Innovative slide-in system for installing frameless thin-film solar modules.
· Optimized slide-in technology enables quick and easy installation for frameless thin-film solar modules
· Considerably less installation time and up to 40 percent reduction in material costs significantly reduces overall system costs
· Bosch photovoltaic specialists provide support for system planning and installation
Hannover – At this year’s Hannover Messe trade show, Bosch Rexroth is showcasing an innovative slide-in system for installing frameless thin-film solar modules made by Bosch Solar Energy AG. The ideally matched combination between support and photovoltaic module enables solar modules to be installed twice as fast as they would with conventional mounting systems.
Speed is assured due to the reliable, easy-to-use slide-in technology, which relies on tracks instead of the usual clamps. The photovoltaic modules are simply inserted into the guide pieces and fastened instantly. The system cuts installation time in half to 15 seconds per module, meaning around twice as many modules can be installed using Rexroth slide-in technology as they would using a conventional, four-point clamping system in the same amount of time. As installation brackets and clamps are no longer required, material costs are also reduced by about 40 percent. ‘Together with Bosch Solar Energy’s micromorph thin-film solar modules, we are able to provide a competitive system consisting of a substructure and a photovoltaic module which combines the lowest system costs, the lowest number of individual components and the shortest installation time,” explains Jörg Walther, Head of Assembly Technology in the Linear Motion and Assembly Technologies Business Area at Bosch Rexroth.
The system is built on a base frame, which features variable table lengths, bracket spacing and insert depth. Together with the slide-in track, the frame forms a complete unit, which securely encloses solar modules on a permanent basis. The module structure is also perfectly matched to the system. With their hardened front glass, Bosch Solar Energy’s micromorph thin-film solar modules can withstand mechanical loads up to 2,400 Pascal in this mounting system. This corresponds to 350 kilograms of weight acting on the module.
Bosch Rexroth and Bosch Solar Energy are now exploring a further development of this unique integrated system. In the near future, it should also be available for framed modules and, consequently, for crystalline applications, smaller rooftop systems and special uses, such as systems in coastal areas.
Photovoltaic systems in integrated packages
Over the last year, this intelligent combination between support and photovoltaic module has already proven its worth in different solar parks. The system has already been used to install around 75,000 Bosch modules and, what’s more, within a period of two months thanks to quick and easy installation. Bosch supplies its clients not only with high-grade, ideally matched components, but also offers its own in-house specialists to provide support in planning, system design and professional installation for both smaller solar power systems and major turnkey photovoltaic projects. ‘Anyone who invests in photovoltaics invests in a pollution-free future. And anyone who chooses Bosch for their photovoltaic project benefits from a global partner network, sees their investment in a system paid off more quickly and is assured high yields on a long-term basis,” concludes Peter Schneidewind, Head of Sales at Bosch Solar Energy.
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The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. According to preliminary figures, some 270,000 associates generated sales of roughly 38 billion euros in the areas of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology in fiscal 2009. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its more than 300 subsidiaries and regional companies in over 60 countries. If its sales and service partners are included, then Bosch is represented in roughly 150 countries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for further growth. Each year, Bosch spends more than 3.5 billion euros for research and development, and applies for over 3,000 patents worldwide. With all its products and services, Bosch enhances the quality of life by providing solutions which are both innovative and beneficial. The company was set up in Stuttgart in 1886 by Robert Bosch (1861-1942) as “Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering.” The special ownership structure of Robert Bosch GmbH guarantees the entrepreneurial freedom of the Bosch Group, making it possible for the company to plan over the long term and to undertake significant up-front investments in the safeguarding of its future. Ninety-two percent of the share capital of Robert Bosch GmbH is held by Robert Bosch Stiftung GmbH, a charitable foundation. The majority of voting rights are held by Robert Bosch Industrietreuhand KG, an industrial trust. The entrepreneurial ownership functions are carried out by the trust. The remaining shares are held by the Bosch family and by Robert Bosch GmbH. Additional information can be accessed at www.bosch.com. |
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