Unirac RM Engineering Guide

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PUB131010
UNIRAC RM
A HILTI GROUP COMPANY DESIGN & ENGINEERING
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UNIRAC RM
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MANUALS
• MANAGING THE PROJECT

• QUICK START GUIDE (OVERALL INSTALLATION/ASSEMBLY STEPS)
• FIELD ADJUSTMENTS (SOLVING PROBLEMS)
• DESIGN & ENGINEERING
• INSTALLATION INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE
UNIRAC RM
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TABLE OF CONTENTS:
P-1 1. Introduction: What is RM? P-30 7. Calculating applicable wind loads,

P-1 2. Site Visit applicable standards
P-2 Physical Characteristics P-31 8. Prescriptive Structural Design Tables
P-3 Common Low Slope Roofing Material P-31 Assumptions/limitations
P-3 Quality of the roof structural support P-32 Interior/Exterior Modules
P-4 Obstructions P-33 Load Sharing Regions
P-4 Shadowing / Shading P-34 Table A & B
P-5 Crickets P-35 Table C & D
P-5 Parapets P-36 Table E & F
P-5 Vibration Creators P-37 Table G & H
P-5 Drainage P-38 9. Ballast Distribution
P-6 Aesthetics P-39 Ballast Distribution (continued)
P-6 Accessibility P-40 Supplemental bays
P-7 Wiring P-41 Supplemental bays (continued)
P-7 Air movement P-42 Max point load: how to calculate
P-8 3. Code Compliance P-43 10. U-Builder
P-9 Model Building Code P-43 Introduction
P-10 Model Building Code (continued) P-44 U-Builder user guide
P-11 Listing Authorities P-45 11. Electrical Design
P-12 Local code / AHJ approval P-45 Bonding and grounding
P-13 Code Compliance Hierarchy P-46 Wire management
P-14 Other P-47 Micro-inverter mounting
P-14 Electrical code P-48 Design enginneer of record
P-15 4. Determine layout P-48 AHJ has final say
P-15 Module dimensions P-49 12. Appendices
P-16 Row spacing based on bay dimension P-49 System specification
P-17 Setbacks P-50 System components - part numbers
P-17 Roof Obstructions P-51 Assembled view
P-17 Roof Considerations P-52 Assembled view (continued)
P-18 5. Project Structural Design Considerations P-53 Component view & discriptions
P-19 Engineering variables and loads P-54 Component - Ballast Bay
P-20 Evaluation of the loads P-55 Component - Module Clip
P-21 Pressure to point loads P-56 Component - Seismic Attachment
P-22 Applying the Engineering to the structural design P-57 Component - Roof Pad
P-23 6. Seismic Considerations P-58 Component - Balast Blocks
P-24 Unattached arrays
P-25 Unattached arrays (continued)
P-26 Unattached arrays (continued)
P-27 Attached arrays
P-28 Attached arrays (continued)
P-29 Attachment locations
A HILTI GROUP COMPANY

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1. INTRODUCTION: WHAT IS RM?

The Unirac Roof Mount (RM) system is a PV module racking system that introduces the power of simplicity to the
low-slope roof solar industry, an intuitive design inspired by installers nationwide. The RM system is conducive
to the use of ballast, or weight, as the method for overcoming uplift forces to minimize or eliminate attachments
to the roof structure. This document presents information that informs the PV array designer of the important
design and engineering aspects of the RM system. Additionally, the information contained herein serves the
jurisdictional plan checker’s purposes.
2. SITE VISIT
As part of the planning process for your PV project it is recommended that a thorough site visit be done to ensure
that the site is well understood in order to mitigate any surprises. During the site visit there are several items of
interest that should be examined and noted.

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2.1 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Note: Directional notes apply only to installation sites in the Northern Hemisphere.
In general, a perfectly designed PV system will face true, due south, have minimal shading, and is be positioned
to harvest the most sunlight and therefore produce the maximum amount of electricity. You must evaluate the
following physical characteristics for the site where a PV system can potentially be installed:
— Compass readings (direction)

— Dimensions
— Pitch (slope)
— Shade causing objects
Even though maximum output usually occurs with the PV system facing due south, certain site characteristics
may prevent you from adhering to this ideal installation method. Successful PV systems can be installed facing
within a range of due east going south to due west.
The horizontal angle (direction) the array is facing is referred to as the azimuth. The azimuth determines the time
of day the PV system can produce the greatest amount of energy. A system that faces east produces most of its
energy during the morning, while a west-facing system produces more in the afternoon.
The direction a PV system could face can be measured with a compass. This gives a magnetic direction. In
most locations, the true direction and the magnetic direction are not the same. The difference between the two
is called magnetic declination. The magnetic declination of the array varies from location to location, but you can
easily modify magnetic direction to get true direction. One way to compute this is through the NOAA (National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) National Geophysical Data Center website (http://www.ngdc.noaa.gov/
geomagmodels/struts/calcDeclination).
During the site evaluation, consider various possible locations that would be suitable to mount the PV system. For
each of these locations, record the dimensions and pitch (slope) of the mounting surface. Also make note of any
objects that could potentially shade the area or obstruct the installation. Some objects of concern include vent
pipes, trees, portions of buildings, and air-conditioning units (See sections 1d and 1e, below).

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2.2 COMMON LOW SLOPE ROOFING MATERIALS

Typically, low-slope roof assemblies are composed of three interrelated components: the roof membrane, roof
insulation, and the roof deck. The roof system is defined as the roof membrane (including surfacing) and the
roof insulation. The roof assembly is defined as the roof deck, along with the roof membrane and roof insulation.
Low-slope roofs are often referred to as flat roofs. Roof assemblies with a pitch (slope) of less than 3:12 are
considered low-slope roofs. The most common roofing membrane materials are the following:
— PVC roofing system (Polyvinyl Chloride)

— EPDM roofing system (Elastomeric compound synthesized from ethylene, propylene, and a small amount
of diene monomer)
— TPO roofing system (Thermoplastic olefin)
— Built-up roofing system (BUR consists of multiple layers of roofing felt (ply sheets) applied in shingle
fashion with a waterproofing material (interply adhesive) to form a 2-, 3-, 4-, or 5-ply layer membrane
over which a coating, surfacing (gravel), or cap sheet is applied to protect the membrane)
2.3 QUALITY OF THE ROOF STRUCTURAL SUPPORT

When the PV system will be mounted on a building, the structural support capacity of the building needs to be
evaluated by a Registered Design Professional of Responsible Charge. This registered design professional must
evaluate the structural members of the roof to determine if it is capable of resisting all of the loads that may
be experienced with the additional PV structure on top. Because the PV system may be attached to structural
members such as rafters (never to roof decking alone), be sure to note the location of structural members, their
condition and the distance between members.
For older buildings, this structural evaluation is very important as many of these buildings have rafters made of
2 x 4’s, a much weaker rafter member than newer buildings use. This could be an issue later when considering
the feasibility of an array designed to attach to such a roof (see section on Roof Attachments).

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2.4 OBSTRUCTIONS
Roofs can have a variety of roof obstruction which includes HVAC equipment, roof vents, etc. These need to be
considered in the array layout with regards to shading, equipment access and to ensure that the array doesn’t
impact the normal operations of this equipment. There may be requirements as far as a minimum setback
distance from mechanical equipment so be sure to consult your local authority to determine what considerations
need to be taken. Also, discuss with the building owner if roof top equipment needs a specific amount of room for
maintenance operations.
2.5 SHADOWING/SHADING
Avoid shade at all costs in your installation since even just a small amount of shade can eliminate most of the
electrical output. In most cases, shading on one small area of one module impacts the output of the entire array.
While some technologies and alternative methods exist for mitigating the effects of shade on the PV system, they
can be expensive and are often unproven in their effectiveness. Be conservative and assume no PV production
can occur if any portion of the array is shaded. There are tools available to help with the shading evaluation at
the site, such as Solar Pathfinder and even an application for an iPhone called Sun Tracker.
The array should be optimally placed to minimize shading.

Shading can result from a number of objects including:
— Vent pipes
— HVAC equipment
— Chimneys
— Antennas
— Trees (especially note young trees that continue to grow after installation)
— Buildings
— Higher roofs, or other parts of the building
— Parapets
—Adjacent rows of tilted array

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2.6 CRICKETS
Roof crickets are shallow valleys or ridges built into the roof that are designed to divert water on a roof and direct
it to the designated drain areas. The RM racking system is extremely flexible and able to accommodate roof
crickets up to 3.5 degrees.
2.7 PARAPETS
A parapet is a barrier which is an extension of the wall at the edge of a roof, terrace, balcony, or other structure.
Where extending above a roof, it may simply be the portion of an exterior wall that continues above the line of
the roof surface, or may be a continuation of a vertical feature beneath the roof such as a fire wall or party wall.
Parapets are primarily used as guard rails and to prevent the spread of fires.
The wind tunnel study performed on the RM system requires that the wind pressure coefficients increase when
there are parapets. Please take this into account when planning for your system. The U-Builder design tool takes
this into account and will give you the appropriate values.
2.8 VIBRATION CREATORS
There may be mechanical equipment on the roof that could cause vibrations to occur and impact the performance
of the racking system. If there is equipment like this on your building it is recommended that you regularly check
on the PV array to ensure that it is in the same structural condition as the day it was installed.
2.9 DRAINAGE
Roofs are designed such that they run off water in certain directions to provide optimal water drainage. The
biggest concern with regards to roof drainage and a PV array is to make sure that the racking does not restrict
the drainage of a roof. Another concern is to make sure that crickets aren’t so deep such that it impacts how the
racking rests on the roof. We recommend that the racking system is in full contact with the roof.

