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Topic: VHB source? (Read 2 times) previous topic - next topic
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Re: VHB source?
Reply #1 –
Yahoo Message Number: 129959
"I know VHB has been mentioned often for mounting solar panels to the roof. Which type of VHB? There are many"

Mike

You want the foam tape.
http://www.amazon.com/3M-4941-Double-Sided-Acrylic-Yards/dp/B004V40IUS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1334782104&sr=8-2>
 I do not see the purpose in using tape, other than being cleaner to work with, when straight polyurethane adhesive (3M 5200) does a great job of securing panels to the roof. The poly has a stronger grip and is a lot cheaper.
 Driving a screw or two through each of the panel's feet is also a good idea and don't get upset, the Factory does the same thing. As I have said before, the roof is covered with dozens of holes that have been properly sealed. Just make sure any new penetrations are properly sealed.
The reason why I like screwing the feet down to to keep the panels from floating  and bouncing, while driving. The roof's sheet aluminum is not bonded to the plywood decking. Panels attached only to the sheet aluminum can lift up and bounce, as the wind and road surfaces vary. Not sure if that causes problems but who want to find out? I know that secured panels do not cause problems.

Larry
As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
2001 MB
* Not to be confused with Larry W (3000 of my posts are actually from expert Larry W due to Yahoo transition mis-step)
Re: VHB source?
Reply #3 –
Yahoo Message Number: 151722
I installed a new panel last month and called AM Solar with this same question. They use VHB 4950. They also cover each foot in polyurethane caulk but they don't use screws.

If you look at 3M's site they claim it replaces screws and rivets.

http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/Adhesives/Tapes/Products/~/3M-VHB-Tape-4950?N=6105+3294310419+3294314414&rt=rud

I purchased it on Ebay.

Jim C
Re: VHB source?
Reply #4 –
Yahoo Message Number: 151742
"what size screws would you use to secure the panels on the roof?"

#8 or #10 X 1" stainless-steel sheet-metal screws.
Make sure the surface is clean.
Try to mount the panels so they are protected from passing tree branches (the solar panel's arch enemy).
The open gap on the front and outside sides are less protected. If concerned, open edges can be armored with 2" X 2" aluminum angle.
 https://www.flickr.com/photos/lwade/1415589055/in/set-72157602104742393 Air gaps under panels allows cooling and better panel summer time efficiency, so don't over-do the edging.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze