Sigma I XL Installation manual Contents Sigma I XL Installation manual Sigma – A specialist in the open field 1 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 Introduction Standards and certifications Definitions and Terminology Qualified personnel Warning indications 1 1 1 2 2 2 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.4.1 Safety Intended use Responsibilities of the owner and installer Specific safety warnings Electrical bonding and grounding Sigma I XL structure and component bonding 3 3 4 4 7 7 3 3.1 How to use the drawings in this manual Notes 10 10 4 4.1 4.2 Sigma I XL components Components included Individual components 11 11 11 5. Project drawings and Bill of Materials 14 6. 6.1 6.2 6.3 Basic installation requirements Tools required Tightening torques Site suitability 14 14 14 15 7. 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 7.6 Installation and assembly Install piles Install the Diagonal Strut Brackets Attach the Upper Rafter Adapters Install Rafter and Diagonal Strut Install Module Bearing Rails Install PV Modules 15 15 15 16 16 17 19 Sigma-I-XL-MA-USA-1308 1. Introduction 1.1 Standards and certifications This installation manual describes the processes involved with assembly, installation and maintenance of the Mounting Systems, Inc. Sigma I XL mounting system for photovoltaic (PV) arrays. The Sigma I XL system as supplied complies all applicable standards and certifications in force at the time of manufacture, including those provided by: • International Building Code (IBC) 2009 • California Building Code (CBC) 2010 • ASCE / SEI 7-10 • Aluminum Design Manual 2010 • ANSI / ATSC 360-05 • ACI 318-08 • ASTM D2487 Sigma I XL Installation manual Please read this manual carefully. The manual, along with the relevant project-specific Project Drawings and Bills of Materials (BOM) provided by Mounting Systems, contains the information necessary to complete the assembly and installation of the product safely and correctly. Should you have any questions regarding the product after reading this manual, please contact Mounting Systems, Inc. or your Mounting Systems Sales Representative. 1.2 Definitions and Terminology The following definitions and terminology are used in this installation manual. Term Definition Photovoltaic system A photovoltaic system consists of: • photovoltaic modules • module mounting system • inverter(s) (optional) • interconnection wiring Mounting system The mechanical structure used to arrange and support the PV modules and, optionally, interconnection wiring and inverter(s). It also may include anti-theft devices. Optional System parts, accessories or procedures which may or may not be utilized depending on the particular system, site or other factors Project drawing(s) Drawings supplied by Mounting Systems, Inc. specific to a particular project or application. The Project Drawings include the Bill of Materials (BOM) for the particular project and system. System parts System parts include the parts supplied with the system and which are listed on the BOM supplied with the system. Introduction 1 Sigma I XL Installation manual 1.3 Qualified personnel 1.4 Warning indications Installation of the Sigma I XL system must be performed by qualified personnel. Qualified personnel are those who possess and have demonstrated competence in mechanical assembly, installation and maintenance of PV mounting systems or similar systems. The following symbols are used throughout this manual to warn of situations which, if not heeded, can result in property damage, personal injury or death. Qualifications also include knowledge of and competence with: assessing and mitigating risks normally associated with mounting system assembly and installation, safety regulations and procedures and the operation of safety devices and equipment. DANGER WARNING CAUTION CAUTION 2 Introduction Indicates a situation or an action that could lead to severe injury or death. Indicates a dangerous situation or action which could lead to severe injuries. Indicates a situation or action which could result in personal injury and/or property damage. Indicates a situation or action which could lead to property damage. 