Re: [RE-wrenches] Best Ground Racking?

[Kelly Larson]

I couldn't agree more, Chris!  Hellermanntyton put on a nice little seminar at 
Intersolar last year and gave out lots of samples.  I was positively impressed.

Blessings,
Kelly


On Feb 6, 2014, at 3:48 AM, Chris Mason wrote:

> In reference to William's comments on cable ties, which are very valid, 
> HellermannTyton makes a huge range of ties for every industry. They have a 
> catalogue of solar components which includes stainless ties and plastic 
> covered stainless ties. As an industry, we need to be purchasing the correct 
> products and not going to the local Home Depot and buying home owner junk.
> http://www.hellermanntyton.us/products_solar.aspx
> 
> 
> On Thu, Feb 6, 2014 at 2:42 AM, Kelly Larson  wrote:
> Thanks, Andrew.  I have a stack of SolarPro waiting for the rain to hit.  
> Looks like we are getting some soon.  (Thank goodness)
> 
> Blessings,
> Kelly
> 
> 
> On Feb 4, 2014, at 11:02 PM, Andrew Truitt wrote:
> 
>> 
>> Kelly - Here are a couple of SolarPro articles that you might find helpful:
>> 
>> 
>> http://solarprofessional.com/articles/design-installation/ground-mounted-pv  
>> 
>> http://solarprofessional.com/articles/products-equipment/racking/ground-mount-pv-racking-systems/page/0/1
>>   
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> For a brighter energy future,
>> 
>> 
>> Andrew Truitt 
>> 
>> Principal
>> Truitt Renewable Energy Consulting, LLC
>> 
>> (202) 486-7507
>> 
>> LinkedIn Profile
>> 
>> Company Website
>> 
>> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional ID: 032407-66
>> 
>> Colorado Journeyman Electrician License No.: 600132
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> "Don't get me wrong: I love nuclear energy! It's just that I prefer fusion 
>> to fission. And it just so happens that there's an enormous fusion reactor 
>> safely banked a few million miles from us. It delivers more than we could 
>> ever use in just about 8 minutes. And it's wireless!"
>> 
>> ~William McDonough
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> On Tue, Feb 4, 2014 at 9:58 PM, Kelly Larson  wrote:
>> Wow, William.  Thank you for all the details.  One size clearly doesn't fit 
>> all!  I like the page with all the different wire management options you've 
>> used.  Somebody tell me why we still don't have this taken care of WITH the 
>> racking...  Shesh.
>> 
>> Blessings,
>> Kelly
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> On Feb 4, 2014, at 8:47 PM,  
>>  wrote:
>> 
>>> Kelly:
>>>  
>>> Ground mount racking choice is determined on a case-by-case basis.  If the 
>>> ground is flat and area plentiful, we use ballasted on gravel (Dyno-Raxx).  
>>> If you need to seasonally adjust, we like the DPW MPM.  If the ground is 
>>> sloped other than gradually south, top of pole mounts may be your choice.  
>>> For flat ground, low tilt (grid-tied)  “fence post” arrays like the DPW LGM 
>>> work well.  For high wind areas, consider the DPW TTRGM on piers spanned by 
>>> strut.
>>>  
>>> Lest anyone think I am the cheering section for DPW, I suggest you avoid 
>>> the DPW P6 or P8 “Tilt Kit” assemblies.  The brackets are flimsy.  Also, 
>>> avoid DPW’s L-feet.  They are bent aluminum and come pre-stress cracked at 
>>> no extra cost.  For L-feet, use Unirac “Serrated L-feet.”
>>>  
>>> It is refreshing to hear someone ask about wire management upfront.  All 
>>> too often this is an afterthought.  In the industry vacuum we have been 
>>> developing wire management systems on an ongoing basis.  Below is a link 
>>> that depicts some of our ideas.
>>>  
>>> http://www.millersolar.com/public_html/MillerSolar/practices/PV_wiring/_PV_Wiring2.html
>>>  
>>> The Code now requires wire shielding on “readily accessible” PV which means 
>>> ground mount. Just managing the wire is not enough, you must shield it from 
>>> touch.   One option is to enclose the PV in chain link, which ramps up the 
>>> ugly factor (I don’t think three rail pasture fence or even barbed wire 
>>> complies). Once you fence the array you can dispense with shielding, but 
>>> you still don’t want the leads dangling in a year or two, so avoid any 
>>> flavor of plastic wire ties.  There have been studies proving they don’t 
>>> last (US Navy is one source).
>>>  
>>> We have looked at racking members with larger interior cross section (i.e. 
>>> Pro-Solar) with the intent of running AC and DC leads inside and we have 
>>> even mocked up a few, but fitting leads and the proprietary nuts into the 
>>> same channel has proven impractical.
>>>  
>>> Good luck.
>>>  
>>> William Miller
>>>  
>>> PS:  Speaking of racking systems, did anyone get the news that SnapNRack 
>>> and indeed the entire REC Residential juggernaut has been sold?  Read the 
>>> rest of this story
>>>  
>>> Wm
>>>  
>>>  
>>>  
>>> 
>>> On Feb 4, 2014, at 4:45 PM, Kelly Larson  wrote:
>>> 
>>> Thanks, Aaron.  How are you handling wire  management and connection to the 
>>> ground?
>>> 
>>> Blessings,
>>> Kelly
>>>  
>>> On Feb 4, 2014, at 2:41 PM, Aaron Mandelkorn wrote:
>>>  
>>> I like SnapNrack 200 Series as well as DPW Solar Multi Pole Mount.
>>>  
>>

Re: [RE-wrenches] Best Ground Racking?

