Compact Vertical Slewing Drive Designed for PV Solar Trackers, High Precision with IP66 Protection Rating

VE6 Square Tube Slewing Drive With 24V Motor Slewdrive For PV Tracking System

Square Tube Slewing Drive Description

A vertical self-locking worm gear slewing drive, commonly referred as a worm drive or slewing bearings, is a complete, ready-to-install system that consists of gear or slewing ring bearing, worm, base, and completely enclosed housing. It can be customized with hydraulic or electric motors, planetary gearboxes, AC motors, stepper motors etc.

The VE6 square tube slewing drive is specifically engineered for photovoltaic (PV) solar tracking systems. With its integrated 24V DC motor, this slewdrive delivers reliable performance in demanding outdoor environments while maintaining low power consumption. The compact square tube housing design simplifies installation and maximizes space utilization on your solar tracking structure.

Designed for both single-axis and dual-axis solar trackers, the VE6 slewing drive features a self-locking worm gear system that eliminates the need for additional braking mechanisms. This ensures your solar panels maintain optimal positioning even during power outages or adverse weather conditions.

Key Specifications

Rotation Range: ±60 degrees (120° total)

Motor Voltage: 24V DC (standard)

Protection Rating: IP66

Operating Temperature: -40°C to +80°C

Self-Locking: Yes (no external brake required)

Precision: ≤0.15 degrees

VE Model Performance Parameters

Note: Custom ratios and configurations available upon request. Contact our engineering team for specific application requirements.

Features

• Rotation ±60 degrees - Wide angular movement allows optimal solar tracking throughout the day, maximizing energy capture from sunrise to sunset.
• Connection of a driving motor from the left or right side - Provides installation flexibility for various tracker designs and configurations.
• During installation, it is not necessary to adjust the gearing clearance; this is already set by the producer before factory - Saves installation time and ensures optimal performance from day one.
• Grease had been filled before factory - Pre-lubricated design provides immediate protection and extends service intervals. Maintenance-free operation in most environments.
• Simple installation and low maintenance - Square tube housing design simplifies mounting and integration into solar tracking structures.
• Rational space utilization - Compact design maximizes available space on tracking systems.
• The gear is self-locking; therefore a brake is not necessary - Built-in self-locking mechanism maintains panel position during power loss or emergencies.
• Easy and fluent method of starting and stopping - Smooth operation reduces mechanical stress and extends system lifespan.
• High tilting torque, suitable for horizontal installation - Designed for large solar panel arrays with high tilting moment capacity.

How Does the VE6 Slewing Drive Work?

The VE6 slewing drive utilizes a worm gear configuration where the input shaft (connected to the 24V DC motor) features a threaded worm that meshes with the slewing ring's internal gear teeth. This design provides:

• High Reduction Ratios: Single-stage reduction from 31:1 to 150:1 depending on model

• Self-Locking Capability: The worm can drive the gear, but the gear cannot back-drive the worm, providing inherent position holding

• Smooth Motion: Progressive engagement reduces backlash and provides precise positioning

The integrated 24V DC motor is optimized for solar tracking applications:

• Low Power Consumption: Ideal for solar-powered tracking systems with battery backup

• Variable Speed Control: Compatible with PWM controllers for precise speed adjustment

• Reversing Capability: Bidirectional operation for east-west tracking movement

• Weather Resistant: Sealed motor housing withstands outdoor environmental conditions

Applications

Solar Energy Systems:

• Single-Axis Solar Trackers: Horizontal tracking for utility-scale solar farms

• Dual-Axis Solar Trackers: Precise azimuth and elevation control for maximum energy yield

• Photovoltaic (PV) Panel Positioning: Automated solar panel angle adjustment

• Concentrated Solar Power (CSP): Parabolic trough and heliostat positioning

Industrial Applications:

• Wind Energy Systems: Yaw and pitch control for small wind turbines

• Satellite & Communication Dishes: Antenna positioning systems

• Industrial Automation: Rotary positioning for manufacturing equipment

• Construction Equipment: Crane rotation and excavator swing drives

Installation Guide

Simple Installation Process:

Mounting: Secure the square tube housing to your tracking structure using the provided bolt patterns

Motor Connection: Connect the 24V DC motor to your power supply and control system

Panel Attachment: Mount solar panels or tracking arms to the output flange

System Testing: Verify rotation range and control system operation

Maintenance Requirements:

• Factory-Filled Grease: No initial lubrication required
• Sealed Enclosure: IP66 protection prevents contamination
• Long Service Life: Designed for 25+ year operational lifespan in solar applications
• Periodic Inspection: Visual inspection recommended annually; grease replenishment every 5-10 years depending on conditions

Why Choose Our VE6 Slewing Drives?

• Quality Manufacturing: Precision machining and rigorous quality control ensure consistent performance
• Customization Options: Motor types, ratios, and housing configurations can be tailored to your needs
• Technical Support: Expert engineering assistance for application design and selection
• Competitive Pricing: Direct factory pricing with volume discounts available
• Fast Delivery: Standard models available from stock; custom configurations with short lead times
• Global Shipping: Worldwide delivery with comprehensive packaging protection

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the rotation range of the VE6 slewing drive?
A: The VE6 slewing drive provides a ±60 degree rotation range, allowing for a total of 120 degrees of angular movement. This range is ideal for solar tracking applications where panels need to follow the sun's path from east to west.

Q: Is the VE6 slewing drive self-locking?
A: Yes, all VE model slewing drives feature a self-locking worm gear mechanism. This means the drive will hold its position without power, eliminating the need for external braking systems. The self-locking feature is particularly important for solar trackers to maintain panel position during power outages or adverse weather.

Q: What is the operating temperature range?
A: The VE6 slewing drive is designed to operate in temperatures ranging from -40°C to +80°C (-40°F to +176°F). This wide temperature range makes it suitable for installation in virtually any climate, from arctic regions to desert environments.

Q: What IP rating does the VE6 have?
A: The VE6 slewing drive is rated IP66, which means it is completely protected against dust ingress and can withstand powerful water jets. This rating ensures reliable operation in harsh outdoor environments, including heavy rain and dusty conditions.

Q: Can I use a different motor with the VE6 slewing drive?
A: Yes, the VE6 slewing drive can be customized with various motor types including hydraulic motors, AC motors, stepper motors, and planetary gearboxes. The standard configuration includes a 24V DC motor, but we can accommodate specific motor requirements for your application.

Q: What maintenance is required for the VE6 slewing drive?
A: The VE6 slewing drive is designed for minimal maintenance. The unit comes pre-lubricated with grease from the factory and features a sealed enclosure that protects internal components. In standard solar tracking applications, no regular maintenance is required for the first 5-10 years. After that, periodic inspection and grease replenishment may be recommended based on operating conditions.

Q: What is the precision rating of the VE6 slewing drive?
A: The VE6 slewing drive achieves a precision rating of ≤0.15 degrees. This high level of accuracy ensures precise solar panel positioning for maximum energy capture throughout the day.

Q: How much weight can the VE6 slewing drive support?
A: Load capacity depends on the specific model size. The VE6 series ranges from 22 kN axial load and 15 kN radial load for the 3" model, up to 476 kN axial load and 950 kN radial load for the 25" model. Please refer to the technical specifications table above for detailed load ratings for each model.