2. Safety 2.1 Intended use The Sigma I XL system is intended for use exclusively as a mounting system for PV modules on open terrain. i Intended use also includes the following: NOTE! Any installation, operation or maintenance not in accordance with this installation manual or the above requirements is deemed to be not as intended and will result in forfeiture of any warranty claims. • The Sigma I XL system is installed in accordance with the technical specifications, Project Drawings and Bill of Materials supplied with the system i • Modifications to the system or accessories are implemented only with the express consent of Mounting Systems, Inc. • Repairs to or replacement of components or accessories are implemented only with components or accessories provided by or expressly approved by Mounting Systems, Inc. • Inspection and maintenance by qualified personnel on an annual basis i Sigma I XL Installation manual • The Sigma I XL system is installed and operated in accordance with these installation instructions and applicable technical standards NOTE! Any other use of the product except as noted above or expressly permitted in this installation manual is deemed to be not as intended and will result in forfeiture of any warranty claims. NOTE! Mounting Systems, Inc. will not be liable for injury or damage due to operation of the product that is not as intended. • Installation and operation within the intended design load limits imposed by snow, wind and seismic activity • Installation and operation in the soil conditions determined by qualified geotechnical testing to be of adequate load-bearing capacity and for which the Sigma I XL system was designed • Installation and operation in non-extreme environmental or site conditions; such extreme conditions including but not limited to corrosive atmospheric conditions, fire, flood or other catastrophic events whether natural or manmade Safety 3 2.2 Responsibilities of the owner and installer 2.3 Specific safety warnings The owner and installer of the Sigma I XL system must ensure that: The following safety warnings appear where appropriate throughout this installation manual. Please observe and heed the warnings prior to taking the actions or performing the steps to which they apply. • The installation of the Sigma I XL system is carried out by qualified personnel only Sigma I XL Installation manual • Installation personnel have familiarized themselves with the system, its components and materials • These installation instructions are available throughout the installation and assembly processes warning Risk of injury and material damage due to improper inspection, maintenance or repair Inadequate or improper inspection, maintenance or repair may jeopardize the operational safety of the system! • Ensure that inspection, maintenance and repairs are carried out only by qualified personnel • The installation personnel have read and understood the safety instructions and warnings contained within this manual • Installation personnel utilize appropriate safety apparatus and clothing during the installation and assembly of the Sigma I XL • Suitable lifting gear and other appropriate tools are available during the installation and assembly processes Burn risk warning PV module surfaces exposed to the sun will be hot! • Wear appropriate protective apparel Risk of injury due to improper material handling CAUTION 4 Safety Improperly or carelessly handled material and components can cause injuries including crushing, pinching, cuts and impacts. • Be aware of structures and personnel in the vicinity • Observe good safety practices • Wear appropriate safety equipment and apparel • Don't do stupid stuff! Risk of cuts due to sharp edges and corners Fabricated metal may have extremely sharp edges and corners that can cause deep cuts • Be careful when lifting or carrying metal parts • Maintain awareness of nearby sharp edges and corners • Wear appropriate safety equipment and apparel CAUTION Attempting to climb or stand on the Sigma I XL framework may lead to slipping or falling, causing serious personal injury and damage to the system • Do not climb on the system • Use appropriate ladders, scaffolds or other equipment to access beyond arm's reach • Use appropriate lifting equipment • Don't be a dope Sigma I XL Installation manual CAUTION Risk of personal injury and property damage due to climbing the system frame Risk of personal injury due to improper material storage or staging CAUTION Improperly stacked or stored system components, rails and accessories can topple or fall and cause serious injury • Do not stack or store system parts so high that they are unstable • Observe applicable codes and regulations regarding stacking and storing items • Use appropriate storage bins, shelving and storage locations • Wear appropriate protective gear and apparel • Do not climb on or lean against stored items Transportation damage attention Improper transportation or material handling may result in damage to the Sigma I XL system and the PV modules • Check the components and packages for visible damage • Note and register damage with the carrier at the time of delivery • Photograph the damage • Notify Mounting Systems, Inc. immediately Safety 5 Risk of damage due to improper installation Sigma I XL Installation manual attention 6 Safety Improperly assembled Sigma I XL mounting systems may be unstable and fail, causing damage to the system • Use only the materials specified, approved or supplied by Mounting Systems, Inc. for the assembly and installation of Sigma I XL components • Ensure that all