[Glenn Burt]

Panduit also has an enormous variety of cable ties available.

http://www.panduit.com/wcs/Satellite?pagename=PG_Wrapper
<http://www.panduit.com/wcs/Satellite?pagename=PG_Wrapper&friendlyurl=/en/pr
oducts-and-services/products/cable-ties-and-accessories>
&friendlyurl=/en/products-and-services/products/cable-ties-and-accessories

 

just be sure to look for the ones suitable for outdoor use.

 

-Glenn

 

From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Chris Mason
Sent: Thursday, February 06, 2014 6:48 AM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Best Ground Racking?

 

In reference to William's comments on cable ties, which are very valid,
HellermannTyton makes a huge range of ties for every industry. They have a
catalogue of solar components which includes stainless ties and plastic
covered stainless ties. As an industry, we need to be purchasing the correct
products and not going to the local Home Depot and buying home owner junk.

http://www.hellermanntyton.us/products_solar.aspx

 

On Thu, Feb 6, 2014 at 2:42 AM, Kelly Larson  wrote:

Thanks, Andrew.  I have a stack of SolarPro waiting for the rain to hit.
Looks like we are getting some soon.  (Thank goodness)


Blessings,

Kelly

 

 

On Feb 4, 2014, at 11:02 PM, Andrew Truitt wrote:

 

 

Kelly - Here are a couple of SolarPro articles that you might find helpful:

 

 

http://solarprofessional.com/articles/design-installation/ground-mounted-pv


 

http://solarprofessional.com/articles/products-equipment/racking/ground-moun
t-pv-racking-systems/page/0/1  

 

 

 

For a brighter energy future,


Andrew Truitt 

Principal
Truitt Renewable Energy Consulting, LLC

(202) 486-7507  

LinkedIn Profile <http://www.linkedin.com/pub/andrew-truitt/8/622/713> 

Company Website <http://truittreconsulting.weebly.com/> 

NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional ID: 032407-66

Colorado Journeyman Electrician License No.: 600132





"Don't get me wrong: I love nuclear energy! It's just that I prefer fusion
to fission. And it just so happens that there's an enormous fusion reactor
safely banked a few million miles from us. It delivers more than we could
ever use in just about 8 minutes. And it's wireless!"

~William McDonough

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Tue, Feb 4, 2014 at 9:58 PM, Kelly Larson  wrote:

Wow, William.  Thank you for all the details.  One size clearly doesn't fit
all!  I like the page with all the different wire management options you've
used.  Somebody tell me why we still don't have this taken care of WITH the
racking...  Shesh.


Blessings,

Kelly

 

 

 

On Feb 4, 2014, at 8:47 PM, 
 wrote:

 

Kelly:

 

Ground mount racking choice is determined on a case-by-case basis.  If the
ground is flat and area plentiful, we use ballasted on gravel (Dyno-Raxx).
If you need to seasonally adjust, we like the DPW MPM.  If the ground is
sloped other than gradually south, top of pole mounts may be your choice.
For flat ground, low tilt (grid-tied)  "fence post" arrays like the DPW LGM
work well.  For high wind areas, consider the DPW TTRGM on piers spanned by
strut.

 

Lest anyone think I am the cheering section for DPW, I suggest you avoid the
DPW P6 or P8 "Tilt Kit" assemblies.  The brackets are flimsy.  Also, avoid
DPW's L-feet.  They are bent aluminum and come pre-stress cracked at no
extra cost.  For L-feet, use Unirac "Serrated L-feet."

 

It is refreshing to hear someone ask about wire management upfront.  All too
often this is an afterthought.  In the industry vacuum we have been
developing wire management systems on an ongoing basis.  Below is a link
that depicts some of our ideas.

 

http://www.millersolar.com/public_html/MillerSolar/practices/PV_wiring/_PV_W
iring2.html

 

The Code now requires wire shielding on "readily accessible" PV which means
ground mount. Just managing the wire is not enough, you must shield it from
touch.   One option is to enclose the PV in chain link, which ramps up the
ugly factor (I don't think three rail pasture fence or even barbed wire
complies). Once you fence the array you can dispense with shielding, but you
still don't want the leads dangling in a year or two, so avoid any flavor of
plastic wire ties.  There have been studies proving they don't last (US Navy
is one source).

