[RE-wrenches] Experience with Heliene PV Modules?

[ly...@zapotecenergy.com]

Dear Re-Wrenches -

 

Do any of you have recent experience with the HELIENE 72MHD panel, the large
72-monocrystalline-cell module? I have a client who is considering it for a
large project, and I was asked to find out if it is a durable, high-quality
product. Feel free to contact me off the List.

 

Be well.

 

Paul Lyons, P.E.

CEO

Zapotec Energy Inc.

675 Massachusetts Ave

Cambridge, MA 02139-3309

Tel: 617-547-5900

Mobile: 617-285-0634

Email:   ly...@zapotecenergy.com

Web:   www.ZapotecEnergy.com

 

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[RE-wrenches] Bifacial modules on pole mounts

[Mac Lewis]

Hi Wrenches,

We have started thinking about experimenting with bifacial modules on pole
mounts in remote locations where snow is a big issue; the idea being we
could still be collecting some energy when the front of the module is
covered in snow.  I don't have any experience with bifacial modules, I am
curious if anyone has tried this?  Also, since most bifacial modules are
frameless, how is the racking configured?

Thanks in advance



-- 



Mac Lewis

*"Yo solo sé que no sé nada." -Sócrates*
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[RE-wrenches] Voltage settings on PVP-4800 inverter

[Dave Tedeyan]

Hi All,

Is anyone out there familiar with PV Powered inverters?
If so, is it possible to adjust the voltage setpoints? The
installation manual I downloaded off their website says it is
adjustable, but tech support claims that it is something that
they intended to do and never got around to. I cannot tell if
that is true, or if they just don't want to let a random installer
not familiar with their product make adjustments.

The issue here is that we have installed an add on PV
system. They already have high grid voltage, and the old
inverter is on a pole mount ~250' from the meter. With both
systems in place the voltage frequently gets too high. I've
already opened the voltage window on the new SMA inverter
and I would like to do the same for the customer on the old
PVP-4800 inverter rather than telling them that we'll need to
re-pull much larger wires or move the inverter closer to the meter.

Cheers,
Dave

*--*


*Dave Tedeyan*
*Project Engineer*

*Taitem Engineering, PC*
10 Verizon Lane, Lansing, NY 14882
Voice: (607) 930-3481 x6
www.taitem.com
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Voltage settings on PVP-4800 inverter

[Jay]

Hi dave

How about a buck transformer

Jay
Peltz power. 

> On Jun 22, 2017, at 5:38 AM, Dave Tedeyan  wrote:
> 
> Hi All, 
> 
> Is anyone out there familiar with PV Powered inverters? 
> If so, is it possible to adjust the voltage setpoints? The 
> installation manual I downloaded off their website says it is 
> adjustable, but tech support claims that it is something that 
> they intended to do and never got around to. I cannot tell if 
> that is true, or if they just don't want to let a random installer 
> not familiar with their product make adjustments.
> 
> The issue here is that we have installed an add on PV 
> system. They already have high grid voltage, and the old 
> inverter is on a pole mount ~250' from the meter. With both 
> systems in place the voltage frequently gets too high. I've 
> already opened the voltage window on the new SMA inverter 
> and I would like to do the same for the customer on the old 
> PVP-4800 inverter rather than telling them that we'll need to 
> re-pull much larger wires or move the inverter closer to the meter.
> 
> Cheers,
> Dave
> 
> --
> 
> Dave Tedeyan
> Project Engineer
> 
> Taitem Engineering, PC
> 10 Verizon Lane, Lansing, NY 14882
> Voice: (607) 930-3481 x6
> www.taitem.com
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Bifacial modules on pole mounts

[Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar]

I have used the old Sanyo bifacials on a Pergola in snow country with very
good results. They had frames though and have held up really well.  I have
some single axis trackers at my place that I would really love to update
the modules with the new Panasonic bi's.
The frames have always been the thing that stopped me. I will follow your
post here and appreciate any updates.

