5B: Structural testing for solar panel mounts

Challenge

Sydney-based 5B is a clean energy innovator, providing pre-fabricated, modular plug-and-play systems that allow for rapid installation of large-scale solar projects.

The client required structural testing of ten concrete steel composite beam samples including basis load test samples, specification check, weight measurement and geometric measurement and two strain gauges for each test sample.

Solution

The unique Structural Testing Lab at UTS Tech Lab houses a state-of-the-art strong floor to create custom support structures and apply loads to structures in a flexible environment. The loading setup utilised various portal frame members with high rigidity and strength to attach the loading system to. The samples were placed on solid supports that were situated on the strong floor.

A hydraulic actuator was used to apply the loading at a controlled rate, utilising a closed loop PID control system to apply the loads in a precise manner in a constant velocity rate. The load was applied as a 6x point loading system utilising a single actuator with multiple layer spreader beams to apply the loads equally across all 4x loading points.

The team delivered the report to Van Der Meer Engineering Consultants to support their analysis of the beam, designed and manufactured by 5B.