Aluminum Extrusions in Energy
Aluminum extrusions play a key role in both alternative and conventional energy generation and distribution systems. Traditionally, aluminum's high electrical conductivity (about 62% of that of copper on an equal volume comparison and two times that of copper on an equal weight basis) has made extrusion a frequent choice for electrical connectors and for bus bar systems used to distribute power in industrial facilities.
Solar Power
Today, extrusion is earning its place as a key component in solar power - providing cost-effective mounting and racking solutions for concentrated (CSP), photovoltaic (PV), concentrated photovoltaic (CPV), and building iintegrated photovoltaic (BIPV) solar power systems.
Aluminum Extrusion in PV
Extrusion's light weight and low maintenance make it an excellent choice for PV mounting systems—whether for industrial roofs, residential roofs, or large/utility scale ground-mount systems. In addition, the ability to design in multiple functions—like wiring raceways and connectors—can significantly reduce parts and speed installation, leading to reduced system costs.
PV Studies
A recent study commissioned by the AEC and conducted by IBIS Associates concluded that aluminum extrusion mounting systems were an economical alternative to steel in all PV market segments when the total costs of materials, other components, shipping, and installation were considered. And that was before the reduced maintenance costs and residual recycling value of aluminum extrusions was factored in!
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Aluminum Extrusion in CSP & CPV
For utility scale CSP and CPV fields, extrusion is the logical choice. Extrusion's high strength yet light weight provides the structure to meet high wind and snow load requirements, yet still permit downsizing of tracking system components. Extrusions can also be functionally designed to reduce parts and speed assembly processes. Equally important, extrusion delivers the precision tolerances needed for optimal energy capture. For more information on extrusion's role in the landmark, 64 MW Nevada Solar One project, click here. See a recent IBIS Associates study assessing the cost of aluminum vs. steel mounting systems for CSP.
Aluminum Extrusion in Wind Power
Extrusion is increasingly found in wind power. From bus bar to carry the electricity generated by the turbine to inner-tower structural elements, platforms, and ladders, extrusions and extrusion-based assemblies play a prominent role.
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