--Dave


> Hi Wrenches,
>
> We have started thinking about experimenting with bifacial modules on pole
> mounts in remote locations where snow is a big issue; the idea being we
> could still be collecting some energy when the front of the module is
> covered in snow.  I don't have any experience with bifacial modules, I am
> curious if anyone has tried this?  Also, since most bifacial modules are
> frameless, how is the racking configured?
>
> Thanks in advance
>
>
>
> --
>
>
>
> Mac Lewis
>
> *"Yo solo sé que no sé nada." -Sócrates*
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Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar
"we go where powerlines don't"
http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/
e-mail  offgridso...@sti.net
text 209 813 0060

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[RE-wrenches] concrete roof tile install

[jay]

HI All,

I’ve never worked with flat concrete roof tiles before.  And have an install 
that does have them.
Something like a Striata type.

Wondering what recommendations folks have for how to mount with them.  Its not 
a large system currently only 6-9 x 280 60 cell modules.  
Probably doesn’t make sense to remove/reroof in that area.  And the roof can 
handle the weight without removing the tiles.  

thanks in advance,

Jay
Peltz Power.


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Re: [RE-wrenches] concrete roof tile install

[August Goers]

Hi Jay -

We don't do a whole lot of tile, but when we do we've switched to using a
tile replacement mount product. Quickmount and EcoFasten both make similar
products:

http://www.quickmountpv.com/downloads/datasheet/QMPV-datasheet-QMTRM-TileReplacement-web.pdf

http://www.ecofastensolar.com/store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=30#.WUvcYWjytaQ

There are several advantages of this replacement type system. Check 'em out!

August
Luminalt

-Original Message-
From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On
Behalf Of jay
Sent: Thursday, June 22, 2017 7:36 AM
To: RE-wrenches 
Subject: [RE-wrenches] concrete roof tile install

HI All,

I’ve never worked with flat concrete roof tiles before.  And have an install
that does have them.
Something like a Striata type.

Wondering what recommendations folks have for how to mount with them.  Its
not a large system currently only 6-9 x 280 60 cell modules.
Probably doesn’t make sense to remove/reroof in that area.  And the roof can
handle the weight without removing the tiles.

thanks in advance,

Jay
Peltz Power.


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Re: [RE-wrenches] concrete roof tile install

[Jerry Shafer]

Jay
There a mounting systems by Quickmount and maybe Sunmodo just for tile, if
the tile is good then this may be all you need, that is IF the roofing
material is good.
Jerry

On Jun 22, 2017 4:57 AM, "jay"  wrote:

> HI All,
>
> I’ve never worked with flat concrete roof tiles before.  And have an
> install that does have them.
> Something like a Striata type.
>
> Wondering what recommendations folks have for how to mount with them.  Its
> not a large system currently only 6-9 x 280 60 cell modules.
> Probably doesn’t make sense to remove/reroof in that area.  And the roof
> can handle the weight without removing the tiles.
>
> thanks in advance,
>
> Jay
> Peltz Power.
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] concrete roof tile install

[August Goers]

Jay - I'll add one big point to working on tiles - make sure you check the
condition of the underlayment before starting work. Tiles can last for a
long time, but the underlayment (felt paper) on older tile roofs starts to
become brittle and disintegrates. Water during heavy wind storms works its
way between the tiles and gets under the underlayment if it isn't intact.
Vent pipes, skylights, and roof transition points can start to leak.
Removing and replacing tiles in order to install the PV system can disturb
the fragile underlayment and cause problems. We've run into such issues and
stay away from self-waterproofing tile roofs that are older than 10 years or
that show signs that they weren't installed properly in the first place.

August

-Original Message-
From: August Goers [mailto:aug...@luminalt.com]
Sent: Thursday, June 22, 2017 8:07 AM
To: RE-wrenches 
Subject: RE: [RE-wrenches] concrete roof tile install

Hi Jay -

We don't do a whole lot of tile, but when we do we've switched to using a
tile replacement mount product. Quickmount and EcoFasten both make similar
products:

http://www.quickmountpv.com/downloads/datasheet/QMPV-datasheet-QMTRM-TileReplacement-web.pdf

http://www.ecofastensolar.com/store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=30#.WUvcYWjytaQ

There are several advantages of this replacement type system. Check 'em out!

