Mounting of photovoltaic panels supporting structure on transverse frames of a steel hall

An innovative method of assembling photovoltaic panels supporting structure on flat roofs of large-area hall buildings, an alternative to the conventional non-invasive approach stabilised only by balast, is presented here against the background of theoretical considerations concerning this issue. In the proposed solution, columns supporting the combined truss–beam grillage of the structure remain structurally integrated with the bearing transverse frames of hall structure, which constitute their support. Thus, this erection process is of an invasive character, with bearing elements piercing through the existing roof covering. However, it assures a clear load transfer path and appropriate compensation of thermally induced strains at sufficient rigidity and geometric stability, required by the panel service regimen. The solution presented here originated in the legal requirement to ensure sufficiently wide fire passages on the roof of an unequivocally defined number and at specified maximum spacing. Under such conditions, these are to be treated as an unavoidable compromise and not an optimum setting.