Solar Energy
Lightweight solar installations are now possible with molded thermoset materials, providing reliable onsite power for millions of homes and businesses.
Consisting of fiber reinforced composites, the IDI Composites Europe BMC (Bulk Molding Compound) material offers strength and durability, and withstands extended exposure to sun, wind, rain, and cold, without breaking down or distorting its shape.
Key applications :
- Support frames for thin film and rigid silicon solar panels : molded thermoset composites are ideal replacement for extruded aluminium structures, offering dielectric insulation as well as attractive strength-to-weight ratios, UV-resistance, paintable surfaces for 30-year life, and fire code compliance.
- Roof tiles for thin film installations : thermoset materials replace standard terra cotta roof tiles and provide a dielectric structure to support thin film panels.
- Housing for solar structures for heating liquids in pipe systems : thermosets provide reliable "box" structures to house piping for thermal applications of the sun's power.
- Electrical enclosures : IDI Composites Europe has long provided safe and reliable junction boxes for electrical control apparatus. Enclosures are durable, have excellent dielectric properties,and are long-lasting.
Important characteristics of IDI Composites Europe thermosets for solar energy :
- exceptional strength and durability, up to 35% lighter than metals parts of equal strength, and maintain complex shapes under stress
- UV/corrosion resistant, withstands harsh natural elements, such as sun, wind, water, and cold
- paintable surface, well suited for painting or powder coating to achieve 30-year operational life
- consolidation of parts, including lugs, fittings, and electrical connections, allowing manufacturers to design the most efficient and cost-effective solution for their market
- easy compliance with safety regulations and fire codes, candidate for UL 790 flame retardant standard
IDI Composites Europe thermoset composite is an innovative, structurally superior material for solar roofing structures.
In an application where both rigidity and light weight are critical, IDI Composites Europe provides superior material for a lasting solution.
Example of molded parts
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Solar energy market requires a material that can withstand prolonged and harsh exposure, with dimensional stability.
Thanks to all these excellent and high performance properties, the thermoset compounds are becoming the materiel of choice for manufacturers and designs engineers looking to develop new products.
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