Basic Tools for Maintaining Small or DIY Dual-Axis Trackers
- Screwdrivers: Essential for assembling, disassembling, and adjusting mechanical parts. The DIY dual-axis solar tracker kits often only require screwdrivers for assembly and maintenance since they are designed to be non-soldering.
- Wire Strippers: Used to handle wiring and connections involved in the control electronics like Arduino boards or sensor shields in DIY setups.
- Voltmeters/Solar Cell Testing Tools: Small trackers often come with a solar cell and voltmeter to monitor and gather solar data, useful for ensuring trackers are functioning correctly and for troubleshooting.
Tools and Practices for Large Commercial Dual-Axis Trackers
- Lubricants: The drive mechanisms on commercial trackers need periodic lubrication, typically once a year, to ensure smooth motion and prevent wear.
- Cleaning Supplies: Cleaning solar panels is a key maintenance task to maximize energy harvest. This includes non-abrasive cleaning tools for removing dust and debris from modules.
- Commissioning and Backtracking Tools: Advanced trackers come with software or hardware tools for commissioning the system, backtracking algorithm setup, and configuring alarm or control systems, often involving remote monitoring systems and communication tools integrated with SCADA or Modbus TCP/IP.
- Remote Monitoring Systems: Some commercial dual-axis trackers include remote monitoring and predictive maintenance tools that alert to potential issues, reducing downtime and maintenance needs.
Summary Table: Maintenance Tools for Dual-Axis Trackers
| Type of Tracker | Key Maintenance Tools & Practices |
|---|---|
| DIY/Small Scale | Screwdrivers, wire strippers, voltmeter/solar cell tester |
| Commercial/Large Scale | Lubricants, cleaning supplies, commissioning/backtracking tools, remote monitoring systems |
In conclusion, maintaining dual-axis trackers involves mechanical tools like screwdrivers and lubricants, electrical testing tools such as voltmeters, and for larger systems, specialized software for monitoring and commissioning. Routine cleaning and lubrication are fundamental to keep the tracker operating efficiently and to extend its lifespan.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-tools-are-necessary-for-maintaining-dual-axis-trackers/
