In areas prone to sandstorms, the design of photovoltaic brackets requires a comprehensive approach encompassing seven aspects: material selection, structural optimization, surface protection, installation angle, sand barriers, operation and maintenance management, and ecological synergy. This comprehensive approach aims to address the impact of sandstorm erosion, wear, and accumulation on system stability and power generation efficiency.
Material selection is the core of basic protection. Particulate matter in sandstorms is highly abrasive; long-term exposure accelerates surface wear of the photovoltaic bracket and can even corrode the metal structure. Therefore, materials with strong weather resistance must be selected, such as anodized aluminum alloy photovoltaic brackets with a sufficiently thick oxide film to form a dense protective layer that effectively resists sandstorm erosion. Alternatively, hot-dip galvanized steel photovoltaic brackets can be used, with a zinc layer thickness meeting requirements. The sacrificial anode effect of the zinc layer slows down the corrosion process of the steel.
Structural optimization must balance strength and wind and sand resistance. The connection points between the photovoltaic bracket's columns and beams are stress concentration areas. Strengthening ribs, optimized welding processes, or mechanical connectors (such as high-strength bolts) are necessary to enhance local load-bearing capacity. Meanwhile, the overall structure of the photovoltaic bracket should possess torsional stiffness to prevent twisting and deformation caused by strong winds during sandstorms. For example, employing a triangular stabilizing structure or a space truss design can distribute wind loads and enhance overall stability.
Surface protection technology can significantly extend the service life of the photovoltaic bracket. In addition to the inherent corrosion resistance of the material, a sand-resistant and wear-resistant coating, such as an epoxy resin composite coating or a polyurethane coating, can be applied to the surface of the photovoltaic bracket to form a physical barrier, reducing direct contact between sand and metal. Furthermore, regularly spraying anti-rust paint or lubricant can reduce wear on moving parts (such as the rotating joints of adjustable photovoltaic brackets) caused by sand particles, ensuring smooth long-term operation.
The installation angle design needs to balance dust removal efficiency and power generation efficiency. While an excessively large tilt angle facilitates sand sliding off, it reduces the amount of solar radiation received; an excessively small tilt angle easily leads to sand accumulation. It is generally recommended to set the tilt angle within a specific range, utilizing gravity for natural dust removal and reducing the frequency of manual cleaning. Meanwhile, the row spacing design must consider the shading of the front and rear rows of modules during periods of low irradiance, such as the winter solstice, to prevent further reduction in power generation due to sand and dust accumulation.
The construction of sand barriers can create regional protection. Setting up sand-proof walls, sand-proof forests, or sand-proof nets around the photovoltaic array can reduce wind speed and minimize the direct impact of sand and dust on the photovoltaic brackets. For example, using stone or straw checkerboard sand-fixing technology, the surface cover can be used to fix shifting sand and prevent it from eroding the photovoltaic bracket foundation. Furthermore, laying gravel or vegetation under the photovoltaic brackets can reduce sand and dust stirring, creating a local microclimate and improving the operating environment of the equipment.
Operation and maintenance management requires the establishment of a routine cleaning mechanism. After a sandstorm, sand and dust on the surface of the photovoltaic brackets must be cleaned promptly to prevent them from entering module gaps or electrical connections, causing short circuits or corrosion. Soft-bristled brushes or low-pressure water guns should be used for cleaning to avoid scratching the surface coating of the photovoltaic brackets. Meanwhile, regularly check the fasteners (such as bolts and nuts) of the photovoltaic brackets for looseness to ensure structural stability. Replace any worn parts promptly to prevent further damage.
Ecological synergy design maximizes environmental benefits. Laying photovoltaic brackets reduces surface wind speed and water evaporation, creating conditions for vegetation growth. Combined with photovoltaic desertification control, planting drought-resistant plants beneath the photovoltaic brackets creates an ecological system of "power generation on the brackets, sand fixation underneath," further consolidating the sand control effect. This design not only enhances the photovoltaic brackets' resistance to wind and sand but also promotes regional ecological restoration, achieving a win-win situation for both economic and ecological benefits.
