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The solar industry has developed rapidly in recent years, particularly with advances in solar tracking technology, which have significantly improved the energy conversion efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) power plants. Solar trackers adjust the angle of PV panels according to the sun’s position, ensuring optimal sunlight exposure and enhancing energy output. In this process, choosing the right bearing for trackers is essential for system performance and stability. Here, we will analyze why metal housing bearings are necessary for solar trackers.

1. Stability and Durability of Metal Housing Bearings

Solar trackers operate outdoors over long periods, facing harsh conditions such as wind, rain, and temperature fluctuations. Compared to other materials, metal housing bearings—typically made from aluminum alloys or stainless steel—offer superior rigidity and durability, withstanding extended loads and complex movement conditions. Particularly in high-wind or adverse weather conditions, metal housing bearings provide stability for the tracker, ensuring uninterrupted operation and extending the system’s lifespan.

2. Improved Heat Resistance for High-Temperature Environments

PV power plants are often located in areas with significant temperature variations and intense sunlight, such as deserts or plateaus. Metal housing bearings have much better heat resistance than plastic or other materials, preventing deformation due to temperature fluctuations and allowing for precise movement control in high-temperature environments. This characteristic makes metal housing bearings an ideal choice for PV tracking systems in hot regions, ensuring that power generation efficiency is not compromised by extreme temperatures.

3. High Load-Bearing Capacity for Diverse Application Scenarios

In PV tracking systems, bearings need to support not only the weight of solar panels but also withstand complex movement loads. Compared to non-metallic materials like plastic, metal bearings offer greater load-bearing capacity, effectively reducing wear or failure from excessive load. Additionally, metal housing bearings maintain their structural integrity even in low-temperature environments, avoiding brittleness or cracking due to cold, which enhances the adaptability of tracking systems and ensures reliable operation in extreme climates.

4. Self-Lubricating Materials Reduce Maintenance Requirements

Some metal housing bearings use self-lubricating materials, allowing for long-term operation without additional lubrication and reducing the need for manual maintenance. This feature is particularly valuable in remote or harsh environments, where fewer maintenance visits not only reduce operational costs but also improve system reliability, enabling trackers to operate smoothly in unattended conditions. Self-lubricating materials work better within metal housings, eliminating the hassle of frequent lubrication required by traditional bearings and greatly extending maintenance cycles.

5. Enhanced Structural Strength and Extended Lifespan of Metal Housing

Compared to other materials, metal housing bearings are more robust and reliable when handling high-intensity loads and frequent rotational movement. Their higher structural strength helps prevent wear and fatigue damage, thus extending the bearing’s lifespan. This reliability allows PV plants to maintain high power generation efficiency over long periods, reducing the risk of operational interruption due to bearing failure.

Conclusion

In summary, metal housing bearings, with their excellent stability, durability, load-bearing capacity, heat resistance, and self-lubricating properties, are the ideal choice for solar tracker bearings. Especially in harsh environments and complex climates, metal housing bearings effectively support the stable operation of solar trackers, improving the overall efficiency and reliability of PV systems. Therefore, selecting suitable metal housing bearings is crucial to the long-term benefits of PV power plants.