Seismic support photovoltaic fasteners

Which solar panels are not included in FEMA's recovery advisory?

Ballasted solar panels, flexible PV modules (building-integrated photovoltaic [BIPV]) installed directly to the roof surface, and PV shingles were not observed by FEMA's Mitigation Assessment Team; therefore, they are not included in this Recovery Advisory.

Which anchors are used for seismic restaints?

The most widely used anchors for seismic restaints are the wedge, adhesive and undercut. Proper installation of anchors is important. Basic installation methods for shell and adhesive anchors is shown in Figure 12.

What are seismic braces used for?

Suspended systems such as piping, equipment and ductwork need seis-mic braces to keep them from swaying during an earthquake. Seismic braces can be flexible using aircraft quality cables, or rigid (solid) using steel sections such as pipe, angles, or strut channels.

What is a solar panel clamp?

Panel clamp: A clamp used to attach solar panels to a rail, rack, or external seam clamp (Figure 13). Post (support stand): A device used to attach rails or racks to the roof support structure and/or roof deck. (Figure 10). Solar array: Any number of rooftop solar panels grouped closely together (Figures 1-5).

What does ASCE 7 mean for rooftop solar panels?

American Society of Civil Engineers Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures (ASCE 7-16, 2017): The 2016 edition of ASCE 7 added wind load criteria for rooftop solar panel systems (Chapter 29). Criteria are given for roofs that have slope angles < 70. Criteria

Why do SEAOC pv2-17 panels have more flexible edges than interior panels?

SEAOC PV2-17 states that edges of arrays tend to be more flexible and easier to peel upward by wind than interior portions of arrays. Also, wind pressure demands on the edges of arrays tend to be more sensitive to uplift movement than panels at the interior of the array.