Course description
In Wind Load Calculations for Photovoltaic Arrays, you'll learn ...
- Guidance on applying the ASCE 7-05 standard to the design of simple rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems
- Why the standard should not be used for tilted PV modules
- Recommendations for assigning an internal pressure coefficient to simple rooftop PV systems
- Sample calculation for a residential array installation, mounted parallel to the roof slope
Overview
Credit: 2 PDH
Length: 22 pages
Today’s photovoltaic (PV) industry must rely on licensed structural engineers’ various interpretations of building codes and standards to design PV mounting systems that will withstand wind-induced loads. This is problematic since the safety and sufficiency of the structural attachments of solar equipment to rooftops are not adequately addressed in any codes or standards. ASCE Standard 7-05 Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures is the standard for wind forces on structures, but it does not provide adequate guidance to the design professionals and code officials tasked with assessing PV installations.
This course will introduce you to the principles of determining wind loads on PV arrays, including sample calculations. The approach is applicable to the typical residential application of PV arrays mounted parallel to the roof slope and relatively close to the roof surface.
This course is intended for all engineers, architects, and construction professionals who are interested in gaining a better understanding of wind load calculations for PV mounting structures, modules, and mounting hardware.
The design professional should confirm which version of ASCE 7 is required by local building codes when preparing the wind load calculations.
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Certificate of Completion
You will be able to immediately print a certificate of completion after passing a multiple-choice quiz consisting of 15 questions. PDH credits are not awarded until the course is completed and quiz is passed.
Training content
This course teaches the following specific knowledge and skills:
- The differences between wind loading on PV arrays and other rooftop structures
- Techniques for proper selection of pressure coefficients
- How geometric parameters of the PV arrays affect wind loads
- How the PV array location on the rooftop affects wind loads
- Techniques for calculating wind loads on PV modules
- Techniques for calculating wind loads on mounting structures and hardware
Costs
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