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分类： Specialized Fastening Solutions for Photovoltaic Applications

Specialized Fastening Solutions for Photovoltaic Applications

  • How can we reduce the O&M costs of photovoltaic power plants caused by fastener failure?

    How can we reduce the O&M costs of photovoltaic power plants caused by fastener failure?

    How can we effectively reduce the O&M costs of solar power plants caused by fastener failure? The answer is actually quite clear: we must start with four core areas—design and selection, procurement oversight, installation standards, and monitoring and maintenance—to establish a systematic, full-lifecycle fastener management solution. Though small, fasteners act as the “joints” of a solar power plant. Their failure directly causes module displacement, frame tearing, mounting structure loosening, or even collapse, resulting in lost power generation, asset damage, and exorbitant repair costs. To control the resulting O&M costs, we cannot simply treat symptoms as they arise; instead, we must implement proactive, systematic prevention and control measures.

    The first step is to lay a solid foundation during the design and selection phase. This means scientifically selecting fastener materials and processes based on the specific environmental conditions of the power plant’s location. In coastal, high-humidity, or industrially polluted areas, priority should be given to materials with exceptional corrosion resistance, such as high-quality stainless steel (e.g., 316 grade) or hot-dip galvanized alloy steel, ensuring that coating thickness meets stringent environmental standards. In regions with heavy sand and dust or extreme temperature fluctuations, priority should be given to materials with high fatigue strength and resistance to both high and low temperatures. Additionally, designs should avoid direct contact between dissimilar metals to prevent electrochemical corrosion; where necessary, insulating washers or coatings should be used for isolation. The structural design of fasteners must also be optimized. For example, anti-loosening designs (such as lock nuts with nylon inserts or self-locking mechanisms like Spiro-Lock) should be adopted to minimize the risk of loosening caused by vibration at the source. Selecting models and specifications that perfectly match the component frames and bracket rails to ensure sufficient clamping force and load-bearing area is a prerequisite for preventing installation damage and connection failure.

    The second step is to establish strict procurement and incoming inspection standards to ensure that the physical quality of the products meets design expectations. Procurement decisions should not be based solely on price; instead, quality, reliability, and long-term performance must be the core considerations. Suppliers must be selected based on their good reputation and possession of relevant certifications (such as ISO standards, salt spray test reports, and mechanical performance test reports). Upon product arrival, conduct sampling inspections, focusing on verifying key parameters such as material composition, coating thickness, salt spray test duration, and torque coefficients. Establish a dedicated fastener ledger and implement batch management to ensure that the origin and performance data of every bolt and nut used can be traced. Preventing non-conforming products from entering the installation phase is a critical step in eliminating potential hazards for subsequent stages.

    The third step is to implement standardized installation procedures and process control. This is the core of transforming high-quality products into high-quality connections. Detailed installation work instructions must be developed for different types of fasteners (such as clamping bolts, bracket connection bolts, and anchor bolts), clearly specifying torque values, tightening sequences (such as diagonal tightening), and final inspection methods. Equip on-site construction personnel with calibrated torque wrenches and provide rigorous training to ensure they understand and follow standard procedures. Excessive torque may cause thread stripping or component deformation; insufficient torque directly leads to loose connections. During installation, consider using more precise control methods such as the torque-angle method or direct tension measurement. At the same time, maintain detailed installation records to provide raw data support for subsequent operation and maintenance.

    The fourth step is to establish a systematic regime of regular inspections, monitoring, and preventive maintenance. Once a power plant is operational, the condition of fasteners is not static. A detailed inspection plan should be developed to periodically check the tightness of critical connection points using professional tools (such as torque wrenches, ultrasonic force gauges, or even drones equipped with high-definition cameras for large-scale inspections). Inspection intervals should be dynamically adjusted based on environmental severity and the power plant’s operational phase; for example, inspections should be intensified during the initial commissioning phase and following extreme weather events. Any fasteners found to be loose must be retightened or replaced in accordance with standard procedures, and the causes of loosening must be analyzed. In addition, actively explore intelligent monitoring methods, such as installing smart washers or sensors at critical locations to monitor changes in preload in real time. This enables a transition from “scheduled maintenance” to “condition-based maintenance,” providing early warnings before failures occur and significantly reducing unplanned downtime and emergency repair costs.

