Solar Tracking Devices
- Solar tracking devices fall into various categories.Solar image by Thomas Leiss from Fotolia.com
In a time of worldwide environmentalist efforts, many options exist for anyone who has decided to live a "green" existence. Recycling is a universal trend in which the byproducts of garbage are reused and transformed into other materials such as writing paper. For those who are inclined to save Earth's energy resources, installing solar tracking devices guarantees the usage of the sun to power your home or business. - Photovoltaic trackers are classified into two categories, standard and concentrated. These two are further categorized by axis orientation, actuation architecture and drive type, intended application, vertical support and foundation type. The standard photovoltaic tracker (PV) accepts direct and diffused light from the sun and works with all standard photovoltaic technologies. A concentrated photovoltaic tracker (CPV) only accepts direct sunlight.
- Since 2008, single-axis trackers have been an interesting option for installers and large-scale system builders. Their advantages include a flat installation height, lower wind sensitivity and space requirements. Almost all of the costs attributed to single-axis trackers are lower than that of dual trackers, such as those for land usage, operation and maintenance, production, financing, permitting and energy costs. Single-axis trackers also capture 90% of the energy that a dual-axis tracker yields.
- Unlike the single-axis tracker, which moves on one axis throughout the day, dual-axis trackers move east and west, increasing their output by 35-40%. Many of these trackers are situated on foundations of concrete footing, further secured by lock nuts on steel stud bolts and reinforced with wire mesh. Dual-axis trackers perform so efficiently that in Northern California, a single system provides 800 kilowatts of power to an entire school district.
