Solar Mounting Flat Washer

Solar Mounting Flat Washer for solar mounting is a crucial, small but vital component. It's a standardized, corrosion-resistant (HDG or SS), relatively large-diameter washer specifically sized for bolts. Its job is to ensure the bolts clamp effectively, distribute loads safely, protect mounting surfaces, and prevent loosening, thereby contributing significantly to the structural integrity, safety, and long-term durability of the entire solar array. Always use the washers specified by your solar racking system manufacturer.

Solar Panel Solar Mounting Flat Washer Available in multiple sizes (M4, M6, M8, M10, M12), allowing for compatibility with a wide range of bolt diameters in various applications.Solar Mounting Flat Washer provide a smooth surface between the bolt or screw head and the material, helping to prevent loosening due to vibration or movement.

Solar Mounting Flat Washer helps prevent damage to the surface being fastened and can also provide a more even distribution of the load, reducing the risk of loosening or failure of the fastener.

Advantage

Distribute Load: The primary function for Solar Mounting Flat Washer is to spread the clamping force (load) exerted by the nut and bolt head over a larger surface area of the mounting component (like an aluminum rail, bracket, or the panel frame itself). This prevents:

Damage to softer materials (like aluminum rails).

Distortion or crushing of composite materials.

Excessive stress concentration that could lead to cracking or failure.

Provide a Stable Bearing Surface: Creates a smooth, flat surface for the nut or bolt head to bear against, ensuring even pressure distribution and reducing the risk of loosening due to vibration or thermal cycling.

Compensate for Oversized Holes: Solar Mounting Flat Washer Helps ensure the bolt shank clamps the materials properly even if the hole in one component is slightly larger than the bolt diameter.

Protection: Solar SUS304 Flat Washer Acts as a barrier between the bolt/nut and the mounting surface, reducing galvanic corrosion (especially important when dissimilar metals like steel bolts and aluminum rails are used) and surface scratching.

Prevent crushing soft materials (e.g., aluminum rails).

Reduce galvanic corrosion between dissimilar metals.

Ensure even load distribution against wind/snow forces.

Maintain bolt tension over decades of thermal cycling/vibration.

Are often required for system warranties.

FAQ

Q1: What is a solar mounting flat washer?

A: A specially designed washer used in solar panel racking systems. It distributes the clamping force of bolts/nuts to protect mounting surfaces (like aluminum rails), prevent damage, reduce corrosion, and ensure long-term structural integrity.

Q2: What sizes are common?

A: Sizes match bolt diameters:

- M8 (for 8mm bolts): ID ~8.4mm, OD 17-24mm  

- M10 (most common): ID ~10.5mm, OD 20-30mm  

- M12: ID ~13mm, OD 24-36mm  

Always verify dimensions per your racking manufacturer’s specs.

Q3: What materials are used?

A:  

- Hot-Dip Galvanized Steel (HDG): Cost-effective, good corrosion resistance.  

- Stainless Steel (A2/304 or A4/316): Essential for coastal/harsh environments. A4/316 offers superior corrosion resistance.  

- Avoid plain carbon steel or non-compatible metals.

Q4: How Solar SUS304 Flat Washer thickness?

A: Typically 1.5–3mm. Thicker washers handle higher loads but require longer bolts. Follow racking system engineering specs.

Q5: What happens if I omit a washer?

A: Risks include:

- Crushed/damaged rails or panel frames.

- Loose connections due to vibration/thermal cycling.

- Accelerated galvanic corrosion.

- Structural failure or panel detachment.

Q6: Where are solar mounting flat washer used in solar arrays?

A: At every bolted connection:

- Rail splices & end clamps.

- Panel clamps to rails.

- Roof attachments (e.g., L-feet, flashing).

- Ground-mount foundations.