Dual axis solar tracking controller

Types of dual axis solar tracking controller

There are several types of dual axis solar tracking controllers that are designed to optimize the positioning of solar panels by adjusting them in two axes — horizontal and vertical. These types can be distinguished based on their tracking methodology, control mechanisms, and the type of sensors used for tracking the sun. Here are some common types:

• Active Dual Axis Trackers

  These trackers use motors to adjust the position of the solar panels. The motors are driven by feedback from solar sensors that detect the sun's position. The main advantage of active tracking is higher energy output because the system can make precise adjustments throughout the day.

• Passive Dual Axis Trackers

  Passive trackers use a fluid-filled system that relies on temperature differences to create pressure, which then moves the tracker. This method does not require any external power source, which makes it more cost-effective. However, the response time may be slower compared to active systems.

• Geometric Dual Axis Trackers

  This type of tracker is based on geometric calculations of the sun's path and uses predefined settings to make adjustments. While this method may not offer the same level of precision as active systems, it is simpler and easier to maintain.

• Control Dual Axis Trackers

  Control-based dual-axis trackers combine sensors and controllers to follow the sun. These systems generally use programmable logic controllers (PLCs) or microcontrollers to process data from solar position sensors, which helps in optimizing the panel's orientation throughout the day.

• Hybrid Trackers

  Hybrid trackers combine different tracking methods and can include both active and passive systems or use different tracking principles for horizontal and vertical movements. Hybrid systems aim to leverage the advantages of multiple tracking technologies, thereby improving performance and reliability.

Materials dual axis solar tracking controller

Solar trackers are usually constructed using a variety of materials, including metals, motors, sensors, and control systems. Here is a detailed breakdown of the main components of solar trackers by material:

• Frame/Structure

  The frame or structure of solar trackers is often made from steel or aluminum. Steel tracks provide durability and are typically used in large commercial installations, while aluminum tracks offer a lightweight option, which is easier to install and manage. Some systems also use galvanized coating or corrosion-resistant materials for longevity.

• Motor/Drive System

  Brushless DC motors, geared motors, and stepper motors are commonly used in dual-axis solar trackers to provide the necessary motion. Steel, copper, and magnets are parts of motor construction that ensure efficient energy transfer. Gears may be made from high-strength plastic or steel to ensure durability and precision in tracking.

• Bearings and Joints

  Bearings and joints are often made from stainless steel, ceramic, or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which are usually corrosion-resistant materials that provide smooth movement. Other corrosion and wear-resistant metals like brass, bronze, and nickel-silver are also commonly used in bearings and joints. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) and brass are frequently incorporated into the design of the joints where flexibility is needed.

• Sensors

  Sensors that are used in active dual-axis solar trackers are generally constructed from silicon semiconductors. Silicon is a pure element that is made by heating silica (silicon dioxide) with carbon in an electric arc furnace to remove most of the oxygen and create silicon, the primary material for photovoltaic (PV) sensors. In some advanced tracking systems, temperature or light sensors made from other materials may be used.

• Controller/Control Systems

  Controllers in solar trackers are often built using printed circuit boards (PCBs), silicon chips, and various electronic components like resistors and capacitors. Silicon devices are used for processing the data, and copper is widely used for interconnects within the PCB due to its excellent conductivity. Sensors, such as light-dependent resistors (LDRs), are integrated into the controllers to provide feedback on solar intensity.

• Electrical Components

  Electrical components in a solar tracker controller, including wires, connectors, and relays or contactors, are frequently made from copper due to its high conductivity. Copper is used in power transmission and is also found in various electronic components such as capacitors and inductors, which store energy and manage electrical signals. Aluminum, which offers a good balance between cost and performance, is also used in wiring and some electronic components.

• Galvanized Steel

  Galvanized steel, which is steel coated with zinc for enhanced corrosion resistance, is commonly used in components like frames, support structures, or even the tracker arms. The zinc coating protects the steel from rust, especially in outdoor environments exposed to moisture, rain, and varying temperatures.

Commercial value dual axis solar tracking controller

• Increased Energy Production

  The primary commercial value of a dual-axis solar tracking controller is the increased energy production that comes with the system. By constantly orienting the solar panels towards the sun, the system of trackers can capture up to 20-50% more sunlight per day compared to fixed installations. This increased energy output can make large-scale commercial solar farms substantially more economically viable, resulting in lower cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity generated.