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2.10 AESTHETICS
The appearance of the PV system is very important to most system owners, the neighborhood, and sometimes
homeowner associations (HOA). Typically, flush mounted systems have a more acceptable aesthetic appearance.
In some locations, the HOA may have guidelines for PV. Conversely, some states have legislation stating that PV
cannot be prohibited based upon aesthetics alone.
2.11 ACCESSIBILITY
You must evaluate the accessibility of the site for construction equipment and needs. Ask the following questions
when evaluating a site:
• Is there specialized equipment required to access the site? Such as, the roof is only assessable by crane.
• Is there road access near the site? Will equipment have to be carried a long distance by hand?
•Can the installation be done safely? Is specialized safety equipment required?
• In the case of a roof mount, how high is the installation area off of the ground?
• Where will be a good staging area to unload and sometimes prep equipment?
• Do you have all of the permissions necessary, such as adjacent property owners?
The answers may signal an increased installation cost, but not necessarily that PV is unfeasible.

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2.12 WIRING
Even if you design the PV system in an aesthetically acceptable manner, other aspects of the installation can
detract from its appearance, such as wiring. During the site evaluation, note the location of the main electrical
service, as well as electrical sub-panels. A grid-tied PV array must be connected to the main panel, main service,
or a sub-panel.
During the design phase, you will address the method of running conduit from the PV system. For example,
on a roof mount, should the wiring method be surface mounting the conduit? Is there a path to run the conduit
through an attic or garage? What materials are required to complete the wiring method? Locations where the
wiring enters the building will require metal conduit.
The following examples of wiring methods for a roof mount are not a comprehensive list. You may choose
different products to accomplish the ideal wiring method for the project at hand.
• Array on roof and inverter in garage: Mount a junction box directly to the roof. Run LFMC (liquid tight
flexible metal conduit) FMC (flexible metal conduit) or EMT (electrical metallic tubing) through the attic. Drop
the conduit through the ceiling of the garage.
• Array on roof and inverter on wall directly below the array: Mount a junction box directly on the roof, over
the soffit. Drop EMT directly down from the junction box and run along the wall.
2.13 AIR MOVEMENT

You should also note the prevailing wind direction if possible during your site visit. Wind direction can be used to
your advantage to mitigate high temperatures that reduce voltage output. More air flow under the array means
less heat and higher overall efficiency for the PV system. During the design phase, you may choose to maximize
the gap between the modules and the surface on which the array is mounted. The RM system has a fixed
geometry so it has a fixed height off of the roof.
It is also recommended that you have someone evaluate the roof to determine if there are any special wind
considerations to take into account. For example there could be roof equipment or building geometry that could
cause a channeling effect on the roof. If a condition like this exists it would be wise to keep the PV array out of
this type of area or address this by adding additional support or possibly attachments.

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3. CODE COMPLIANCE
To be safe and to comply with the law, PV systems Code compliance is a broad term which includes compliance
you design and install must comply with rules with the following (listed in order of applicability at the
that regulate structural, electrical and fire-related project level)
aspects of a PV system and the structure (if
applicable) to which the PV system is attached.
External to Code Compliance
You can find the rules in documents known as
building code, electric code and fire code. Since Listing Authorities
the main purpose of installing PV is to generate Certifications/Product Ratings
electricity, you might imagine that there are rules Guidelines
or code to govern the installation of electricity- Best Practices
generating equipment. What may be less evident
is that there are rules that govern the structural
aspects of PV, as well as regulations applicable to Requirements of
fire safety of the PV system. PV systems are often Code Compliance
attached to the roofs or walls of other structures or
buildings. Building codes govern the construction
and alteration of structures and buildings and Model Codes
any appurtenances attached to those buildings
or structures (such as PV systems). Also, some Currently
versions of the fire code now include new, PV- Enforced Codes
specific rules which provide for rooftop access and
ventilation operations for firefighters.
Local AHJ
Approval

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3.1 MODEL BUILDING CODE
Model code consists of code documents issued by the governing bodies of the construction, fire safety and
electric industries. These model codes act as a master reference for states and municipalities in terms of code
compliance.
While model code is the standard for our industry, it does not include language specific to PV systems. You, along
with your local AHJ, must interpret code relating to structures and electrical systems and apply those laws to your
PV design.
Examples of model code include:
• International Building Code (IBC): This model building code has been adopted in most
jurisdictions in the U.S. and is published by the International Code Council (ICC). The International
Building Code is what all solar structures should be evaluated against.
• National Electric Code (NEC): This model code contains a subset of specifics for residential buildings and
is applicable to residential one- and two-family dwellings. It is published by the National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA)
• International Fire Code (IFC): This model code covers the minimum safety requirements for electrical
installations and fire safety concerns. It is published by the ICC.
The model code often invokes other external documents to offer further clarification of the code. This external
document might include more specific standards, test reports and design manuals. Some examples of such
detailed documentation that you may need to reference are shown in the table below.
Note: The document listing below is not meant to be exhaustive and other documents may apply to a particular
installation depending on the installation location or project type.

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3.1 MODEL BUILDING CODE (CONTINUED)

Table 1. Supporting Documentation for the Model Code
Organization Document/Code Type Description

American Society of Civil ASCE/SEI 7: Minimum Structural Contains definitions and calculations pertinent
Engineers/Structural Engineering Design Loads for to the types of environmental loads affecting
Institute Buildings and Other appurtenances (PV array structure). Every
Structures support structure manufacturer should comply
with all standards, tests and prescribed methods
of determining factors of safety. Testing is the
most often overlooked aspect of PV structural
support components. Note that simple sandbag
tests are NOT adequate.
Underwriters Laboratory Standards UL 2703, 1703, 1741 Electrical Applicable to PV modules, inverters and array
Division and 467 wiring, bonding and grounding

IEEE IEEE Standards 929- Electrical
2000 and 1262-1995
Governs non-thin film PV modules; document

International Electrotechnical Document 62215 Electrical 61646 governs thin film PV modules. This
Committee specification specifies the loading for modules.
Aluminum Association Aluminum Aluminum Design Structural Advises on the use of aluminum in structures.
Design Manual 1 (AA ADM 1) Manual (ADM)
American Institute of Steel Specification for Structural Advises on the use of steel in structures.
Construction (AISC) Structural Steel Buildings
Structural and Provides consensus technical standards for a
American Society for Testing and Various
Electrical wide range of materials, products, systems and
Materials
services.
American Iron and Steel Institute Publications S100 2007 Structural North American specification for the design of
and S100-NAS
cold-formed steel structural members. These two
specifications also advise on the use of steel in
structures.
American Wood Council Allowable Stress Design Structural Advises on structural issues involving wood
/ Load and Resistance
Factor Design

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3.2 LISTING AUTHORITIES
Listing authorities actually evaluate a product for compliance with a model code. Many products can be considered
to be code-compliant that are not listed; however, a product listed with these authorities has been vetted against
the standards of the model code by top experts in the field. These listing authorities cooperate with and abide by
the regulatory agencies governing such fields by law.
• International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES): This division of the ICC evaluates building
products for compliance to code.
• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): Develops minimum fire safety standards in the U.S. The main
NFPA document used in the PV industry is the NEC.
• International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO):
• Underwriters Laboratory (UL): Performs product certifications and writes standards for safety. It is an
independent, for-profit product safety certification organization.
• *UL does not have power of law in the U.S. A product can pass UL certification without being UL listed.
Their listing doesn’t mean a product will perform, it merely means that the product will not present a hazard.
• Community Europe (CE): Performs testing of equipment in the European Economic Area. The CE mark
certifies that a product meets EU safety requirements. By affixing the CE marking to a product, the
manufacturer – on his sole responsibility – declares that it meets EU safety and health and environmental
requirements.
• ETL: The ETL certification mark is from the independent laboratory at Intertek. It is proof of product
compliance (electrical, gas and other safety standards) to North American safety standards, including UL,
ANSI, CSA, ASTM and NFPA standards.
• Canadian Construction Materials Centre (CCMC): Offers evaluation services for all types of innovative
building construction materials, products, systems and services. CCMC evaluations are supported by the
latest technical research and expertise and are based on the requirements of the National Building Code of
Canada or Provincial/Territorial Building Codes.

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3.3 LOCAL CODE/AHJ APPROVAL
When a local jurisdiction adopts a building code, it adopts a specific edition of the model code. This may not be
the most current edition of the model code issued.
They may adopt the model code verbatim as the building, electric or fire codes for their jurisdiction, or they
may adopt a modified edition of the code with amendments or additional rules. In some cases, the additional
requirements and exemptions are issued as a separate document or, the jurisdiction may create a merged code,
incorporating all of the local revisions. In still other cases, the jurisdiction may print, under its own title, their
own version of the code. An example of this final scenario is the California Building Code.
Most importantly, the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) knows what codes have been adopted for your site
and can tell you what codes will apply to the installation. The very first thing a contractor should do to be code
compliant is to talk to the local AHJ before starting a final design. The local AHJ ultimately holds the authority
over permitting, inspecting and approving your work, so consulting with them is essential. The question to be
answered by the AHJ is, “What codes cover my installation site, and what is the edition/year of that code?”

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CODE COMPLIANCE HIERARCHY

Overview of Code Compliance Hierarchy as related to PV Arrays
Authority having Jurisdiction
AHJ
Codes related to full Array Assembly
Municipal-specific Code
State-specific Code
International Building Code

IBC
International Residental Code

IRC
(Published by ICC)
Structural and Roofing components Electrical components
National Electric Code

Codes related to Array Sub-Assemblies
International Code Council

NEC
ASCE/SEI ASTM’s ADM (published by NFPA) (ICC) Electrical Code
IEEE Standard
Wiring/
STM FDG AWC UL 467 Others Bonding/
929-2000 Grounding
others IEEE Standard IEC

UL 1703 Others Modules
1262-1995 61646
R
UL 1741 Others Inverters

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3.4 OTHER
Various organizations in the field also issue guidelines of their own. These guides sometimes contain valuable
information, but remember they are only guidelines, and not the letter of the law. Organizations with guidelines
you might be aware of are: Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA),
Asphalt Roofing Manufacturing Association (ARMA), National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA).
Keep in mind that every top level code is comprised of many pieces and parts that contribute to compliance
requirements. Once you know the applicable code and the edition being enforced in your installation area, you
can easily source the information to succeed in being compliant.
3.5 ELECTRICAL CODE
While the manufacturer’s installation instructions generally take precedence over other requirements, many local
or state jurisdictions have additional requirements beyond those found in the National Electrical Code (NEC).
When a PV system is utility owned and operated, the installation is technically outside the scope of the NEC.
But what exactly is a utility? This is a very important distinction because the NEC generally requires the use of
equipment listed to UL standards. However, if a PV installation is not subject to the NEC, the use of equipment
designed to meet other standards, such as those established by the IEC, may be permitted.
Since the standards to which PV equipment must conform vary by context, as do the applicable codes, it is
incumbent on designers and installers to understand the regulatory context within which they are working. This
regulatory context influences what equipment and installation practices are likely to be acceptable to the AHJ
and the interconnected utility. Because there is no universal set of requirements, system designers and installers
must be proactive about communicating with AHJs and utilities to streamline project permitting, inspection and
commissioning.