August
Luminalt

-Original Message-
From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On
Behalf Of jay
Sent: Thursday, June 22, 2017 7:36 AM
To: RE-wrenches 
Subject: [RE-wrenches] concrete roof tile install

HI All,

I’ve never worked with flat concrete roof tiles before.  And have an install
that does have them.
Something like a Striata type.

Wondering what recommendations folks have for how to mount with them.  Its
not a large system currently only 6-9 x 280 60 cell modules.
Probably doesn’t make sense to remove/reroof in that area.  And the roof can
handle the weight without removing the tiles.

thanks in advance,

Jay
Peltz Power.


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Re: [RE-wrenches] Rodent/Pigeon/Critter Guards

[Kyle Lord]

Hello Benn,

We have been addressing this issue here in Colorado for quite some time and
have had great success with our methodology(3000+ critter guards=no
failures yet). We utilize a specific wire mesh that is a little more rigid
than most available online. We take time to prep the material so that it
has a tight fit between the modules and roof. For example, the gap is 4".
We will bend 2" in on either side so that the material is in the shape of a
"C" with the long, flat side being 4". We then cut to fit each piece of
mesh and mostly rely on fastening to the racking system with a stainless
self-drilling screw/washer combo. With diagonal cutters, installers can
easily cut a flange in the mesh and drill through this at that attachment
point. We also reinforce the mesh where needed with a Spiffy clip(Heyco
clips were loose on service calls where Spiffy clips were still
surprisingly strong). If you are using a rail less system, more panel
specific clips are necessary. Simply rolling out mesh and using j-hooks is
not a great method and I have stumbled on many systems failed using this
method.

I wouldn't completely write off the mesh/j-hook combo but perhaps take a
look at a different methodology and incorporate fastening to the rail
system. Price is another thing to consider. Our installers can quickly
install a critter guard using this methodology and it only utilizes a few
expensive custom clips vs. a higher quantity of cheaper yet sufficient
fasteners.

I have primarily focused on service calls in Colorado, and a surprising
amount of calls are related to either rodents or pigeons. This is a very
easy headache to avoid upfront and the cost of mesh and a few fasteners is
far less than a future truck roll. Feel free to reach out to me off the
list for more info as I feel we have a good track record with this specific
topic.


*Kyle Lord*
Co-Owner & Founder
Reconnect Solar, LLC
Reconnect Material & Supply, LLC
NABCEP Certified Installer
970.485.0207
k...@reconnectsolar.com

On Wed, Jun 21, 2017 at 11:07 AM, Benn Kilburn 
wrote:

> I'm hoping to get some feedback on this topic, as there was none when I
> posted it back in 2015.
>
> Our region is seeing more and more problems with pigeons nesting under PV
> arrays, mostly on new homes in newly developed areas of the city.
> We have been called to some sites that had particularly bad problems with
> pigeons nesting and pigeon poop covering the roof itself (surprisingly more
> so that the array, unless it is just the rain washing it off the modules
> easier than the roof?) and the eavestroughs filled with poop and
> overflowing onto the ground.
>
> We really want to nip this issue in the butt since none of us want people
> associating PV systems with pigeon problems. We have heard that some of
> these problem houses have a neighbourhood reputation as "the pigeon house".
>
> Has anyone tried and had success with any of the solutions "other than"
> the wire mesh and J-hooks??? I'm not confidant that the j-hooks are robust
> enough to last very long. We often have several on each install that the
> washer simply will not hold  tight.
> (See the prior post below for some other suggestions)
>
> Thanks!
>
> Benn
> SkyFire Energy
>
> On Jul 22, 2015, at 2:00 PM, Benn Kilburn  wrote:
>
> Wrenches,
> I've looked and found a few older threads on the topic but thought it is a
> good time to refresh our collective info on this as we are getting more
> requests to install these (and it is also going to be required by code on
> some systems when our province adopts the 2015 Canadian Electrical Code.
> We currently use the 2012 code)
>
> The issue that we are directly addressing is mostly pigeons hanging
> out/nesting under rooftop arrays, for now.  I haven't heard of any specific
> rodent issues in our region.
>
> I have installed the SnapNRack Edge Screen.  This was on a concrete tile
> roof so the problem i saw with that was the screen did not contour the
> tile, leaving a small gap where one tile overlaps the one below it, roughly
> 25mm (1").  This would not be an issue with keeping out pigeons, but i
> could imagine that a persistent rodent could squeeze its way thru the small
> gap.  This would not be an issue on the more common asphalt shingle roofs
> and i would say it is a solid product.
>
> The products i'm aware of are:
> SnapNRack
> Kinetic
> Heyco
> spiffysolar
> solatrim.com
>
>
> Kinetic, Heyco, and Spiffy each seem to be basically the same; wire mesh
> and a j-hook that attaches to the module frame.
>
> SnapNRack is wire mesh but attaches with a more more robust clip that also
> provides more vertical support to the mesh. (It was suggested that rodents
> may be able to push under the mesh when its only supported at the top with
> j-hooks)
>
> I've seen the wire mesh installed so that it comes down only as far as the
> roof, so the height of the mesh is essentially the height from the top of
> the mod frame to the roof surface, but i have also seen it where the

