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TB Wood's Modified L-Jaw Couplings for Solar Panel Mounting System
RBI Solar, an industry-leading designer and manufacturer of solar panel mounting systems
for commercial applications, needed a reliable coupling solution for its new single axis
tracker product. The Sunflower™ mounting system rotates rows of photovoltaic (PV) 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, made up of approx. 35 ft. sections
(approx. 12 modules). Breaking up the long rows into smaller sections allows the new system
to accommodate various topographic conditions. The couplings connect the drive motor to
the drivetrain at the end of each row of PV modules.
During the tracking system development process, RBI engineers determined that an L-Jaw
coupling was the most economical choice that met the system requirements. They began
searching for a coupling source that not only offered the right coupling type and quality level,
but also convenient face-to-face support. Ultimately, they decided to work with TB Wood’s.
To meet the application specifications and torque requirements, modified LO95 L-Jaw
couplings that utilize a Hytrel® “spider” element with a torque capacity of 401 in.lbs. were
supplied. 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 more secure hub-to-shaft connection.
Beyond superior coupling quality and performance, the interactions TB Wood’s had with
RBI Solar provided an outstanding level of value. RBI was able to rely, with confidence, on
TB Wood’s experienced and knowledgeable team as they provided engineering expertise
and exceptional service and support, including fast responses, problem-solving skills and
timely delivery.
Highlights
- Modified LO95 L-Jaw
couplings
- Hytrel® “spider” element
- 401 in.lbs. torque capacity
- Sintered steel hubs