Ground-Mount Solar BOS Buyer’s Guide 2023

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. Unique bearing technology allows long straight rows — 4 strings when others can only mount 3 — fewer motors and controllers per MW.

Slope Tolerances: Up to 15% for a North-South Slope

Design:  OMCO Origin 2L (2-in-Landscape) Bifacial Trackers are primarily constructed of galvanized steel and cast aluminum.  Bearings include a wear surface composed of a unique long-life, low-friction, self-lubricating acetal blend. A balanced design allows for more accurate targeting and reduced energy consumption. Some subassemblies are factory preassembled and shipped as single units for labor, time and cost savings. The unique bearing adjusts to accommodate post misalignment. OMCO Origin 2L Bifacial Trackers are open on the back — no torque tube blocking the cells — for highest energy production. The height of the tracker is low — like 1-in-portrait trackers — to minimize installation labor. Foundation options include OMCO-produced driven C posts (preferred) and driven I or W posts, and ground screw foundations.

Advantages:
• Factory Preassembled: Some subassemblies are supplied as single, preassembled units for installation labor savings.
• Balanced Design: Axis of rotation at the center of mass of the table — improves targeting accuracy, increases energy production and minimizes energy consumption.
• Long Wear Life: Bearings tested to more than 40 years equivalent life.
• 7 Dimensions of Adjustment: Bearings adjust to accommodate post misalignment, avoiding project delays.
• Over 20% Higher Back Side Production: The open back allows uniform backside irradiance, which is critical for long cell and module life.
• Shortest Lead Times: Partners benefit from expedited delivery due to OMCO Solar’s four strategically located U.S. manufacturing plants. Lead times are typically 8 to 12 weeks.

Domestic Content: OMCO makes all structural components with domestic steel and is well positioned for IRA ITC benefits.

Number of pieces: 8 Typical Components + Hardware

Certifications: ISO 9001:2015 Standard, UL 2703 Ed. 1, CPP Wind Tunnel-Tested, NEC Compliant

Terrain Articulation: Accommodates up to a 20% grade change

Installation:

1. For a pile-driven foundation, posts are driven into the ground.
2. Pre-assembled tilt bracket assemblies are bolted onto the piles.
3. Lateral beams are then connected by fasteners to the tilt assemblies.
4. Modules are secured with fasteners directly onto the beams to provide a secure bond.

Advantages: 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 structural components are manufactured in OMCO Solar’s four U.S. manufacturing plant facilities. With the company’s factory-direct model and domestically sourced supply chain, OMCO Solar consistently delivers quality solar mounting solutions with the shortest lead times in the industry.

Row length range: 1, 2 and 3 strings with Large Format Modules and 16 strings for First Solar S6+

Slope tolerances:

• Up to 26% (~15 degrees) at every single foundation
• 37% (~20 degrees) max slope N-S and E-W

Certifications: UL 2703, UL 3703

Installation: The Nevados All Terrain Tracker has very few steps for assembly and doesn’t require any specialized tools or jigs and fixtures. The bearing comes fully assembled from the factory and is installed on each foundation in the field. The torque tubes are dropped into either side of the bearing and the system self-aligns.  The modules snap-fit into place and self-align as well.  The bearings have unique integrated friction dampers so the system doesn’t require any external dampers to handle any wind speed. The Nevados tracker maintains constant foundation reveal heights; reducing material, reducing need for on-site staging, and simplifying installation.

Unique software capabilities: The proprietary Nevados TRACE software computes optimal row by row tilt schedules on any terrain to avoid any row to row shading. This software also enables energy modeling in PVSyst on any topography with novel row by row tilt schedules which ensures the right revenue model is financed before construction.

Advantages:

• The Nevados All Terrain Tracker is the most capable tracker on the market for variable terrain.
• Based in CA the experienced team is accessible and our focus is on building long term mutually beneficial partnerships.
• Proprietary software and controls enable optimal energy production.

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
Certifications: UL 2703, 3703 and IEC 62817

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.

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.

Certifications: UL 2703 (Issue 2), ISO 9001

• Row lengths: Up to 90 modules per independent table
• Slope tolerances: Up to 10% North-South slope tolerance
• Certifications: UL 2703

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.

• Row lengths: Up to 60 modules per independent table
• Slope tolerances: Up to 10% North-South slope tolerances
• Certifications: UL 2703
• Design: Single-axis, horizontal, distributed drive
• Drive type: linear actuator

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.

