[RE-wrenches] Awkward Mid-clamps & jigs for installing or removing modules?

[benn kilburn]

William,Your helper is suggesting using 4 end-clamps per module, is that right?  Sounds like a good concept in some regards but is it worth using the extra clamps (almost twice as many)as well, this would eliminate the possibility of WEEB type module frame bonding, as they only work with mid-clamps not ends, as far as i know.
I'm not familiar with Iron Ridge racks, if that matters.  I agree that the various mid-clamps i've used can be clumsy from time to time, especially when coupled with WEEBs, or when the rack/clamp mfgr only leaves barely enough thread to hold the nut on the bolt when fitting into place.  Much time can be spent adjusting and readjusting (flathead screwdriver) to get the the mid-clamp/weeb lined up just right so that the WEEB is properly installed
Note to WEEB rep... I hope you are listening/reading... on any of the WEEBs i've used the teeth are just barely wide apart enough to catch each edge of the module frames it is bonding. Is this absolutely necessary?  There is practically no wiggle room left-to-right, the WEEB has to be lined up perfectly.  This can turn a smooth quick operation into a meticulous sometimes aggravating task.Request: Why don't you spread out the teeth on the clip just a few more mm.  It would make using the WEEB so much easier and time efficient.
Regardless of the individual module mounting method or not, you jig idea is good and ideal for installing mods single-handed or for a crew.  I'll certainly put a bit of thought into it and let you know if i come up with anything.
cheers,benn
DayStar Renewable Energy Inc. www.daystarsolar.ca780-906-7807 Certified Construction Electrician Solar Photovoltaic Systems CertifiedCertificate # 0007SHAVE A SUNNY DAY

From: wmdorsett at sbcglobal.net
To: re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org
Date: Fri, 18 Jan 2013 11:35:56 -0600
Subject: [RE-wrenches] Awkward Mid-clamps & jigs for installing or removing	modules?

Single-handed mounting for replacing or installing modules on racks. My helper installing an array on an Iron Ridge rack commented (like so many of you have surely thought) that the mid-clamps are really clumsy. His suggestion was that on his, he would lengthen the rail and only use end clamps so each module would be independently mounted, removed or the Enphase replaced. Of course this would apply to UniRack and other mid-clamps too. Can anyone recommend a jig for supporting the line of modules, while they are individually being clamped or unclamped? Perhaps a long length of Al angle braced back to the rail, so the bottoms of the modules can sit in a straight line while they are being clamped. Even a couple sliding Z-shaped spring hooks that can support the bottoms might work one module at a time as long as the rail is s Bill DorsettSunwrights1715 LeavenworthManhattan, KS785/539-1956 Home/Office 
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