sigma "pure" installation manual

810-0173

Sigma PureInstallation Manual

Sigm

a Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Contents

1 Introduction 11.1 Short Description 11.2 About This Manual 1 1.3 Warnings 2 1.4 Safety 2

2 Technical Description 32.1 System Overview 32.2 Technical Data 4

3 Sigma Pure Components 93.1 Components Included 9

4 Basic Installation Requirements 12 4.1 Tools Required 124.2 Tightening Torques 124.3 Site Suitability 12

5 Foundations 145.1 Concrete Piers 145.2 Earth Screws 145.3 Concrete Ballast 14

6 Sigma Pure Superstructure Assembly 146.1 Install Rafters on Legs 156.2 Install Module Bearing Rails 16

7 Module Installation 18 7.1 Installing Clickstones 18 7.2 Landscape Installation 19 7.3 Portrait Installation 20

8 Maintenance 21 8.1 Inspection 21 8.2 Testing 21 8.3 Corrosion 21

Sigma Pure – A specialist in the open field

Sigma-Pure-IM-USA-1606

1Introduction

Sigm

a Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

1. Introduction

1.1 Short Description

Sigma Pure is an economical, open field PV ground mount system designed to allow for flexible module configurations in portrait or landscape orientation. It is designed to be installed on standard, 2-inch galvanized pipes embedded into concrete piers or attached to earth screws. The combination of its inexpensive foundation, preassembled components, and strong but lightweight aluminum superstructure makes the Sigma Pure a cost effective PV mounting solution for a wide range of applications.

1.2 About This Manual

Content

This manual describes the installation of the Sigma Pure mounting system and provide necessary information regarding components, system planning and important safety warnings. Sections 1, 2 and 3 provide an overview as well as detailed information about the Sigma Pure system and components. Section 4 provides basic module layout and planning information. The remaining sections provide detailed system assembly and installation instructions.

i

Applicable DocumentsPlease read this manual carefully. The manual, along with the relevant project-specific Project Drawings and Bills of Materials provided by Mounting Systems, contains the information necessary to complete the assembly and installation of the product safely and correctly.

It is important that you carefully read these Instructions as well as all applicable documents prior to carrying out any installation, maintenance or disassembly work.These instructions provide you with the information required for the safe and complete installation, maintenance and disassembly of the Sigma Pure. Should you have any questions, please contact Mounting Systems, Inc.

Pictograms:

This symbol indicates important information and useful tips.

This symbol indicates tips and tricks to make the installation process easier.

2

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Introduction

1.3 Warnings

The following warnings are used in these InstallationInstructions to indicate safety-related information.They include:

• Warning symbols (pictograms)

• Signal words which identify the hazard level

• Information about the type and source of the hazard

• Information about the potential consequences if the hazard is disregarded

• Measures for the prevention of hazards and the prevention of injuries or damage to property.

The signal words of the warnings respectively indicate one of the following hazard levels:

Indicates a potentially mortaldanger, disregard for which may result in serious injury or death.

Indicates a potentially dangerous situation which may result in seri-ous injury or damage to property.

Indicates a potentially dangerous situation which may result in inju-ries or damage to the propertyif ignored.

Indicates potential danger which can result in damage to theproperty.

WARNING

CAUTION

ATTENTION

DANGER

1.4 Safety

All generally applicable safety regulations for Mounting Systems products can be viewed in the document “Installation Instructions for PV mounting Systems: General Information”. Please read this document carefully and adhere to the instructions and procedures therein – use the system only for its intended purpose and follow both the general and specific safety instructions. In addition, please observe the specific safety instructions which precede the process steps in the present product-specific Mvounting Instructions.

3

e

a

b

c

d

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Technical Description

Image 2.1 – 1

a Module bearing railsb Rafterc 2“ Pipe (not included)d Seismic brace (not included)e Diagonal strut (not included)

2. Technical Description

2.1 System Overview

The following is an overview of the majorSigma Pure system components.

iNOTE!For landscape configurations, the PV modules will share Module Bearing Rails. It is important to maintain precise parallel between the Module Bearing Rails as deviations from parallel can cause modules to not fit properly.

