– Air flow visualizations from CFD analysis of automobile and alpine ski racer
– Pros and Cons of Wind Deflection
– Deflected clawFRplus System vs. Deflector-less clawFRplus System
The content discusses the importance of aerodynamics in the design of solar structures for low slope commercial roofs. It explains how wind deflectors can significantly reduce pressure coefficients, making it easier to secure a PV array to a building with less ballast and anchors. The article compares the effectiveness of deflected and deflector-less systems, showing that deflected systems have lower pressure coefficients and require less ballast and anchors to resist wind loads.
It emphasizes the need for careful consideration when evaluating racking vendors that offer products without deflectors but claim to require similar or lower ballast requirements than vendors with deflected products of similar geometry. The article specifically mentions PanelClaw’s clawFR and clawFRplus systems as examples of products that use wind deflection to provide secure and cost-effective installations.
The content also addresses the design principles of wind deflectors, highlighting the importance of equalizing pressure above and below the module to reduce uplift forces. It mentions the potential issue of increased module operating temperatures if airflow is completely blocked beneath the modules.
Overall, the article stresses the importance of understanding aerodynamics and pressure coefficients in designing solar structures for commercial roofs and recommends using systems with wind deflectors for secure and efficient installations.