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4. DETERMINE LAYOUT
After the aforementioned factors have been considered with your site, you’ll want to determine the layout of your
project by taking the following items into consideration. This will help you ensure that you’ll fit the PV array into
your designated area in the most effective manner.
All modules in a RM installation are racked in a landscape orientation, and feature a nominal 10-degree fixed tilt.
In order to calculate the amount of roof space required for an installation, you need to determine East-West and
North-South array dimensions.
We recommend a ¼” gap between the panels in the east-west direction so be sure to include that when
calculating the total width of the array.
4.1 MODULE DIMENSIONS

Verify the module dimensions by obtaining the module data sheet. You ‘ll find the dimensions displayed typically
like this:
Mechanical Characteristics
Cell Type Poly-crystalline 156x156mm (6 inch)
No.of cells 60 (6x10)
Dimensions 1650x992x40mm (65.00x39.05x1.57 inch)
Weight 18.0 kg (39.7 lbs)
Front glass 3.2mm, High Transmission, Low Iron, Tempered Glass
Frame Anodized Aluminium Alloy
Junction Box IP65 Rated
Output Cables 12 AWG, Length:9:00mm

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4.2 ROW SPACING BASED ON BAY DIMENSIONS
The RM ballast bay will dictate the spacing between rows. The figure below shows the typical spacing between
modules rows:
Be sure to take this spacing into account when determining how to occupy your roof space effectively in the
North-South direction.

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4.3 SETBACKS
A setbacks is how far from the edge of the roof or roof obstruction your array will be installed. The proprietary
wind study conducted on the RM product requires a minimum of 3 feet from the outermost point of the array to
the edge of the roof. Your local building code may require a different setback so be sure to check with your local
AHJ to see what’s required. There are also requirements as far as setbacks from certain roof equipment. Be sure
to evaluate what those may be depending on the type of equipment on your roof.
4.4 ROOF OBSTRUCTIONS
The RM product is design to be “modular” in order to easily accommodate unique layouts caused by roof
obstructions. There are often vents, mechanical equipment and skylights on flat roofs that govern the layout of
an array. With these roof obstructions there are things to consider such as setbacks from the equipment as well
as access ways which are typical spelled out in the respective building or fire codes. Note that when an array has
many “breaks” in it to accommodate obstructions that you are not getting the most efficient use of the racking
and can often cause the required ballast to increase based on the results from the wind study.
4.5 ROOF CONSIDERATIONS
The RM system may be installed on the following roofing materials: EPDM, TPO, PVC, Modified Bitumen and Built-
Up Roofs. For Tar and Gravel roof applications contact Unirac for guidance.
Other factors to consider for an RM project include:

• Flat roof applications with slopes from 0 – 5 degrees (up to 3 degrees for high seismic areas)
• Minimum clearance to roof edge: 3 ft (including parapet width). For installations within this setback please
contact Unirac for guidance.
• Building Height: 10 ft to 60 ft. For buildings 60 ft to 100 ft please contact either Unirac or a professional
engineer for guidance.
• Clearance for roof objects: the height of the obstruction should be the clearance distance from the array.

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5. PROJECT STRUCTURAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

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5.1 ENGINEERING VARIABLES AND LOADS

These are some of the design parameters involved in a
structural evaluation and application:
• Basic or Design Wind Speed: Often referred to as a • Roof Height: Factors into the wind load. The higher
“3-second gust”, this is the highest sustained wind gust the roof, the more constant the wind can be, and
over a 3 second period having a probability of 1 in 50 therefore certain sections of the code categorize roof
being exceeded in any year. The wind load is always height. Generally, the mean roof height is used.
considered to be acting perpendicular to the module
surface and in a constant fashion, rather than variable • Ground Snow load: The design weight of snow per
(as the wind is normally). You can get this information unit area (i.e. pounds per square foot). Considered an
from the local building department or planning unchanging load, it can vary greatly from location to
commission. Other sources such as the ASCE 7 design location. The weight of the accumulated snow varies
standard are available but not always specific enough. depending on the amount and the local humidity. Since
this is a gravitational load, a tilted array experiences
• Roof Zones: The wind study performed on the only a component of the load, and some code officials
RM system took into account the increases in wind recognize a reduction. The local building department
pressure that can occur on the edge and corner areas establishes this value based on historical data, and can
of a roof. Because of this there are no additional provide the value or you can get it from other sources
multipliers needed for panels located in the edge or like www.designcriteriabyzip.com.
corner zones of a roof (zones 2 & 3). However please
make sure the outside edge of the array is at least 3 • Seismic Conditions: The changing or dynamic lateral
feet from the edge of the roof. load due to earthquake activity. For arrays located
in seismic areas, the design of the support structure
• Wind Exposure Category: Provides a factor for should resist the additional horizontal load.
how protected the array is from the wind based on
surrounding characteristics of the project site. For • Dead load: An unchanging load presented to the roof
example, an urban setting with closely spaced building from purely the weight of the array components, such
surrounding might be in a lower exposure category as modules, support structure, etc.
than one at the edge of a large lake. The code
establishes three categories: B, C and D, ranging from • Ice load: This load is due to freezing rain or in-
most protected from the wind, to least. When in doubt cloud icing. Where the potential for sub-freezing
of which exposure category to use, be conservative temperatures exists, include ice load in addition to
and choose the higher category to avoid subjective snow loads.
compliance discussions upon final inspection.
• Vibration load: A changing or dynamic load due to
• Wind load: A changing or dynamic load presented to periodic movement. Arrays installed in a vibratory
a structure due to the wind and is calculated using the environment. The vibratory environment may also
design, or basic wind speed. affect the electrical side of the PV array and should be
R
considered accordingly.

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5.2 EVALUATION OF THE LOADS

Before you can evaluate the effect of these loads on the PV array structure, you must correctly calculate what the
load combinations will do. The IBC references the ASCE/SEI 7 document “Minimum Design Loads for Buildings
and Other Structures”, as the basis for these calculations. The preliminary engineering calculations representing
the resultant forces and reactions from environmental loads, and extending through the support structure and
connections, can be obtained from Unirac design tools such as the online tool, U-builder.
Most of the loads potentially placed on a PV array are determined by the data collected for the location of the
array. Wind and snow loads and are examples of load data that vary by location. For more information on types
of loads, see the previous section on Engineering Variables and Loads.
Determining the environmental conditions may be done by contacting the local AHJ. There are also websites, like
www.designcriteriabyzip.com and www.atcouncil.org and even a diagram in the ASCE 7 that can help. However,
special micro-climates exist whose conditions may be outside of the scope of those resources. When in doubt
about the potential loads, the local building department and a structural engineering professional should be
consulted.

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5.3 EFFECTS OF LOADS ON ROOF STRUCTURE

PRESSURE TO POINT LOADS
With the loads correctly evaluated, you can correctly determine the effects they will have on a structure.
Code officials require that structural analysis to include the combination of all design loads. Most people have
been in a snow storm when the wind was blowing and have experienced this type of combination load: wind and
snow.
The application and approval for use of all components should be made by the registered design professional of
responsible charge. The structural engineer applies all relevant construction and design codes for the array, the
connection of the array to the structure, and the ability of the structure to handle the loads.
A good PV support structure manufacturer can provide your structural engineer with technical specification
documentation and preliminary engineering calculations related to the structural aspects of their support structure
solutions. An example of this type of content is Unirac’s Technical Data Sheets and reports obtained from their
configuration tools.
The structural engineering process should consist of determining the following:
• Resultant design loads

• Resultant distributed load: When the load is transferred from the module surface to the beams supporting
the modules, the resultant distributed load is the load along each of the module support rails.
• Resultant point load: The amount of force concentrated at one central point, such as the points of
attachment to a roof, or foundations of a ground mount, from that distributed load.
• Forces: The calculated influences on the beams, columns and connections throughout the array from the
loads. A successful PV array structure must be able to resist these forces.
• Analysis: Study of the structure to evaluate the loads potentially placed on the array. The evaluation looks
at the largest possible combination of loads. The worst-case scenario for example, could happen when the
dead load, snow load, and wind load all occur at the same instance.
In a PV installation, wind creates pressure on the array, which results in a distributed load. This distributed load is
then transferred through the racking system to the roof.