4

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Application Ground mount

PV modules Framed

Module layout 2-high portrait or 4-high landscape;9 panel maximum table length

Module orientation Portrait or landscape

Module inclination 20°, 25°, 30°, and 35°

Ground clearance Portrait 3‘Landscape 2‘

Pile spacing Dependent on module type, foundation options, and site environmental conditions (wind / snow loading)

Standards International Building Code IBC 2009 / 2012 / 2015California Building Code CBC 2013ASCE/EI 7-10 / 7-05Aluminum Design Manual 2010ANSI / AISC 360-05ACI 318-08

Supserstructure Extruded Aluminium (EN AW 6063 T66)

Connection parts Stainless steel 300 Series (V2A)

Foundation 2-in. Sch 40 galvanized steel pipe with either concrete piers, ballasts, or earth screws

Color Mill finish only

Warranty 10 Years 1

Configuration Module Foundation Clamping

Sigma Pure

2 portraitCLickstone

Sigma Pure

3 landscapeClickstone


2.2 Technical Data

1 Please see the Mounting Systems, Inc. warranty document for details.

Fram

ed m

odule

s

Gal

vaniz

ed s

teel

pip

e

wit

h c

oncr

ete

pier

s

or e

arth

scr

ews

5

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Number of Panels Wide

Hardware 5 6 7 8 9

20‘ 45/75 Module Bearing Rail 8 10 13 13 15

Splice 5 5 10 10 10

TEK Screws 20 20 40 40 40

Alpha+ Bonding Mid Clamps 30 36 42 48 54

Alpha+ Bonding Universal End Clamps 20 24 28 32 36

Alpha+ WEEB Lugs 5 5 5 5 5

Rail and Hardware for 4-High Landscape Table*


Conditions 5 6 7 8 9

Snow Wind Tilt Parts Quantity of Parts Required

0 105

20°

Rafter 4 4 4 5 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 8 10 12

Cross adapter 40 40 40 50 60

25°

Rafter 4 4 5 5 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 10 12


30°

Rafter 4 4 5 5 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 10 12


35°

Rafter 4 4 5 5 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 10 12


20 105

20°

Rafter 4 4 4 5 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 8 10 12


25°

Rafter 4 4 5 5 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 10 12


30°

Rafter 4 4 5 5 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 10 12


35°

Rafter 4 4 5 5 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 10 12



6

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al




40 105

20°

Rafter 4 4 5 6 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 12 12


25°

Rafter 4 4 5 6 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 12 12


30°

Rafter 4 4 5 6 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 12 12


35°

Rafter 4 4 5 6 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 12 12


40 120

20°

Rafter 4 4 5 6 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 12 12


25°

Rafter 4 4 5 6 7

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 12 14


30°

Rafter 4 5 5 6 7

M12 Bolt Kit 8 10 10 12 14


35°

Rafter 5 5 6 6 7

M12 Bolt Kit 10 10 12 12 14


90 150

20°

Rafter 5 6 7 8 9

M12 Bolt Kit 10 12 14 16 18


25°

Rafter 5 6 7 8 9

M12 Bolt Kit 10 12 14 16 18


30°

Rafter 5 6 7 8 9

M12 Bolt Kit 10 12 14 16 18


35°

Rafter 5 6 7 8 9

M12 Bolt Kit 10 12 14 16 18


Rail and Hardware for 4-High Landscape Table* (continued)


7

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al


Hardware 5 6 7 8 9

20‘ 45/75 Module Bearing Rail 4 6 6 6 8

Splice 0 4 4 4 8

TEK Screws 0 16 16 16 32

Alpha+ Bonding Mid Clamps 16 20 24 28 32

Alpha+ Bonding Universal End Clamps 8 8 8 8 8

Alpha+ WEEB Lugs 4 4 4 4 4

Rail and Hardware for 2-High Portrait Table*




40 105

20°

Rafter 3 3 3 4 4

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 6 8 8


25°

Rafter 3 3 3 4 4

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 6 8 8


30°

Rafter 3 3 4 4 4

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 8 8 8


35°

Rafter 3 3 4 4 4

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 8 8 8


20 105

20°

Rafter 3 3 3 4 4

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 6 8 8


25°

Rafter 3 3 3 4 4

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 6 8 8


30°

Rafter 3 3 4 4 4

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 8 8 8


35°

Rafter 3 3 4 4 4

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 8 8 8


8

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al




40 105

20°

Rafter 3 3 4 4 4

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 8 8 8


25°

Rafter 3 3 4 4 4

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 8 8 8


30°

Rafter 3 3 4 4 4

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 8 8 8


35°

Rafter 3 3 4 4 4

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 8 8 8


40 120

20°

Rafter 3 3 4 4 4

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 8 8 8


25°

Rafter 3 3 4 4 5

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 8 8 10


30°

Rafter 3 3 4 4 5

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 8 8 10


35°

Rafter 3 3 4 4 5

M12 Bolt Kit 6 6 8 8 10


90 150

20°

Rafter 4 4 5 5 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 10 12


25°

Rafter 4 4 5 5 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 10 12


30°

Rafter 4 4 5 5 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 10 12


35°

Rafter 4 4 5 5 6

M12 Bolt Kit 8 8 10 10 12


Rail and Hardware for 2-High Portrait Table* (continued)

