Feb 14 2013
Hollaender® has introduced two new Speed-Rail fittings designed specifically for installation of solar racking systems in areas that experience extreme wind. The fittings include a tee and elbow for use with 2 inch IPS pipe.
The ability to withstand uplift caused by wind loads is critical in solar pipe racks. While most regions of the United States must design for 90 mph winds, certain coastal areas such as South Florida and the Gulf Coast must design for 135 mph and higher wind speeds.
On a Speed-Rail fitting, the component that produces pipe holding power is a single integrated proprietary internal/external reverse-knurl cup-point set screw that securely attaches the fittings to the pipe, and provides tremendous resistance to loosening and pullout. The new fittings are designed with two set screws, producing a substantial increase in pullout resistance. Testing on the 2 inch IPS fitting shows the addition of the second set screw increases pullout capacity from 3,900 pounds to 8,200 pounds on galvanized pipe, an increase of 110 percent.
Speed-Rail slip-on pipe fittings are used with aluminum, galvanized steel, stainless steel or black iron pipe to easily and cost-effectively build solar panel racking systems. They are strong and lightweight, and come in a wide variety of fixed and adjustable configurations, including the tees and flanges most commonly used in solar panel installations.
The versatility of the fittings allows dependable support structures to be constructed virtually anywhere a solar panel needs to be installed. The same versatility also allows the systems to be easily uninstalled and moved if necessary.
All Speed-Rail fittings are made of 535.0 aluminum-magnesium and are the most corrosion resistant fittings on the market. They are backed by a 10-year warranty against corrosion, will not rust, and can be used with galvanized steel or other metals without concern for galvanic corrosion.
A Speed-Rail fitting and pipe solar rack system installs quickly, securely and cost effectively, especially when compared to welded and other more complex systems. The only tools needed for assembly are a saw, hex key and tape measure.