components have been installed correctly as described in the installation manual • Improperly tightened bolted connections may fail • Over-torqued connections my break or deform causing failure of the connection • Under-torqued connections may loosen leading to weakened connections and structural deformation and failure • Note and comply with recommended torques for all bolted connections • Notify Mounting Systems, Inc. immediately Quickstone connection failure attention Quickstone connections ease and speed component installation and are an integral part of the Sigma I XL's electrical bonding and grounding system but must be installed properly for secure connections • Read and follow Quickstone installation instructions in this installation manual • Never "tap in" a Quickstone component • Ensure the Quickstone is properly oriented in the Quickstone channel before tightening the bolt • Observe and follow tightening torque specifications. Risk of module damage due to thermal expansion/contraction attention Installing a PV Module across a thermal expansion joint can damage the module when rail expansion and contraction occur • Never install a module across an expansion joint • Ensure modules are installed only by qualified personnel according to the Project Drawings supplied with the Sigma I XL system 2.4 Electrical bonding and grounding Electrical bonding of module frames to the Sigma I XL mounting rails is accomplished with third-party hardware certified as suitable for piercing the anodized coating of the module frames or by other listed methods approved by the module manufacturer. Mounting Systems, Inc. recommends the Burndy WEEB-CMC for module to mounting rail bonding. 2.4.1 Sigma I XL structure and component bonding The Sigma I XL system employs two means for bonding the various components of the structure, Quickstone nuts and star or serrated washers. Safety 7 Sigma I XL Installation manual The Sigma I XL system is designed with integrated electrical bonding of all component parts. This integrated bonding requires adherence to these installation instructions, particularly in regard to proper installation and tightening of the various Sigma I XL connection components. Sigma I XL Installation manual 2.4.1.1 Quickstone bonding bonding tooth It is important that all Quickstone connections be tightened to the specified torque to insure proper electrical bonding. Figure 2.4 – 1 Quickstone nut 1 2 3 4 Figure 2.4 – 2 Quickstone nut installation in Quickstone channel 8 Safety Figures 1 and 2 show the profile of the Quickstone nut and how it is installed in the Quickstone channel. The small teeth on the Quickstone nut, when tightened, break and seal the aluminum oxide coating on the millfinish components of the Sigma I XL system and provide a high-ampacity connection. A serrated washer below the head of the stainless steel Quickstone bolt bonds the bolt to the Quickstone component (clamp, rail adapter, etc.) which, in conjunction with the bolt thread’s contact with the Quickstone nut provides secure bonding of the components. h 2.4.1.2 Component connection bonding g a 2.4.1.3 Grounding the Sigma I XL d c f e Figure 2.4 – 3 Star washer bonding detail Bolt Flat washer c Leg d Star washer e Flat washer f Split washer g Nut h Rafter a Sigma I XL Installation manual b Electrical bonding of Sigma I XL components secured with standard hex bolts and nuts is accomplished with stainless steel star-washers. On preassembled components, the star washers are preassembled in their proper locations. Bonding is achieved when the components are installed and tightened to their specified torque settings. Figure 3 shows the location of star washers in the preassembled Rafter and leg assemblies. Sigma I XL grounding may be accomplished with the use of the Burndy WEEB-Lug installed in any of the Quickstone channels on the completed Sigma I XL system (recommended) or by other listed or approved methods as appropriate for the particular installation. 2.4.2 Module frame bonding b Bonding anodized module frames to the Sigma I XL structure may be accomplished with listed or approved methods which pierce, remove or otherwise allow adequate contact between the conductive aluminum of the module frame and the Sigma I XL ground path. Mounting Systems, Inc. recommends the use of the Burndy WEEB-CMC for this purpose. Safety 9 3. How to use the drawings in this manual 3.1 Notes The following notes describe the organization and purpose of the drawings and graphics in this manual: Figure x.x Figures, drawings, renderings, etc. provide Sigma I XL Installation manual visual representations of the component or procedure being described. The figures are not necessarily to scale and are intended to provide clarity only. a Within the figures, individual parts are labeled with lower case letters corresponding to the lettered descriptions or item names nearby. 