Short answer
A strong elevated solar structure uses thick hot-dip galvanized steel, a zinc coating of 80 to 120 microns, rigid top-hat purlins, and a design rated for high winds. The SolarSpot OCTASHIELD structure uses 3 mm HDGI steel rated for 180 km/h winds.
Key Takeaways
- Steel thickness matters more than leg width for long-term strength.
- OCTASHIELD legs are made from 3 mm hot-dip galvanized (HDGI) steel.
- Hot-dip galvanizing of 80 to 120 microns protects the steel from rust.
- Top-hat purlins hold the panels rigidly along each row.
- The OCTASHIELD structure is rated for winds of up to 180 km/h.
What Is an Elevated Solar Structure?
An elevated solar structure is a steel frame that raises rooftop panels well above the roof surface, like a canopy. It lifts the panels clear of water tanks and parapet shade, and it keeps the terrace below usable for drying clothes, seating, or parking.
Why Does Steel Thickness Matter?
Thicker steel resists bending, denting, and fatigue from years of wind load. The OCTASHIELD structure uses 3 mm HDGI steel for its legs, and the legs are tapered octagonal columns that are wider at the base and narrower at the top.
What Is Hot-Dip Galvanizing?
Hot-dip galvanizing dips the finished steel into molten zinc, which bonds a protective layer to every surface, inside and out. A coating of 80 to 120 microns protects the steel from rust through monsoon rain and humid summers.
What Are Top-Hat Purlins?
Purlins are the horizontal members that carry the panels across the frame. Top-hat purlins have a closed, hat-shaped profile that stays rigid under load and gives each panel row a firm, even support.
How Do the Key Structure Specifications Compare?
| Specification | OCTASHIELD structure |
|---|---|
| Leg steel | 3 mm HDGI |
| Zinc coating | 80 to 120 microns, hot-dip galvanized |
| Leg profile | Tapered octagonal column |
| Purlins | Top-hat profile |
| Wind rating | Up to 180 km/h |
Specifications for the standard SolarSpot elevated structure.
The Bottom Line
A strong elevated solar structure uses thick hot-dip galvanized steel, a zinc coating of 80 to 120 microns, rigid top-hat purlins, and a design rated for high winds. The SolarSpot OCTASHIELD structure uses 3 mm HDGI steel rated for 180 km/h winds. Ask any installer for the steel thickness, zinc coating, purlin type, and wind rating in writing before you compare quotes.