Arctech, the global leader in solar tracking and racking solutions, garnered significant attention at the Renewable Energy India Expo (REI) 2024, held from 3rd to 5th October in Greater Noida. The company’s exceptional India team showcased four flagship products: the 1P solar tracking system SkyLine II, the 1P dual-row solar tracking system SkyWings, the newly developed Intelligent PV Cleaning Robot, and an innovative polymer material frame for PV modules. Of these, the Intelligent PV Cleaning Robot stood out as the star of the event.
A Breakthrough in Solar Panel Cleaning Technology
Arctech’s Intelligent PV Cleaning Robot, developed entirely in-house, boasts several unique features that set it apart from other market solutions.
One of the key innovations is the integration of the cleaning robot with the solar tracker system. This collaboration optimizes the robot’s operational path for cleaning solar modules, ensuring a streamlined process. The robot’s shutdown platform is specifically designed to align with the solar tracker’s spindle, reducing the number of posts required by 40% and thus significantly cutting platform costs. This seamless integration prevents operational interruptions and protects the solar panels from damage during cleaning.
The robot’s structure, made from high-strength composite materials, is over 30% lighter than traditional cleaning machines. This reduction in weight decreases the risk of module damage and ensures the robot performs consistently after 20,000 cycles. Additionally, its patented drive design ensures smooth, quiet operation with minimal maintenance. The robot is equipped with an AI-powered intelligent walking correction system, straight-running anti-fall safety features, and a two-wheel stop mechanism to withstand winds up to 50m/s.
Advanced Design for Versatility and Durability
The robot also includes a four-wheel drive system to prevent twisting and to climb hills up to 20 degrees. The robot is capable of crossing obstacles up to 50mm and handling module angle deflections of ±20 degrees. Equipped with light-sensitive sensors to prevent accidental activation, it guarantees safe and efficient cleaning operations. Its compatibility with various panel array spacings and telescopic anti-fall bridge design allows for seamless integration with different solar panels and easy installation of solar trackers.
Arctech’s Intelligent PV Cleaning Robot is set for mass production, with the first batch scheduled to be shipped to India in early November 2024.
Innovative Solar Tracking Solutions
Arctech’s SkyLine II and SkyWings solar tracking systems also received significant attention at REI 2024. The SkyLine II, a 1P solar tracking system, is designed to adapt to India’s diverse terrain, ensuring maximum energy generation. SkyWings, the world’s first dual-row tracker, enhances energy generation while maintaining optimal tilt for cleaning robots, making it ideal for India’s arid climate. These systems feature a multi-point drive mechanism that enhances efficiency and reduces the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) for solar plants.
Additionally, Arctech showcased its polymer material frames for PV modules, renowned for their robust mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, and excellent insulation properties. These frames help prevent Potential Induced Degradation (PID), ensuring long-term stability for solar modules.
A Strong Market Presence
With over nine years of experience in the Indian market and a portfolio exceeding 10GW, Arctech is well-positioned to continue driving innovation in solar tracking and cleaning technologies. The company’s cutting-edge solutions are set to further enhance solar project performance in India and beyond.