1 Actions or procedures that must be accomplished in a specific sequence are identified with numbers, e.g. 1, 2, 3. The action or procedure should be performed in the numerical sequence. The action or procedure should be performed in the alphabetical sequence. 10 How to use the drawings in this manual 4. Sigma I XL components 4.1 Components included In general, a Sigma I XL system always includes the items shown in the typical system views below. f b c d Sigma I XL Installation manual a e Sigma I XL system components IPE W6 pile Module Bearing Rail Rafter c Diagonal Strut d Diagonal Strut Bracket e IPE W6 pile f Upper Rafter Adapter g Module Bearing Rail Clamp (not shown) h Module Mid and End clamps (not shown) a b 4.2 Individual components The IPE post is the primary support for the Sigma I XL. Note highlighted component mounting hole locations. Figure 4.2 – 1 IPE W6 post Sigma I XL components 11 Sigma I XL Installation manual The upper rafter adapters connect the rafters to the vertical posts. Figure 4.2 – 2 Upper rafter adapter The Diagonal Strut Bracket attaches the lower end of the diagonal strut to the IPE post. Star washers provide integral bonding of the bracket and post. Figure 4.2 – 3 Diagonal Strut Bracket The Diagonal Strut supports the outer (lower) section of the rafter. Figure 4.2 – 4 Diagonal Strut (shown preassembled to rafter) Figure 4.2 – 5 Rafter 12 Sigma I XL components The Rafter provides support for the Module Bearing rails. The Rafter is preassembled with the Diagonal Strut to speed installation. A star washer in the Rafter/Diagonal connection provides integral electrical bonding of the two components. Sigma I XL Installation manual The Module Bearing Rails support the modules and provide anchoring for the module clamps. The "Pi" rail is designed to allow reliable module mounting in both portrait and landscape orientation. Figure 4.2 – 6 "Pi" Module Bearing Rail The Module Bearing Rail Clamp is used to connect the Module Bearing Rails to the Rafters. The Quickstone nut allows easy assembly and is part of the integral system bonding of the Sigma I XL. Figure 4.2 – 7 Module Bearing Rail Clamp The Module Mid and End Clamps clamp the modules to the Module Bearing Rails. End clamps are modulespecific and are available for modules from 33 – 50mm thick. Mid clamps are available in three size ranges for module thicknesses 24-32mm, 32-46mm and 46-51mm. Quickstones provide fast, easy placement and attachment of the PV modules and provide integral system bonding. Figure 4.2 – 8 Module Mid and End Clamps Sigma I XL components 13 5. Project drawings and Bill of Materials Project-specific documentation is supplied as part of the Sigma I XL system. It contains all the information necessary to install the system. The documentation includes: • Bill of Materials (BOM) Sigma I XL Installation manual • System overview drawing(s) which show: - the exact module configuration for the project - component variations specific to the project - specific foundation information for the project - the parts supplied for bolted connections specific to the project - dimensions and clearances 6. Basic installation requirements 6.1 Tools required The following tools are required for proper assembly and installation of the Sigma I XL structure and PV modules: • Ladder • Power drill/driver, electric screwdriver • Measuring tape • Spirit level • 6mm Allen key • Socket / open-end wrenches • Chalk line (optional) 6.2 Tightening torques i 14 NOTE! Torque values other than those specified here may be required for specific project requirements. If so, those values will be specified in the projectspecific documentation supplied with the Sigma I XL system. Project drawings / Basic installation requirements A good quality torque wrench should be used to tighten bolted connections to the torque settings shown below: Bolt size Recommended torque M10 38 ft-lbf (53 N-m) M8 Quickstone bolts 72 in-lbf (8 N-m) 6.3 Site suitability 7. Installation and assembly 7.1 Install piles 6° max. 4° max. Figure 7.1 – 1 Pile installation Accurate foundation placement, pile height and plumb are key to a successful Sigma I XL installation. Pile driving should be done by a competent and experienced contractor. Install the Sigma I XL piles according to the projectspecific documentation supplied for your project taking care to maintain the tolerances allowed. In general, pile height should not vary by more than +6 in. (15 cm) / -4 in. (10 cm). Ensure that the mounting holes for attaching the Diagonal Strut Bracket on the post flanges face south and that the holes for the Upper Rafter Adapters are at the top. 7.2 Install the Diagonal Strut Brackets Using two M10x30 bolts, lock washers and nuts, attach the Diagonal Strut Brackets to the Piles as shown. Basic installation requirements / Installation and assembly 15 Sigma I XL Installation manual In general, a geotechnical evaluation of the project site should be accomplished prior to ordering the Sigma I XL system. The geotechnical report both confirms the suitability of the site for the Sigma I XL installation and allows for proper selection of the foundation spacing and embedment depth. 