9

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Sigma Pure Components

3. Sigma Pure Components

Upon delivery of the Sigma Pure system, check to ensure that all parts and components as described in the Bill of Materials and the Project Drawings are present. If an item is missing or damaged, please document the discrepancy and notify Mounting Systems, Inc. immediately.

3.1 Components Included In general, a Sigma Pure system always includes the items shown in the typical system views as shown in Image 3.1 -1 and Image 3.1 -2. Image 3.1 - 1 Portrait installation

Image 3.1 - 2 Landscape installation

* Disclaimer Module length shall not exceed 1670 mm and module width shall not exceed 1046 mm.Max East-West leg spacing shown on drawing set.Front Edge Clearance Max: 2 ft for landscape orientation and 3 ft for portrait orientationCross brace required at the end bays of EW rear legs as depicted in drawings

10

Image 3.1 - 5 Module bearing rail

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al


Foundation Components

The Sigma Pure system may be mounted on: • 2-inch Schedule 40 galvanized steel pipe• Earth screws, concrete ballasts, or concrete piers

Rafter

North-South rafters are mounted over the top of the galvanized pipe legs and support the East-West module bearing rails.

Module Bearing Rails

The Module Bearing Rails run East-West and support the PV modules. They are mounted to the rafters with Module Bearing Rail attachments.

Module Bearing Rail Attachment

The Module Bearing Rail attachments clamp the Module Bearing Rails in place on the rafters. They are supplied preassembled with a T-bolt and serrated, flange nut.

Image 3.1 - 3 Foundation types

Image 3.1 - 4 Rafter

Image 3.1 - 6 Module bearing rail clamp

Concrete Ballast Concrete PierEarth Screws

11

Image 3.1 - 8Variable module end clamp

Image 3.1 - 9

Module mid clamp

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al


Module Bearing Rail Splices

The Module Bearing Rail splice connects segments of the Module Bearing Rails to form a continuous rail length. The splices are secured with four self-drilling and self-tapping screws on each vertical side of the splice.

Module End Clamps

Variable module end clamps are used to secure the PV modules at each end of the modules row, which are adjustable to fit a range of module heights. There are three size ranges to fit modules 31-40 mm, 35-45 mm, and 40-50 mm. The clamps are supplied preassembled.

Module Mid Clamps

Module mid clamps secure modules inside the two end modules in a row. There are two types of bonding mid clamps: set screw and bonding plate. Mid clamps adjust to hold a range of module thicknesses. Mid clamps are available to hold modules from 28-40mm, 33-45mm, and 38-50mm.

Image 3.1 - 7Module bearing rail splice

12

Bolt size Recommended torque

M10 30 ft-lbf (40 N-m)

End clamp Clickstone bolt 8 ft-lbf (11 N-m)

Concrete anchors 37 ft-lbf (50 N-m)

Bonding Mid Clamp 12 ft-lbf (16 N-m)

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Basic Installation Requirements

4. Basic Installation Requirements

4.1 Tools RequiredThe following tools are required for proper assembly and installation of the Sigma Pure structure and PV modules:

• Ladder

• Power drill / electric screwdriver

• Measuring tape

• Spirit level

• 5 mm Allen key

• Socket wrenches 4.2 Tightening Torques

A good quality torque wrench should be used to tighten bolted connections to the torque settings shown below:

iNOTE!Torque values other than those specified here may be required for specific project requirements. If so, those values will be specified in the project-specificdocumentation supplied with the Sigma Pure system.

4.3 Site Suitability

Site Preparation and System Tolerances

The project site should be roughly level. Some site unevenness can be compensated by adjusting the depth to which the foundations are set by the rafter mounting positions on the legs.

