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Introduction to solar axis trackers

Adrienne SorensenJuly 27, 2018 226 0

Introduction to solar axis trackers

Stationary arrays are restricted by the amount of sunlight absorbed since their  position means the angle of the sun  affects their productivity. Axis trackers automatically track the sun as it moves maximizing the electrical output. 
 

Axis trackers follow sunlight 

Trackers are the device and its ability to make a photovoltaic (PV) module follow sunlight. By remaining constant, sunlight, a tracker can improve a system's output by up to 40 percent over a traditional fixed-tilt system. In addition, the type of tracker and the location of installation can impact performance.The two types of axis trackers, single and dual, harvest different amounts of energy. A single-axis tracker can produce electrical productivity by 25 to 35 percent. A dual-axis tracker increases boost by as high as another 10 percent. A single-axis system tracks sunlight on its standard east to west trajectory. Dual-axis trackers changes the tilt of the panels to capture more of the sun's rays. Both types can be active or passive. Active trackers rely on software or electronic light sensors to track sunlight. Actuator drivers or motors move the panels while the earth's gravity and the sun's heat move the panels on passive tracker systems. The panels alter direction when the weight of heated compressed liquid gas moves to either side of the array.

Most stationary ground-mounted solar modules are fixed-tilt supports. They're poised to harvest the most sunlight at peak times daily The frameworks are anchored to the ground by concrete foundations. Although solar axis trackers can be installed as ground or roof systems, they actually produce more electricity using the same amount of space as fixed systems. 
 

Advantages and disadvantages of axis trackers 

PROS:
Axis trackers offer more electricity development and gross income because of their ability to track sunlight to maximize energy collection.
The array of trackers helps to find the right unit for your size of property.
Solar trackers offer homeowners the opportunity to earn  money if their local utility company offers a purchase plan with peak periods when days are long.

CONS:
These solar trackers are more expensive than the extra power produced.
These systems include a few technical moving parts, that require more maintenance stops than fixed arrays. 
Installing includes extensive site preparation. 
Location greatly impacts the efficiency and lifetime of tracker systems.

Personally, I think axis trackers need to become about 50% cheaper to be cost effective. It’s your call if you think the solar tracker is the right investment for you. If you want to move into the future and join the solar revolution, or if you want to find out what solar panels are right for you, go to HahaSmart.com and try our price checker tool. You can see how much a system will cost, and how much you can save over the next 20 years. For more information relating to going solar, don't forget to visit our solar blog section for more handy guides and articles. 

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