    The fifth step is to establish a comprehensive technical documentation and knowledge management system. Create a dedicated fastener archive for the power plant, comprehensively recording all information from design selection and product specifications to installation data and the history of all inspection and maintenance activities. This serves not only as the basis for clarifying responsibilities and tracing quality issues but also as a valuable resource for continuously optimizing selection criteria and maintenance strategies through the analysis of historical data. Through in-depth analysis of failure cases, common issues and vulnerabilities are identified and fed back to the design, procurement, and installation phases, forming a closed-loop management system for continuous improvement.

    In summary, reducing the O&M costs of photovoltaic power plants caused by fastener failure is by no means a matter of relying on a single measure; rather, it is a systematic management project spanning the entire project lifecycle. It requires us to adopt a “how to address the issue” mindset and proactively coordinate efforts across five dimensions: “precise design and selection, standardized procurement and acceptance, standardized installation and construction, institutionalized monitoring and maintenance, and systematized knowledge management.” Only by elevating fastener solutions to a strategic level that ensures the safe, stable, and efficient operation of power plants, and by preventing problems through meticulous management, can we minimize the high costs of post-failure repairs and ensure that photovoltaic power plants achieve optimal levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and return on investment (ROI) throughout their entire lifecycle.

  • How can we address the issue of frequent wear and tear on the fasteners of solar tracking systems?

    How can we address the issue of frequent wear and tear on fasteners in solar tracking systems? This requires us to tackle the root causes of wear and implement a systematic, professional solution. Photovoltaic tracking systems are exposed to the elements for extended periods, enduring wind loads, snow loads, diurnal temperature fluctuations, UV aging, and continuous repetitive motion. Since the wear of their fasteners is not caused by a single factor, the solution must be multifaceted, involving comprehensive optimization from material selection and structural design to installation processes and post-installation maintenance.

    First, what should be done? The answer is to upgrade the fastener materials and surface treatment processes. Standard carbon steel fasteners are highly susceptible to corrosion and wear in harsh environments. The solution is to select higher-grade weather-resistant materials, such as austenitic stainless steel (e.g., A2-70, A4-80) or high-strength alloy steel (e.g., Grade 8.8, Grade 10.9, and above), which offer excellent tensile strength and corrosion resistance. Furthermore, fasteners can undergo specialized surface treatments, such as Dacromet (zinc-chromium coating), hot-dip galvanizing, or more advanced multi-alloy diffusion coating technologies. These coatings not only effectively block corrosive agents, but their high hardness and low coefficient of friction also significantly reduce material loss caused by fretting wear, thereby fundamentally extending the service life of the fasteners.

    Second, what should be done? The answer lies in optimizing the structural design and locking methods of fasteners. Traditional bolts and nuts are prone to loosening under continuous vibration, and the resulting freethatching displacement between components can drastically accelerate wear. Therefore, specialized anti-loosening designs must be implemented. This includes using high-torque locking nuts (such as nylon-insert nuts or all-metal locking nuts), Spiro-Lock self-locking thread technology, or combining high-elasticity disc spring washers with pre-applied thread-locking adhesive. These designs ensure that fasteners maintain a stable preload under long-term vibration, eliminating relative sliding caused by loosening—a critical step in breaking the wear cycle.

    So, what should be done? The answer lies in implementing precise installation and torque control. Even the best fasteners will fail prematurely if installed improperly. The solution is to establish strict installation procedures and mandate the use of calibrated torque wrenches or hydraulic wrenches during installation. Installation torque must be applied precisely according to design requirements and fastener specifications. Insufficient torque results in inadequate preload, making loosening more likely; excessive torque may elongate the bolt or damage the threads, leading to stress concentration and premature fatigue failure. Only precise installation allows the fastener’s anti-loosening and wear-resistant properties to be fully realized.

    So, what should be done? The answer lies in conducting systematic structural dynamics analysis and implementing localized reinforcement. The drive components and slewing bearing connection points of photovoltaic tracking systems are often the most severely affected areas by wear. The solution is to utilize tools such as finite element analysis during the design phase to simulate the force conditions the system experiences under wind-induced vibrations and during motion, thereby identifying critical nodes prone to stress concentration and wear. For these areas, targeted reinforcement measures can be implemented, such as using larger-sized fasteners, increasing the number of fastening points, employing tapped-hole bolts to withstand shear forces, or designing specialized anti-wear bushings and shims to convert sliding friction into rolling friction or utilize wear-resistant materials to withstand wear.

