Atom Voyagervideo
Solar Tracker - Manually adjustable marine solar panel mount
September 14, 2021 · 9 min · 10K views
What this video covers
Atom constructs a manually adjustable solar tracker mount to maximize output from 50-watt Renogy panels on a small sailboat. The assembly uses a 1.5-inch thick-walled tube welded to a 3/16-inch flat plate, secured to the pushpit rail with a Garhauer bracket.5:39 A universal U-bracket at the base allows for vertical or horizontal mounting on various deck angles.2:54 To prevent internal wire damage from over-rotation, a safety line limits the panel's movement to 360 degrees.6:47 The design replaces standard MC4 connectors with crimp-on spade connectors, allowing for quick removal of the panels during hurricane threats or long-term storage.1:14 Rubber corner caps glued with 3M Super Weatherstrip Adhesive protect against head injuries.7:59 Polishing the 316 stainless steel components reduces surface rust.5:26 Manually angling the panels toward the sun increases power generation by 30 percent or more, particularly when the boat is heeled or the sun is low on the horizon.3:38
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