Single Axis Trackers

Single Axis Trackers: Introduction And Advantages

Solar tracking systems can be classified by the mode of their motion. These tracking systems have the PV surface that can be rotated/tilted around axes to derive a proper angle that can help them get the maximum sunlight. When movement or adjustment of the PV surface happens by rotating around one axis, it is called single-axis tracking. When the movement of the PV surface happens around two axes simultaneously, it is called dual-axis tracking.  

Advantages of Single-Axis Solar Tracker:

  Advantages of single-axis trackers include:

• Single-axis trackers usually move from the east to the west and follow the Sun’s direction.
• Single axis trackers are cheap, very simple in set up and run at low cost.
• They are more reliable than dual-axis trackers.
• Single axis has higher lifespan than dual-axis trackers.
• Single-axis trackers suit companies that want a low cost option.
• Single axis trackers also fit for areas with less sun.
• Single axis tracker has a better efficiency related to a solar panel in fixed form. The effectiveness of single axis solar tracker over fixed solar tracking mount panel is 32.17%.

  The different types of single axis trackers are explained below:

Horizontal Single-Axis Solar Tracker (HSAT)

HSAT rotates from east to west throughout the day on fixed axis, which is parallel to the ground, and it is considered as the most cost effective tracker configuration in many PV applications. HSAT structure is placed on many supports along the rotating axis, requires less material for construction and its horizontal configuration is most preferred compared to other tracking geometries.

Horizontal Tilted Single-Axis Solar Tracker (HTSAT)

HTSAT tracker is very similar to the HSAT, but installed at a certain tilt. They are more complex than horizontal one-axis trackers and are expensive. They require a concrete foundation, adding to the total cost and they are not known to be scalable.

Vertical Single-Axis Solar Tracker (VSAT)

These systems can be mounted in north/south or east/west orientation to follow more “up-and-down” movement of the sun in the sky. These are most often seen in high-altitude/mountainous locations or those at more extreme latitudes.

Vertical-Tilted Single-Axis Solar Tracker (VTSAT)

These are similar to HTSATs except that the tilt aligns to a horizontal position and rotates on a vertical axis. These trackers are better in producing energy compared to horizontal trackers. However, their tilt is subject to increased wind loads compared to horizontal units. Also, they have a high structural demand, and require extra concrete and steel towards building a strong foundation.