    So, what should be done next? The answer is to establish a preventive inspection and maintenance program. Wear is a gradual process, and regular inspections can nip it in the bud. The solution is to develop a detailed maintenance manual specifying periodic (e.g., quarterly or semi-annual) visual inspections, torque re-checks, and necessary repairs to anti-corrosion coatings for all critical fasteners in the tracking system. The alignment line method can be utilized by drawing a reference line on fasteners and connectors; observing whether the lines are misaligned allows for a quick determination of loosening. Once signs of wear or loosening are detected, replacement with spare parts of the original or superior specifications should be performed immediately to prevent the problem from escalating.

    Finally, what should be done? The answer lies in advancing the system’s intelligence and implementing condition monitoring. For large-scale PV power plants, manual inspections have limited efficiency. A more cutting-edge solution involves integrating sensor technology, such as embedding tiny wireless strain sensors within critical bolts or using vibration sensors to monitor structural anomalies. This data can be transmitted in real time to an O&M platform, where algorithms analyze trends in preload changes to enable predictive maintenance. Automatic alerts are triggered when fastener performance approaches thresholds, allowing intervention before wear causes failure. This transforms reactive repair into proactive maintenance, maximizing system operational safety and power generation revenue.

    In summary, there is no “silver bullet” that provides a permanent solution to the problem of frequent fastener wear in photovoltaic tracking systems; rather, it is a systematic engineering effort spanning the entire lifecycle—from design and selection to installation, operation, and maintenance. What is the solution? The key lies in abandoning the outdated notion of treating fasteners as “minor components” and instead recognizing them as “critical functional components” that impact system reliability and lifespan. By adopting high-performance materials, innovative anti-loosening designs, standardized installation procedures, reinforced critical joints, regular maintenance, and the integration of smart monitoring, we can build a robust defense system. This will significantly reduce wear rates, ensure the stable and efficient operation of PV tracking systems for twenty years or more, and ultimately lay a solid foundation for the long-term return on investment of the power plant.

  • How can we develop a cost-effective and reliable fastening solution tailored to distributed solar projects?

    How can we develop a cost-effective and reliable fastening solution tailored to distributed solar projects?

    How can we develop a cost-effective and reliable fastening solution tailored to distributed solar projects? This requires systematic thinking and action across multiple dimensions, including project requirements, product selection, design optimization, and full-lifecycle management. A successful fastening solution is far more than simply purchasing bolts and nuts; it is a precision engineering process that spans the entire project lifecycle—from design and installation to operation and maintenance. Its core objective is to achieve optimal total lifecycle costs while ensuring structural safety and long-term reliability.

    How can this be achieved? First, we must precisely define the project’s unique requirements. Distributed PV projects present complex and diverse scenarios, with significant variations in roof materials (color-coated steel sheets, concrete, asphalt roofing), load conditions, climatic environments (wind pressure, snow load, corrosion), and panel types and layouts. Therefore, the first step in developing a customized solution is to conduct an in-depth on-site survey and assessment. We must ask ourselves: What is the roof’s actual load-bearing capacity? What are the local 50-year return period wind and snow loads? Are there corrosive factors in the air, such as salt fog or industrial pollutants? How skilled is the installation team? Only by clarifying these boundary conditions can the design of the fastening solution have a solid foundation, avoiding the hidden risks or waste caused by a “one-size-fits-all” approach.

    What should be done? The key lies in selecting professional fastening products that are highly suited to the specific scenario. PV fasteners constitute a specialized niche and cannot be substituted with ordinary standard fasteners. For common color-coated steel roofs, specialized brackets and fasteners with excellent waterproof sealing performance should be selected. The weather resistance and compression set of the rubber gasket material are critical, as they directly determine whether leaks will occur over the next few decades. For concrete foundations, attention must be paid to the seismic resistance and pull-out resistance of anchor bolts, as well as the durability of chemical anchor adhesives. Regarding materials, hot-dip galvanizing is the standard. In coastal or highly corrosive environments, higher-grade coatings (such as Al-Mg-Zn) or stainless steel must be considered. When making selections, suppliers must be required to provide authoritative third-party test reports—such as salt spray test reports and mechanical property test reports—to verify reliability through data, rather than relying solely on price or verbal promises.