 

We have looked at racking members with larger interior cross section (i.e.
Pro-Solar) with the intent of running AC and DC leads inside and we have
even mocked up a few, but fitting leads and the proprietary nuts into the
same channel has proven impractical.

 

Good luck.

 

William Miller

 

PS:  Speaking of racking systems, did anyone get the news that SnapNRack and
indeed the entire REC Residential juggernaut has been sold?  Read the rest
of this story

 

Wm

 

 

 


On Feb 4, 2014, at 4:45 PM, Kelly Larson  wrote:

Thank

Re: [RE-wrenches] Best Ground Racking?

[Chris Mason]

In reference to William's comments on cable ties, which are very valid,
HellermannTyton makes a huge range of ties for every industry. They have a
catalogue of solar components which includes stainless ties and plastic
covered stainless ties. As an industry, we need to be purchasing the
correct products and not going to the local Home Depot and buying home
owner junk.
http://www.hellermanntyton.us/products_solar.aspx


On Thu, Feb 6, 2014 at 2:42 AM, Kelly Larson  wrote:

> Thanks, Andrew.  I have a stack of SolarPro waiting for the rain to hit.
>  Looks like we are getting some soon.  (Thank goodness)
>
> Blessings,
> Kelly
>
>
> On Feb 4, 2014, at 11:02 PM, Andrew Truitt wrote:
>
>
> Kelly - Here are a couple of SolarPro articles that you might find helpful:
>
>
> http://solarprofessional.com/articles/design-installation/ground-mounted-pv
>
>
> http://solarprofessional.com/articles/products-equipment/racking/ground-mount-pv-racking-systems/page/0/1
>
>
>
> For a brighter energy future,
>
>
> Andrew Truitt
>
> Principal
> Truitt Renewable Energy Consulting, LLC
>
> (202) 486-7507
>
> LinkedIn Profile 
>
> Company Website 
>
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional ID: 032407-66
>
> Colorado Journeyman Electrician License No.: 600132
>
>  <%28202%29%20486-7507>
>
> 
>
>
> "Don't get me wrong: I love nuclear energy! It's just that I prefer fusion
> to fission. And it just so happens that there's an enormous fusion reactor
> safely banked a few million miles from us. It delivers more than we could
> ever use in just about 8 minutes. And it's wireless!"
>
> ~William McDonough
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> On Tue, Feb 4, 2014 at 9:58 PM, Kelly Larson  wrote:
>
>> Wow, William.  Thank you for all the details.  One size clearly doesn't
>> fit all!  I like the page with all the different wire management options
>> you've used.  Somebody tell me why we still don't have this taken care of
>> WITH the racking...  Shesh.
>>
>> Blessings,
>> Kelly
>>
>>
>>
>> On Feb 4, 2014, at 8:47 PM,  <
>> will...@millersolar.com> wrote:
>>
>> Kelly:
>>
>> Ground mount racking choice is determined on a case-by-case basis.  If
>> the ground is flat and area plentiful, we use ballasted on gravel
>> (Dyno-Raxx).  If you need to seasonally adjust, we like the DPW MPM.  If
>> the ground is sloped other than gradually south, top of pole mounts may be
>> your choice.  For flat ground, low tilt (grid-tied)  "fence post" arrays
>> like the DPW LGM work well.  For high wind areas, consider the DPW TTRGM on
>> piers spanned by strut.
>>
>> Lest anyone think I am the cheering section for DPW, I suggest you avoid
>> the DPW P6 or P8 "Tilt Kit" assemblies.  The brackets are flimsy.  Also,
>> avoid DPW's L-feet.  They are bent aluminum and come pre-stress cracked at
>> no extra cost.  For L-feet, use Unirac "Serrated L-feet."
>>
>> It is refreshing to hear someone ask about wire management upfront.  All
>> too often this is an afterthought.  In the industry vacuum we have been
>> developing wire management systems on an ongoing basis.  Below is a link
>> that depicts some of our ideas.
>>
>>
>> http://www.millersolar.com/public_html/MillerSolar/practices/PV_wiring/_PV_Wiring2.html
>>
>> The Code now requires wire shielding on "readily accessible" PV which
>> means ground mount. Just managing the wire is not enough, you must shield
>> it from touch.   One option is to enclose the PV in chain link, which ramps
>> up the ugly factor (I don't think three rail pasture fence or even barbed
>> wire complies). Once you fence the array you can dispense with shielding,
>> but you still don't want the leads dangling in a year or two, so avoid any
>> flavor of plastic wire ties.  There have been studies proving they don't
>> last (US Navy is one source).
>>
>> We have looked at racking members with larger interior cross section
>> (i.e. Pro-Solar) with the intent of running AC and DC leads inside and we
>> have even mocked up a few, but fitting leads and the proprietary nuts into
>> the same channel has proven impractical.
>>
>> Good luck.
>>
>> William Miller
>>
>> PS:  Speaking of racking systems, did anyone get the news that SnapNRack
>> and indeed the entire REC Residential juggernaut has been sold?  Read
>> the rest of this 
>> story
>>
>> Wm
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> On Feb 4, 2014, at 4:45 P

Re: [RE-wrenches] Best Ground Racking?

