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Ground Mount Design Assistant™

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Project Information

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Setting Up A Subarray

To set up a subarray, first select the number of Rows (N-S) and Columns (E-W) for your subarray. Then select the number in the repeats. Repeats are when you want multiples of the same subarray size (both the number of rows and columns are the same).

To add a new subarray, simply click the "Add New Subarray" button at the bottom left corner. A "Subarray" is a single array of structurally connected components (no discontinuity).

Note: This configurator is for quotation purposes only and may not be used to determine physical layouts. If you have additional questions, please contact IronRidge sales at sales@ironridge.com.

SubArray Columns

To allow for thermal expansion, IronRidge recommends that cross rails do not exceed 100 feet in length without a break.  To remain under 100 feet, select a number of columns that is above the "-limit-" line.

For flexibility, we also show choices below the "-limit-" line that correspond to sub-arrays of up to 120 feet. If you plan to exceed 100 feet, we recommend that you first consult with a structural engineer.

SubArray Repeats

Change the number in the Repeats field when you want multiples of the same subarray size (both the number of rows and columns are the same).

Tilt Angle

The tilt angle is the angle of the module in relation to the horizontal axis.

Wind Exposure Category Definitions

Exposure B: Urban and suburban areas, wooded areas, or other terrain with numerous closely spaced obstructions having the size of single family dwellings.

Exposure C: open terrain with scattered obstructions having heights generally less than 30 feet. This category includes flat open country, grasslands, and all water surfaces in hurricane prone regions.

Exposure D: flat, unobstructed areas and water surfaces outside hurricane prone regions. This category includes smooth mud flats, salt flats, and unbroken ice.

*Confirm the Wind Exposure Category by consulting your local building authorities.

Wind Speed

Determine the wind speed by consulting your local building authorities. (3 second gust)

Ground Snow Load

Determine the snow load by consulting your local building authorities.

Pipe Size

Select the pipe size most applicable to your application and subarray size. Increasing the pipe size will increase spacing between east-west piers and hole depth.

The maximum east-west pier spacing is displayed on the right. Be sure to evaluate the trade-offs among fewer piers, hole depths and costs due to varying pipe sizes.

Foundation Engineering

Note: The below values were calculated assuming a Class 4 soil and are for reference only. Please consult a structural engineer and soils report for your project's specific requirements.

Diagonal Bracing

Select the Diagonal Bracing checkbox when you wish to add diagonal bracing hardware to the bill of materials. In certain situations, adding this bracing can increase spacing between east-west piers. The maximum east-west pier spacing with and without diagonal bracing is displayed immediately to the right. Be sure to evaluate the trade-off between fewer piers and higher cost due to the additional parts.

Hole Diameter

Changing the size of the hole diameter will impact the depth of the hole required. Increasing the diameter will generally decrease the depth required. Choose the hole diameter and corresponding depth combination that is most cost-effective and convenient for your specific project.

Note:  These values were calculated assuming a Class 4 soil. Please consult a structural engineer and soils report for your project's specific requirements.

3rd Party Substructure Materials

The below table provides you with the estimated quantity and length of pipe for each location of your subarray(s). The pipe should be purchased from your local structural steel distributer.

Please note that these values were calculated assuming a Class 4 soil and are for reference only. Please consult a structural engineer and soils report for your project's specific requirements as this may effect the overall pipe quantity and length.

T-Bolts

The T-Bolts may be placed anywhere along the rail without having to slide the bolt from the end of the rail. Simply place into the slot where needed and rotate 90 degrees into place.


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Wire Clips

These Wire Clips provide a quick and easy way to manage your PV cables. Simply click into the top rail slot, insert wires and lock into place.


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End Caps

Put the finishing touches on the ends of your rails. These End Caps easily press on to the ends of the rails providing a finished look and keep the inside of the rail free of dirt, debris and insects.


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Foundation Type

IronRidge Ground Array is compatible with several foundation options including:

At this time, our Design Assistant calculates engineering information for both Concrete Piers and Helical Piles. The Helical Pile engineering data is provided by our partner Cantsink. For additional technical or purchase information on the Cantsink helical piles, please contact them through their website (www.cantsink.com).

For engineering information on Pre-cast Concrete Ballast, Driven Piers, or Screw-type Earth Augers, please contact IronRidge Sales at sales@ironridge.com.

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