P-22
5.4 APPLYING THE ENGINEERING TO THE STRUCTURAL DESIGN
Prescriptive Methods – Design Tables & U-Builder:
• Prescriptive methods are methods that have been developed in such a way that a set of assumptions are
made in order to simplify the design process. This takes away having to run custom calculations every time
as long as you fall within the listed assumptions.
• Provided later in this guide are design tables that can be utilized in lieu of the U-Builder. These tables do
have limitations but were developed using the same methodology that is built into the Unirac U-Builder.
• The Unirac design tool “U-Builder” performs live analytical calculations based on your project inputs. It is
always recommended that a design professional review the results of the U-Builder in order to make sure
the correct inputs were used based on the site specific conditions and your local permitting requirements.
Analytical Method:
Analytical methods are custom calculations that take into account project specific conditions without making any
generalizations or assumptions. These methods tend to take much longer, but can lead to the most accurate
results.
• Basic wind speed: as defined earlier this is the 3-second gust that is to be used for design. This is
determined by local code.
• Exposure: Is the building in an urban area with lots of buildings (B) or in an exposed open area such as
grass lands or next to a body of water (C)? It is crucial that the appropriate Exposure category be used
as it has a major impact on the design wind pressures. Exposure C loads will be significantly higher than B
which will results in more ballast.
• Snow: Check with your local building department to determine the appropriate value to use for your
project. This value is important to know so you can calculate the total load to the roof and make sure not
to exceed the capacity of the structure. Be sure to use the roof snow load and not the ground snow load as
it takes into account factors that reduce the load.
• Building height: It’s critical to use the accurate building height when evaluating the loads on the array.
The height of the building has a huge impact on the wind loads. The U-Builder and prescriptive tables
are valid up to 60’. For anything past this please consult a design professional to determine the appropriate
loads.
• Parapet: Does the structure you’re working have a parapet along the edge of the roof? A parapet
height of “1H” means it’s approximately the height of the array (~14”) , a parapet height of “2H” is
approximately 2x the height of the array. The taller the parapet the higher the wind loads so make sure to
use the appropriate value.
• What’s your block weight?: The block weight is important in order to determine the correct number of
blocks to use for ballast. The U-Builder allows you to input the exact weight of the blocks you’re working
with. Note that the lighter the block the more blocks you’ll need. The RM ballast bays are only designed
to hold up to 4 – 4”x8”x16” cap blocks so in cases where more blocks are needed you’ll need to add bays to
accommodate the extra blocks. The weight of these blocks can vary by region but are readily available.
R

P-23
6. SEISMIC CONSIDERATIONS
The Structural Engineers Association of California (SEAOC) issued a document in August 2012 addressing
seismic considerations for roof top solar pv arrays. This document, SEAOC PV1-2012, titled “Structural Seismic
Requirements and Commentary for Rooftop Photovoltaic Arrays” will be used to determine the requirements for
the RM system to resist seismic loads. In the document and in the reference materials used by the committee to
write the document the primary emphasis is on the life safety issues associated with a roof top array. Essentially
the array must not endanger life either through a direct physical means (components flying off the roof or
through a skylight) or indirect physical means (the array moves and blocks access for firefighters or creates an
electrical short).

P-24
6.1 UNATTACHED ARRAYS

Unattached (ballast-only) arrays accommodate seismic displacement by providing minimum separation distances
between arrays and between arrays and roof top obstructions. Determining the value of the minimum separation
requires establishing the Seismic Design Category per ASCE 7-10, Chapter 11, Seismic Design Criteria, for the
project site. To determine the seismic requirements for your project begin by collecting the following information:
• First determine your Ss and S1 values for the site from the maps in Chapter 22 of ASCE 7
• Next calculate the SDS based on Site Class and Site Coefficient, Fa. (ASCE 7-10, Section 11.4)
• If the soil properties are not known in sufficient detail to determine the site class, ASCE 7-10 requires the
use of Site Class D as a default.
The prescriptive method described in Section 6 of SEAOC PV1-2012 is permitted when all the following conditions
are met:
• Ip per ASCE 7-10 Chapter 13 is equal to 1.0 for the array and all rooftop components adjacent to the array.
• The maximum roof slope at the location of the array is less than or equal to 3 degrees (5.24 percent).
• The experimentally determined coefficient of friction is not less than 0.4.
In some cases roof pads may need to be added to a system in order to meet the SEAOC minimum friction
requirements for an unattached system. Refer to the table below for quantities:
EPDM TPO MINERAL PVC

Ratio of Bays 1:1 1:4 None 1:4
that require pads
The Roof Pads should be evenly distributed throughout the array and also placed such that there are not bays
with only 1 pad. This will ensure that each bay is level and will perform as designed.

P-25
6.1 UNATTACHED ARRAYS (CONTINUED)
Per Section 7 of SEAOC PV1-2012, the design seismic displacement, ∆mpv, is 6 inches for Seismic Design
Categories A, B, and C and is equal to [(Sds-0.4)2]*60 inches, but not less than 6 inches, for Seismic Design
Categories D, E, and F. Per Section 6 of SEAOC PV-1, the Minimum Separations for unattached arrays are as
follows:
MIN DISTANCE
TO EDGE 'D'
MIN DISTANCE TO QUALIFIED

PARAPET 'C'
MODULE
MAXIMUM E-W NUMBER
OF MODULES 'F' BALLAST TRAY
MIN DISTANCE ARRAY

TO ARRAY 'A' ROOF OBSTRUCTION
'A'
Sheet1
DISTANCE, INCHES
Ss 'A' 'B' 'C' 'D'
2.0 26.5 53.0 53.0 79.5
1.5 11.0 22.0 36.0 36.0
1.0 3.5 7.0 36.0 36.0
MAXIMUM N-S NUMBER MIN DISTNACE0.5
TO ROOF 3.0 6.0 36.0 36.0
OF MODULES 'E' 0.3
OBSTRUCTION 'B' 3.0 6.0 36.0 36.0
Sheet1
DISTANCE, INCHES 4.0 5.0 6.0 7.0 4.0 5.0 6.0 7.0
Ss 'A' 'B' 'C' 'D' E' MODULES IN COLUMN F' MODULES IN ROWS
2.0 26.5 53.0 53.0 79.5 7 8 6 16 23 18 15 13
1.5 11.0 22.0 36.0 36.0 10 10 9 22 31 24 20 17
1.0 3.5 7.0 36.0 36.0 13 14 12 29 41 33 27 23
0.5 3.0 6.0 36.0 36.0 13 14 12 29 41 33 27 23
0.3 3.0 6.0 36.0 36.0 13 14 12 29 41 33 27 23
4.0 5.0 6.0 7.0 4.0 5.0 6.0 7.0

A HILTI GROUP COMPANY E' MODULES IN COLUMN F' MODULES IN ROWS
7 8 6 16 23 18 15 13
10 10 9 22 31 24 20 17
P-26
6.1 UNATTACHED ARRAYS (CONTINUED)
Assumptions: Site class ‘D’, modules are 39”x77”, 55 lbs, Ip and Ie are equal to 1.0, minimum ballast is 32 lbs.
for 4 PSF, 52 lbs. for 5 and 6 psf, and 78lbs for 7 PSF
For other module weights, module lengths, and ballast weights:
• For SDS < 0.75
• For SDS > 0.75
Attached Arrays:
If a seismic attachment is deemed necessary, this method should suffice as it satisfies SEAOC PV1 2012 and ASCE
7-10, Chapter 13. These documents give the formulas to calculate Fp or the seismic force on the array. That force
is compared to the strength of the system to determine the number of seismic penetrations required.
The values ap= 1.0 and Rp=1.5 are recommended by the SEAOC document. Friction can be used to reduce the Fp
when all of the following conditions are met:
– Maximum slope= 7 degrees (5.7 is the maximum for the wind tunnel)
– The RM system’s center of mass is less than 36” off the rooftop
– The Rp is equal to 1.5 or less
With these conditions met, the maximum contribution of friction to resisting Fp is (0.9-0.2SDS)(0.7µ)* Weight
The friction coefficient µ must be determined from testing per ASTM G115 for Seismic Design Categories D,E
or F. For Seismic Design Categories A,B or C and with a roof surface of mineral-surfaced cap sheet, single ply
membrane, or spray foamed membrane (not gravel, wood, or metal) then the friction coefficient can be assumed
to be 0.4. (See SEAOC PV1-2012 section 8 for further details.) In the case of the RM array, this can be applied to
our calculation of Fp where the Weight of the system (weight of the module, ballast tray, and ballast of the area
considered) minus the friction weight (weight of the system divided by a factor of safety of 1.5). (The tray with
the seismic penetration should not be moving or using friction.)
To calculate the design seismic load for an array (ASCE 7-10 13.3-1)

P-27
6.2 ATTACHED ARRAYS

Where:
– ap= 1.0
– Fa is determined from table 11.4-1, SS is from the maps in ASCE 7-10 figure 22-1, 22-3, 22-5, 22-6.
– SS is from the maps in ASCE 7-10 figure 22-1, 22-3, 22-5, 22-6
– Weight system is the entire system being evaluated.
– Weight friction is the weight of the system divided by factor of safety, 1.5
– Can be taken as 1.0 for typical rooftop PV installations. (RM system is not too high and on top of the roof)
– Ip is the importance factor of the building in question (normally Ip =1.0)
– Rp=1.5
From the above, we can calculate the Fp force acting on the array. The Fp force is used to check the ballast tray connections
and the seismic attachment. Seismic design of an attached array requires checking these two items.
The Seismic force calculated on the array can now be compared with the allowable load on a RapidFoot attachment (1200
lbs) to determine how many attachments are required to resist the forces. Generally, locating the attachments towards the
interior of the array and not on the edge is a more effective use of that part.
Attached Array Seismic Design Example:

– Module: 77x39, 55lbs
– Ballast: 26lbs per block
– Wind: 110mph Cat B per ASCE 7-10
– Friction: 0.4
– Site Class: D
– Importance factor: 1
– Array Layout: four modules by four modules (16 total)
– SDS=1.5
– Total Ballast Weight: 4 x 4 array, total blocks needed 75 @ 26lbs
– 25 bays @ 3.5lbs
Based on the number of bricks required for each ballast tray, below is the amount of force that would need to be resisted by
RapidFoot attachments.
)
Fp= 3174.2 lbs
This value can now be divided by the capacity of the RapidFeet to determine the quantity of attachments needed. Please
round up to next whole number.
R

P-28
6.2 ATTACHED ARRAYS (CONTINUED)

The following table is based on the previous methodology and can be used as a guide to determine how many
attachments are needed based on your project parameters.
Array 5x5 10 x 10 15 x 15 20 x 20 25 x 25
Modules 25 100 225 400 625
Weight (lbs) 3700 11100 22000 37000 55000
Ss Total Attachments Total Attachments Total Attachments Total Attachments Total Attachments
2.00 3 9 17 28 41
1.50 2 6 12 19 28
1.25 2 5 9 15 22
1.00 1 4 7 12 18
0.75 1 3 5 9 12
0.50 1 2 3 5 7
0.25 0 0 0 0 0

P-29
6.2 ATTACHED ARRAYS – ATTACHMENT LOCATION

• As a general rule attachments should be located symmetrically about the x and y axis if the shape of the
array allows.
• Attachments should NOT be located on any exterior bays (bays on very perimeter of array) and should be
set at least one bay in from the edge.
• The final placement of seismic attachments is to be determined by the project engineer of record.
Below is the layout of the sample array. Note that the blocks in the highlighted bays are replaced with a seismic
attachment (in yellow). The numbers represent the ballast bays and the number of bricks required for each.
2 3 3 3 2
3 0 3 0 3
3 3 3 3 3
3 4 0 4 3
2 3 3 3 2
In a case like this it would be fine to use the minimum attachments of 3 however an extra attachment could be
added to have an attachment in each corner for symmetry.