7.3 Attach the Upper Rafter Adapters Sigma I XL Installation manual Using two M10x30 bolts, flat washers, lock washers and bolts, attach the Upper Rafter Adapters to the piles as shown. The slotted hole at the lower end of the Adapter can be used to compensate for out-of-plumb piles or uneven terrain. Tighten bolts only finger tight at this time. 7.4 Install Rafter and Diagonal Strut Note that the Rafter and Diagonal Strut are preassembled at the factory. Place the Rafter on the Upper Rafter Adapter and secure it with an M10x70 bolt, flat washer, lock washer and nut. Leave the bolt and nut finger tight at this time. Position the lower end of the Diagonal Strut in the Diagonal Strut Bracket and secure it with an M10x70 bolt, flat washer, lock washer and bolt. Tighten all bolts to the recommended torque. 16 Installation and assembly 7.5 Install Module Bearing Rails Module Bearing Rail Clamps i Figure 7.5 – 2 Attaching module supports to rafter i Sigma I XL Installation manual Using two M10x30 bolts, flat washers, lock washers and bolts, attach the Upper Rafter Adapters to the piles as shown. The slotted hole at the lower end of the Adapter can be used to compensate for out-of-plumb piles or uneven terrain. Tighten bolts only finger tight at this time. NOTE! The project-specific documentation supplied with the Sigma I XL provides information for positioning the Module Bearing Rails on the Rafters. Using this information, position the Module Bearing Rails on the Rafters using the Module Bearing Rail Clamps. NOTE! The Module Bearing Rail Clamps use Mounting Systems’ patented Quickstone technology. The Quickstone (shown below) may be inserted in the Quickstone channel in the top of the Rafter at any point along the channel. Tightening the Quickstone bolt 2-3 turns secures the Quickstone in the channel but still allows it to slide in the channel to its final position. Installation and assembly 17 Quickstone installation Figure 7.5 – 2 Inserting module support clamp b a c Sigma I XL Installation manual d Module Bearing Rail Module Bearing Rail Clamp c Quickstone d Rafter (Rafter shown is not representative of Sigma I XL Rafter) a b Figure 7.5 – 3 Attaching module supports, inserting module support clamps into the Quickstone channel 1 To insert a Quickstone, first ensure that the bottom of the bolt does not protrude below the Quickstone body. Note the shape of the Quickstone channel and the orientation of the Quickstone in the diagram below. Insert the Quickstone into the channel as shown. Then move the Quickstone so that the "J" of the Quickstone engages the hookshaped portion of the rib in the center of the Quickstone channel. Holding the Quickstone in this position, tighten the bolt 2-3 turns. The component is now secured in the channel but may still be moved to its final position. Once the Quickstone component is moved into its final position, the bolt may be tightened to the recommended torque setting to secure the component in position. 1 Insert Quickstone in channel 2 Slide Quickstone "J" into engagement with corresponding element in Quickstone channel 2 Module Bearing Rail Installation Using the procedure below, install the Module Bearing Rails. • Locate and mark position of lower Module Bearing Rail on Sigma I XL Rafters. (A chalk line may be useful to mark the Rafters quickly). • Insert a Module Bearing Rail Clamp in the easternmost and westernmost Rafter Quickstone channels below the location of the Module Bearing Rail. Tighten the Quickstone bolts 2-3 turns to hold the Clamps in position but still allowing them to slide. • Position the Module Bearing Rail. • Holding the Module Bearing Rail in position, slide the Module Bearing Rail Clamps up and capture the upraised lip on the Module Bearing Rail in the slot on the Module Bearing Rail Clamps. 18 Installation and assembly • Tighten the Quickstone bolts to secure the Rail in position. • Insert Module Bearing Rail Clamps into the Rafters above the Rail and secure them to the Rail and Rafters as above. • Tighten the Quickstone bolts to 72 in-lbf (8 N-m). Repeat the above procedure for the remaining Module Bearing Rails. 