Solar trackers have emerged as a pivotal technology for maximizing the efficiency of solar panels. These systems significantly enhance energy capture and overall system performance by allowing panels to follow the sun's path throughout the day.
The torque tube is central to solar trackers' functionality. It is a critical component that facilitates precise rotational movement. Selecting the right torque tube supplier is crucial for ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of solar tracker systems.
In this blog, we explore the leading torque tube suppliers for solar trackers and deliver insights into the key elements to consider when selecting.
Top 10 Global Solar PV Tracker Companies
Unimacts
Unimacts specializes in producing precision-engineered torque tubes and torque beam assemblies specifically for solar trackers. Their products are known for their high strength-to-weight ratio, enhancing solar tracker systems' overall efficiency and reliability. Unimacts also offers extensive customization options, ensuring their torque tubes meet specific project requirements.
Array Technologies
Array Technologies is known for its DuraTrack HZ v3, which boasts high reliability and minimal maintenance requirements. The torque tubes in their systems are engineered to handle weather conditions, including high winds and heavy snow loads. The company has deployed over 25 GW of solar trackers globally, showcasing their significant impact on the industry.
NEXTracker
NEXTracker's NX Horizon and NX Gemini systems are equipped with torque tubes with superior torsional strength and durability. Their self-aligning bearings reduce installation time and improve overall system efficiency. NEXTracker has a strong presence in markets with challenging climates, such as deserts and coastal regions, highlighting their products' robustness.
Soltec
Soltec's SF7 tracker features a fully integrated torque tube with unique backtracking algorithms that optimize solar energy capture even on irregular terrains. The company focuses on innovation has led to the development of highly efficient systems that maximize energy yield while reducing operational costs.
SunPower
SunPower’s Helix Trackers use precision-engineered torque tubes for seamless integration with high-efficiency solar panels. The company's trackers are known for their ease of installation and scalability, making them a popular choice for commercial and industrial solar projects.
Arctech Solar
Arctech Solar's SkySmart and SkyLine trackers utilize torque tubes with high bending resistance, essential for maintaining structural integrity under heavy loads. The company’s extensive testing and quality control processes ensure its products perform reliably in diverse environmental conditions.
GameChange Solar
GameChange Solar's Genius Tracker incorporates torque tubes with an innovative design that minimizes torsional deflection. This results in enhanced stability and tracking accuracy. Their focus on reducing installation costs and improving system efficiency has made them a key player in the solar tracker market.
STI Norland
STI Norland’s STI-H250 and STI-H1250 trackers feature robust torque tubes to withstand high wind loads. Their systems are known for their reliability and ease of maintenance, which are crucial factors for large-scale solar installations. STI Norland’s trackers are widely used in utility-scale projects across Europe and Latin America.
PVHardware
PVHardware’s Axone and Axone Duo trackers use torque tubes that provide excellent resistance to bending and torsion. Their modular structure allows for easy installation and makes them ideal for projects of differing sizes. PVHardware’s strong focus on R&D ensures continuous improvements in its product offerings.
AllEarth Renewables
AllEarth Renewables’ dual-axis AllEarth Solar Trackers incorporate torque tubes, allowing precise and efficient movement. Their systems are designed to maximize energy capture by tracking the sun both vertically and horizontally. This dual-axis capability makes their trackers particularly effective in residential and small-scale commercial installations.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Torque Tube Supplier
Selecting the right torque tube supplier is crucial for the success of your solar tracker project. Here are vital factors to consider:
1. Material Quality and Durability
The material used in the torque tube significantly impacts its performance and longevity. Look for suppliers who use high-grade materials, such as galvanized solar torque tubes, or materials like steel or aluminum, which offer superior resistance to corrosion and environmental stress.
2. Engineering and Design Expertise
A supplier with solid engineering and design capabilities can provide torque tubes optimized for specific tracker systems, ensuring better performance and efficiency. Unimacts, for example, stands out for its expertise in producing precision-engineered torque tubes and torque beam assemblies.
3. Manufacturing Standards and Certifications
Ensure the supplier adheres to strict manufacturing standards and holds relevant certifications such as ISO 9001. This guarantees the quality and reliability of the torque tubes. Columbus McKinnon Corporation, for example, is known for its high manufacturing standards and certifications.
4. Customization and Flexibility
Projects often have unique requirements. A supplier who offers customization options can tailor torque tubes to meet specific project needs. G&G Manufacturing Co. is known for providing custom engineering and fabrication services, ensuring their products meet precise specifications.
5. Global Reach and Support
Choose a supplier with a global presence and strong customer support. This ensures timely delivery and support, regardless of your project location. Companies like Positech Corporation and Rock West Composites, Inc. have a broad global footprint and provide extensive support services.
6. Cost-Effectiveness
While quality is paramount, cost is also a crucial factor. Consider the overall value presented by the supplier, considering both the initial cost and the long-term benefits of the torque tubes. Suppliers like Cyrco, Inc. offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality.
7. Innovation and Technological Advancement
Select a supplier that invests in research and development to improve their products continually. This ensures that you benefit from the latest advancements in the solar tubing technology. Desoutter Industrial Tools, for instance, is known for its innovative approach and high-quality torque tubes.
Conclusion
Torque tubes are vital to solar trackers' efficiency, making selecting the right supplier crucial. By considering material quality, design expertise, manufacturing standards, customization options, global reach, cost-effectiveness, and innovation, you can choose a supplier that best meets your solar project's needs.
Among the top suppliers, Unimacts stands out for its commitment to delivering high-quality torque tubes that ensure optimal performance of solar trackers. Their advanced manufacturing standards, innovative solutions, and customization make them an ideal choice for enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of your solar energy installations. Unimacts' solar manufacturing guarantees that you receive products matching the highest standards of quality and reliability.
Contact Unimacts today to discuss your requirements and find the perfect solution for maximizing the efficiency and reliability of your solar trackers.