P-30
7. CALCULATING APPLICABLE WIND LOADS, APPLICABLE STANDARDS

As previously mentioned there are building codes that need to be considered when determining the appropriate
wind loads on a PV array. There are 2 main versions of the code that are used for design ASCE 7-05 and the
newer ASCE 7-10. Below is a short description of each.
• 7-05: This code incorporates an importance factor into the wind calculations based on the type of building that
is being evaluated and typically has lower wind speeds than 7-10 code. Your local building department should tell
you if this one is applicable.
• 7-10: This is the newer code that went into effect in 2012 however has only been adopted in a few regions.
This code has different wind maps based on the risk category of the building. In general the design wind speeds
are high as compared to 7-05 however due to the changes in load combinations the final wind pressures are often
lower. We recommend using this code for the RM product in order to obtain lower ballast loads however it’s up to
the building department as to whether or not it’s applicable for each respective location.

P-31
8. PRESCRIPTIVE STRUCTURAL DESIGN TABLES

The following design tables are provided to determine how much ballast is needed for each panel based on
methodology provided in the proprietary wind tunnel study conducted for Unirac.
8.1 PRESCRIPTIVE STRUCTURAL DESIGN TABLES

ASSUMPTIONS/LIMITATIONS
Here is a list of assumptions/limitations that your project must fall within in order to be able to use the design
tables.
– 60 Cell Module: 68” x 39”, 40 lbs
– 72 Cell Module: 77” x 39”, 55 lbs
– Exposures B or C
– ASCE 7-05 wind speeds (mph): 85, 90, 100, 110 and 120
– ASCE 7-10 wind speeds (mph): 110, 115, 120, 125 and 130
– Building Height (ft): ≤ 60’-0”
– Array must be at least 3’-0” from the edge of the building.
– Parapets: parapet of at least 12” tall requires using parapet design tables.
Regarding module size, as long as your module is less than the specifications listed above you can use these
tables. If you’re working with a module larger than this please consult the U-Builder design tool. For the most
accurate results we do recommend using our U-Builder design tool.

P-32
8.2 PRESCRIPTIVE STRUCTURAL DESIGN TABLES

INTERIOR/EXTERIOR MODULES
Every module in the array will be categorized
into two aerodynamic zones; interior or exterior.
These zones were developed from wind tunnel
testing and these zones will dictate the loads on
each respective panel. Below is a definition for
modules in each zone:
• Exterior modules encompass 3 modules in the

Exterior Interior Exterior
east-west direction on either side of the array.
These modules have higher wind loads. A gap
in an array of more than ten feet in the east-
west direction creates a new exterior zone. This
means that any break of at least 2 modules (E-W)
means there is a new exterior zone. This doesn’t
apply to a gap of 2 modules in north-south
direction.
• Interior modules have at least 3 modules

to the east and west of it and have lower wind
loads.
The wider an array is the more interior modules

there are which means the overall ballast needed
is lower than a narrow array. Conversely as
the array gets smaller there are fewer interior
modules. Below are some examples of interior
and exterior modules.
Here’s an example that shows a break in the

array to give an example of aerodynamic zones
with this kind of case.

P-33
8.3 LOAD SHARING REGIONS

After the aerodynamic zone is determined, we
need to figure the load sharing area for any
given module. This concept considers how many
neighboring modules can help resist uplift. The
load sharing area is independent of aerodynamic
zones discussed above but it does vary with
regards to its location within the array (edge
module or surrounded by panels).
For an edge module, count the neighboring

modules that are one away from the module
in question. Thus an outside corner has a load
sharing area of 4 modules. For a regular edge,
the load sharing area is 6. For an inside corner,
the load sharing area is 8. If modules are
missing, or the array is irregular, the missing
modules are simply not counted.
If a module is completely contained within an

array (including diagonally), then we can count
more modules in the load sharing area. For these
confined modules, we can count two in every
direction of the module. Therefore a module well
within an array would have a load sharing area of
up to 25 modules. A module one row inside the
north edge would have a load sharing area of 20
modules. Below is a figure with examples of load
sharing regions. The value in the cell indicates
how large of a load sharing region that module
can count on.
The design table presents information in load

sharing regions of 1, 4, 6, 9 and 25. You are
allowed to interpolate between these values to
get accurate values.