[Kelly Larson]

Thanks, Andrew.  I have a stack of SolarPro waiting for the rain to hit.  Looks 
like we are getting some soon.  (Thank goodness)

Blessings,
Kelly


On Feb 4, 2014, at 11:02 PM, Andrew Truitt wrote:

> 
> Kelly - Here are a couple of SolarPro articles that you might find helpful:
> 
> 
> http://solarprofessional.com/articles/design-installation/ground-mounted-pv  
> 
> http://solarprofessional.com/articles/products-equipment/racking/ground-mount-pv-racking-systems/page/0/1
>   
> 
> 
> 
> For a brighter energy future,
> 
> 
> Andrew Truitt 
> 
> Principal
> Truitt Renewable Energy Consulting, LLC
> 
> (202) 486-7507
> 
> LinkedIn Profile
> 
> Company Website
> 
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional ID: 032407-66
> 
> Colorado Journeyman Electrician License No.: 600132
> 
> 
> 
> "Don't get me wrong: I love nuclear energy! It's just that I prefer fusion to 
> fission. And it just so happens that there's an enormous fusion reactor 
> safely banked a few million miles from us. It delivers more than we could 
> ever use in just about 8 minutes. And it's wireless!"
> 
> ~William McDonough
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> On Tue, Feb 4, 2014 at 9:58 PM, Kelly Larson  wrote:
> Wow, William.  Thank you for all the details.  One size clearly doesn't fit 
> all!  I like the page with all the different wire management options you've 
> used.  Somebody tell me why we still don't have this taken care of WITH the 
> racking...  Shesh.
> 
> Blessings,
> Kelly
> 
> 
> 
> On Feb 4, 2014, at 8:47 PM,  
>  wrote:
> 
>> Kelly:
>>  
>> Ground mount racking choice is determined on a case-by-case basis.  If the 
>> ground is flat and area plentiful, we use ballasted on gravel (Dyno-Raxx).  
>> If you need to seasonally adjust, we like the DPW MPM.  If the ground is 
>> sloped other than gradually south, top of pole mounts may be your choice.  
>> For flat ground, low tilt (grid-tied)  “fence post” arrays like the DPW LGM 
>> work well.  For high wind areas, consider the DPW TTRGM on piers spanned by 
>> strut.
>>  
>> Lest anyone think I am the cheering section for DPW, I suggest you avoid the 
>> DPW P6 or P8 “Tilt Kit” assemblies.  The brackets are flimsy.  Also, avoid 
>> DPW’s L-feet.  They are bent aluminum and come pre-stress cracked at no 
>> extra cost.  For L-feet, use Unirac “Serrated L-feet.”
>>  
>> It is refreshing to hear someone ask about wire management upfront.  All too 
>> often this is an afterthought.  In the industry vacuum we have been 
>> developing wire management systems on an ongoing basis.  Below is a link 
>> that depicts some of our ideas.
>>  
>> http://www.millersolar.com/public_html/MillerSolar/practices/PV_wiring/_PV_Wiring2.html
>>  
>> The Code now requires wire shielding on “readily accessible” PV which means 
>> ground mount. Just managing the wire is not enough, you must shield it from 
>> touch.   One option is to enclose the PV in chain link, which ramps up the 
>> ugly factor (I don’t think three rail pasture fence or even barbed wire 
>> complies). Once you fence the array you can dispense with shielding, but you 
>> still don’t want the leads dangling in a year or two, so avoid any flavor of 
>> plastic wire ties.  There have been studies proving they don’t last (US Navy 
>> is one source).
>>  
>> We have looked at racking members with larger interior cross section (i.e. 
>> Pro-Solar) with the intent of running AC and DC leads inside and we have 
>> even mocked up a few, but fitting leads and the proprietary nuts into the 
>> same channel has proven impractical.
>>  
>> Good luck.
>>  
>> William Miller
>>  
>> PS:  Speaking of racking systems, did anyone get the news that SnapNRack and 
>> indeed the entire REC Residential juggernaut has been sold?  Read the rest 
>> of this story
>>  
>> Wm
>>  
>>  
>>  
>> 
>> On Feb 4, 2014, at 4:45 PM, Kelly Larson  wrote:
>> 
>> Thanks, Aaron.  How are you handling wire  management and connection to the 
>> ground?
>> 
>> Blessings,
>> Kelly
>>  
>> On Feb 4, 2014, at 2:41 PM, Aaron Mandelkorn wrote:
>>  
>> I like SnapNrack 200 Series as well as DPW Solar Multi Pole Mount.
>>  
>> On Feb 4, 2014, at 3:28 PM, Kelly Larson  wrote:
>>  
>> 
>> Hi,
>>  
>> We are looking to install some 4KW ground mounted arrays.  What racking are 
>> you using?  Best ground connection?  Wire management?  The shows have so 
>> many choices, and I keep doing the same ol thing...
>> 
>> Blessings,
>> Kelly
>>  
>> Kelly Larson
>> Electrical Engineer
>> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional
>> IREC Certified Master Trainer
>> CA Electrical Contractor# 868189
>> SolarKelly.com
>> ___
>> 
>> List sponsored by Home Power magazine
>> 
>> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
>> 
>> Change email address & settings:
>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org
>> 
>> List-Archive: 
>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org
>> 
>> List rules & et

Re: [RE-wrenches] Best Ground Racking?

