Design and installation of floating type photovoltaic energy generation system using FRP members

Abstract

In this paper, we present the result of investigations pertaining to the development of floating type photovoltaic energy generation system. For the floating structure, durable and light-weight materials such as a pultruded FRP composite material are essential. Pultruded FRP has superior mechanical properties and excellent corrosion resistance compared with those of conventional structural materials. In the paper, we discussed the development concepts of the floating type photovoltaic energy generation system briefly. The mechanical properties of the FRP structural member used in the structural system are investigated through the tensile and shear tests. Test results are used in the finite element analysis and design of the system. Link system which is composed of pultruded FRP, used tire, and PE rope is also analyzed by the finite element method. Finally, floating type photovoltaic energy generation system is designed, fabricated, and installed successfully at the sea site in Korea. In addition, the energy production of floating PV energy generation system is measured and compared with that of land type plant. Energy productions of floating type from June to August are significantly higher, but the energy productions from September to October are lower. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.