Bosch Rexroth and Bosch Solar Energy Present Innovative System Consisting of Support and Photovoltaic Module
Hoffman Estates, IL - At this year's Semicon 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.
Bosch Rexroth AG is one of the world's leading specialists in the field of drive and control technologies. Under the brand name of Rexroth the company supplies more than 500,000 customers with tailored solutions for driving, controlling and moving. Bosch Rexroth is a partner for industrial applications and factory automation, mobile applications and renewable energy.
As The Drive & Control Company, Bosch Rexroth develops, produces and sells components and systems in more than 80 countries. In 2009 Bosch Rexroth, part of the Bosch Group, achieved sales of around $5.7 billion (4.1 billion Euro) with 34,200 employees.
For more information please visit: www.boschrexroth-us.com