13

± 25 in (64 cm)

40 ft. (12 m)

± 3°

Image 4.3 - 2 Site slope tolerances

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Basic Installation Requirements

Foundation Tolerances – Average Allowable Deviation

The foundation points of each Sigma Pure frame should be located within the tolerances specified below:

• N-S direction: ± 1 in (2.5 cm)

• E-W direction: ± 2 in. (5.1 cm)

• Height: ± 0.5 in. (1.3 cm)

• Plumb: post center axis may deviate a maximum of ± 2° in any direction

Site Slope Tolerances

The Sigma Pure is designed to allow a limited amount of slope between the ends of the array in the E-W direction. The maximum allowable deviation from horizontal is ±3°. For a typical array length of 30’ (9 m), this would be a possible height variation of up to +7.5” (19 cm) from end to end and this should be taken into account when setting the foundations.

Image 4.3 - 1 Foundation tolerances

iNOTE!In order to maintain structural strength, Sigma Pure leg adapters are not height adjustable.

iNOTE!Height adjustment is possible only when using driven piles or helical/screw-type piles.

14

Image 5.2 - 1 Orientation of earth screws

Image 5.3 - 1 Orientation of concrete ballast

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

5. Foundations

Before beginning work on the Sigma Pure foundations, it will be necessary to procure the necessary quantities of 2-inch, Schedule 40, galvalized steel pipe and cut it to the length shown in the System Overview drawings for your desired configuration. It is strongly recommended that immediately after cutting the pipe, the cuts are coated with high-quality galvanizing paint.

5.1 Concrete Piers

Please refer to the System Overview drawings for your Sigma Pure project and prepare holes to accept the concrete piers per the diamgrams and dimensions pro-vided in the System Overview drawings. After filling the prepared holes with concrete, insert the legs, then check and adjust them for plumb. Brace them in position until the concrete has fully set.

5.2 Earth Screws

Please refer to the System Overview drawings for your Sigma Pure project and install the earth screws at the locations shown. Earthscrews provide 1 1/2 to 3 ft of range in height adjustability. If the terrain is uneven, it will be necessary to adjust the length of the galvanized pipe legs as shown in the System Overview drawings. Secure the legs to the earth screws according to the directions provided by the earth screw supplier, ensuring that the legs are plumb. Additional hardware is needed for this option.

5.3 Concrete Ballast

Please refer to the System Overview drawings for your Sigma Pure project and prepare holes to accept the concrete ballast per the diagrams and dimensions provided in the System Overview drawings.

6. Sigma Pure Superstructure Assembly

Speed and safety of the Sigma Pure superstructure installation will be greatly expedited and facilitated by having at least two people for the installation.

Foundations • Sigma Pure Supertstructure Assembly

Image 5.1 - 1 Orienataion of concrete piers

15

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Sigma Pure Supertstructure Assembly

6.1. Install Rafters on Legs

Items required for each rafter provided by Mounting Systems:• Rafter• M12 x 100 hex head, stainless steel shoulder bolt• M12 stainless steel flat washer (2 each)• M12 stainless steel split (lock) washer• M12 stainless steel hex nut

Items required for each rafter provided by other supplier:

• Diagonal strut• 3/8-in. stainless steel U-bolt*• 3/8-in. stainless steel flat washer (2 each)• 3/8-in. stainless steel split washer (2 each)• 3/8-in. stainless steel hex nut (2 each)

*Size of U-bolt is contingent on the diagonal of the strut

Installation steps

• Slide the rafter over the top of each leg and position it so that the front (lower) edge ground clearance is as shown in the System Overview drawing.

• With the rafter held in place, drill a 10 mm hole through the rafter and the vertical leg at the center of the vertical leg.

• With one of the M12 flat washers under the head of the bolt, insert the M12 x 100 bolt through the rafter and vertical leg.

• Place one end of the diagonal strut over the bolt and secure it loosely with an M12 flat washer, M12 split washer, and M12 hex nut.

• Hold the lower end of the diagonal strut 6” from the ground and insert the U-bolt around the vertical leg and then through the diagonal strut.

• Secure the U-bolt and diagonal strut to the leg with two 3/8-in flat washers, two 3/8-in split washers, and two 3/8-16 hex nuts.

• Secure the upper end of the diagonal strut by tightening the bolt. Torque to 30 ft-lbf / 40 N-m.