    What should be done? Systematic connection design and mechanical verification are essential. A fastening solution is not isolated; it forms an integrated structural system with the support structure and component frames. Professional engineers or established design software must be used to accurately calculate wind loads, snow loads, and dead loads to determine the stress at each fastening point. Based on these stress analysis results, select fasteners of the appropriate grade and determine their specifications, quantity, installation torque, and spacing. Special attention must be paid to preventing electrochemical corrosion; for example, direct contact between aluminum brackets and standard steel bolts should be avoided by using insulating washers or compatible materials. An economical design avoids material waste caused by over-engineering while ensuring a safety margin, reducing costs through optimized layout and component selection.

    What should be done? Great importance must be placed on standardization and quality control during the installation phase. Even the best fasteners will be rendered useless if installed improperly. Installation teams must be provided with clear and easy-to-understand work instructions and training, particularly for critical operations such as setting and calibrating electric torque wrenches, cleaning holes and injecting adhesive for chemical anchors, and the correct positioning of sealing washers. Establish a strict on-site quality inspection system and conduct spot checks of tightening torque to ensure that every connection point meets the design specifications. Reliable installation is the final—and crucial—step in turning a “reliable solution” from blueprints into reality.

    What should be done? We must extend our focus to the project’s entire lifecycle and conduct a comprehensive cost analysis. Economic viability cannot be judged solely by initial procurement costs. A fastener that is inexpensive but has poor corrosion resistance may rust and fail within five years, leading to high repair and replacement costs, or even causing component damage or safety incidents. True economic reliability involves calculating the total cost of ownership over an operational period of 25 years or longer. This includes initial procurement costs, installation labor costs, future maintenance costs, and the risk costs associated with potential power generation losses due to fastener failure. Sometimes, increasing the initial investment to select products with longer lifespans and maintenance-free features is actually the more economical choice in the long run.

    What should be done? Actively leverage the technical service capabilities of professional suppliers. An excellent fastener solution provider is not merely a product seller but a technical partner. They should offer one-stop services ranging from site surveys, solution design, and mechanical calculations to installation guidance and post-installation maintenance consulting. By collaborating with such partners, project owners can bridge their knowledge gaps in technical details and jointly develop the most optimized solutions. When selecting a partner, evaluate their industry experience, successful case studies, and the professional background of their technical team.

    What should be done? Finally, establish a robust documentation management system and foster a culture of post-installation maintenance. Systematically archive all relevant materials, including finalized fastening solution drawings, product specifications and models, test reports, and installation records. Clearly define the inspection cycles and key checkpoints for the fastening system in the project operation and maintenance manual. Conduct regular inspections to check for signs of loosening or corrosion, thereby preventing potential issues before they arise.

    In summary, developing an economical and reliable fastening solution tailored to distributed PV projects is a systematic endeavor that requires a rigorous approach and specialized expertise. It begins with precise needs analysis, is realized through scientific selection and design, is secured by standardized installation and construction, and ultimately delivers its value through meticulous management throughout the entire lifecycle. The core process involves: in-depth site analysis, professional product selection, precise design, standardized construction, and comprehensive monitoring throughout the entire process. Only by adhering to a technology-driven approach and considering the big picture can we ensure that the PV power plant stands firm and stable throughout its long operational life, thereby maximizing safety and returns.

  • How can we improve the overall seismic resistance of fasteners in photovoltaic arrays?

    How can we improve the overall seismic performance of fasteners in photovoltaic arrays? This requires a systematic, comprehensive strategy that addresses multiple aspects—including fastener selection, design, installation, maintenance, and system coordination—to effectively address the challenges posed by dynamic loads such as earthquakes.

    First, what should be done? The answer begins with scientific material selection and optimized design. For fasteners in photovoltaic arrays—such as bolts, nuts, clamps, and bracket connectors—the mechanical properties of the materials themselves form the foundation of seismic resistance. Priority should be given to high-strength, high-toughness, and corrosion-resistant materials, such as high-strength stainless steel or carbon steel treated with special surface corrosion protection (e.g., hot-dip galvanizing or Dacromet coating). These materials not only resist long-term environmental corrosion and prevent strength degradation caused by corrosion but also maintain good ductility under the alternating stresses generated by earthquakes, thereby preventing brittle fracture. In terms of design, the structure of fasteners must undergo specialized seismic calculations and simulation analyses to ensure they can withstand combined tensile, compressive, shear, and torsional forces at the design intensity. For example, anti-loosening designs (such as lock nuts with nylon inserts, S-lock thread structures, or combinations of double nuts with spring washers) are key to preventing loosening caused by vibration. The design of clamping fixtures should fully consider the compatibility of the component frames and the uniform distribution of clamping force to avoid stress concentration. At the same time, incorporating elastic elements with a certain degree of deformation capacity or damping designs can absorb and dissipate seismic energy within a certain range, thereby reducing the forces transmitted to the main structure.