Re: [RE-wrenches] concrete roof tile install

[MiJo Nels]

We have always loved QuickMount's products for flat tile. Definately not
the cheapest solution, but the robust double flashed method gives high
confidance of leak-free installation. We deal with high wind/snow loads and
they have excellent engineering specs. There are many cheaper products
usable at lower elevations (Tile-Trac for instance) but none of them have
addressed the longevity issues QM has..

Joe Nelson

On Jun 22, 2017 07:57, "jay"  wrote:

> HI All,
>
> I’ve never worked with flat concrete roof tiles before.  And have an
> install that does have them.
> Something like a Striata type.
>
> Wondering what recommendations folks have for how to mount with them.  Its
> not a large system currently only 6-9 x 280 60 cell modules.
> Probably doesn’t make sense to remove/reroof in that area.  And the roof
> can handle the weight without removing the tiles.
>
> thanks in advance,
>
> Jay
> Peltz Power.
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Rodent/Pigeon/Critter Guards

[Ken Schaal]

I have noticed that squirrels are often looking for salt,  so wearing
gloves is a good practice when wiring.

On Jun 22, 2017 11:33 AM, "Kyle Lord"  wrote:

> Hello Benn,
>
> We have been addressing this issue here in Colorado for quite some time
> and have had great success with our methodology(3000+ critter guards=no
> failures yet). We utilize a specific wire mesh that is a little more rigid
> than most available online. We take time to prep the material so that it
> has a tight fit between the modules and roof. For example, the gap is 4".
> We will bend 2" in on either side so that the material is in the shape of a
> "C" with the long, flat side being 4". We then cut to fit each piece of
> mesh and mostly rely on fastening to the racking system with a stainless
> self-drilling screw/washer combo. With diagonal cutters, installers can
> easily cut a flange in the mesh and drill through this at that attachment
> point. We also reinforce the mesh where needed with a Spiffy clip(Heyco
> clips were loose on service calls where Spiffy clips were still
> surprisingly strong). If you are using a rail less system, more panel
> specific clips are necessary. Simply rolling out mesh and using j-hooks is
> not a great method and I have stumbled on many systems failed using this
> method.
>
> I wouldn't completely write off the mesh/j-hook combo but perhaps take a
> look at a different methodology and incorporate fastening to the rail
> system. Price is another thing to consider. Our installers can quickly
> install a critter guard using this methodology and it only utilizes a few
> expensive custom clips vs. a higher quantity of cheaper yet sufficient
> fasteners.
>
> I have primarily focused on service calls in Colorado, and a surprising
> amount of calls are related to either rodents or pigeons. This is a very
> easy headache to avoid upfront and the cost of mesh and a few fasteners is
> far less than a future truck roll. Feel free to reach out to me off the
> list for more info as I feel we have a good track record with this specific
> topic.
>
>
> *Kyle Lord*
> Co-Owner & Founder
> Reconnect Solar, LLC
> Reconnect Material & Supply, LLC
> NABCEP Certified Installer
> 970.485.0207 <(970)%20485-0207>
> k...@reconnectsolar.com
>
> On Wed, Jun 21, 2017 at 11:07 AM, Benn Kilburn 
> wrote:
>
>> I'm hoping to get some feedback on this topic, as there was none when I
>> posted it back in 2015.
>>
>> Our region is seeing more and more problems with pigeons nesting under PV
>> arrays, mostly on new homes in newly developed areas of the city.
>> We have been called to some sites that had particularly bad problems with
