Fixed-tilt steel frames and foundation connections for project supply
Fixed ground-mounted racks combine steel posts, inclined beams, braces and rails around the selected module layout. We supply the table steel with specified module attachments and foundation connections, including the different post lengths or support details needed across site terrain.
A fixed rack consists of the support frame, module rails or supports, attachment hardware and the connection to its foundations. The component list below separates these parts for complete tables or replacement orders.
| Order item | Supplied pieces | Quantity basis |
|---|---|---|
| Support frame | Posts, inclined beams, diagonal braces and support members | Member list for each rack/table mark |
| Rails and module supports | Steel or specified aluminum rails, splices and rail connections | Rail lengths, support positions and splice counts |
| Module retention | Scheduled clamps or bolt attachments with matching hardware | Module/frame attachment schedule |
| Frame connections | Head brackets, gussets, plates, bolts, nuts and washers | Connection detail and piece count |
| Foundation interfaces | Specified pile-head or anchored-base connection parts | Foundation location and interface schedule |
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The rack package can include pile-head or anchored-base connection parts. PV modules, electrical equipment and site foundation work are separate project supplies.
Module orientation, table width, tilt and row spacing define the rack geometry. Foundation locations and head levels establish the support points. On sloping ground, those points can require different post lengths within the same array.
A driven steel post needs the specified head elevation and connection face after installation. The rack detail identifies the bolted head bracket, hole pattern and any permitted level adjustment. Post embedment and the ground acceptance criteria remain part of the foundation design.
The pile-head plate or adapter connects the selected foundation to the rack post or beam. Its bolt centers, orientation and contact face must match both parts. Screw length, helix arrangement and installation criteria belong to the accepted foundation schedule; a matching top flange alone does not establish capacity.
Specify the two mating interfaces with the selected pile head or bracket before releasing the rack and foundation lists.
An anchored base uses the approved bolt pattern, base elevation and steel connection detail. The quoted rack steel identifies the base plate or foot and the anchor-related parts supplied with it. Concrete work and installed anchor positions are coordinated with the site contractor.
Stepped tables and varied post lengths accommodate changes in level. The connection drawing locates the intended adjustment at each support, so terrain changes are addressed in the steel geometry before site assembly.
Posts and inclined beams carry the main frame loads; braces connect those members and stabilize the table geometry. Each position uses the section, grade and thickness selected in the rack design.
Steel or aluminum rails carry the module attachment points above the support frame. Rail profile, length, splice location and support spacing are coordinated with the module layout. The selected route also fixes the rail-to-beam brackets and their hardware.
Head brackets, gussets and rail-support plates have their own geometry, holes and material requirements. Shop-welded pieces and loose bolted connection parts are listed separately. That distinction determines what arrives assembled and what the installer joins on site.
Module-retention fasteners and structural rack bolts perform different jobs. Their grade, coating, thread engagement and tightening requirements follow the actual joint and adjoining materials.
The corrosion schedule identifies the coating route for the posts, fabricated brackets, rails and fasteners. Batch galvanizing after fabrication and continuously galvanized sheet are different specifications. A sheet-coating designation such as G90 describes coating weight on both faces; it is not a 90 µm coating requirement for every rack member.
| Measured steel thickness (mm) | Structural shape (µm) | Pipe/tubing (µm) | Plate (µm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 65 | 45 | 65 |
| 5 | 75 | 75 | 75 |
| 8 | 100 | 75 | 75 |
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These ASTM A123/A123M-24 reference values apply to batch-galvanized steel in the stated material category. They are minimum average coating requirements, not stocked member sizes or individual inspection readings. The order specifies the actual member thickness, coating route and exposure requirements; continuously coated rails and separate fasteners use their stated specifications.
Module retention is fixed around the selected module model and its installation manual. The rail arrangement puts the support and attachment points in the approved positions, while the table assembly drawing identifies how those rails connect to the steel frame.
Clamped modules need the correct bearing length, frame overlap and permitted clamp zones. A bolted module connection uses the manufacturer’s designated mounting holes and its specified hardware. Neither route relies on frame height alone to establish the attachment.
Module drain openings, junction boxes and cable routes need usable clearance around the rack. For bifacial modules, the rear-side support arrangement follows the selected module and array design. Steel members and cable supports are positioned together so the frame does not obstruct required access.
For a bifacial array, the fixed-tilt racking layout guide compares row geometry, rear-side conditions and the resulting material quantities.
Cut ends, drilled holes and welded brackets prepare the frame for site bolting. Part marks connect the posts, beams, braces and rails to the assembly drawing, including pieces that differ between terrain blocks.
EPC teams can purchase the rack steel while a separate contractor installs the foundations. Matching head elevations and bolt patterns let the two packages meet at a defined connection.
Additional tables and replacement beams can be ordered without replacing the existing array. New parts must fit the retained rails, modules and foundation connections; the existing rack drawing or measured interface supplies that geometry.
Inspection checks member profiles, cut lengths, hole positions and bearing faces against the rack drawings, including terrain-specific posts.
Material records cover the steel and aluminum actually supplied. Coating checks distinguish batch-galvanized members from continuously coated rails and separately finished fasteners.
For an order requiring listed mounting or bonding components, the record identifies the actual system, module/frame and evaluated function. A UL 2703 reference does not by itself cover every substituted clamp, rail or lug, or establish the foundation’s structural acceptance. Required approval records are matched to the purchased configuration.
Clamps, splices, brackets and loose fasteners are counted against the table quantities before packing.
The price covers the selected frame, rails, attachments and foundation-interface parts, with finish, packing and freight stated separately.
Posts, beams and braces are grouped by rack mark and array block. Rails use supports that protect their profile; small hardware is boxed against the corresponding table quantities.
Capacity supports an initial estimate. A component price needs the module count, table arrangement, support positions and foundation connection; these determine the quantity of steel and hardware.
Yes. Head brackets, rail connectors or module-retention parts can be quoted for a trial fit with the selected mating components.
Yes. Their profiles and attachment details are incorporated into the rack connections. The order identifies the parts supplied by each party.
Share your array layout, module data and foundation connection details, with table quantities and the delivery destination. We quote the rack steel and specified rails, attachments and foundation parts, with coating, required records and shipment terms identified.