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.

Surface lot canopy, Garage canopy

Product description: Terrasmart offers a variety of canopy structures to accommodate any parking surface including longspan, inverted, perimeter and aisle structures. Our structures and foundations are engineered for environmental loading and any subsurface/soil conditions. Accessory options such as water management, snow guards, facia trim, and multiple coating options are available. A big part of our value is our ability to work with our customers on the conceptual design phase to ensure the best possible system is designed for each project and budget.

Construction process: Pre-construction design identifies risk up front for smooth project planning. Smart scheduling and through bolt connections result in less disruptions on site and faster installation time. We’ll work with you to ensure installation is phased in the most efficient way possible.

Differentiator: Terrasmart provides a single source for design, engineering, manufacturing, and installation. With projects covering most of the U.S., we’ve completed projects from Massachusetts to Hawaii. Terrasmart has deployed over 270 MW of canopy systems ranging from 100 kW up to 14.8 MW. With over a decade of projects on the books, we have a long track record of delivering projects at every scale — on time and on budget.

AC & DC combiners, recombiners, disconnect enclosures, wire solutions

Material: Copper or aluminum

Installation: Our combiners are customizable so you can install faster in the field. Our prefabricated wire solutions allow for plug and play connection in the field requiring less labor and time on site.

Key feature: What sets us apart is our expertise and ability to design to specific project needs. We have completed projects ranging from 1 MW to 200+ MW. We can create custom solutions at any scale without sacrificing quality and timeliness. Strong product knowledge from the office to the shop floor allows for best-in-class lead times. Our 100,000-sq-ft facility in the U.S. enables us to scale our production based on demand. With 8.5 GW of solar deployed with Terrasmart’s eBOS products, you can trust our team to deliver reliable, on-time products.

Brand specific racking/tracker partner integrations: Our combiner and wire solutions can support any racking in the industry. You will find efficiencies when pairing our eBOS products with the Terrasmart racking portfolio including GLIDE Agile, GLIDE Wave, GLIDE Fuse and TerraTrak.

Slope tolerances: 10 degree N/S slope tolerance

Installation: The Voyager+ allows for 7 posts per row (1 drive, 6 typical) with a typical embedment depth of 6 to 10 ft, which is 60% fewer posts than 1P designs. Together with 40% lower installation time than other 2P systems, this results in lower costs and fewer manhours.

Advantages: Voyager+, the next generation of its single-axis Voyager tracker, engineered to provide compatibility with new large-format solar modules now entering the marketplace. The large modules entering the market are built to incorporate larger solar cells. With these larger 182 mm and 210 mm cells, the modules can achieve power output exceeding 500 watts. Voyager+ supports these larger format modules and will be able to accommodate multiple module sizes from a variety of solar manufacturers.

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.

Certifications: In process

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%.

Number of pieces: 5 (alternatively with a ballast tray or 18” ground screw)
Tools needed: Universal drill bit & torque wrench (optional impact drill for ground screws)
Certifications: UL2703 (no geotechnical service required)

How does it install: Three Easy Steps: Following our detailed plan, preinstall the clamps, measure the installation area and place brackets and connector brackets. Lay the modules and the ballast for the ground or the ground screws to the recommended sequence. (Optionally cable management).

Advantages:

• No ramming and no heavy machinery
• Ground screws can be installed with a hand drill
• No geotechnical service
• Best ground cover ratio in the market
• Fastest ground mount installation
• 1 MW per truckload

Average Row Construction time: Up to 7.5 modules/man-hour (two guys, 4 minutes per module)

Slope Tolerances: Up to 10 degrees without anchors, over 10 degrees possible with earth anchors.

Number of pieces: 5 (alternatively with a ballast tray or 18” ground screw)

Tools needed: Universal drill bit & torque wrench (optional impact drill for ground screws)

Certifications: UL2703 (no geotechnical service required)

How does it install: Three Easy Steps: Following our detailed plan, preinstall the clamps, measure the installation area and place brackets and connector brackets. Lay the modules and the ballast for the ground or the ground screws to the recommended sequence. (Optionally cable management.)

Advantages:

• No ramming and no heavy machinery
• Ground screws can be installed with a hand drill
• No geotechnical service
• Best ground cover ratio in the market
• Fastest Ground mount installation
• 1 MW per truckload

Number of pieces: 6

Certifications: UL 2703

Average 20-module table construction time: 22 minutes (two-person crew)

Slope Tolerance: Can accommodate up to 21% E-W slope

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.

