Bright coupling uses RBI Solar, a designer and manufacturer of solar-panel mounting for commercial applications, needed a reliable coupling for its new single-axis tracker. The Sunflower mount rotates rows of photovoltaic modules on the east-west axis to follow the sun and maximize energy production. In large-scale commercial installations, rows can be 400 ft long consisting of a dozen or so 35-ft sections. Breaking up the long rows into smaller sections lets the new system accommodate various topographic conditions. The couplings connect the drive motor to the drivetrain at the end of each row of photovoltaic modules.
RBI Solar Sunflower mounts rotate photovoltaic modules to follow the sun. The motion designs to spur this action employ precision couplings.
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During the tracking-system development, RBI Solar engineers determined that an L-Jaw coupling was the most economical choice that met the system requirements. They began searching for a coupling source offering the right coupling type and quality level — and convenient face-to-face support. Ultimately, they decided to work with TB Wood’s of Altra Industrial Motion. To meet the application specifications and torque requirements, the RBI Solar used modified TB Wood’s LO95 L-Jaw couplings with a Hytrel spider element and torque capacity of 401 lb-in. The couplings feature standard sintered steel hubs. TB Wood’s worked closely with RBI to revise the standard L-Jaw coupling bore design to accommodate the unique shaft geometry and provide a secure hub-to-shaft connection. Beyond superior coupling quality and performance, the interactions TB Wood’s had with RBI Solar provided added value. RBI was able to rely on the TB Wood’s team for engineering expertise and timely delivery.
11 • 2019
motioncontroltips.com | designworldonline.com
11/19/19 8:17 AM
