G3-X Ground Mount Rack installs quickly, features similar-sized hardware and requires only standard tools and equipment for assembly. The system is easily staged on job sites and can be assembled in a logical, step-by-step manner in the field by crews of any skill level. With best-in-class engineering, the G3-X has unique design attributes that ensure ease of installation. The system’s lateral bracing stabilizes and perfectly squares the racking system, so modules easily slide into place for fast, safe, and easy module installation. While mostly pre-assembled, the horizontal rail bracket allows racking to be held in place while aligning rows with terrain. The G3-X can be easily assembled on site or can be delivered partially pre-assembled.
Advantages: Solar FlexRack prioritizes module structural integrity with its racking design, and keeps modules in prime condition through construction and beyond. The G3-X Series is a robust, efficient and low component design that installs quickly and easily. It is compatible with all foundation solutions and comes with automatic system squaring, lateral bracing, horizontal rail brackets, and slotted connections for ease of installation. It also allows for safe and quick module mounting with a direct bolt bonded connection. The G3-X leverages the company’s field-proven install base of over 3 GW to deliver the highest quality, pre- or field-assembled ground mount systems that accommodate up to 20% slopes for reduced civil costs.
Beverly Landfill Community Solar Project
Installation: SolarFlexRack’s Ground Mount Fixed Tilt B Series (Ballasted) solution is available with blocks pre-cast offsite or cast-in-place (CIP) on site utilizing Solar FlexRack’s unique, easy to assemble form system. The CIP solution requires only six screws for form assembly, which can be complete in under three minutes with two people. Watch the video of how easy CIP is assembled.
Advantages: Conveniently available with blocks pre-cast or cast-in-place to meet each project’s unique needs, Solar FlexRack’s Ground Mount Fixed Tilt B Series (Ballasted) solutions are well-suited for landfills and challenging terrain sites. The FlexRack Series B pre-cast solution makes use of a two-support system that transfers loads into the block through double the supports for reduced block thickness, as well as enables the use of a split block system, which requires lighter lifting machinery to accommodate sites with low bearing pressure requirements. The cast-in system allows for quick assembly and adjustability, reducing overall labor costs.
Construction: Independently driven; single-axis horizontal, distributed drive. Drive type: Slew. No special tools required. Any tools needed could be acquired at your local hardware store.
Advantages: Solar FlexRack’s reliable TDP 2.0 Solar Tracker with BalanceTrac bundles an advanced tracker design with top-tier engineering and project support services to safeguard solar projects from unexpected costs. One of the easiest trackers to install, TDP 2.0 features smart backtracking to reduce row shading & maximize energy yield. The TDP 2.0 has an increased table size to provide optimal module density as well as compatibility with 1,000V and 1,500V modules. In order to enable greater adjustability to maximize system performance, the TDP 2.0 features a rotational range of 110° (± 55°) and ground clearance that allows for shorter piles.
Advantages: Field-proven with over 75 projects installed in North America, Solar FlexRack’s TDP 1.0 Solar Tracker leverages a simple, efficient design for highly reliable and easy installations. Ideal for smaller or highly irregular layouts, the TDP 1.0’s small drive block enables up to 40% reduction in land use. The TDP 1.0 also utilizes a distributed drive and has no mechanical components between rows, allowing for easy and cost effective access for mowers, cleaning services and other project maintenance. Complete with Solar FlexRack’s full spectrum engineering and project support services, the TDP 1.0 features smart backtracking to reduce shading across rows and maximize energy yield.
solarflexrack.com | Sales: sdaniel@solarflexrack.com
Soltec Power Holdings specialized in integrated solar photovoltaic solutions, whose business is focused on solar tracking systems with a strong commitment to innovation. Soltec is positioned as the world’s third leading company in the market among solar tracker suppliers, and the first worldwide excluding the American market, as well as in Mexico and Argentina. With headquarters in Spain, Soltec Power Holdings has been operating since 2004 and has a diversified geographic presence focused on Spain, North America and Latin America. It has presence in 16 countries with more than 1,300 employees.
Posts per row: 9 Row lengths: up to 75 meters Slope tolerances: Configurable (Nort-South: 7% or higher on demand / East-West: 5%) Certifications: In process
Design: SFOne is the 1P tracker by Soltec. This tracker combines the mechanical simplicity with the extraordinary expertise of Soltec for more than 18 years. Specially designed for larger 72 and 78 cell modules, this tracker is self-powered thanks to its dedicated module, which results into a lower cost-operational power supply.