Material: Every component of the AWM Bonsai Cable Hanger is made of exceptionally durable alloys and is free of polymeric material, with a life expectancy exceeding 40 years. The products, which are certified under UL1565, can withstand all weather conditions: temperatures from -40°C to +150°C, extreme ice and snow loads, and worst-case corrosive environments.

Install: AWM offers the Bonsai Cable Hangers in a variety of flavors, including bifacial-friendly hangers which are mounted near the torque tube on module clamps and can be installed prior to module installation.  Installation is typically performed with one hand, enabling a faster installation of hanger and cable.  Bonsai meets all the latest requirements in the industry; additionally, AWM provides a highly detailed drawing set which will guarantee golden row approval.

 Key feature: Bonsai Cable Hangers are highly customizable and tailored, so regardless of the tracker or module type, we offer the most competitive value-engineered offering on the market. In addition, thanks to our strategic and nuanced design, our solutions also help the installer reduce time and costs. For example, if the Bonsai Cable Hanger is on the clamp of the tracker, our unique design ensures installation velocity, and results in less cabling needed on the site. In short, AWM Bonsai Cable Hangers ensure lower costs with less cable hangers needed, and a more efficient, cost-optimized option for installers and developers.

Material: AWM’s first-of-its kind safety lock-out device has made yet another leap forward in the industry. The AWM Solar LOTO is a newly released locking dust cap. The single part is OSHA compliant and serves as both a safety LOTO device and a dust cap during energization or maintenance. Designed to be dust and water resistant and certified to IP67, AWM’s Solar LOTO ensures safety while protecting against environmental contaminants.

Install: AWM’s Solar LOTO installs rapidly and easily. The device attaches directly to the connectors and requires a special disconnect tool to remove it. This significantly decreases the risk of accidental electrocution during energization and maintenance.

Key feature: The AWM Solar LOTO is a groundbreaking product designed to enhance safety and prevent accidental energization of string or feeder cables. Unlike typical dust caps that can easily fall off, this long-term dust cap locks securely onto the connector, ensuring maximum protection against dust and other contaminants. Additionally, the AWM Solar LOTO can prevent super strings, a phenomenon that can occur when too many solar panels are connected in series.  With its innovative features, the AWM Solar LOTO is revolutionizing the solar industry and setting a new standard for safety and reliability.

Snake Tray String Cable Hangers for Messenger Wire

Our new portfolio of solar cable hangers provides durable, cost effective, and expeditious installations for managing cables under solar panels. Our new hangers will greatly simplify new project installations, repowering, system expansions, upgrades, O&M, and troubleshooting over the life of the project.

Key feature: As utility grade systems grow in size so does the size of string cables. Utilize Snake Tray’s tree hanger with a capacity of up to a quantity of 16, 750 Kcmil cables per hanger. Ideal for larger scale projects and can even be stacked to create a modular system to further increase capacity.  The side loading feature offers quick access to installing and maintaining cables for reduced labor costs. No trenching for minimal ground disturbance. The large capacity loops will handle any size of cable bundle easily and effectively.

Key feature: Quickly top load the PV cables directly into this light weight double pocket hanger with a squeeze loc feature that quickly attaches onto the messenger cable to secure the string cables.  Significantly reduces time and labor by requiring no tools.

Key feature: Tube hangers point in the right direction and are designed with innovative features that provide a dual round section to manage cable as trackers move daily up to 67 degrees following the sun from east to west. Our hangers can be custom designed to fit any style of fixed tilt or tracker for a secure fit over any style torque tube or fixed tilt structure.

CAB Solar has now introduced Multi-Carrier Torque Tube Hangers for under-panel cable management.

Installation: These offer a tight, snap-on fit over most torque tubes or fixed tilt structures. The low profile is especially beneficial for reduced shadowing with bifacial panels. The innovative spiral design holds large bundles of cable safely and securely, while simplifying upgrades, maintenance and troubleshooting.

Key feature: CAB Solar Products are manufactured in the United States by the Cambria County Association for the Blind and Handicapped. This non-profit provides numerous services as well as employment opportunities for over 350 persons with disabilities in Cambria County, Pennsylvania. Purchase of CAB Products helps support this mission.

