SunRotor Solar Pump - Mounting Pole Guide for Top-Of-Pole Mounts

Page 9 www.sunrotor.com
to be placed higher than approximately 6 feet (2m), it is advisable to weld its mounting pipe to
another pipe one size larger, to tolerate wind loads. Refer to your rack manufacturer’s instructions.
PLEASE NOTE: adding additional panels and using a fixed position mount is normally more economical
than solar tracking systems. The increased production from extra panels compensates for the lack of
tracking, and eliminates the extra costs of having to repair and maintain the tracking system. Please
consult your Authorized SunRotor
®
Dealer for more information.
5.5 MOUNTING POLE GUIDE FOR TOP-OF-POLE MOUNTS
The following table provides guidelines for an average installation. Soil type varies widely from one
region to another. The actual depth and diameter of the hole and the amount of concrete used is very
dependent on soil type. Installations in loose, sandy soil will require a larger, deeper hole with more
concrete than an installation in hard, rocky soil. The height of the above ground section of the pole
and the wind speeds in the area also play an important role in determining the depth and diameter of
the hole. If in doubt, it is recommended that a civil engineer familiar with the area and local soil
conditions is consulted.
FIGURE 5-1 MOUNTING POLE GUIDE
Module
Area
Pole Size
(Steel Pipe)
Depth
in Ground
Height*
Above Ground
Hole
Diameter
15 SQ. FT.
2" SCH40 (2-3/8" OD)
30"-36"
48"-72"
8"-12"
20 SQ. FT.
2.5" SCH40 (2-7/8" OD)
34"-40"
48"-72"
10"-14"
28 SQ. FT
3" SCH40 (3-1/2" OD)
36"-42"
48"-72"
12"-16"
35 SQ. FT.
3" SCH40 (3-1/2" OD)
38"-44"
60"-72"
12"-16"
60 SQ. FT.
4" SCH40 (4-1/2" OD)
42"-48"
60"-72"
16"-24"
90 SQ. FT.
6" SCH40 (6-5/8" OD)
48"-60"
60"-84"
24"-30"
120 SQ. FT.
6" SCH40 (6-5/8" OD)
48"-72"
72"-84"
24"-30"
160 SQ. FT.
8" SCH40 (8-5/8" OD)
60"-78"
84"-102"
30"-36"
180 SQ. FT.
8" SCH40 (8-5/8" OD)
60"-78"
84"-102"
30"-36"
`225 SQ. FT.
8" SCH80 (8-5/8" OD)
72"-84"
96"-120"
36"
260 SQ. FT.
8" SCH80 (8-5/8" OD)
72"-84"
96"-120"
36"
* If a taller pole is needed for snow clearance or to clear nearby obstructions, the hole should be deeper to allow
more of the pole to be placed in the ground. For each extra foot added above the ground, an increase of
approximately 6” (with concrete) will be needed in the ground.
General Procedure: When the hole is ready, place the pole inside until it is resting on the bottom of
the hole. It is a good idea to fill the bottom 2 to 4 inches of the hole with rocks. Brace the pole plumb
and pour concrete around it until it is filled up to ground level. Next, pour a little extra concrete on
top, and using a trowel, start forming a mound around the pole so that the concrete slopes away from
the pole. Allow the concrete to set up for at least 24 hours before installing the mounting rack.