Lightweight solar installations are now possible with molded thermoset structures, providing reliable onsite power for millions of homes and businesses. Consisting of fiber reinforcement in polymer resin, IDI's field tested thermoset bulk molding compound (BMC) offers strength and durability, and withstands extended exposure to sun, wind, rain, and cold without breaking down or distorting its shape.

Key applications:

• Support frames for Thin Film and Rigid Silicon solar panels: molded thermoset composites are an ideal replacement for extruded aluminum structures, offering dielectric insulation as well as attractive strength-to-weight ratios, UV-resistance, paintable surfaces for 30-year life, and fire code compliance.

• Roof tiles for Thin Film installations: thermoset materials replace standard terra cotta roof tiles and provide a dielectic structure to support thin film panels.

• Housings for solar structures for heating liquids in pipe systems: thermosets provide reliable “box” structures to house piping for thermal applications of the sun’s power.

• Electrical Enclosures: IDI has long provided safe and reliable junction boxes for electrical control apparatus. Enclosures are durable, dielectrically insulative, and long-lasting.

Important characteristics of IDI's thermoset molding compounds:

• Exceptional strength and durability, up to 35% lighter than metal parts of equal strength, and maintains complex shapes under stress;
• UV/corrosion resistant, withstands harsh natural elements, such as sun, wind, water, and cold;
• Paintable surface, well suited for painting or power coating to achieve 30-year operational life;
• Consolidation of parts, including lugs, fittings, and electrical connections, allowing manufacturers to design the most efficient and cost-effective solution for their market;
• Easy compliance with safety regulations and fire codes; candidate for UL 790 flame retardant standard.

IDI's 44-10-SP Bulk Molding Compound (BMC) is an innovative, structurally superior material for solar roofing structures. In an application where both rigidity and light weight are critical, IDI provides superior material for a lasting solution.