Commercial operators are increasingly investing in PV to reduce reliance on utility providers and boost self-sufficiency. This approach offers a smart way to lower energy costs over the long term, especially given the extensive unused roof space on commercial and industrial buildings.
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Unlike the residential sector, however, this is a highly cost-sensitive market where every euro counts. In this context, manufacturers face pressure to deliver mounting systems that can be installed quickly and efficiently. One example is the CompactFLAT S Base from Aerocompact, developed specifically for mounting large-format modules on flat roofs with minimal obstructions.
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Click-in speed, reduced tooling
The new design builds on Aerocompact’s earlier bracket system. At its core is a wide aluminium baseplate with recessed slots on both sides. Installers slide the brackets into position until they click into place. Modules are then secured with snap-in clamps, with tools required only at the final stage for tightening.
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Each baseplate supports two side-by-side modules, allowing them to be clamped horizontally along the long side. “Mounting large modules on flat roofs is a major topic right now,” says Christian Ganahl, CTO at Aerocompact. He presented the system and its advantages in a detailed trade fair video, available here.
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At the same fair, K2 Systems presented a rail solution designed for quick assembly and long-side clamping. Especially under demanding load conditions, installation speed remains crucial. K2’s new solution combines elements from two existing systems: the installer-friendly Xpress and the LS long-side clamping system.
Refined for today’s modules
The result is the D-Dome 6.10 Xpress LS, featuring pre-assembled components that significantly reduce installation time. Long-side clamping accommodates higher loads and is tailored to today’s larger module formats. “For large-format modules, clamping along the long edge is essential to maintain structural integrity,” explains Lars Kreemke, Head of Inside Sales at K2 Systems.
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To maintain high installation speed while meeting these requirements, K2 further refined the system. The module supports – or “peaks” – simply click into the pre-mounted baseplates without the need for tools. The result is a rigid, self-bracing structure ready for secure module installation.
Material efficiency, time gains
While long-side clamping requires two rails per module, unlike corner-clamped setups which use shared rails, the design compensates for the extra material with faster installation. “For very large modules, the system can be extended to a six-point clamp using a third rail,” says Kreemke. This middle rail provides added support through additional peaks. (SU/TF)