110 30 240 340 160 240 134 215 104 165 64 89
60 299 421 201 299 171 268 134 208 86 116
15 231 328 154 231 129 207 100 158 61 85
120 30 292 412 197 292 167 262 131 203 83 P-34
113
60 363 507 247 363 210 326 167 254 109 145
15 98 147 59 98 47 86 32 62 13 25
85
TABLES A & B
30 129 189 81 129 66 114 48 84 24 39
60 164 237 106 164 88 146 66 109 37 55
15 114 169 71 114 57 101 41 73 19 32
90 30 149 216 95 149 78 132 58 98 31 48
60 188 270 123 188 103 168 78 127 46 66
15 150 217 96 150 79 133 58 99 31 48
C 100 30 192 275 126 192 105 171 80 130 47 68
60 241 341 160 241 135 216 105 165 65 90
15 189 270 123 189 103 168 78 127 46 66
110 30 240 340 160 240 134 215 104 165 64 89
60 299 421 201 299 171 268 134 208 86 116
15 231 328 154 231 129 207 100 158 61 85
120 30 292 412 197 292 167 262 131 203 83 113
60 363 507 247 363 210 326 167 254 109 145
Unirac RM 08/01/13
60 Cell ‐ No Parapet Required Ballast per Module for Load Sharing Region (lbs) 72 Cell ‐ No Parapet Required Ballast per Module for Load Sharing Region (lbs)
ASCE 7‐05 1 module 4 modules 6 modules 9 modules 25 modules ASCE 7‐05 1 module 4 modules 6 modules 9 modules 25 modules
Wind Bldg. Wind Bldg.
Exposure Speed Height Interior Exterior Interior Exterior Interior Exterior Interior Exterior Interior Exterior Exposure Speed Height Interior Exterior Interior Exterior Interior Exterior Interior Exterior Interior Exterior
15 98 147 59 98 47 86 32 62 13 25 15 102 158 58 102 44 89 28 61 6 20
85 30 129 189 81 129 66 114 48 84 24 39 85 30 137 205 83 137 66 120 45 86 18 35
60 164 237 106 164 88 146 66 109 37 55 60 177 259 111 177 90 156 66 115 33 53
15 114 169 71 114 57 101 41 73 19 32 15 121 183 71 121 56 105 37 74 12 28
90 30 149 216 95 149 78 132 58 98 31 48 90 30 160 236 99 160 80 141 57 103 27 46
60 188 270 123 188 103 168 78 127 46 66 60 204 297 130 204 107 181 80 135 43 66
15 150 217 96 150 79 133 58 99 31 48 15 161 237 100 161 80 142 57 103 27 46
B 100 30 192 275 126 192 105 171 80 130 47 68 B 100 30 209 302 134 209 110 185 82 138 44 68
60 241 341 160 241 135 216 105 165 65 90 60 264 378 173 264 144 235 110 178 64 93
15 189 270 123 189 103 168 78 127 46 66 15 205 297 131 205 108 182 80 135 43 66
110 30 240 340 160 240 134 215 104 165 64 89 110 30 263 376 172 263 144 234 109 178 64 92
60 299 421 201 299 171 268 134 208 86 116 60 330 468 219 330 185 295 144 226 88 123
15 231 328 154 231 129 207 100 158 61 85 15 253 363 165 253 138 226 105 171 61 88
120 30 292 412 197 292 167 262 131 203 83 113 120 30 322 457 214 322 180 288 140 221 86 119
60 363 507 247 363 210 326 167 254 109 145 60 402 566 270 402 229 361 180 279 115 156
15 98 147 59 98 47 86 32 62 13 25 15 102 158 58 102 44 89 28 61 6 20
85 30 129 189 81 129 66 114 48 84 24 39 85 30 137 205 83 137 66 120 45 86 18 35
60 164 237 106 164 88 146 66 109 37 55 60 177 259 111 177 90 156 66 115 33 53
15 114 169 71 114 57 101 41 73 19 32 15 121 183 71 121 56 105 37 74 12 28
90 30 149 216 95 149 78 132 58 98 31 48 90 30 160 236 99 160 80 141 57 103 27 46
60 188 270 123 188 103 168 78 127 46 66 60 204 297 130 204 107 181 80 135 43 66
15 150 217 96 150 79 133 58 99 31 48 15 161 237 100 161 80 142 57 103 27 46
C 100 30 192 275 126 192 105 171 80 130 47 68 C 100 30 209 302 134 209 110 185 82 138 44 68
60 241 341 160 241 135 216 105 165 65 90 60 264 378 173 264 144 235 110 178 64 93
15 189 270 123 189 103 168 78 127 46 66 15 205 297 131 205 108 182 80 135 43 66
110 30 240 340 160 240 134 215 104 165 64 89 110 30 263 376 172 263 144 234 109 178 64 92
60 299 421 201 299 171 268 134 208 86 116 60 330 468 219 330 185 295 144 226 88 123
15 231 328 154 231 129 207 100 158 61 85 15 253 363 165 253 138 226 105 171 61 88
120 30 292 412 197 292 167 262 131 203 83 113 120 30 322 457 214 322 180 288 140 221 86 119
60 363 507 247 363 210 326 167 254 109 145 60 402 566 270 402 229 361 180 279 115 156
72 Cell ‐ No Parapet Required Ballast per Module for Load Sharing Region (lbs)
ASCE 7‐05 1 module 4 modules 6 modules 9 modules 25 modules
Wind Bldg.
Exposure Speed Height Interior Exterior Interior Exterior Interior Exterior Interior Exterior Interior Exterior
15 102 158 58 102 44 89 28 61 6 20
85 30 137 205 83 137 66 120 45 86 18 35
60 177 259 111 177 90 156 66 115 33 53
15 121 183 71 121 56 105 37 74 12 28
90 30 160 236 99 160 80 141 57 103 27 46
60 204 297 130 204 107 181 80 135 43 66
15 161 237 100 161 80 142 57 103 27 46
B 100 30 209 302
R
134 209 110 185 82 138 44 68
60 264 378 173 264 144 235 110 178 64 93
15 205 297 131 205 108 182 80 135 43 66
110 30 263 376 172 263 144 234 109 178 64 92
60 330 468 219 330 185 295 144 226 88 123
A15HILTI GROUP
253 363
COMPANY 165 253 138 226 105 171 61 88
120 30 322 457 214 322 180 288 140 221 86 119
60 402 566 270 402 229 361 180 279 115 156
110 30 310 410 210 265 180 260 134 210 64 114
60 384 506 262 329 226 323 171 262 86 147
15 299 396 202 256 173 251 129 202 61 110
120 30 376 495 256 322 221 316 167 256 83 P-35
143
60 464 609 319 399 276 392 210 319 109 181
15 132 181 83 110 69 108 47 83 13 37
85 30 171 230 111 144 93 141 66 111 24 54
TABLES C & D 60
15
215
153
288
207
142
98
182
128
120
82
178
125
88
57
142
98
37
19
73
46
90 30 196 263 128 165 108 162 78 128 31 65
60 245 327 164 209 139 204 103 164 46 86
15 197 264 129 166 109 163 79 129 31 65
C 100 30 250 333 167 213 142 208 105 167 47 88
60 311 412 211 266 180 261 135 211 65 115
15 246 327 164 209 140 205 103 164 46 86
110 30 310 410 210 265 180 260 134 210 64 114
60 384 506 262 329 226 323 171 262 86 147
15 299 396 202 256 173 251 129 202 61 110
120 30 376 495 256 322 221 316 167 256 83 143
60 464 609 319 399 276 392 210 319 109 181
Unirac RM 08/01/13
60 Cell ‐ With Parapet Required Ballast per Module for Load Sharing Region (lbs) 72 Cell ‐ With Parapet Required Ballast per Module for Load Sharing Region (lbs)
15 132 181 83 110 69 108 47 83 13 37 15 141 196 86 116 69 113 44 86 6 33
85 30 171 230 111 144 93 141 66 111 24 54
85 30 184 252 117 154 96 151 66 117 18 52
60 215 288 142 182 120 178 88 142 37 73 60 235 317 152 198 128 193 90 152 33 74
15 153 207 98 128 82 125 57 98 19 46 15 164 226 102 136 84 133 56 102 12 43
90 30 196 263 128 165 108 162 78 128 31 65
90 30 213 289 137 179 114 175 80 137 27 65
60 245 327 164 209 139 204 103 164 46 86 60 269 361 177 227 149 223 107 177 43 89
15 197 264 129 166 109 163 79 129 31 65 15 214 291 138 180 115 176 80 138 27 65
B 100 30 250 333 167 213 142 208 105 167 47 88
B 100 30 274 368 180 232 152 227 110 180 44 91
60 311 412 211 266 180 261 135 211 65 115 60 344 458 230 292 196 287 144 230 64 121
15 246 327 164 209 140 205 103 164 46 86 15 270 362 177 228 149 223 108 177 43 89
110 30 310 410 210 265 180 260 134 210 64 114
110 30 342 456 229 291 195 285 144 229 64 121
60 384 506 262 329 226 323 171 262 86 147 60 426 564 288 364 247 357 185 288 88 157
15 299 396 202 256 173 251 129 202 61 110 15 330 440 220 281 187 275 138 220 61 116
120 30 376 495 256 322 221 316 167 256 83 143 120 30 417 552 282 356 241 349 180 282 86 153
60 464 609 319 399 276 392 210 319 109 181 60 517 681 353 443 303 435 229 353 115 197
15 132 181 83 110 69 108 47 83 13 37 15 141 196 86 116 69 113 44 86 6 33
85 30 171 230 111 144 93 141 66 111 24 54 85 30 184 252 117 154 96 151 66 117 18 52
60 215 288 142 182 120 178 88 142 37 73 60 235 317 152 198 128 193 90 152 33 74
15 153 207 98 128 82 125 57 98 19 46 15 164 226 102 136 84 133 56 102 12 43
90 30 196 263 128 165 108 162 78 128 31 65 90 30 213 289 137 179 114 175 80 137 27 65
60 245 327 164 209 139 204 103 164 46 86 60 269 361 177 227 149 223 107 177 43 89
15 197 264 129 166 109 163 79 129 31 65 15 214 291 138 180 115 176 80 138 27 65
C 100 30 250 333 167 213 142 208 105 167 47 88 C 100 30 274 368 180 232 152 227 110 180 44 91
60 311 412 211 266 180 261 135 211 65 115 60 344 458 230 292 196 287 144 230 64 121
15 246 327 164 209 140 205 103 164 46 86 15 270 362 177 228 149 223 108 177 43 89
110 30 310 410 210 265 180 260 134 210 64 114 110 30 342 456 229 291 195 285 144 229 64 121
60 384 506 262 329 226 323 171 262 86 147 60 426 564 288 364 247 357 185 288 88 157
15 299 396 202 256 173 251 129 202 61 110 15 330 440 220 281 187 275 138 220 61 116
120 30 376 495 256 322 221 316 167 256 83 143 120 30 417 552 282 356 241 349 180 282 86 153
60 464 609 319 399 276 392 210 319 109 181 60 517 681 353 443 303 435 229 353 115 197
72 Cell ‐ With Parapet Required Ballast per Module for Load Sharing Region (lbs)
Wind Bldg.
15 141 196 86 116 69 113 44 86 6 33
85 30 184 252 117 154 96 151 66 117 18 52
60 235 317 152 198 128 193 90 152 33 74
15 164 226 102 136 84 133 56 102 12 43
90 30 213 289 137 179 114 175 80 137 27 65
60 269 361 177 227 149 223 107 177 43 89
15 214 291 138 180 115 176 80 138 27 65
B 100 30 274 368 R 180 232 152 227 110 180 44 91
60 344 458 230 292 196 287 144 230 64 121
15 270 362 177 228 149 223 108 177 43 89
110 30 342 456 229 291 195 285 144 229 64 121
60 426 564 288 364 247 357 185 288 88 157
A15HILTI GROUP
330 COMPANY
440 220 281 187 275 138 220 61 116
120 30 417 552 282 356 241 349 180 282 86 153
125 30 178 255 116 178 96 158 73 119 42 61
60 223 318 148 223 124 200 96 153 58 82