Advantages: This tracker has a configuration of 1P to reduce the operational cost of PV plants when installed in flat terrain. Thanks to this configuration, SFOne can reduce the cost-effectiveness of the plant and it is self-powered by its dedicated module.
Installation: Thanks to the slopes and roughness tolerances of the terrain, it facilitates the work of driving, improving times, if we also add that the 2P configuration has fewer pile-drives per MW, this task is solved in an efficient way. And thanks to these tolerances, aligning the elements is easier. In addition, this tracker has already been optimized in terms of hardware, reducing both installation and maintenance work.
Advantages: No additional PV module or grid connection is required, as well as the length of its cable is 81% shorter. In addition, due to its simple structure, it costs 75 percent less work to install and has a 10-year warranty. Factory tested, maintenance-free and does not require a combiner box.
Certifications: UL 3703 Certification and IEC62817
Installation: This all-in-one kit facilitates, not only the procedures, but the assembly and commissioning of the plant, since it includes all the necessary elements: SF7 solar tracker, modules, inverters, communications and cabling and other pieces. The adaptability of the SF7 is made clear once again when it is chosen as the solar tracker for this kit, which will have the modules that offer the highest performance in the project.
Advantages: In addition to being the first complete kit for distributed generation PV tracking projects of up to 12 MW, its main advantage is its ease of construction, availability and installation. This is due to its simple configuration and the fact that the customer does not have to take care of anything. In addition, it is prepared for all weather conditions and has the possibility of including energy storage batteries in the kit.
soltec.com | Sales: sales@soltec.com
Unique compared to the rest in this section, Sollega provides one racking system that can go from the commercial rooftop to the ground. The universal design, manufactured from UV rated glass reinforced Nylon 6, enables the installation of all framed modules and stands up especially well in highly corrosive conditions near the ocean. Injection molded in California, 100 percent made in the USA.
How does it install: The FastRack FR-510 is a one piece low profile ballasted Solar Racking system injection molded from glass reinforced nylon. The simple design enables a “Build As You Go” installation method which is quick to install with minimal training required. The PV panels are attached with a pull/end clamp combination providing a robust and secure connection to the bucket. Pre-installed bolts on the racking determine the tilt and inter-row spacing. We clamp on all 4 sides of the long rail frame on the long in landscape orientation. Buckets have reference tabs built in to ensure proper placement of the modules to the bucket. One-piece stainless slide on bonding jumper provides easy module to module bonding. The bonding jumper installs without the need for tools. Add ballast blocks (4”x18”x16”).
Advantages: The FastRack510 ballasted ground mount system does not require assembly, ground penetration, drilling, or pile driving. You do not need to source expensive steel, pipe, or rent heavy machinery for the ground mount installation. Minimal geotechnical engineering required since there is no pile driving required. It is a simple one-piece design that is quick to manufacture, ship, stage and install. Has 5,6 & 10 degree tilt options (GCR 72-80%). Minimal ground preparation needed using a weed barrier and aggregate. Flexible system that adapts to contours and uneven ground surfaces up to 7dg. Easy to expand the solar array if needed. Ideal solution for brownfield, landfill, gravel, concrete, asphalt surfaces. Manufactured in California from UV rated glass reinforced Nylon 6 which is non-corrosive and weather resistant. Class “A” Fire Rating Type 1, 2, & 3 modules. Ships 25 kW per pallet and 750 kW in 40 ft shipping container.
www.sollega.com | Sales: Info@sollega.com
Specialty: Projects above 5 MW, especially those that can benefit from earthwork savings
Sunfolding maximizes profitability with innovative solar tracking technology. Powered by air, the Sunfolding T29 Single-Axis Tracker deploys on land previously off limits to utility-scale solar. The Sunfolding T29 also makes solar plants faster to install and easier to operate. Sunfolding has won recognition as a 2020 Global Cleantech 100 Company and a 2019 Bloomberg New Energy Pioneer. Headquartered in Alameda, CA, Sunfolding ships US-manufactured trackers throughout North America.
Number of pieces: 3 structural components
Row lengths: 1 to 2 strings in length
Slope tolerances: Up to 12.3% grade slopes with no change to standard product
Design: With just three unique structural components, Sunfolding makes construction easier. From the post all the way to the modules, we streamline and expedite the installation process. By reducing the number of post sizes that you’re dealing with, we have reduced the possibilities of misplacing a post or misdriving a post. With a shorter post embedment depth, Sunfolding minimizes interaction and contact with subgrade rock.
Advantages: The Sunfolding T29 optimizes solar tracking and maximizes energy output. Unlike motor-driven trackers, the Sunfolding T29 makes solar infrastructure simple again. Sunfolding projects neutralize costs with flexible layouts that fit the trackers to the land. Small tracker tables enable denser DC per acre without driving up costs and reduce earthwork by more than 70%. Fewer components makes every project simpler and allows for a reduction in construction costs by more than 15%.