>> pigeons nesting and pigeon poop covering the roof itself (surprisingly more
>> so that the array, unless it is just the rain washing it off the modules
>> easier than the roof?) and the eavestroughs filled with poop and
>> overflowing onto the ground.
>>
>> We really want to nip this issue in the butt since none of us want people
>> associating PV systems with pigeon problems. We have heard that some of
>> these problem houses have a neighbourhood reputation as "the pigeon house".
>>
>> Has anyone tried and had success with any of the solutions "other than"
>> the wire mesh and J-hooks??? I'm not confidant that the j-hooks are robust
>> enough to last very long. We often have several on each install that the
>> washer simply will not hold  tight.
>> (See the prior post below for some other suggestions)
>>
>> Thanks!
>>
>> Benn
>> SkyFire Energy
>>
>> On Jul 22, 2015, at 2:00 PM, Benn Kilburn  wrote:
>>
>> Wrenches,
>> I've looked and found a few older threads on the topic but thought it is
>> a good time to refresh our collective info on this as we are getting more
>> requests to install these (and it is also going to be required by code on
>> some systems when our province adopts the 2015 Canadian Electrical Code.
>> We currently use the 2012 code)
>>
>> The issue that we are directly addressing is mostly pigeons hanging
>> out/nesting under rooftop arrays, for now.  I haven't heard of any specific
>> rodent issues in our region.
>>
>> I have installed the SnapNRack Edge Screen.  This was on a concrete tile
>> roof so the problem i saw with that was the screen did not contour the
>> tile, leaving a small gap where one tile overlaps the one below it, roughly
>> 25mm (1").  This would not be an issue with keeping out pigeons, but i
>> could imagine that a persistent rodent could squeeze its way thru the small
>> gap.  This would not be an issue on the more common asphalt shingle roofs
>> and i would say it is a solid product.
>>
>> The products i'm aware of are:
>> SnapNRack
>> Kinetic
>> Heyco
>> spiffysolar
>> solatrim.com
>>
>>
>> Kinetic, Heyco, and Spiffy each seem to be basically the same; wire mesh
>> and a j-hook that attaches to the module frame.
>>
>> SnapNRack is wire mesh but attaches with a more more robust clip that
>> also provides more vertical support to the mesh. (It was suggested that
>>

Re: [RE-wrenches] concrete roof tile install

[Jason Szumlanski]

+1 on Quickmount Tile Replacement Mounts

We do tons of tile in SW Florida and we're in the midst of doing two
communities of new construction totaling over 450 tile roof homes right now
- about half flat tile. All are getting Quickmount replacement flashings.
There are some snags, but all in all the tile replacement mounts work well.
You have to be careful not to ding/dent/bend them or they will never lay
flat and hold their shape (this is particular to the flat tile, not the
s-tile replacements). You might consider spray painting the bottom row of
flashings to match the roof color.

And if you have not worked on flat tile before, prepare to break some. They
are not nearly as structurally capable to resist crushing as S-tile. Walk
where the courses overlap only. And new tiles are really susceptible to
breakage - like saltine crackers until the concrete cures.

Another response mentioned roof felt condition. We see a lot of peel and
stick underlayment beneath tile here, and it is susceptible to tearing
during installation of mounts if you are not cautious. And note that
Quickmount's excellent documentation and videos do not address this
underlayment type as far as I know. Since you can't unstick peel and stick,
you can't exactly slip a new sheet under the course above like with felt.
I'd be interested to see what others are doing in this case.