15 152 221 97 152 80 135 60 101 32 50
130 30
60
195
245
279
347
128
163
195
245
107
137
174
219
82
107
132
168
48
66
P-36
69
92
15 99 148 60 99 47 86 33 62 13 25
110 30 129 190 81 129 66 114 48 84 24 39
TABLES E & F 60
15
165
111
238
165
106
68
165
111
88
55
147
98
66
39
110
71
37
18
55
31
115 30 145 211 92 145 76 128 56 96 30 46
60 184 263 120 184 100 164 76 124 44 64
15 124 183 78 124 63 110 46 81 22 37
C 120 30 161 233 104 161 86 143 64 107 36 54
60 203 290 134 203 112 181 86 138 51 73
15 138 201 87 138 72 122 53 91 27 43
125 30 178 255 116 178 96 158 73 119 42 61
60 223 318 148 223 124 200 96 153 58 82
15 152 221 97 152 80 135 60 101 32 50
130 30 195 279 128 195 107 174 82 132 48 69
60 245 347 163 245 137 219 107 168 66 92
Unirac RM 08/01/13
60 Cell ‐ No Parapet Required Ballast per Module for Load Sharing Region (lbs) 72 Cell ‐ No Parapet Required Ballast per Module for Load Sharing Region (lbs)
15 99 148 60 99 47 86 33 62 13 25 15 103 159 59 103 45 89 28 61 6 20
110 30 129 190 81 129 66 114 48 84 24 39 110 30 138 206 83 138 66 121 46 87 19 36
60 165 238 106 165 88 147 66 110 37 55 60 178 261 112 178 91 157 66 116 33 54
15 111 165 68 111 55 98 39 71 18 31 15 117 178 69 117 54 102 35 72 11 26
115 30 145 211 92 145 76 128 56 96 30 46 115 30 155 230 96 155 77 137 55 99 25 44
60 184 263 120 184 100 164 76 124 44 64 60 199 290 127 199 104 177 77 131 41 64
15 124 183 78 124 63 110 46 81 22 37 15 132 198 79 132 63 116 43 83 17 33
B 120 30 161 233 104 161 86 143 64 107 36 54 B 120 30 173 255 109 173 88 153 64 113 32 52
60 203 290 134 203 112 181 86 138 51 73 60 221 320 142 221 118 197 88 147 49 74
15 138 201 87 138 72 122 53 91 27 43 15 148 219 90 148 72 130 51 94 22 40
125 30 178 255 116 178 96 158 73 119 42 61 125 30 192 280 122 192 100 170 74 126 38 60
60 223 318 148 223 124 200 96 153 58 82 60 244 351 159 244 132 218 100 164 57 84
15 152 221 97 152 80 135 60 101 32 50 15 164 241 102 164 82 144 59 105 28 47
130 30 195 279 128 195 107 174 82 132 48 69 130 30 212 307 136 212 112 188 84 141 46 69
60 245 347 163 245 137 219 107 168 66 92 60 268 384 176 268 147 239 112 182 66 95
15 99 148 60 99 47 86 33 62 13 25 15 103 159 59 103 45 89 28 61 6 20
110 30 129 190 81 129 66 114 48 84 24 39 110 30 138 206 83 138 66 121 46 87 19 36
60 165 238 106 165 88 147 66 110 37 55 60 178 261 112 178 91 157 66 116 33 54
15 111 165 68 111 55 98 39 71 18 31 15 117 178 69 117 54 102 35 72 11 26
115 30 145 211 92 145 76 128 56 96 30 46 115 30 155 230 96 155 77 137 55 99 25 44
60 184 263 120 184 100 164 76 124 44 64 60 199 290 127 199 104 177 77 131 41 64
15 124 183 78 124 63 110 46 81 22 37 15 132 198 79 132 63 116 43 83 17 33
C 120 30 161 233 104 161 86 143 64 107 36 54 C 120 30 173 255 109 173 88 153 64 113 32 52
60 203 290 134 203 112 181 86 138 51 73 60 221 320 142 221 118 197 88 147 49 74
15 138 201 87 138 72 122 53 91 27 43 15 148 219 90 148 72 130 51 94 22 40
125 30 178 255 116 178 96 158 73 119 42 61 125 30 192 280 122 192 100 170 74 126 38 60
60 223 318 148 223 124 200 96 153 58 82 60 244 351 159 244 132 218 100 164 57 84
15 152 221 97 152 80 135 60 101 32 50 15 164 241 102 164 82 144 59 105 28 47
130 30 195 279 128 195 107 174 82 132 48 69 130 30 212 307 136 212 112 188 84 141 46 69
60 245 347 163 245 137 219 107 168 66 92 60 268 384 176 268 147 239 112 182 66 95
72 Cell ‐ No Parapet Required Ballast per Module for Load Sharing Region (lbs)
Wind Bldg.
15 103 159 59 103 45 89 28 61 6 20
110 30 138 206 83 138 66 121 46 87 19 36
60 178 261 112 178 91 157 66 116 33 54
15 117 178 69 117 54 102 35 72 11 26
115 30 155 230 96 155 77 137 55 99 25 44
60 199 290 127 199 104 177 77 131 41 64
15 132 198 79 132 63 116 43 83 17 33
B 120 30 173 255 R
109 173 88 153 64 113 32 52
60 221 320 142 221 118 197 88 147 49 74
15 148 219 90 148 72 130 51 94 22 40
125 30 192 280 122 192 100 170 74 126 38 60
60 244 351 159 244 132 218 100 164 57 84
A15HILTI GROUP
164 COMPANY
241 102 164 82 144 59 105 28 47
130 30 212 307 136 212 112 188 84 141 46 69
60 268 384 176 268 147 239 112 182 66 95
125 30 232 310 154 197 131 193 96 154 42 81
60 290 384 195 247 167 242 124 195 58 106
15 200 269 132 169 111 166 80 132 32 67
130 30 254 338 170 216 145 212 107 170 48 P-37
90
60 316 418 214 270 183 265 137 214 66 117
15 133 182 84 111 69 109 47 84 13 37
110 30 172 232 111 145 93 142 66 111 24 54
TABLES G & H 60
15
216
149
289
202
143
95
183
125
121
79
180
122
88
55
143
95
37
18
74
44
115 30 191 257 125 161 105 158 76 125 30 63
60 240 319 160 204 136 200 100 160 44 84
15 165 223 107 139 89 136 63 107 22 51
C 120 30 211 283 139 179 118 175 86 139 36 71
60 264 351 177 225 151 221 112 177 51 94
15 182 246 119 154 100 151 72 119 27 59
125 30 232 310 154 197 131 193 96 154 42 81
60 290 384 195 247 167 242 124 195 58 106
15 200 269 132 169 111 166 80 132 32 67
130 30 254 338 170 216 145 212 107 170 48 90
60 316 418 214 270 183 265 137 214 66 117
Unirac RM 08/01/13
60 Cell ‐ With Parapet Required Ballast per Module for Load Sharing Region (lbs) 72 Cell ‐ With Parapet Required Ballast per Module for Load Sharing Region (lbs)
15 133 182 84 111 69 109 47 84 13 37 15 142 197 86 117 70 114 45 86 6 34
110 30 172 232 111 145 93 142 66 111 24 54 110 30 186 254 117 155 97 151 66 117 19 53
60 216 289 143 183 121 180 88 143 37 74 60 236 319 153 199 128 195 91 153 33 75
15 149 202 95 125 79 122 55 95 18 44 15 160 220 99 132 81 129 54 99 11 41
115 30 191 257 125 161 105 158 76 125 30 63 115 30 207 282 133 174 111 170 77 133 25 62
60 240 319 160 204 136 200 100 160 44 84 60 262 353 172 222 145 217 104 172 41 86
15 165 223 107 139 89 136 63 107 22 51 15 178 244 112 149 92 145 63 112 17 50
B 120 30 211 283 139 179 118 175 86 139 36 71 B 120 30 230 311 149 194 125 190 88 149 32 72
60 264 351 177 225 151 221 112 177 51 94 60 290 389 192 246 162 241 118 192 49 98
15 182 246 119 154 100 151 72 119 27 59 15 198 269 126 165 105 162 72 126 22 58
125 30 232 310 154 197 131 193 96 154 42 81 125 30 254 342 166 214 140 210 100 166 38 82
60 290 384 195 247 167 242 124 195 58 106 60 319 426 212 271 180 266 132 212 57 111
15 200 269 132 169 111 166 80 132 32 67 15 218 295 140 183 117 179 82 140 28 67
130 30 254 338 170 216 145 212 107 170 48 90 130 30 279 374 184 236 155 231 112 184 46 93
60 316 418 214 270 183 265 137 214 66 117 60 349 465 234 297 199 291 147 234 66 124
15 133 182 84 111 69 109 47 84 13 37 15 142 197 86 117 70 114 45 86 6 34
110 30 172 232 111 145 93 142 66 111 24 54 110 30 186 254 117 155 97 151 66 117 19 53
60 216 289 143 183 121 180 88 143 37 74 60 236 319 153 199 128 195 91 153 33 75
15 149 202 95 125 79 122 55 95 18 44 15 160 220 99 132 81 129 54 99 11 41
115 30 191 257 125 161 105 158 76 125 30 63 115 30 207 282 133 174 111 170 77 133 25 62
60 240 319 160 204 136 200 100 160 44 84 60 262 353 172 222 145 217 104 172 41 86
15 165 223 107 139 89 136 63 107 22 51 15 178 244 112 149 92 145 63 112 17 50
C 120 30 211 283 139 179 118 175 86 139 36 71 C 120 30 230 311 149 194 125 190 88 149 32 72
60 264 351 177 225 151 221 112 177 51 94 60 290 389 192 246 162 241 118 192 49 98
15 182 246 119 154 100 151 72 119 27 59 15 198 269 126 165 105 162 72 126 22 58
125 30 232 310 154 197 131 193 96 154 42 81 125 30 254 342 166 214 140 210 100 166 38 82
60 290 384 195 247 167 242 124 195 58 106 60 319 426 212 271 180 266 132 212 57 111
15 200 269 132 169 111 166 80 132 32 67 15 218 295 140 183 117 179 82 140 28 67
130 30 254 338 170 216 145 212 107 170 48 90 130 30 279 374 184 236 155 231 112 184 46 93
60 316 418 214 270 183 265 137 214 66 117 60 349 465 234 297 199 291 147 234 66 124
72 Cell ‐ With Parapet Required Ballast per Module for Load Sharing Region (lbs)
Wind Bldg.
15 142 197 86 117 70 114 45 86 6 34
110 30 186 254 117 155 97 151 66 117 19 53
60 236 319 153 199 128 195 91 153 33 75
15 160 220 99 132 81 129 54 99 11 41
115 30 207 282 133 174 111 170 77 133 25 62
60 262 353 172 222 145 217 104 172 41 86
15 178 244 112 149 92 145 63 112 17 50
B 120 30 230 311 R
149 194 125 190 88 149 32 72
60 290 389 192 246 162 241 118 192 49 98
15 198 269 126 165 105 162 72 126 22 58
125 30 254 342 166 214 140 210 100 166 38 82
60 319 426 212 271 180 266 132 212 57 111
A15HILTI GROUP
218 COMPANY
295 140 183 117 179 82 140 28 67
130 30 279 374 184 236 155 231 112 184 46 93
60 349 465 234 297 199 291 147 234 66 124
P-38
9. BALLAST DISTRIBUTION
The RM racking system interconnects the modules through the ballast bays. Therefore, the ballast in each bay
contributes to resisting the uplift of any module it is supporting. The ballast distribution is calculated by first
calculating the net uplift pressure on every module in the array. That uplift is then converted into a total number
of ballast blocks required to resist the uplift on the module. This ballast requirement is equally distributed to the
bays supporting a module and the final distribution of ballast is such that local and total ballast requirements are
fully satisfied. Below is an example of lbs. of uplift on a panel and how the final ballast distribution is determined.
Here’s the ballast required in lbs based on a 5 x 6