7.6 Install PV Modules PV Modules should be installed beginning at the end of a module row. Installation can begin from either end of the Sigma I XL structure. i NOTE! When properly assembled the Sigma I XL structure is integrally electrically bonded. However, PV modules require a separate bonding method to connect the frames of the PV modules to the Sigma I XL structure. This bonding may be accomplished per the use of lay-in lugs and wire as detailed in the installation manuals for most PV modules. Mounting Systems recommends the use of Burndy (Wiley) WEEB-CMC (Washer, Electrical Equipment Bonding) clips. If WEEB-CMC clips are to be used, please consult the appropriate installation instructions provided by Burndy to ensure proper electrical bonding of the Sigma I XL. i NOTE! The Module Mid and End Clamps use Mounting Systems’ patented Quickstone technology. The Quickstone (shown below) may be inserted in the Quickstone channel in the top of the Rafter at any point along the channel. Tightening the Quickstone bolt 2-3 turns secures the Quickstone in the channel but still allows it to slide in the channel to its final position. See Quickstone Installation above for proper Quickstone installation. Installation and assembly 19 Sigma I XL Installation manual • Insert Module Bearing Rail Clamps in the remaining Rafters, above and below the Rails and secure them. PV Module Installation - Portrait Orientation Use the following procedure to install PV modules on the Sigma I XL in portrait orientation. Sigma I XL Installation manual Module End Clamp • Insert a Module End Clamp onto one end of each rail of the lower pair of Module Bearing Rails and tighten the Quickstone bolt 2-3 turns to hold the clamp in the rail while still allowing it to slide. Module Bearing Rail Figure 7.6 – 1 Inserting module end clamps PV module Module end clamp • Place module on rail pair and slide it flush against the vertical side of the Module End Clamp. • Hold the module and Clamp firmly together and tighten the Quickstone bolt in each End Clamp to 72 in-lbf (8 N-m). Module support Figure 7.6 – 2 PV module inserted into module end clamp Inter-module clamps Figure 7.6 – 3 Inserting the inter-module clamps into the Quickstone channel of the module support 20 Installation and assembly • Insert a Module Mid Clamp into each of the Module Bearing Rails on the other side of the PV module and tighten the Quickstone bolts 2-3 turns to hold the Clamps in the rails while still allowing them to slide. • Slide the Mid Clamps flush against the side of the PV module. • Place the next PV module on the rails and slide it flush against the Module Mid Clamps. If WEEB-CMC bonding clips are to be used, the WEEBs should be installed onto the Mid Clamp Quickstone bolt and positioned properly between the bottom of the PV module frames and the Sigma I XL Module Bearing Rails. • While holding the PV modules firmly in place, tighten the Module Mid Clamp Quickstone bolts to 72 in-lbf (8 N-m). • Continue installing PV modules as above until the row is complete. A Module End Clamp is used to secure the outside edge of the last module in the row in the same fashion as the first module in the row. Additional rows on the Sigma I XL structure are installed as above. Figure 7.6 – 4 Attaching further modules Installation and assembly 21 Sigma I XL Installation manual i NOTE! PV Module Installation – Landscape Orientation For landscape orientation, the Module Bearing Rails are installed as above and in accordance with the projectspecific documentation supplied with the Sigma I XL. The Sigma I XL Pi Module Bearing Rails are designed to accommodate both portrait and landscape installation. Sigma I XL Installation manual Use the following procedure to install PV modules in landscape orientation: • Insert two Module End Clamps into the lower Module Bearing Rail at the positions corresponding to the PV module's recommended mounting points. • Tighten the Quickstone bolts 2-3 turns to hold the Clamps in the Rail but still allowing them to slide. • Place a PV module onto the Module Bearing Rail and position the side of the module flush against the vertical side of the End Clamp. • Tighten the End Clamps to 72 in-lbf (8 N-m). • Insert two Module Mid Clamps into the Module Bearing Rail on the other side of the module at the recommended mounting points for the module. Tighten the Quickstone bolts 2-3 turns to hold the Clamps in position in the Rail. • Place the next module in the column flush against the Mid Clamps. i NOTE! If WEEB-CMC bonding clips are to be used, the WEEBs should be installed onto the Mid Clamp Quickstone bolt and positioned properly between the bottom of the PV module frames and the Sigma I XL Module Bearing Rails. • Tighten the Mid Clamps to 72 in-lbf (8 N-m). • Install the remaining modules in the column as above, completing the column with End Clamps at the topmost rail. • Install the remaining columns of modules as above. 22 Installation and assembly It is recommended that all bolted connections be checked again for proper tightness. Sigma I XL Installation manual Assembly and installation of the Sigma I XL is now complete. Installation and assembly 23 Mounting Systems, Inc. 820 Riverside Parkway West Sacramento, CA 95605 Phone 1 855 731 9996 info-us@mounting-systems.com www.mounting-systems.com Subject to change without notice 2013 © Mounting Systems, Inc.