Turnkey services: Sunfolding provides turnkey installations for projects using the Sunfolding T29 Single-Axis Tracker through the Sunfolding Construction Network (SCN). From engineered site layouts to mechanical installations, SCN delivers optimal quality, scheduling, and cost. SCN’s network of mechanical subcontractors use extensive product knowledge for improved labor productivity and on-site logistics.
sunfolding.com | Sales: sales@sunfolding.com
Specialty: residential and C&I <500 kW
SunModo, meaning “the way of the sun,” is a private U.S. company headquartered in Vancouver, Wash., that is focused on innovative racking and mounting solutions for professional installers in the fast-growing solar industry. Our commitment to innovation can be seen across our entire product line, which includes 20 plus industry-shaping patents. From residential rooftops to large-scale ground-mounts and everything in between, SunModo has the most comprehensive solar mounting and racking solutions.
Installation: No cutting, welding, or drilling. Adjust height and install posts with set screws. Pipe fittings attach quickly with set screws. Two-piece pipe caps make installation easy. Structural splice with set screws for bonding. Fast rail attachment with T-bolts. The SunTurf Ground Mount System easily integrates Helio Rails with Schedule 40 Steel Pipes. Combine SunTurf with SunModo Ground Screws or Augers and do a complete install of a 15-kW system with only one day on the job site. For a more interactive look at SunModo’s Ground Mount, check out this video.
Advantages: SunModo offers the next generation SunTurf Ground Mount System. The streamlined design combines the simplicity of a pipe-based system with next-level engineering. SurTurf Ground Mount is ideal for solar installers looking for a low cost high performance system that can accommodate a wide variety of soil conditions. No drilling is required to attach the aluminum rails to the horizontal pipe. The innovative swivel pipe cap kit can accommodate terrains up to 27% slope east-west and 120% slope north-south.
www.sunmodo.com | Sales: sales@sunmod.com
TerraSmart, a Gibraltar Industries company, has been a front-runner in the solar industry for 11 years by continuously evolving its turnkey business model to build over 3.5 GW’s of ground mounted, utility-scale solar projects across the U.S. As part of Gibraltar’s Renewable Energy group, we are joined to empower results. In merging strengths from market leaders like TerraSmart, RBI Solar, and SolarBOS; combined with smart new project design software from Sunfig, we are able to serve all sectors in the growing utility, community, and C&I solar market, helping make solar energy readily available anywhere.
Number of pieces: 16 Posts per row: Average of 9 or more Row lengths: Up to 94 Slope tolerances: Max Slope grade is 20% N/S and unlimited E/W Certifications: UL 3703, UL 2703 & IEC 62817
Design: Built tough for increased strength, our durable mechanics ensure reliable performance. Adaptable for any project site from tough terrain, sloping topography, and harsh weather conditions. Our patent pending A-frame is compatible with driven piles and ground screws, giving us the flexibility to choose the right solution for your site. PeakYield™ technology and data-storing cloud can run predictive analytics to surface issues that were once buried, while machine learning tells us when a row isn’t tracking on its normal path. The admin panel allows us to troubleshoot sites quickly and remotely maximizing energy yield and significantly reducing operating downtime. Our unique combination of experienced engineering and installation teams gives us invaluable insights to design and build smarter, keeping projects on time and on budget.
Advantages: • Adaptable frame and foundation can accommodate frost susceptible soils, 20% N/S slopes, unlimited E/W slopes, and eliminate 100% refusal risk • Durable a-frame, torque tube, gear box, and self-locking hardware increase strength and ensure reliable performance in extreme weather • PeakYield™ control technology is an advanced performance monitoring and controls architecture that optimizes your tracker’s performance, maximizing energy yield • Real time data feeds the user-friendly dashboard so you can always know how your tracker is performing • Remote access allows for quick and easy updates and troubleshooting without rolling a truck
Number of pieces: 7 Superstructure Beam Members (above the vertical leg)
Certifications: UL2703, Edition 1; CPP Wind Tunnel Tested
Installation: Our adjustable and durable frame features less hardware, integrated electrical bonding, and included wire management resulting in reduced labor hours. Installation times are shortened by up to 36% through simplified connections, agile parts, and seasoned field teams. Compatible with ground screws that will eliminate refusal risk, increase install efficiency, and make projects more predictable. With one of the most experienced field teams in the industry, we have priceless insights that allow us to overcome challenges and streamline processes to ensure projects are completed on time.