[Kelly Larson]

Hmmm.  I can't tell what it is made of.  It looks like landscape fabric.  
Anyone have experience with this? (Solarscrim.com)

Blessings,
Kelly



On Feb 5, 2014, at 5:57 AM, Dave Click wrote:

> A colleague found this online the other day as one potential option for 
> shielding the wires for a ground-/pole-mount system:
> http://www.solarscrim.com/index.php
> 
> No personal experience, though. Looks like they may ship with black zip ties 
> but Sunbundler ties (or others) would be an easy swap.
> 
> Didn't notice that REC residential/AEE had been sold. It looks like 
> SolarCity, Vivint, and Sunrun are just taking turns buying every smaller 
> solar company to make sure that the others don't get them.
> 
> On 2014/2/4, 23:47, will...@millersolar.com wrote:
>> Kelly:
>>  
>> Ground mount racking choice is determined on a case-by-case basis.  If the 
>> ground is flat and area plentiful, we use ballasted on gravel (Dyno-Raxx).  
>> If you need to seasonally adjust, we like the DPW MPM.  If the ground is 
>> sloped other than gradually south, top of pole mounts may be your choice.  
>> For flat ground, low tilt (grid-tied)  “fence post” arrays like the DPW LGM 
>> work well.  For high wind areas, consider the DPW TTRGM on piers spanned by 
>> strut.
>>  
>> Lest anyone think I am the cheering section for DPW, I suggest you avoid the 
>> DPW P6 or P8 “Tilt Kit” assemblies.  The brackets are flimsy.  Also, avoid 
>> DPW’s L-feet.  They are bent aluminum and come pre-stress cracked at no 
>> extra cost.  For L-feet, use Unirac “Serrated L-feet.”
>>  
>> It is refreshing to hear someone ask about wire management upfront.  All too 
>> often this is an afterthought.  In the industry vacuum we have been 
>> developing wire management systems on an ongoing basis.  Below is a link 
>> that depicts some of our ideas.
>>  
>> http://www.millersolar.com/public_html/MillerSolar/practices/PV_wiring/_PV_Wiring2.html
>>  
>> The Code now requires wire shielding on “readily accessible” PV which means 
>> ground mount. Just managing the wire is not enough, you must shield it from 
>> touch.   One option is to enclose the PV in chain link, which ramps up the 
>> ugly factor (I don’t think three rail pasture fence or even barbed wire 
>> complies). Once you fence the array you can dispense with shielding, but you 
>> still don’t want the leads dangling in a year or two, so avoid any flavor of 
>> plastic wire ties.  There have been studies proving they don’t last (US Navy 
>> is one source).
>>  
>> We have looked at racking members with larger interior cross section (i.e. 
>> Pro-Solar) with the intent of running AC and DC leads inside and we have 
>> even mocked up a few, but fitting leads and the proprietary nuts into the 
>> same channel has proven impractical.
>>  
>> Good luck.
>>  
>> William Miller
>>  
>> PS:  Speaking of racking systems, did anyone get the news that SnapNRack and 
>> indeed the entire REC Residential juggernaut has been sold?  Read the rest 
>> of this story
>>  
>> Wm
>>  
>>  
>>  
>> 
>> On Feb 4, 2014, at 4:45 PM, Kelly Larson  wrote:
>> 
>> Thanks, Aaron.  How are you handling wire  management and connection to the 
>> ground?
>> 
>> Blessings,
>> Kelly
>>  
>> On Feb 4, 2014, at 2:41 PM, Aaron Mandelkorn wrote:
>>  
>> I like SnapNrack 200 Series as well as DPW Solar Multi Pole Mount.
>>  
>> On Feb 4, 2014, at 3:28 PM, Kelly Larson  wrote:
>>  
>> 
>> Hi,
>>  
>> We are looking to install some 4KW ground mounted arrays.  What racking are 
>> you using?  Best ground connection?  Wire management?  The shows have so 
>> many choices, and I keep doing the same ol thing...
>> 
>> Blessings,
>> Kelly
>>  
>> Kelly Larson
>> Electrical Engineer
>> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional
>> IREC Certified Master Trainer
>> CA Electrical Contractor# 868189
>> SolarKelly.com
>> 
>> 
>> ___
>> List sponsored by Home Power magazine
>> 
>> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
>> 
>> Change email address & settings:
>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org
>> 
>> List-Archive: 
>> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org
>> 
>> List rules & etiquette:
>> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm
>> 
>> Check out participant bios:
>> www.members.re-wrenches.org
>> 
> 
> ___
> List sponsored by Home Power magazine
> 
> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
> 
> Change email address & settings:
> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org
> 
> List-Archive: 
> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org
> 
> List rules & etiquette:
> www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm
> 
> Check out participant bios:
> www.members.re-wrenches.org
> 

___
List sponsored by Home Power magazine

List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org

Change email address & settin

Re: [RE-wrenches] Best Ground Racking?

