Origami Solar, builders of a patent-pending metal {solar} module body, has revealed preliminary take a look at outcomes from TECSI Solar that affirm the Origami roll-formed metal body design is superior in efficiency to standard aluminum frames.
The testing performed at TECSI {Solar} in contrast a 35 mm tall Origami metal body towards a 40 mm aluminum body below similar situations and utilizing similar PV laminates. Metal frames have been examined for compression power to assist typical prime clamp hundreds, which might end in body buckling or laminate breakage.
The Origami metal body considerably outperformed the taller aluminum body in body wall rigidity, structural stability, and whole deflection, even at a 150 psf load. Most significantly, the {solar} lively parts of the PV laminate have been much better shielded from doable injury as validated in EL imaging checks achieved throughout testing.
When evaluating mechanical load efficiency, the Origami metal body once more outperformed normal aluminum frames – together with having the ability to face up to upforce loading to 135 psf.
The Origami metal body maintained laminate rigidity higher than aluminum, higher defending the {solar} cells from cracking below downward loading. It was additionally examined for top-clamp and bolt-mounting installations, proving compatibility with current racking techniques.
Switching from aluminum to metal module frames would convey large advantages to the {solar} business. {Solar} panel prices are rising after a long time of reductions, as a result of lengthy and costly provide chains combating elevated demand. A shift to metal frames would tremendously scale back provide chain focus dangers and assist stabilize costs by enabling large-scale home manufacturing. Metal additionally reduces production-related GHG emissions by 87%, based on a current report revealed by Boundless Analysis.
“The Origami roll-formed metal frames proved to be sturdy, resilient, and capable of surpass the efficiency of typical aluminum frames below real-world rail-attached take a look at situations. The frames did a greater job of defending the laminate from cell crack initiation and propagation, which is crucial to dependable long-term energy manufacturing. Our workplace has concluded that the Origami metal body is an acceptable candidate for consideration to exchange extruded aluminum PV module frames and may present considerably higher efficiency if correctly designed,” says Samuel Truthseeker, founder and principal Engineer at TECSI {Solar}.
Origami {Solar} is a finalist in DOE’s American-Made {Solar} Prize competitors, which can be awarded in September. The corporate makes use of a metal roll forming course of that creates a body with intricate folds. Origami’s patent-pending design, combining revolutionary engineering and deep information of the capabilities of precision roll-forming and using domestically out there recycled metal, delivers efficiency that equals or exceeds that of aluminum frames, whereas reducing materials prices. This revolutionary module body is quickly manufacturable and can meet or exceed all UL and IEC requirements.