Solar Structure
PV mounting rails, purlins and ground-mount frames.
Overview
PV mounting structures are light, repetitive and expected to last outdoors for decades with little maintenance. They typically use roll-formed C-sections, rails and purlins made from coated coil, with tube or galvanized angle for posts and braces.
Zinc-aluminum-magnesium coating has become a popular choice because of its corrosion performance and its behaviour at cut edges. Even so, the right coating depends on the site, especially in coastal, industrial or high-humidity locations.
Where each steel product is used
| Structure | Steel product | Typical grades / standards |
|---|---|---|
| Rails, purlins and roll-formed profiles | ZAM coil | S350GD+ZM / S420GD+ZM, ZM275–ZM430 |
| Posts and torque or brace members | ZAM tube | Q235 / S350GD+ZM |
| Rooftop and ground-mount purlins | C-purlin | S350GD / S420GD, Z or ZM |
| Braces and base details | Galvanized angle | Q235B / Q355B, ISO 1461 |
Grades shown are typical examples. The project's design documents and applicable codes decide the final specification.
Common standards: EN 10346, JIS G3323, ASTM A1046
What the project needs
- ZAM or heavy zinc coating for 25-year outdoor service
- Roll-formed C-sections and purlins
- Pre-punched and cut-to-length parts
What to consider when selecting steel
Coating by environment
Match the coating mass to the site's corrosivity. Coastal and chemical environments may need a heavier coating or a different system than a dry inland site.
Forming
High-strength coated coil needs suitable bend radii and tooling so that the coating is not damaged on forming lines.
Holes and cut edges
Pre-punched, cut-to-length parts save site labour. Tolerances on hole position matter because they control whether thousands of parts assemble smoothly.
Recommended products
What to include in your inquiry
- Grade, coating mass, thickness and width for coil
- Profile drawings with hole patterns and tolerances
- Site environment and required design life
- Packing per kit or bundle for site installation
Frequently asked questions
Is ZAM always better than hot-dip galvanizing?
Not in every case. ZAM performs well in many outdoor environments, but the choice depends on the coating mass, the site and the project specification.
Do cut edges need repair?
It depends on the coating, thickness and environment. ZAM offers good cut-edge behaviour, but the project requirements should decide whether a repair is needed.
Can profiles be supplied punched and cut?
Parts can be requested to drawing. Send the profile, hole pattern and quantities so that the processing route can be confirmed.