Gripple engineers have developed a lightweight solar frame bracing kit which provides comparable structural performance to heavy traditional steel bracing, at a fraction of the cost. By replacing heavy steel cross sections with strong but lightweight wire rope bracing, you can significantly reduce material, transportation, and logistics costs, as well as embodied CO₂. In addition, Gripple bracing kits are fast and simple to install using just hand tools, and are delivered in small boxes making on-site material handling easy compared with lengths of steel and powered machinery.

Material: All components are made specifically for outdoor use with a life expectancy of 30+ years in the harshest conditions. Gripple’s wire rope is coated with corrosion-resistant Zinc Aluminum and can be integrated as part of the frame with custom hot dipped brackets, or looped around existing fixing points. The internal gripping mechanism consists of a sintered ceramic roller offering a superior strength to alternative tension-only bracing systems, with a load rating of up to 3,860 lbs.

Install: The two-way locking device known as a PV Dynamic Tensioner allows you to install a brace quickly and easily between two piles. Applying pre-tension using a fast and unique tensioning tool, the PV Bracing Kit will ensure the frame stays rigid, eliminating misalignment that might occur due to external forces and environmental loads. The ready-to-use kits are fast and lightweight, drastically improving health and safety on-site.

Key feature: Kits come in oversized lengths to allow for greater flexibility in the tolerance of frame installation and to support a greater variety of mounting systems. To aid the installer, the Dynamic Tensioner component is releasable, allowing the product to be adjusted prior to tensioning.

Gripple offers a range of lightweight Solar Anchoring Kits which attach to solar frames to increase resistance to external loads. These are ideal for use supporting existing piles where ground conditions require additional anchoring, as well as for realignment and repair where ground mount frames may become misaligned.

Installation: The Gripple Anchors can be quickly and easily driven into the ground using just hand tools. The innovative install and ‘flip’ of the PV Anchor accesses the soil’s engineering properties with minimal disturbance. The PV Anchor is then activated by tensioning the wire around the PV racking using a Gripple Dynamic tensioner – allowing the system to offer increased protection against uplift despite requiring considerably less materials.

Gripple’s above ground cable routing system is super quick to install, designed to last the lifetime of your site, and helps protect your cables from abrasion and wear. Gripple’s Messenger Kit is the fastest and easiest to install on the market thanks to the Dynamic wire joiner/tensioner. Alongside this, Gripple also supply messenger brackets and a range of hangers  featuring side cable loading for easy installation and access. Gripple’s hangers have been specifically designed to protect cables, with a wide surface area to prevent pinch points and abrasion over time. The snap on locking mechanism which attaches hangers to the messenger wire also prevents movement, ensuring hangers and weight remains evenly spaced long term.

Materials: All materials are designed to last 30 years +, and are tested between -40 and +90 degrees Celsius. Hangers are made from UV stabilized Polycarbonate, with the messenger wire made from corrosion-resistant Zinc Aluminum.

Installation: Installation is quick and simple, requiring just hand tools and minimal training. First contractors install the Messenger Kit which can be attached to end posts using eyelet fixings or intermediate ground mount frames using the Messenger Brackets. The Messenger Kit is quick to tension using the Gripple Dynamic tensioner, making the system so much faster than traditional turnbuckles. Once the Messenger Kit is secure, contractors can attach the Hangers at regular intervals along the messenger wire. The Hangers feature a locking side loading gate which makes loading cables easy and O&M access simple.

Name of product: Big Lead Assembly (BLA)

Material: Aluminum trunk

Installation: Shoals BLA is custom designed and factory manufactured for each project, so that field installation can be completed by general labor (rather than licensed electricians) with pre-measured and pre-tested plug-and-play connections.

Key feature: Shoals’ Big Lead Assembly, or BLA for short, is an aboveground aluminum trunk system that combines the functionality of cable assemblies, combiner boxes, and fusing all into one, simplifying the wiring of your solar field. Using our latest in-line fuse and wire manufacturing technology, we offer you a site free of traditional DC string combiners. With the BLA, the entire load is combined into a single pair of aluminum conductors running from the sub-array to the inverter. The entire system is plug-and-play, factory manufactured and quality guaranteed.

Racking/tracker partner integrations or brand-specific versions: BLA is now available in either an East-West or North-South configuration. East-West configurations are suited for trackers that use a drive line, such as ATI.  North-South configurations are suited for trackers that do not use a drive line, such as Nextracker.