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[♪ Music ♪]
You arrive on site, now you have the job of installing the array mounting frame so it
complies with all the necessary requirements and will not fly off the roof in strong wind.
Hi, my name is Michael and I am going to run you through some essential points to look
at when mounting a solar PV array frame.
First, you need to undertake a complete site-specific risk assessment.
Remember when working on the roof you must comply with the height safety requirements
and wear a harness or use other fall protection. Then check for correct location on roof. It
is also important to check for any shading from surrounding environment or neighbouring
houses.
If the mounting system you are about to install does not come with an engineering certificate
and detailed installation instructions, do not use it.
It will not comply with Australian standards, so you won't be able to sign the job off.
[♪ Music ♪]
First off you will need to measure the available roof area to see if the system can fit on
the roof. Before stepping onto roof, the roof structure needs to be checked for any signs
of defects. This may be done by removing a couple of roof tiles and checking to see if
roof trusses are deteriorated. Also check strength of roof tiles by removing a few tiles
and looking at the underside to see if there are any signs of weakness or signs of deterioration.
Once you have checked the timbers and supports are in good condition, you need to measure
the available roof space. You will also need to check under the roof space to see whether
the battens you plan to mount to are the right size according to the requirements of the
PV array frame engineering certification.
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Now the big question, how will you fit the array frame on the roof
to meet Australian Standards?
If the design has been done correctly, you will have the layout in your documentation,
however, it is advisable to measure again to confirm the design is accurate. You will
need to ensure that the frame is going to fit on the roof without compromising any of
the installation requirements.
Now that you have done your roof checks, it's time to check how many mounting points are
required to comply with the Australian Standard on Wind Loads. The Standards tell us that
Australia has a number of different wind regions. It is important that you know that each wind
region has different requirements for mounting of PV arrays. PV array frames should be wind
rated for the site-specific installation.
You will need to check the manufacturer's specifications as some frames are not suitable
for use in high wind or cyclone regions or they may require additional attachments.
Now that you have your roof area measurement, you need to work out the wind zones on the
roof. If you are outside this zone, you may not be able to install the panels in this
area, or there may be a different spacing required.
You also need to know how many modules per row, how many rows that are required for the
system.
Make sure that your modules do not overhang the ridges or edges of the roof.
Wind loading on the panels increases as they are installed closer to the roof edge.
PV modules and mounting systems may not withstand the additional force of the wind
and may fly off.
Using the manufacturer's instruction manual, work out how many mounting points are required.
Make sure you use the correct chart for the roof type and wind region.
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So now you have worked out how the mounting system will fit on the available roof area
using the right number of mounting points, you can get to work on the roof.
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[Sound fx: grinding, hammering]
[Sound fx: drilling]
The Australian Standard for the installation of PV arrays requires that all mounting systems
are connected to the protective earthing system of the electrical installation.
You must use an approved method of earthing the rails and modules.
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[Sound fx: drilling]
Now the job is done.
You should have a securely fixed PV array which meets manufacturer's instructions and
Australian Standards.
Stand back and admire the good job you have done.
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Now just to re-cap, remember the following when installing PV array frames:
Check the mounting system has an engineering certificate, valid for Australian conditions
and Australian Standards.
Check the Australian Standards to work out the wind region that you are installing in.
Measure the roof area and work out roof zones.
Check the roof battens.
Don't extend over roof line or capping.
Check manufacturer's instructions for spacing on roof mounts.
Use a good earthing system.
And work safely.
[♪ Music ♪]
[Singing: And the world is made of energy]
[and the world is electricity and the world... (music fades out)