The comparison between aluminum profiles for photovoltaic brackets and steel brackets
What are the advantages and disadvantages of aluminum profile photovoltaic brackets and steel brackets? Let’s take a look.
The strength of steel is higher than that of the aluminum profiles typically used, so for photovoltaic brackets with larger spans or higher wind resistance requirements, it is advisable to use steel brackets to meet strength needs. Aluminum profile photovoltaic brackets are more commonly used in general areas.
In terms of corrosion resistance, aluminum profiles are in a passivation zone in the atmospheric environment, forming a dense oxide film on the surface that hinders the contact between the active aluminum substrate and the surrounding atmosphere. Therefore, aluminum has excellent corrosion resistance, and its corrosion rate decreases over time. Aluminum profiles far outperform steel in corrosion resistance.
There are many types of treatments for aluminum profiles, such as anodizing, chemical polishing, fluorocarbon spraying, and electrophoretic coating. They have good ductility, which can meet various cross-section requirements, and are aesthetically pleasing, adapting well to corrosive environments. Steel is generally treated with hot-dip galvanizing, steel spraying, or paint coating, which is more limited, and the cross-sectional shapes are relatively simple, such as C-shaped steel, I-beams, and angle steel, with an appearance that is not as attractive as aluminum alloy profiles.
When choosing photovoltaic brackets, steel has high strength and small deflection deformation under load, making it suitable for large power stations or areas with high stress due to strong winds. Aluminum alloy profiles are lighter, more aesthetically pleasing, and have better corrosion resistance, making them more effective for rooftop power stations with load-bearing requirements or in strongly corrosive environments.