    Second, what should be done? The key lies in precise and standardized installation procedures. Even the most excellent fasteners will see their performance significantly compromised if installed improperly. Construction must strictly adhere to design drawings and installation specifications. This includes using calibrated torque wrenches to ensure every bolt reaches the preset tightening torque value. Insufficient torque leads to loose connections, while excessive torque may cause the bolt to yield or damage the threads—both of which severely weaken seismic resistance. For bolts in critical areas, it may even be necessary to consider using the torque-angle method for more precise control. During installation, ensure that connection surfaces are clean and level to prevent loss of preload due to debris or unevenness. Furthermore, the installation accuracy of the entire mounting system is critical. It is essential to ensure that the verticality of the columns, the levelness of the crossbeams, and the overall geometric dimensions meet specifications, allowing loads to be transferred along the designed path and avoiding the generation of additional secondary stresses.

    Furthermore, what should be done? It is essential to prioritize the seismic coordination between the mounting system and the foundation. Fasteners do not exist in isolation; they serve as critical connection points linking photovoltaic modules, mounting systems, and foundations. To enhance overall seismic performance, fasteners must be considered within the context of the entire structural system. The structural configuration of the mounting system (e.g., fixed, adjustable, or tracking) and its mechanical model directly influence the stress state of the fasteners. During design, calculations should ensure that the mounting system possesses sufficient stiffness, strength, and overall stability, and its natural frequency should avoid the site’s dominant seismic frequencies to prevent resonance amplification effects. The connection and fastening between the foundation and ground anchors are of paramount importance. Based on geological survey reports, appropriate foundation types (such as concrete foundations, screw piles, or micro-hole cast-in-place piles) must be selected, and it must be ensured that the anchorage depth, specifications, and corrosion protection of anchor bolts or embedded parts meet seismic requirements. The entire system, from components to foundations, should form a complete structure with clearly defined load-bearing mechanisms and load transfer paths, with fasteners serving as reliable “joints” within it.

    So, what should be done? Strict quality control and full-lifecycle maintenance are essential. From pre-shipment quality inspections of fasteners (including material reports, mechanical property testing, and corrosion-resistant coating inspections) to on-site acceptance upon arrival, every step must be rigorously enforced. It is recommended to establish a quality traceability record for critical fasteners. During the operation of a PV power plant, regular inspection and maintenance plans should be formulated. Particularly after extreme weather events such as strong winds or earthquakes, a comprehensive inspection of the array’s fasteners must be conducted to check for signs of loosening, deformation, corrosion, or fracture. Diagnostic tools such as torque wrenches and ultrasonic testing should be utilized. For fasteners found to be defective, they should be tightened, replaced, or otherwise reinforced in a timely manner. Regular maintenance not only eliminates safety hazards immediately but also accumulates data, providing a basis for optimizing future design and operations and maintenance.

    Finally, what should be done? We must rely on technological innovation and the refinement of standards. The industry should actively research, develop, and apply new types of high-performance seismic-resistant fasteners, such as shape-memory alloy fasteners and smart bolts (capable of real-time monitoring of preload status). At the same time, efforts should be made to establish and refine specialized standards and specifications for the selection, design, construction, and acceptance of fasteners in photovoltaic power plants, particularly those built in earthquake-prone areas. Seismic performance should be incorporated as a core metric into the evaluation system, guiding the industry chain to upgrade from “meeting basic functional requirements” to “ensuring safety and reliability throughout the entire lifecycle.”

    In summary, enhancing the overall seismic performance of photovoltaic array fasteners is a systematic endeavor that spans the entire process of design, manufacturing, installation, and operation and maintenance. How can this be achieved? The answer lies in selecting high-quality, seismic- and corrosion-resistant materials with anti-loosening designs; implementing precise and standardized installation procedures; ensuring that the mounting structures and foundation systems bear loads in concert; conducting rigorous full-cycle quality monitoring and maintenance; and continuously driving technological innovation and the development of standards. Only by doing so can every component of the PV array be securely fastened, ensuring it remains standing firm even during violent earthquakes, safeguarding the long-term safe and stable operation of the power plant, and laying a solid foundation for the clean energy sector.

