INTRODUCTION
Fasteners used in SunLock framing need to be tightened to the correct torque, using the correct equipment.
Fasteners which are under torqued will not provide a sufficient amount of clamping force and may loosen over time. On the other hand, fasteners which are over torqued can cause permanent damage to the associated framing, roof structure and panels.
GUIDE TO USE
The SunLock installation manual states “…make sure the cordless power tool used for driving has a hand-tight clutch setting and a fine (soft) impact drive to prevent damage to the fragile glass panels and threads on the SunLock framing”.
SunLock recommends using a tightening torque of 12 - 14 N·m.
OVER TORQUED BOLTS
As some impact drivers on the market are capable of providing torque rating of close to 200 N·m, special care needs to be given to ensure that permanent damage to the solar panel and framing doesn’t occur. Also ensure that special care is taken when using overlong Allen keys.
REFERENCES
Barrett (1990) Fastener Design Manual, NASA Smith (1990) Carroll Smith’s nuts, bolts, fasteners and plumbing handbook, Motorbooks International Tomotsugu (2008) Bolted joint engineering: Fundamentals and Applications, Beuth
For Further information
For further information contact SunLock on 1300 655 554 or order@sunlock.com.au.