Jason Szumlanski


On Thu, Jun 22, 2017 at 12:11 PM, MiJo Nels 
wrote:

> We have always loved QuickMount's products for flat tile. Definately not
> the cheapest solution, but the robust double flashed method gives high
> confidance of leak-free installation. We deal with high wind/snow loads and
> they have excellent engineering specs. There are many cheaper products
> usable at lower elevations (Tile-Trac for instance) but none of them have
> addressed the longevity issues QM has..
>
> Joe Nelson
>
> On Jun 22, 2017 07:57, "jay"  wrote:
>
>> HI All,
>>
>> I’ve never worked with flat concrete roof tiles before.  And have an
>> install that does have them.
>> Something like a Striata type.
>>
>> Wondering what recommendations folks have for how to mount with them.
>> Its not a large system currently only 6-9 x 280 60 cell modules.
>> Probably doesn’t make sense to remove/reroof in that area.  And the roof
>> can handle the weight without removing the tiles.
>>
>> thanks in advance,
>>
>> Jay
>> Peltz Power.
>>
>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] concrete roof tile install

[Lorenzo Ortiz]

We do flat tile roofs all day out here in CA. We've used these flat tile
roof hooks by Solar Roof Hooks
 to great
success.
Pull up a tile, find a rafter, pilot holes, goop, put in a hook with lags,
more goop, and then a piece of roof-flashing tape for good measure, put the
tile back and move on to the next one.
No issues with leaks so far.

On Thu, Jun 22, 2017 at 7:36 AM, jay  wrote:

> HI All,
>
> I’ve never worked with flat concrete roof tiles before.  And have an
> install that does have them.
> Something like a Striata type.
>
> Wondering what recommendations folks have for how to mount with them.  Its
> not a large system currently only 6-9 x 280 60 cell modules.
> Probably doesn’t make sense to remove/reroof in that area.  And the roof
> can handle the weight without removing the tiles.
>
> thanks in advance,
>
> Jay
> Peltz Power.
>
>
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-- 
*Lorenzo Ortiz   Commercial Design/Support*

lore...@cal-solar.com*  (530) 274-3671*
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Re: [RE-wrenches] concrete roof tile install

[Jason Szumlanski]

I like the idea of tile hooks, if flashed properly, but they are not
suitable for high design wind speed environments in my experience. Unirac's
tile hook tables require anything over 140mph to have effective spans of 24
inches when trusses are 24 inch on center (32 inch for 16 inch OC). That's
way too many attachment points to make economic sense for us here. I
haven't seen any other hooks with longer spans. Since most of our work is
160mph+, it's not an option. And Unirac's span tables only go to 170mph,
which eliminates much of SW Florida and pretty much all of Florida's
southeast coast. I'm not sure about snow and seismic, but I imagine there
are similar issues.

Jason Szumlanski
Florida Solar Design Group
https://floridasolardesigngroup.com



On Thu, Jun 22, 2017 at 4:57 PM, Lorenzo Ortiz 
wrote:

> We do flat tile roofs all day out here in CA. We've used these flat tile
> roof hooks by Solar Roof Hooks
> 
> to great success.
> Pull up a tile, find a rafter, pilot holes, goop, put in a hook with lags,
> more goop, and then a piece of roof-flashing tape for good measure, put the
> tile back and move on to the next one.
> No issues with leaks so far.
>
>
> On Thu, Jun 22, 2017 at 7:36 AM, jay  wrote:
>
>> HI All,
>>
>> I’ve never worked with flat concrete roof tiles before.  And have an
>> install that does have them.
>> Something like a Striata type.
>>
>> Wondering what recommendations folks have for how to mount with them.
>> Its not a large system currently only 6-9 x 280 60 cell modules.
>> Probably doesn’t make sense to remove/reroof in that area.  And the roof
>> can handle the weight without removing the tiles.
>>
>> thanks in advance,
>>
>> Jay
>> Peltz Power.
>>
>>
>
>
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