  • How can we extend the service life of fasteners in coastal solar power plants?

    How can we extend the service life of fasteners in coastal solar power plants?

    How can we extend the service life of fasteners in coastal solar power plants? The answer is actually quite clear: we must adopt a targeted, comprehensive solution that addresses multiple aspects, including material selection, design optimization, installation techniques, post-installation maintenance, and system protection. The coastal environment is extremely harsh on metal fasteners; high salt fog, high humidity, intense UV radiation, and temperature fluctuations collectively act as a “corrosion accelerator.” Therefore, extending their service life cannot be achieved through a single measure but requires a systematic approach involving full lifecycle management.

    What should be done? The first step is to select truly corrosion-resistant materials. For coastal solar power plants, ordinary galvanized carbon steel fasteners are far from sufficient. The material grade must be upgraded. The preferred option is high-quality stainless steel, such as 316 or 316L stainless steel, which contains molybdenum and offers significantly better resistance to chloride ion pitting and crevice corrosion than 304 stainless steel. For critical areas with higher load requirements, duplex stainless steel can be considered. Secondly, carbon steel components treated with hot-dip galvanizing followed by a sealing coating (such as chromium-free zinc-aluminum coatings like Dacromet or Jumeite) are also a cost-effective option; the coating provides dual protection for the base metal through sacrificial anode protection and a physical barrier. The use of ordinary black metal fasteners without adequate protection must be strictly avoided.

    What should be done? Corrosion prevention must be integrated into the fastener design and selection phase. This includes prioritizing designs that minimize water accumulation and salt retention. For example, use hex socket head cap screws rather than hex head bolts whenever possible to reduce exposed surface area and water-retaining depressions. Washers should be selected from materials compatible with the bolts, and combinations featuring sealing rings or polyurethane washers should be considered to prevent corrosive media from entering the threaded connection. The design must also ensure sufficient preload and account for anti-loosening requirements under long-term vibration and wind loads, as loosening exacerbates fretting wear, damages protective coatings, and accelerates corrosion.

    What should be done? Strictly standardized installation procedures are key to ensuring that the design’s protective performance is achieved. During installation, the correct tools must be used to ensure precise torque—neither too tight, which could damage the coating or strip the bolt threads, nor too loose, which could cause connection failure. Extra care must be taken when installing coated fasteners to avoid scratching the coating during the process. For certain specific coatings or materials, secondary sealing or recoating may even be required at the thread heads or notches after installation to repair installation damage. Additionally, installation should ideally be conducted during dry periods with low salt fog levels, and direct hand contact with the cleaned fastener surfaces should be avoided to prevent contamination from sweat.

    What should be done? Establishing a proactive, periodic inspection and maintenance system is crucial. One should not assume that installing high-performance fasteners guarantees a permanent solution. A detailed inspection plan should be developed, utilizing methods such as high-definition drone imaging and close-range manual inspections to regularly check for rust, coating blistering or peeling, and signs of loosening. Any early signs of corrosion or loosening must be addressed immediately. Maintenance measures include cleaning surface salt deposits, professionally repairing localized coating damage, and retightening or replacing loose fasteners to the specified torque. This “early detection, early intervention” strategy effectively prevents minor issues from escalating into structural safety hazards.

    What should be done? In addition to the fasteners themselves, a better microenvironment can be created for them from a system protection perspective. For example, in the design of PV mounting systems, consideration should be given to overall drainage and water flow to prevent seawater or condensation from accumulating at connection points. For certain particularly critical areas or those with extremely high corrosion risks, additional protective measures can be considered, such as wrapping with anti-corrosion tape, applying heavy-duty anti-corrosion coatings, or employing cathodic protection technology. Although these measures increase initial costs, their long-term benefits are significant in ensuring the safe operation of the power plant for over 25 years.

    In summary, there is no magic “one-size-fits-all” solution for extending the service life of fasteners in coastal PV power plants. So, what should be done? The answer is: Lay a solid foundation by selecting materials such as 316 stainless steel or high-quality coatings; optimize the approach by improving water drainage design; fasten everything securely through standardized installation; regularly inspect and maintain the system; and supplement these efforts with necessary system-wide protection. Only by seamlessly integrating these five aspects into a comprehensive management cycle can we effectively withstand the corrosive effects of the harsh marine environment, ensure the long-term stability and reliability of the PV power plant’s fastening system, and thereby lay a solid foundation for the plant’s sustained operation and stable returns.