Image 6.1 - 1 Pipe and rear leg connection

Image 6.1 - 2 Diagonal strut and rafter connectio6

Image 6.1 - 3 U-bolt

16

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Sigma Pure Supertstructure Assembly

6.2 Install Module Bearing Rails

Items required:

• Module Bearing Rails• Splice with self-drilling and self-tapping screws (8

per splice)• Module Bearing Rail clamps (preassembled from the

factory)•

Installation steps for Module Bearing Rails

Module Bearing Rail installation can proceed from West to East or from East to West, and they can proceed from top to bottom or bottom to top of the Sigma Pure table. The directions below assume installation of the rails from West to East and bottom to top as this is generally the easiest installation method.

• Using the System Overview drawings, locate and mark the position of the lower Module Bearing Rail on both end rafters (the easternmost and westernmost rafters).

• Snap a chalk line between these two points to mark the rail position on the rafters.

• Install a preassembled Module Bearing Rail clamp on each rafter just below the marked line by turning the T-head bolt so that it can be inserted into the channel on top of the rafter. Do not tighten the clamp at this time.

• Place a Module Bearing Rail section on the rafters and align it with the chalk line. The end of the rail should protrude beyond the end rafter by the amount shown on the System Overview drawing.

• Move the Module Bearing Rail clamp on the end of the rafter into positon over the lip on the Module Bearing Rail and, ensuring that the edge of the Module Bearing Rail is aligned with the chalk line, tighten the clamp into place with a 13 mm socket wrenth. Tighten to 15 ft-lbf / 20 N-m as shown in Images 6.2-1 through Image 6.2-4.

iNOTE!The installer is responsible for determining and setting the correct torque for fasteners not supplied by Mounting Systems.

1 Module Bearing Rail 2 Rafter

3 Module Bearing Rail clamps

Image 6.2 -2 Install long Module Bearing Rail clamps

Image 6.2 -1 Module Bearing Rail installed on rafter with

two Module Bearing Rail clamp

3

1

2

17

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Sigma Pure Superstructure Assembly

• Repeat the above procedure at each rafter the long Module Bearing Rail crosses.

• Install Module Bearing Rail clamps on the upper side of the Module Bearing Rail and tighten them to 15 ft-lbf / 20 N-m.

• Repeat the above procedure for the remainder of the Module Bearing Rails, taking care to ensure accurate placement of the rails, especially if the array wil be a landscape configuration.

Installation steps for Splice

After the first Module Bearing Rail is installed, attach the splice to the next Module Bearing Rail before placing it into position on the table.

• Using four of the self-drilling and self-tapping screws supplied, secure the splice to the end of the rail as show in Image 6.2-4.

• Align the edge of the short Module Bearing Rail with the chalk line and secure it with Module Bearing Rail clamps as above.

iNOTE!It will generally be easier to install all the longer Module Bearing Rails bottom to top, then attach the shorter Module Bearing Rail to the longer Module Bearing Rail from top to bottom. The procedure is the same no matter which method is used.

Image 6.2 - 3 Install short module bearing rail splices

Image 6.2 - 4 Completed rail splice

18

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Module Installation

7. Module Installation

7.1 Installing Clickstones

Mounting Systems' patented Clickstone is a special clip with which the module clamps are fastened in the base rail. You need only a 5mm Allen key for the installation. The Clickstone is inserted from above into the top chan-nel of the base rail.

Installation Steps:

• Insert the Clickstone at a slight angle into the rail channel.

• While holding it firmly in place, rock the Clickstone upright until it clicks into place.

iNOTE!The shape of the Clickstone corresponds exactly to the profile of the rail channel. It has been deliberately designed not to slide easily in order to prevent unintentional slipping in vertical rail installations. To move the Clickstone, loosen the bolt so that it is not contacting the spreaders in the Clickstone body. Then, while pressing lightly on the bolt, squeeze the Clickstone legs together and slide the Clickstone along the channel.

• For Clickstones in end clamps, tighten the bolt to 8 ft-lbf (11 N-m). For Clickstones in bonding mid clamps, tighten the bolt to 12 ft-lbf (16 N-m).

Image 7.1 - 1 Mounting Clickstone steps

1

3

2

19

Image 7.2 - 1 Install module end clamps

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Module Installation

D

7.2 Landscape Installation

• Beginning with the first module, insert two end clamps into the lower (south) Module Bearing Rail, one at each module clamping point as specified by the module manufacturer.

• Place the first module on the lower rail set, sliding the module frame flush against the end clamps just installed. Tighten the clamp bolts to 8 ft-lbf (11 N-m).