[Dave Click]

A colleague found this online the other day as one potential option for 
shielding the wires for a ground-/pole-mount system:

http://www.solarscrim.com/index.php

No personal experience, though. Looks like they may ship with black zip 
ties but Sunbundler ties (or others) would be an easy swap.


Didn't notice that REC residential/AEE had been sold. It looks like 
SolarCity, Vivint, and Sunrun are just taking turns buying every smaller 
solar company to make sure that the others don't get them.


On 2014/2/4, 23:47, will...@millersolar.com wrote:


Kelly:

Ground mount racking choice is determined on a case-by-case basis. If 
the ground is flat and area plentiful, we use ballasted on gravel 
(Dyno-Raxx).  If you need to seasonally adjust, we like the DPW MPM.  
If the ground is sloped other than gradually south, top of pole mounts 
may be your choice.  For flat ground, low tilt (grid-tied)  "fence 
post" arrays like the DPW LGM work well.  For high wind areas, 
consider the DPW TTRGM on piers spanned by strut.


Lest anyone think I am the cheering section for DPW, I suggest you 
avoid the DPW P6 or P8 "Tilt Kit" assemblies.  The brackets are 
flimsy.  Also, avoid DPW's L-feet.  They are bent aluminum and come 
pre-stress cracked at no extra cost. For L-feet, use Unirac "Serrated 
L-feet."


It is refreshing to hear someone ask about wire management upfront.  
All too often this is an afterthought.  In the industry vacuum we have 
been developing wire management systems on an ongoing basis.  Below is 
a link that depicts some of our ideas.


http://www.millersolar.com/public_html/MillerSolar/practices/PV_wiring/_PV_Wiring2.html

The Code now requires wire shielding on "readily accessible" PV which 
means ground mount. Just managing the wire is not enough, you must 
shield it from touch.   One option is to enclose the PV in chain link, 
which ramps up the ugly factor (I don't think three rail pasture fence 
or even barbed wire complies). Once you fence the array you can 
dispense with shielding, but you still don't want the leads dangling 
in a year or two, so avoid any flavor of plastic wire ties. There have 
been studies proving they don't last (US Navy is one source).


We have looked at racking members with larger interior cross section 
(i.e. Pro-Solar) with the intent of running AC and DC leads inside and 
we have even mocked up a few, but fitting leads and the proprietary 
nuts into the same channel has proven impractical.


Good luck.

William Miller

PS: Speaking of racking systems, did anyone get the news that 
SnapNRack and indeed the entire REC Residential juggernaut has been 
sold? Read the rest of this story 



Wm


On Feb 4, 2014, at 4:45 PM, Kelly Larson > wrote:


Thanks, Aaron.  How are you handling wire  management and
connection to the ground?


Blessings,

Kelly

On Feb 4, 2014, at 2:41 PM, Aaron Mandelkorn wrote:

I like SnapNrack 200 Series as well as DPW Solar Multi Pole Mount.

On Feb 4, 2014, at 3:28 PM, Kelly Larson mailto:solarwre...@asis.com>> wrote:

Hi,

We are looking to install some 4KW ground mounted arrays.  What
racking are you using?  Best ground connection?  Wire management?
 The shows have so many choices, and I keep doing the same ol thing...


Blessings,

Kelly

Kelly Larson

Electrical Engineer

NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional

IREC Certified Master Trainer
CA Electrical Contractor# 868189

SolarKelly.com 



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Re: [RE-wrenches] Best Ground Racking?

[Kelly Larson]

Wow, William.  Thank you for all the details.  One size clearly doesn't fit 
all!  I like the page with all the different wire management options you've 
used.  Somebody tell me why we still don't have this taken care of WITH the 
racking...  Shesh.

