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Reusing existing satellite mount?

ddw867

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Sep 7, 2020
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I have two Renogy 100 watt panels I was considering using a defunct existing satellite mounting for as it is in a decent location. It seems to be well attached to the framing under the roof. I haven't finished setting up the mount yet, just wanted to see what it might look like to start with.
I'm kind of concerned with high wind storms, we really don't get those that often in southern Wisconsin though, and I suppose it's possible to to just take the panels down temporarily in that case (it's not high at all)
This will be for just a low power off-grid power backup system for outages
Anyone else ever do something like this? Experiences or concerns?
I'm new at this whole thing, thanks for looking!


20210906_123059.jpg
 
100w Renogy panel dimensions 42.4 x 20 inches

If the panel was vertical like a wall in your bedroom:
Under 50mph wind, the panel will experience 38 lbs of force.
Under 75mph wind, the panel will experience 85 lbs of force.

If the panel is at a 33 degree angle to the sun:
50 mph wind = 21 lbs of force
75 mph wind = 46 lbs of force
100 mph wind = 82 lbs of force.

This does not take into account vibrations or oscillations. (think of a stop sign flopping back and forth in strong winds.)
 
IME picking up my portable panels when it gets windy for me means going around the yard and collecting them up after its too late.

I go Boondocking in some windy areas and put my portable panels away each night because of wind. Prior to putting them up each night, I had left them locked on a cable to my RV, and they would blow to the end of the cable.

I tried different weather sites, but not accurate enough on winds. At least in the Phoenix valley, none of the dozens of weather sites were accurate wind wise for the areas i camped at.

100w Renogy panel dimensions 42.4 x 20 inches

If the panel was vertical like a wall in your bedroom:
Under 50mph wind, the panel will experience 38 lbs of force.
Under 75mph wind, the panel will experience 85 lbs of force.

If the panel is at a 33 degree angle to the sun:
50 mph wind = 21 lbs of force
75 mph wind = 46 lbs of force
100 mph wind = 82 lbs of force.

This does not take into account vibrations or oscillations. (think of a stop sign flopping back and forth in strong winds.)
I always thought it would be more force Than that.
 
I did it with 2 160 watt panels. If a hurricane is coming i just take it down. Its been up there for a few years or so.
 

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This is a great idea that I have thought about in the past.

What electronic wizardry will we need to get the job done?
 
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