Wind deflectors for photovoltaic substructures
Wind deflectors, also known as wind deflectors or aerodynamic elements, are essential components of modern photovoltaic mounting systems, particularly for flat roof and elevated systems. These aerodynamically optimized components fulfill several critical functions in the overall construction and make a significant contribution to the safety and cost-effectiveness of the system.
Aerodynamic effect of wind deflectors
The primary function of wind deflectors is to direct the flow of the incoming wind forces in a targeted manner. Their special shape redirects the wind flow in such a way that the lifting and thrust forces acting on the modules are significantly reduced. This aerodynamic optimization is based on extensive wind tunnel tests and computer-aided flow simulations. The knowledge gained from this is directly incorporated into the design of the profiles.
Materials and processing
The choice of material plays a decisive role in wind deflectors. High-quality aluminum alloys are predominantly used, which are characterized by low weight, high corrosion resistance and long durability. The material thickness is chosen so that it offers sufficient stability on the one hand, but on the other hand does not increase the overall weight of the system unnecessarily. A special surface treatment through anodizing or powder coating ensures additional protection against the effects of the weather.
Planning and installation of wind deflectors
The dimensioning and positioning of the wind deflectors is carried out according to strictly defined calculation regulations. Parameters such as the building height, the geographical location, the wind load zone and the terrain category are taken into account. Particular attention is paid to the edge areas of the module fields, as this is where the highest wind loads occur. The height of the wind deflectors is designed to ensure optimal airflow while minimizing shading of the modules.
The wind deflectors are attached to the substructure using special connecting elements that enable quick and safe installation. Modern systems have click or plug-in systems that can be installed without additional tools. The connection points must be designed in such a way that they can permanently absorb the dynamic loads that occur. At the same time, the construction must be able to compensate for thermal elongation changes in order to avoid tension.
Other aspects regarding the use of wind deflectors
Another important aspect is the integration of the wind deflectors into the overall substructure system. Many manufacturers now offer complete solutions in which the wind deflectors are already integrated into the support structure. These system-integrated solutions offer the advantage of reduced assembly time and optimized overall performance. The systems are tested and certified as a unit, which increases planning security.
The use of wind deflectors also has direct economic effects. By reducing wind loads, the required ballasting can be significantly reduced in many cases. This not only leads to a lower static load on the roof, but also enables the installation of photovoltaic systems on roofs with a lower load-bearing reserve. The material savings in ballasting can often more than compensate for the additional costs for the wind deflectors.
Regular maintenance and inspection of the wind deflectors is part of system maintenance. Particular attention is paid to ensuring that they are firmly seated, and to corrosion damage and deformation. The fastening points must also be checked regularly to ensure they are functioning properly. However, modern wind deflectors are designed to be low-maintenance over the entire service life of the photovoltaic system.
Certifications and verification play an important role in the selection of suitable wind deflectors. Leading manufacturers have their systems tested by independent institutes and their effectiveness proven through wind tunnel tests. The results of these tests are incorporated into the static calculations and form the basis for guarantees. Planners and installers should therefore only use tested and certified systems.
Developments in the field of wind deflectors are progressing continuously. New materials, optimized profile developments and improved calculation methods lead to ever more efficient systems. The trend is towards integrated solutions that, in addition to reducing wind loads, also take into account other functions such as cable routing or maintenance accessibility.