Blessings,
Kelly



On Feb 4, 2014, at 8:47 PM,   
wrote:

> Kelly:
>  
> Ground mount racking choice is determined on a case-by-case basis.  If the 
> ground is flat and area plentiful, we use ballasted on gravel (Dyno-Raxx).  
> If you need to seasonally adjust, we like the DPW MPM.  If the ground is 
> sloped other than gradually south, top of pole mounts may be your choice.  
> For flat ground, low tilt (grid-tied)  “fence post” arrays like the DPW LGM 
> work well.  For high wind areas, consider the DPW TTRGM on piers spanned by 
> strut.
>  
> Lest anyone think I am the cheering section for DPW, I suggest you avoid the 
> DPW P6 or P8 “Tilt Kit” assemblies.  The brackets are flimsy.  Also, avoid 
> DPW’s L-feet.  They are bent aluminum and come pre-stress cracked at no extra 
> cost.  For L-feet, use Unirac “Serrated L-feet.”
>  
> It is refreshing to hear someone ask about wire management upfront.  All too 
> often this is an afterthought.  In the industry vacuum we have been 
> developing wire management systems on an ongoing basis.  Below is a link that 
> depicts some of our ideas.
>  
> http://www.millersolar.com/public_html/MillerSolar/practices/PV_wiring/_PV_Wiring2.html
>  
> The Code now requires wire shielding on “readily accessible” PV which means 
> ground mount. Just managing the wire is not enough, you must shield it from 
> touch.   One option is to enclose the PV in chain link, which ramps up the 
> ugly factor (I don’t think three rail pasture fence or even barbed wire 
> complies). Once you fence the array you can dispense with shielding, but you 
> still don’t want the leads dangling in a year or two, so avoid any flavor of 
> plastic wire ties.  There have been studies proving they don’t last (US Navy 
> is one source).
>  
> We have looked at racking members with larger interior cross section (i.e. 
> Pro-Solar) with the intent of running AC and DC leads inside and we have even 
> mocked up a few, but fitting leads and the proprietary nuts into the same 
> channel has proven impractical.
>  
> Good luck.
>  
> William Miller
>  
> PS:  Speaking of racking systems, did anyone get the news that SnapNRack and 
> indeed the entire REC Residential juggernaut has been sold?  Read the rest of 
> this story
>  
> Wm
>  
>  
>  
> 
> On Feb 4, 2014, at 4:45 PM, Kelly Larson  wrote:
> 
> Thanks, Aaron.  How are you handling wire  management and connection to the 
> ground?
> 
> Blessings,
> Kelly
>  
> On Feb 4, 2014, at 2:41 PM, Aaron Mandelkorn wrote:
>  
> I like SnapNrack 200 Series as well as DPW Solar Multi Pole Mount.
>  
> On Feb 4, 2014, at 3:28 PM, Kelly Larson  wrote:
>  
> 
> Hi,
>  
> We are looking to install some 4KW ground mounted arrays.  What racking are 
> you using?  Best ground connection?  Wire management?  The shows have so many 
> choices, and I keep doing the same ol thing...
> 
> Blessings,
> Kelly
>  
> Kelly Larson
> Electrical Engineer
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional
> IREC Certified Master Trainer
> CA Electrical Contractor# 868189
> SolarKelly.com
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Best Ground Racking?

[william]

Kelly:

 

Ground mount racking choice is determined on a case-by-case basis.  If the 
ground is flat and area plentiful, we use ballasted on gravel (Dyno-Raxx).  If 
you need to seasonally adjust, we like the DPW MPM.  If the ground is sloped 
other than gradually south, top of pole mounts may be your choice.  For flat 
ground, low tilt (grid-tied)  “fence post” arrays like the DPW LGM work well.  
For high wind areas, consider the DPW TTRGM on piers spanned by strut.

 

Lest anyone think I am the cheering section for DPW, I suggest you avoid the 
DPW P6 or P8 “Tilt Kit” assemblies.  The brackets are flimsy.  Also, avoid 
DPW’s L-feet.  They are bent aluminum and come pre-stress cracked at no extra 
cost.  For L-feet, use Unirac “Serrated L-feet.”

 

It is refreshing to hear someone ask about wire management upfront.  All too 
often this is an afterthought.  In the industry vacuum we have been developing 
wire management systems on an ongoing basis.  Below is a link that depicts some 
of our ideas.

 

http://www.millersolar.com/public_html/MillerSolar/practices/PV_wiring/_PV_Wiring2.html

 

The Code now requires wire shielding on “readily accessible” PV which means 
ground mount. Just managing the wire is not enough, you must shield it from 
touch.   One option is to enclose the PV in chain link, which ramps up the ugly 
factor (I don’t think three rail pasture fence or even barbed wire complies). 
Once you fence the array you can dispense with shielding, but you still don’t 
want the leads dangling in a year or two, so avoid any flavor of plastic wire 
ties.  There have been studies proving they don’t last (US Navy is one source).

 

We have looked at racking members with larger interior cross section (i.e. 
Pro-Solar) with the intent of running AC and DC leads inside and we have even 
mocked up a few, but fitting leads and the proprietary nuts into the same 
channel has proven impractical.

 

Good luck.

 

William Miller

 

PS:  Speaking of racking systems, did anyone get the news that SnapNRack and 
indeed the entire REC Residential juggernaut has been sold?  Read the rest of 
this story

 

Wm

 

 

 


On Feb 4, 2014, at 4:45 PM, Kelly Larson  wrote:

Thanks, Aaron.  How are you handling wire  management and connection to the 
ground?


