Protecting Renewable Energy Equipment from Harsh Environments
From small solar powered LED lighting to massive solar farms, as well as wind turbines of all sizes, critical components must be able to stand up to constant exposure to sun, rain, dew, humidity, wind, and dust for the life of the system.
The challenge is that the internal components, electronics, and wiring of solar panels, inverters, meters, cooling fans, racks, and wiring, as well as wind generators, rotor blades, and towers are susceptible to corrosion and electrolysis, which can compromise function and lifespan. Accumulated dust can also obscure solar panels, reducing their effectiveness in collecting energy from the sun.
In response, industry professionals are turning to a unique anti-corrosion protectant, cleaner, and lubricant called StrikeHold. The spray was originally developed to preserve and maintain U.S. military weapons and heavy equipment for use in some of the harshest working conditions in the world. Today it is used to protect circuit boards, electrical circuits, and metal components in corrosive environments while improving electrical continuity and contacts. The spray not only protects the wide range of renewable energy equipment comprised of such components, but also extends its usable life and facilitates more efficient energy conversion.
The use of StrikeHold has the potential to largely eliminate the effects of moisture, corrosion, and electrolysis in such equipment. The micro barrier that it forms on components is so complete that an electrical charge cannot be passed from the metal into water. It also improves electrical performance by cleaning and protecting contacts and internal parts, including circuitry and connections. The anti-corrosive protectant sprays on clear or applies wet and dries in place.
The protectant is designed to waterproof components and can even be used on equipment that is already wet in the field. Because it has a specific gravity greater than water, when applied to a wet surface it penetrates to the hard exterior, pushes water from the surface, and coats the area.
Since the cleaner has anti-static properties, dust, dirt, and grime do not adhere to it in the natural environment. Dust blown onto a treated surface blows off cleanly with wind or rain, leaving the coating intact.
As the variety and quantity of sustainable energy equipment continues to proliferate in harsh outdoor settings, getting the most out of the technology will require superior operations and maintenance procedures that protect the investment and enhance output over the long haul. Maintenance managers that utilize easy to apply compounds that safeguard against corrosion and electrolysis while increasing solar receptivity will have an advantage in the field and marketplace.
To obtain material for testing and use or technical information, contact Force 5 Products, LLC: Call Bobby Williams, Managing Director at 706-216-8224; call 866-331-0572 toll-free; or visit www.strikehold.com/pages/industrial or StrikeHold at www.amazon.com. StrikeHold is available at MSC Industrial Supply and Fastenal.
StrikeHold | https://www.strikehold.com
