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Flat roof mounting: TUV rather than DIBt seal

TUV Rhineland reviewed the structural integrity of various projects, assessed the manufacturer's production facility in Hedingen and reviewed process documentation and reproducibility. The TUV.COM ID gives consumers quick and easy online access to all relevant information.

Approval by the German Institute of Construction Technology (DIBt) is not required for the Ernst Schweizer AG's flat roof systems. In 2012, the DIBt issued guidelines for the production, planning and implementation of solar installations.

In addition to compliance with the corresponding Eurocodes, it requires proof of stability and durability in the form of a test approved by the general building authority – but only if relevant parts are made of plastic or the assembly supports are glued.

No glued parts

Since no parts of the mounting systems in the MSP series required for stability are glued, the relevant parts are made of aluminium and stainless steel and the other parameters required for the structural calculation have been determined in accordance with the guidelines of the WtG, a building authority approval is not necessary in this case.

Great emphasis on system safety

The Swiss engineers put great emphasis on safety when planning solar installations on flat roofs. That is why the specifications for the calculation of stability are strictly adhered to: In addition to lift-off and shifting wind forces, the company also takes into account the surface loads per section, the type of roof and the various load combinations.

It limits the maximum block size to 14 by 14 metres to allow for thermal expansion. Installing companies and technicians will find all information in the extensive proMSP report. On request, the Ernst Schweizer AG can design the systems for their customers.

Extensive tests in a wind tunnel

Extensive measurements in a wind tunnel, careful handling of the friction coefficients and maximum roof pitch and verification of the bearing pressure provide additional safety. It is therefore not surprising that the systems can even withstand once-in-a-century storms with little ballast. (Dr Helge Hartwig)

Dr Helge Hartwig is Head of Sales and Technology for PV mounting systems at Ernst Schweizer AG.

Read this, too:

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http://www.pveurope.eu/News/Installation/Module-installation-Stable-systems-for-all-roofs
http://www.pveurope.eu/News/Installation/Sjef-de-Bruijn-from-Ernst-Schweizer-AG-We-have-to-be-very-efficient

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