Blessings,

Kelly

 

On Feb 4, 2014, at 2:41 PM, Aaron Mandelkorn wrote:

 

I like SnapNrack 200 Series as well as DPW Solar Multi Pole Mount.

 

On Feb 4, 2014, at 3:28 PM, Kelly Larson  wrote:

 

Hi,

 

We are looking to install some 4KW ground mounted arrays.  What racking are you 
using?  Best ground connection?  Wire management?  The shows have so many 
choices, and I keep doing the same ol thing...


Blessings,

Kelly

 

Kelly Larson

Electrical Engineer

NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional

IREC Certified Master Trainer
CA Electrical Contractor# 868189

SolarKelly.com  

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Best Ground Racking?

[Kelly Larson]

Great.  Many thanks, Jerry!

On Feb 4, 2014, at 3:39 PM, Jerry Shafer wrote:

> We use holes with concrete for a small array its less expensive
> 
> On Feb 4, 2014 3:37 PM, "Kelly Larson"  wrote:
> Thanks for your reply, Jerry.  How do you attach them to the ground?  
> Concrete?  Driven?
> 
> Blessings,
> Kelly
> 
> On Feb 4, 2014, at 3:30 PM, Jerry Shafer wrote:
> 
>> We use unirac ULA good engineering not much on wire management
>> Jerry
>> 
>> On Feb 4, 2014 2:29 PM, "Kelly Larson"  wrote:
>> Hi,
>> 
>> We are looking to install some 4KW ground mounted arrays.  What racking are 
>> you using?  Best ground connection?  Wire management?  The shows have so 
>> many choices, and I keep doing the same ol thing...
>> 
>> Blessings,
>> Kelly
>> 
>> Kelly Larson
>> Electrical Engineer
>> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional
>> IREC Certified Master Trainer
>> CA Electrical Contractor# 868189
>> SolarKelly.com
>> 
>> 
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Best Ground Racking?

[Jerry Shafer]

We use holes with concrete for a small array its less expensive
On Feb 4, 2014 3:37 PM, "Kelly Larson"  wrote:

> Thanks for your reply, Jerry.  How do you attach them to the ground?
>  Concrete?  Driven?
>
> Blessings,
> Kelly
>
> On Feb 4, 2014, at 3:30 PM, Jerry Shafer wrote:
>
> We use unirac ULA good engineering not much on wire management
> Jerry
> On Feb 4, 2014 2:29 PM, "Kelly Larson"  wrote:
>
>> Hi,
>>
>> We are looking to install some 4KW ground mounted arrays.  What racking
>> are you using?  Best ground connection?  Wire management?  The shows have
>> so many choices, and I keep doing the same ol thing...
>>
>> Blessings,
>> Kelly
>>
>> Kelly Larson
>> Electrical Engineer
>> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional
>> IREC Certified Master Trainer
>> CA Electrical Contractor# 868189
>> SolarKelly.com
>>
>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Best Ground Racking?

[Kelly Larson]

Thanks for your reply, Jerry.  How do you attach them to the ground?  Concrete? 
 Driven?

Blessings,
Kelly

On Feb 4, 2014, at 3:30 PM, Jerry Shafer wrote:

> We use unirac ULA good engineering not much on wire management
> Jerry
> 
> On Feb 4, 2014 2:29 PM, "Kelly Larson"  wrote:
> Hi,
> 
> We are looking to install some 4KW ground mounted arrays.  What racking are 
> you using?  Best ground connection?  Wire management?  The shows have so many 
> choices, and I keep doing the same ol thing...
> 
> Blessings,
> Kelly
> 
> Kelly Larson
> Electrical Engineer
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional
> IREC Certified Master Trainer
> CA Electrical Contractor# 868189
> SolarKelly.com
> 
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Best Ground Racking?

[Jerry Shafer]

We use unirac ULA good engineering not much on wire management
Jerry
On Feb 4, 2014 2:29 PM, "Kelly Larson"  wrote:

> Hi,
>
> We are looking to install some 4KW ground mounted arrays.  What racking
> are you using?  Best ground connection?  Wire management?  The shows have
> so many choices, and I keep doing the same ol thing...
>
> Blessings,
> Kelly
>
> Kelly Larson
> Electrical Engineer
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional
> IREC Certified Master Trainer
> CA Electrical Contractor# 868189
> SolarKelly.com
>
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[RE-wrenches] Best Ground Racking?

[Kelly Larson]

Hi,

We are looking to install some 4KW ground mounted arrays.  What racking are you 
using?  Best ground connection?  Wire management?  The shows have so many 
choices, and I keep doing the same ol thing...

Blessings,
Kelly

Kelly Larson
Electrical Engineer
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional
IREC Certified Master Trainer
CA Electrical Contractor# 868189
SolarKelly.com

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