Steel and Aluminum Solar Panel Frames: Which is Better
Whether you use solar panels for lighting or heating water in your home, mounting is critical in protecting your precious investment. However, finding a good mounting frame can be challenging, especially if you install it for the first time.
Steel and Aluminum are the most used materials in solar panel frames. Steel is known for its toughness and reliability, while Aluminum is light with excellent corrosion resistance. So, how do you choose your ideal option? We have prepared a detailed insight into the better option between steel and aluminum solar panel frames.
Why is Solar Panel Frame Important?
Like glass, solar panels are susceptible to breaking and require handling with care. Solar panel frames play a critical role in protecting from mechanical and thermal tensions. Besides, framed solar panels are safer to transport than frameless solar panels.
Solar panel frames, however, have nothing to do with the panel’s durability. The role of the frame is to provide mechanical benefits in handling, grounding, storage, resistance against weather conditions, and fixation.
Aluminum Alloy Vs. Stainless Frames
Strength Analysis
Steel excels when it comes to strength. It is by far the hardest and strongest material. For this reason, it is recommended to use steel brackets in practical applications or areas requiring high wind resistance. Aluminum brackets can be a good option in general areas.
Steel frames are most common in solar panels used in commercial buildings. Its strength means it can easily support added weight and size of large-format modules. You can easily add more solar panels without worrying about bending or breaking.
Heat Reflection
Anodized or Aluminum alloy can reflect more heat as compared to steel frames. It helps improve the solar cell’s overall conversion efficiency. Besides, anodized Aluminum is also quite easy to maintain. The material isn’t affected by sunlight and can withstand heat more than most powder-coated options.
The only drawback of aluminum solar panels is that they come in one color- silver. It can be challenging for engineers and architects who blend the panels into the building’s aesthetics.
Corrosion Resistance
Aluminum and steel have almost equal protection. Steel frames are hot-dip galvanized and can provide up to 20 years of service life with regular maintenance. Anodized aluminum frames are designed with dense oxide films that offer better anti-corrosion performance than steel brackets. You can get up to 50 years of corrosion resistance protection from aluminum frames.
Cost
Aluminum is more expensive than steel. Although it is lightweight and has a simple processing technology, its high elasticity, firmness, and strong corrosion resistance makes it an expensive option. Aluminum is also quite durable. Even when the surface is scratched, it is almost impossible for the performance of Aluminum to be affected.
Properties of a High-Quality Frame
While it is not easy to identify a high-quality anodized aluminum or galvanized steel frame, you can consider several things to help you in your selection. Here are some of the properties of a high-quality frame.
They Don’t Have Closed in Cavities
Look out for frames with closed-in cavities. It can lead to the collection of water that can freeze and expand, which can cause the panel frame to break or deform.
Flat Tapered Edges
This is another important feature to consider when looking for a quality frame. Look for a solar panel frame with a flat tapered edge. The edges help prevent the accumulation of soil and dust that can lead to moss growth.
The efficiency of your solar panel can be affected if it is affected by moss and lichen. A quality solar panel frame should have flat tapered edges where the panel frame meets the glass to allow water to run off and reduce shading.
Anodized is the Most Superior Material
Anodized Aluminum offers a superior method of solar construction. However, they are more expensive and are more likely to sustain damage and scratches.
Firmness to the Laminate
A good panel frame should stick firmly to the laminate. You can test the frame mechanically by looking at the backside and inside edges of the solar panel frame.
Final Thoughts
Solar panel frames offer quite a myriad of benefits. A good solar panel frame should be strong enough to withstand impacts and harsh weather conditions. Both aluminum and steel panel frames are capable of delivering exceptional results. Pick an option based on your personal needs, such as budget and reliability.
Are you looking to integrate aluminum or stainless-steel frames in your solar panel installation? Contact us for professional installation and quality products.https://gxmagazine.com/