Advantages: With a slope tolerance of 36%, our racking can accommodate high slopes and undulating terrain. Landscape orientation is bifacial compatible to maximize potential backside power yield. Durable mechanics can tolerate wind speeds up to 170 mph and 100 PSF ground snow loads. Our seasoned field team prioritizes accuracy, safety, and efficiency. Foundation consultation from an unbiased partner, based on your unique project site. No matter the terrain or weather, we’ll provide the right solution. Our versatile design enables numerous configurations allowing us to meet your unique needs and bring solar to more fields.
Number of pieces: 7 (1 foundation, 6 racking components & bracket assemblies) Certifications: UL2703, Wind Tunnel Tested
Installation: Engineered with flexibility in mind, the design incorporates continuous rows to mitigate topographic changes and minimize the number of foundations required. The system can be altered to multiple foundation options, with the base option being driven piers. Proprietary electrical bonding is integrated into the racking system, as well as other solutions for wire management. Pre-assembled parts reduce the number of connections required to be made in the field, minimizing Installation time.
Advantages: The standard engineering of the system is designed to accommodate slopes up to 15%. With several GW deployed across all 50 states, the system is durable and robust enough to accommodate the heavy snow loads in the Northeast, along with the high wind speeds of Hawaii. Our team of professional designers, licensed engineers, and dedicated project management collaborates to ensure projects are delivered in an effective manner and able to operate efficiently. We design each system to site specific environments, helping our partners to maximize the return value on each opportunity.
Number of pieces: 7 (2 foundations, 5 racking components & bracket assemblies) Certifications: UL2703, Wind Tunnel Tested
Installation: Designed with a low tilt and clearance, the dual foundation design supports a higher number of PV modules per foundation than standard fixed-tilt systems. The low clearance makes for easier access to assemble components, all of which contain one bolt size. Components are shipped to site pre-assembled, requiring less hours for assembly in the field.
Advantages: For flat sites with low wind and snow loads, this system helps to maximize the PV output with a high ground coverage ratio (GCR). The low tilt and low clearance of the structure reduces row spacing, allowing for more PV modules to be deployed in a given area. The number of racking components is also reduced, reducing the installation time required to assemble the structure. A proprietary design in the components bonds the system, helping make wire management less intrusive.
www.terrasmart.com | Sales: alommano@terrasmart.com
Trina is a world-leader in global solar module manufacturing with decades of technological expertise and bankable experience. As an all-in-one smart solar solution, TrinaPro designs an optimal system and then combines industry-leading components with intelligent O&M services to ensure utility-scale solar project value. The TrinaPro portfolio has two tracker products: Agile 1P and Vanguard 2P.
Agile 1P is a one in portrait dual-row single axis tracker. There are two slewing drives on each row connected by cardan transmission bar, both rows share one motor and one controller. Agile 1P utilizes W pile as its foundation along with patented spherical bearings and highly reliable square torque tube Additionally, Agile 1P features TrinaClamp for fast reliable installation and lower BOS/CAPEX.
The construction starts with driving the piles, installing the bearing supports, bearing housing and torque tubes. Adjustments can be made prior to applying the torque and if re-adjustment is needed, it can be done. The next step is installing the joining clamps to connect the torque tubes. After that, the drive system is installed. This consists of a front support between the piles, the transmission lever, the push / pull bar, and the linear actuator. After that the purlins and modules are installed, then the TCU, self-powered panel and grounding strap.
Vanguard 2P is a two in portrait independent single axis tracker. The newly designed tracker features an innovative multidrive system comprising of three linear actuators connected by cardan transmission bar. Vanguard 2P utilizes W pile as its foundation along with patented spherical bearings and highly reliable square torque tube. Additionally, Vanguard 2P uses reinforced purlins to optimize layouts with the new Trina Solar 600W+ large format modules.
The construction starts with driving the piles, installing the bearing supports, linear actuator supports, bearing housing/ lever /torque tube pre-assembly. Pre-assembly is an assembly of several components pre-assembled on the ground and installed on the structure for a more efficient installation process. Each project site will have different pre-assemblies for different sections of the tracker. The install manual and construction sequence documents will be project specific and optimized for an easier installation process. Adjustments can be made prior to applying the torque and if re-adjustment is needed, it can be done.
The next step is installing the linear actuator in the specified positions, and then the joining clamps to connect the torque tubes. After that, the transmission system supports are installed on the torque tubes. Following that, the transmission bar and cardon are installed. After that the purlins pre-assembly is prepared and installed before installing the modules. Then the TCU, self-powered panel and grounding strap.
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