Axial offers six types of horizontal single axis solar tracker (HAST) systems that are customized for different project and panel needs which also includes bifacial modules. 3H, 1V, 1V Twin, 2V, 2V Bi and AgriTracker are 6 trackers provided by the company to the latest TaiyangNews Solar Tracker Market Survey. All of Axial's designs are adapted to project characteristics and panel type, and the company does not have restrictions in terms of module configurations. AxialTracker 2V Bi is optimized for bifacial modules by adding a central gap to avoid torque-tube shading on the module's rear side. All of Axial's trackers do not need any special machinery for installation; all components are said to cope with ground unevenness and elements are assembled by means of bolted connections, avoiding the need for on-site welding or mechanization.
There are three variants available based on the desired power supply. The first of the lot, a self-powered variant, has a dedicated PV panel and battery storage to operate the system. The battery charging takes place when solar energy is available without affecting the string production. The grid-powered tracker version (AC 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz) is recommended for cold climates when battery usage is not convenient. The final variant, a string-powered version, uses the energy produced directly by the strings and is supported by a battery storage system.
Axial's stow strategy and components are variable depending on the tracker model to optimize the design according to its geometry and project requirements. Typically, AxialTracker 3H and 2V models include the Axial blocking system, while AxialTracker 1V, 1V Twin and AgriTracker models may include dampers. During the day, the Axial blocking system works 98% of the time and converts the solar tracker into a fixed ground-mount system with optimized tilt angle. Thus, the solar tracker structure is fixed at each end to stabilize the system by reducing oscillations. For the remaining 2%, the blocking system works as a shock absorber with a high damping coefficient to balance the tracker in movement towards its optimum position for solar generated electricity.
Axial systems use Zigbee wireless communication between trackers and control units, which can control 150 to 200 trackers. The control units require AC power supply of 100 to 240 V and 50 to 60 Hz, as well as an internet connection via RSJ45 and ethernet. Axial's monitoring solution allows for remote control of the tracker position. The Spanish company uses its own SCADA solution to optimize these features. Axial provides an extraordinarily long warranty time of 25 years for the mechanical structure and market standard warranties of 5 years for both the motor and electronics.
The text is an excerpt from TaiyangNews 2nd Market Survey on Solar Trackers, which was published in Dec. 2022 and can be downloaded for free here.