Solar Racking System Fasteners – Threaded vs. LockBolts

This white paper compares two types of solar racking fasteners: thread fasteners and LockBolts, examining their performance, cost, and ease of installation. It highlights the strengths and limitations of each fastener type, focusing on durability, maintenance, and efficiency in solar panel installation.

Main Points:

  • Design and functionality differences between thread fasteners and LockBolts.
  • Impact on installation time, structural integrity, and long-term maintenance.
  • Cost-effectiveness over a system's lifespan.


Conclusion:

LockBolts provide better durability and reliability, with less on-going maintenance.


Do Star Fasteners sell the fasteners used in Solar Panel installation
Star Fasteners supplies several specialised fastening solutions used in the solar panel industry, particularly focusing on secure, vibration-resistant, and durable options. Here are some of their key products used in solar applications:

HuckBolt® Fasteners:
These include options like the Huck® BobTail®, known for strength and vibration resistance, ideal for permanent PV racking system joints. They are tamper-proof and require minimal maintenance post-installation?

Huck® Magna-Lok® Structural Blind Rivet:

Designed specifically for solar applications, these rivets feature a complete hole-filling design, ensuring moisture resistance and structural integrity under load conditions?

Huck® BOM® (Blind Oversized Mechanical) Fasteners:
Used as a welding alternative, these are particularly suitable for applications where access to only one side of the joint is possible. They offer vibration resistance and ease of installation.

Huck® Structural Blind Fasteners
:
These include various models tailored for unique challenges in solar installations, such as wide grip ranges, water resistance, and high-speed assembly. Some options also replace the need for traditional grounding setups, reducing complexity and cost.

As well as being the UK's largest Huck® Fastener diistributor, Star Fasteners provides repair, servicing, and hire for Huck® fastener tools. We offer an accredited Huck® tool repair and service department with fully trained engineers who follow the manufacturers' guidelines.

Tool Hire:
Star Fasteners has a wide range of Huck® installation tools available for short- or long-term hire. This service is designed to help customers maintain productivity without needing to purchase tools outright?

Tool Repair and Maintenance:
Our accredited Huck® tool repair department offers services including general maintenance, and repairs. Tools are engraved with serial numbers for service tracking and returned in excellent condition, helping extend tool lifespan.

Tool Sales:
Star Fasteners sells tools for installing Huck® fasteners, including advanced pneumatic, hydraulic, and battery-operated options. We also provide advice on selecting tools best suited for specific applications and environments?.

These services are designed to support production environments by ensuring tools are well-maintained and available when needed, reducing downtime and costs for our customers.

For more information call us on +44(0)115 932 4939, email 
sales@starfasteners.co.uk or follow this link to use our secure contact us form.

 

View as PDF Back