Solar Tracker Slew Drive with Square Tube Housing Design for Simplified Installation Solar Trackers

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 VE9 square tube slewing drive is a heavy-duty solution engineered for large-scale photovoltaic (PV) solar tracking systems and demanding industrial applications. With its robust 9-inch design and integrated 24V DC motor, this slewdrive delivers exceptional torque capacity and load handling capabilities for the most challenging tracking requirements.

Featuring an impressive 8,784 N.m rated output torque and 130 kN radial load capacity, the VE9 slewing drive is ideal for utility-scale solar farms with large panel arrays. The self-locking worm gear system ensures reliable position holding without external braking mechanisms, providing peace of mind during power outages or extreme weather conditions.

Key Specifications

• Rotation Range: ±60 degrees (120° total)

• Motor Voltage: 24V DC (standard)

• Rated Output Torque: 8,784 N.m

• Holding Torque: 80 kN.m

• Protection Rating: IP66

• Operating Temperature: -40°C to +80°C

• Self-Locking: Yes (no external brake required)

• Precision: ≤0.15 degrees

• Weight: 52 kg

VE9 Performance Parameters

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

Features

1. High Torque Output (8,784 N.m) - Delivers exceptional power for large solar panel arrays and heavy industrial loads, outperforming standard slewing drives in demanding applications.

2. Superior Load Capacity - With 60 kN axial and 130 kN radial load ratings, the VE9 handles the heaviest tracking structures with ease and stability.

3. Rotation ±60 degrees - Wide angular movement allows optimal solar tracking throughout the day, maximizing energy capture from sunrise to sunset.

4. Connection of a driving motor from the left or right side - Provides installation flexibility for various tracker designs and configurations.

5. 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.

6. Grease had been filled before factory - Pre-lubricated design provides immediate protection and extends service intervals. Maintenance-free operation in most environments.

7. Simple installation and low maintenance - Square tube housing design simplifies mounting and integration into solar tracking structures.

8. Rational space utilization - Compact design maximizes available space on tracking systems despite high torque capabilities.

9. The gear is self-locking; therefore a brake is not necessary - Built-in self-locking mechanism maintains panel position during power loss or emergencies.

10. Easy and fluent method of starting and stopping - Smooth operation reduces mechanical stress and extends system lifespan.

11. High tilting torque, suitable for horizontal installation - Designed for large solar panel arrays with high tilting moment capacity.

How Does the VE9 Slewing Drive Work?

The VE9 slewing drive utilizes a heavy-duty worm gear configuration optimized for high-torque applications. The input shaft (connected to the 24V DC motor) features a precision-machined worm that meshes with the slewing ring's internal gear teeth, providing:

• High Reduction Ratio (61:1): Single-stage reduction delivers 8,784 N.m output torque from a compact motor, ideal for heavy loads

• Self-Locking Capability: The worm can drive the gear, but the gear cannot back-drive the worm, providing inherent position holding for 52 kg unit

• Smooth Motion: Progressive engagement reduces backlash and provides precise positioning within ≤0.15 degrees

The integrated 24V DC motor is optimized for large-scale 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: IP66 sealed motor housing withstands outdoor environmental conditions

• Heavy-Duty Performance: Designed for continuous operation in demanding environments

Applications

Large-Scale Solar Energy Systems:

• Utility-Scale Single-Axis Solar Farms: High torque for long row tracking systems

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

• Photovoltaic (PV) Panel Arrays: Automated solar panel angle adjustment for commercial installations

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

Heavy Industrial Applications:

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

• Satellite & Communication Dishes: Large antenna positioning systems

• Industrial Automation: Heavy-duty rotary positioning for manufacturing equipment

• Construction Equipment: Crane rotation and excavator swing drives

• Marine Applications: Ship deck equipment and offshore platform positioning

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

• Heavy-Duty Considerations: For high-cycle applications, consider more frequent inspections due to the 8,784 N.m torque output

Why Choose the VE9 Slewing Drive?

• Heavy-Duty Performance: 8,784 N.m torque and 130 kN radial load capacity for the most demanding applications

• Quality Manufacturing: Precision machining and rigorous quality control ensure consistent performance under high loads

• Customization Options: Motor types, ratios, and housing configurations can be tailored to your needs

• Technical Support: Expert engineering assistance for application design and load calculations

• 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 for 52 kg units

Comparison: VE9 vs. Other VE Models