• Continue as above until the module row is complete.

• Insert module mid clamps into the Module Bearing Rail at the upper (north) side of the module row just installed. Position the mid clamps at the module clamping points.

• Place the modules of the upper (North) row flush against the mid clamps. Align the module with the lower module and tighten the mid clamps to 12 ft-lbf (16 N-m). If the set screw mid clamps are being installed,use a 2mm Allen key to turn each set screw until the set screw point just penetrates the anodized module surface.

• Repeat the above steps for each of the remaining modules in the row.

• Complete the module installation by inserting end clamps into the top Module Bearing Rail at each of the module clamping points and tighten each end clamp to 8 ft-lbf (11 N-m).

Image 7.2 - 2 Landscape installation

Image 7.2 - 3 Module end clamps in landscape orientation

20

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Module Installation

Material damage due to incorrect mounting

Incorrectly fastened modules can fall and become damaged.

• Ensure the Clickstones click in se-curely.

• Ensure the modules are flush against both sides of the clamp.

• Observe and adhere to the recom-mended torque specifications.

CAUTION

iNOTE!Use of a spare module clamp Clickstone or other item as a spacing gauge between the top of one row of modules and the bottom of another can help provide a neat, aesthetically pleasing array.

Image 7.3 – 2 Portrait installation

7.3 Portrait Installation

The procedure below describes the installation of modules on a single row. This procedure begins on the west end of the array and moves east. Modules can also be installed from east to west if desired.

• Insert the Clickstone of an end clamp into each rail.

• Place the first PV module on the rails and slide the module frame against the end clamp. With the module’s clamping points correctly positioned under the end clamps, tighten the end clamps onto the module frame. Torque the Clickstone bolts to 8 ft-lbf (11 N-m).

• Insert a mid clamp into each Module Bearing Rail. Push it flush against the module, ensuring the clamp body rests on top of the previously installed module frame.

• Place the next module on the Module Bearing Rail and slide it against the mid clamps. Tighten the mid clamp bolts to 12 ft-lbf (16 N-m).

• Repeat the above steps for the rest of the row of modules. At the end of a row, install an end clamp on the outside of the last module to complete the row.

C

Image 7.3 - 1 Portrait installation clamp locations

21

Sig

ma

Pu

re I

nst

alla

tio

n m

anu

al

Maintenance

8. Maintenance

When properly assembled, the Sigma Pure is a reliable and trouble-free system and should require little in the way of ongoing repair. Nevertheless, Mounting Systems, Inc. recommends maintaining a regular inspection and maintenance program. Such a program can detect and address potential problems before they become serious and help ensure the system’s excellent long-term durability and reliability.

The following procedure pertains only to the Sigma Pure mounting system structure. Maintenance and repair of other PV system components should be carried out in accordance with the respective manufacturers’ recommendations.

8.1 Inspection

At least annually the system should be visually inspected for obvious loose connections, missing components, modules which appear to have shifted, vegetation overgrowth, wind-blown debris and other indications of abnormality. Any problems detected at this time should be addressed and repaired as necessary.

8.2 Testing

After one year in service, it is a good practice to check the torque settings of a representative sample of system connections including module clamps and rail clamps. Do not exceed the recommended torque settings. If a disproportionate number of loose connections (more than 10% of connections) are found, it may be an indication of improper assembly and it may be necessary to take comprehensive corrective action.

A smaller sampling of connections can be tested annually thereafter. Mounting Systems recommends keeping records of the connections sampled each year and testing and, if necessary, adjusting previously untested connections in succeeding years. After all connections have been tested, sample sizes and test frequency can be reduced.

8.3 Corrosion

Mill finish aluminum may develop some scaling and pitting in harsh or wet environments. This is normal and will not affect the structural integrity of the system.

Galvanized components, especially if scraped or nicked during the assembly and installation process may begin to show rust or staining. Immediately following the completion of the installation process, any areas where the galvanized coating has been breached should be sprayed or painted with galvanizing paint. As with aluminum, it is normal for galvanized metal to exhibit surface stains and rust after extended periods in service. These surface imperfections will not impact the structural integrity of the system.

No other routine maintenance or service is required.

Subject to change without notice

2016 © Mounting Systems, Inc.

Mounting Systems, Inc.

820 Riverside Parkway

West Sacramento, CA 95605

Phone 1 855 731 9996

[email protected]

www.mounting-systems.us

sigma "pure" installation manual

Engineering