• Lower Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE)

  Dual-axis trackers reduce the LCOE by increasing energy yields without a proportional increase in capital costs. For large utility-scale projects, achieving a lower LCOE is critical as it directly impacts the competitiveness of the energy price in the market. A lower LCOE can help project developers win contracts with utilities, power purchase agreements (PPAs), or feed-in tariff (FiT) deals.

• Attracting High Energy Contracts

  Projects using dual-axis trackers frequently provide higher energy outputs and efficiencies, which makes contracts with utilities and large industrial consumers more attractive. These parties are interested in the ability to deliver more consistent and larger volumes of renewable energy. Winning contracts with utilities can provide long-term revenue security for solar project developers.

• Optimal Use of Land

  One of the advantages of using dual-axis trackers, especially in areas with high solar concentration, is that they can maximize energy production per unit area of land. If land costs are high, this densification of energy production tends to make fixed-tilt systems less attractive from a cost perspective. Utilities and large-scale developers evaluate land use efficiency when determining the viability of a solar project, particularly in space-constrained areas.

• Enhancing Grid Stability and Reliability

  Higher energy production and dispatchability mean that projects equipped with dual-axis trackers can contribute to the stability and reliability of electrical grids that are integrating increasing amounts of variable renewable energy. This can make such projects more valuable to grid operators and power authorities, who need to balance supply and demand while ensuring reliable service.

• Improving Project Economics

  Dual-axis solar tracking controllers are becoming increasingly popular because of the potential to drive down project costs over the life of the installation. Increased energy output also decreases the average cost of energy. Enhanced maintenance and durability are some of the operational cost advantages dual trackers have.

How to Choose dual axis solar tracking controller

• Controller Precision

  The choice of controller impacts operation and efficiency. Programmable controllers allow interface with other solar management tools. Microcontrollers improve tracking precision, increasing energy output. Precision needs may depend on installation scale and energy needs, so choose according to requirements.

• Cost

  The cost of the heliostat tracker is a big factor in making decisions. Solar panels can increase output but may be offset by the installation and maintenance expenses of dual-axis trackers. Budget and long-term returns should be balanced before thinking about costs. Trackers should be cost-effective and should not bring down the essence of solar power, which is to save money.

• Installation

  Since dual-axis trackers have complex installations compared to single-axis or fixed systems, care should be taken during installation. Consider how easy the tracker will be to install. If installing the tracker is hard, the installation fee will be high. Look for systems with simple assembly instructions and fewer components for easier installation.

• Durability and Maintenance

  Select a dual-axis solar tracking controller based on durability to withstand climatic conditions in the area. Also check the maintenance requirements. Automatic and low-maintenance trackers are such a big benefit for large installations. Check if there are warranties and durability certifications.

• Solar panel compatibility

  The type of dual-axis solar tracking controller that is selected will highly depend on the kind of solar panel that is used. Ensure that the tracker and solar panels are compatible to avoid any unwanted situations in the future. Also, ask whether the solar panels can be connected to both fixed and tracked systems for better flexibility.

• Energy Needs

  The first thing is to identify the energy needs, and then pick dual-axis trackers and solar panels that will meet those needs. If more energy is required, a high-output tracker that provides large energy output should be installed. For low residential energy needs, low-output trackers that require little space can do the job.

Q and A

Q1: What is a dual-axis solar tracker?

A1: A dual-axis solar tracker is a system that orients a solar panel or glass to follow the sun across the sky in both horizontal and vertical directions to maximize energy collection.

Q2: What are the benefits of using a dual-axis solar tracker?

A2: Dual-axis solar trackers increase energy output by 20-50% compared to fixed systems by constantly aligning the panel with the sun, leading to greater efficiency, particularly in utility-scale applications.

Q3: How do dual-axis solar trackers work?

A3: Dual-axis solar trackers use motors and sensors to adjust the position of solar panels in real time, following the sun's movement across the sky from sunrise to sunset.

Q4: What are the different types of dual-axis solar trackers?

A4: Active, passive, geometric, control-based, and hybrid dual-axis trackers are some of the popular kinds of dual-axis solar trackers, and each kind uses a different combination of sensors and tracking technology to follow the sun.

Q5: What materials are used in constructing dual-axis solar trackers?

A5: Frames, motors, sensors, and controllers are the major parts of the dual-axis solar tracker, and they are most commonly made of steel, aluminum, copper, silicon semiconductors, and other corrosion-resistant materials.