sample array:
149 138 138 138 138 149

For a bay on the very perimeter edge of the array that
138 79 65 65 79 138 supports 2 panels only contributes half of its weight to
each panel it supports. The same goes for an interior
138 65 31 31 65 138 bay that supports 4 panels, it only contributes ¼ of
its weight to each panel. After rounding up to whole
138 79 65 65 79 138 blocks the resulting final ballast distribution is as
follows:
149 138 138 138 138 149
2 3 3 3 3 3 2
Now assuming a 32 lb block, the number of blocks
needed per module is: 3 4 4 4 4 4 3
3 4 2 2 2 4 3
3 4 2 2 2 4 3
4.7 4.3 4.3 4.3 4.3 4.7
3 4 4 4 4 4 3
4.3 2.5 2 2 2.5 4.3
2 3 3 3 3 3 2
4.3 2 1 1 2 4.3
4.3 2.5 2 2 2.5 4.3
4.7 4.3 4.3 4.3 4.3 4.7

P-39
9. BALLAST DISTRIBUTION (CONTINUED)

• Unirac’s online U-Builder tool takes advantage of available unoccupied ballast space within the array and local
ballast sharing capabilities to optimize total ballast requirements and distribution. Please consult the U-Builder for
the most optimal designs.
• Here are figures of how we recommend installing bays with 1, 2 and 3 blocks:
• In order to prevent shading

from ballast blocks in 4 block
bays we recommend orienting
them in the following way:

P-40
9.1 SUPPLEMENTAL BAYS

The ballast bays are designed to hold a maximum of 4 ballast blocks without causing any shading at the lowest
sun angles. There may be cases in high wind load areas where more blocks will be needed than the ballast bays
can hold. In these cases you’ll need “supplemental bays” which will be placed in between the “primary bays”
(bays that are required to fully support the array).
The ballast layout output from the Unirac U-Builder displays the number of blocks needed for each bay. It’ll
also calculates an initial round of supplemental bays. In cases where the number of blocks needed for the
supplemental bays is greater than “4” you’ll need to add more bays. There are only so many bays that can
physically fit so there will need to be some adjustments in the field to make sure your bays fit and that the
number of blocks needed are installed.
Below is an example of this type of situation.
4 4 1 4 4 4 4 4 4 1 4 4
4 4 5 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 4 4
4 3 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 3 4
4 2 4 4 3 3 3 3 4 4 2 4
4 2 4 4 3 3 3 3 4 4 2 4
4 2 4 4 3 3 3 3 4 4 2 4
4 2 4 4 3 3 3 3 4 4 2 4
4 2 4 4 3 3 3 3 4 4 2 4
4 3 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 3 4
4 4 5 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 4 4
4 4 1 4 4 4 4 4 4 1 4 4

P-41
9.1 SUPPLEMENTAL BAYS (CONTINUED)

In the cases where there’s a “5” you’ll need 2 bays (one with 3 blocks, one with 2 blocks). If there isn’t enough
room to fit 2 bays you can slide the primary bays over as suggested in the figure below. Primary bays are
typically centered between two modules so there is some room for adjustment.
Typically only 2 bays will fit in between the primary bays. If there’s an instance where more than 2 bays are
needed place the additional bays in the next closest available gap. This can be east, west or north of the area
where it’s needed. Here’s an example of this situation.
In this case you need 3 total bays in the area where the “12” is. In this
4 X 4 case you put 2 bays with 4 blocks a piece in the “12” area and then add an
X additional bay with 4 blocks where the red “x” is.
4 12 4

P-42
9.2 MAX POINT LOAD: HOW TO CALCULATE
To find the worst case for point loading of our ballast trays, we need to find the ballast tray with the most ballast
and carrying 4* ¼ of the modules weight. In other words, if a module has more than four ballast trays attached,
the point load is spread out more. If a ballast tray has fewer than four modules attached to it, then the load is
also spread out.
Footprint of the RM tray: 2x 1.6”x12” (measured from testing on a soft surface)

Weight of ballast tray: 3.5lbs
Sample Inputs:
Module size : 77”x39”
Module weight: 55lbs
Ground Snow load (ASCE 7 figure 7-1): 20psf
Note that the ground snow load can be reduced since this is a roof application.
Max weight of ballast: 128lbs
As you can see this calculation includes the snow load which may not always be required. For more extreme
events, Unirac does have an accessory that can help. The roof pad snaps into the bottom of the ballast tray to
provide protection from abrasion and improve point loading. Since the pad is made of a TPE, it is flexible and the
effective area is not quite the physical area. From our testing, the effective footprint of the RM tray with the roof
pads is 51.4 in2. Using this value the applied load to the roof would be the following:

P-43
10. U-BUILDER
10.1 INTRODUCTION
Unirac’s new U-Builder online tool makes designing, customizing and sharing information extremely simple. The
U-Builder provides bills of materials for purchasing, detailed part lists for shipping and receiving, engineering
reports for permitting and inspection and row-by-row layout design for the installers. A trove of project specific
information is available for download attached to each project.
Automated Design for Unirac’s Roof Mount

Our new flat roof product will launch with its own U-Builder tool. This tool will allow arrays of up to 50 rows and
50 columns along with the ability to combine several arrays into a single bill of materials. We’ve engineered this
product with the most comprehensive wind tunnel analysis in the industry. The U-Builder will generate a ballast
map describing exactly how much ballast is required and where to place it. The map also includes a row-by-row
report with the number of modules, racking components and ballast required, making the layout and install as
simple as possible.
Simple, Comprehensive and Flexible

Unirac’s U-Builder was designed from the start to accommodate varied, new and changing engineering
requirements including various building codes. The RM U-Builder tool will launch with IBC 2009 and IBC 2012
codes. The available codes can be expanded to include European and Japanese codes as well.

P-44
10.2 U-BUILDER USER GUIDE

Below is a description of each step within the U-Builder:
PV Module: First step is to select the appropriate PV module for your project. This is critical as it will determine
overall array dimension and will also take into account the weight of the panel in the calculations.
Layout: Next input your layout into the tool by dragging the slider bars on the right side of the grid and below
the grid to get the overall size. You can then click on individual modules to input any breaks in the array that you
may have due to roof obstruction.
Location inputs: Next fill in the appropriate project inputs which include wind speed, snow load, exposure,
seismic building height, block weight parapet height and building code. All of these inputs should be verified by
your local building department. Click the orange “CONTINUE” button to go to the next page.
Select Accessories: Click the drop down box on the header to be able to select Seismic Attachments, Roof Pads
and WEEB Lugs if you choose to.
Complete Parts List: At this step you can adjust the part quantities if you choose to. The number parts
automatically generated are minimum quantities to build the array. Click the orange “CONTINUE” button to go to
the next page.
Project Info: Within this box you can click the “EDIT” link next to each of the respective titles to input the
project information.
Design Results: In this section there are direct links to the “Bill of Materials”, “Engineering Report” and the
“Installation and Design Plan” where you can either open each respective one or you can print them directly from
the printer icon links.
Product Documents: In this section are links to all product documentation including guides, manuals and
certification letters.

P-45
11. ELECTRICAL DESIGN
11.1 ELECTRICAL DESIGN – BONDING/GROUNDING
For electrical connections, please refer to the manuals for the modules and inverters. Also defer to all state and
local electrical regulations. Unirac does not make recommendations regarding electrical installations. The Unirac
RM system does allow for any number of combinations of electrical connections as the ballast trays can connect to
most strut accessories.
The bonding of PV modules to the array is done with the assembly of the array. The bolts that hold the modules
to the array provide the bonding path from the module to the array. The bonding path then continues to the ‘foot’
that holds the weight of the module. The ‘foot’ has a mechanical interference fit to the ‘ski’ of the ballast tray.
The ballast tray is assembled with mechanical interferences that create electrical bonding pathways in the N-S
direction and the E-W direction. This has been tested and approved for electrical bonding by ETL for UL2703.
Grounding Lug Mounting Details: Ground Lug Bolt size Drill size
Details are provided for both the WEEB and Ilsco
products. Only one lug is recommended per string. WEEBLug 1/4”-20 17/64”
Installation must be in accordance with NFPA NEC 70.
The electrical designer of record should refer to the
Ilsco #10-32 7/32”
latest revision of NEC for actual grounding conductor
cable size.
WEEBLug UNIRAC PN 008002S Ilsco lay-in Lug PN GBL-4DBT

One 14AWG to 6AWG or two 10AWG, two 12AWG Conductor: 4-14AWG
Torque to 10ft-lbs Torque to 5ft-lbs
Torque to 7ft-lbs •Torque value depends

on conductor size.
•See product data
sheet for torque
R
value.
P-46
11.2 ELECTRICAL DESIGN – WIRE MANAGEMENT

The RM bays were designed using a strut profile in order to give installers the ability to use off the shelf strut
accessories to handle any of their needs. Below is a figure of mounting conduit to the bays which could then be
used to run wiring.
Note: This is only one recommendation. Because of the versatility of the strut profile you can use snake trays,
cable trays or whatever may be preferred.

P-47
11.3 ELECTRICAL DESIGN – MICRO-INVERTER MOUNTING

Similarly to wire management, micro-inverter mounting can also be done using strut hardware. The micro-
inverter will most likely be mounted to one of the vertical uprights of one of the skis as shown in the figure below

P-48
11.4 ELECTRICAL DESIGN – DESIGN ENGINEER OF RECORD

With all solar installations we recommend having a design professional review the project just to ensure that all
appropriate inputs were used and that the array is installed in a code compliant manner. This includes making
sure the array is structurally and electrically sound not to mention with any ballasted installation it is important to
have the structure professionally analyzed to make sure it is adequate to support the installation.
Unirac does have 3rd party PE contacts that we’re happy to recommend to be your reviewing engineer.
11.5 ELECTRICAL DESIGN – AHJ HAS FINAL SAY

For most locations, there may be a number of inspections required as you near the end of the installation. Some
examples of different inspections that may be required include:

Electrical Inspection: In order to complete many interconnection agreements, a signed and approved local
or state electrical inspection may be required. The electrical inspector verifies compliance with the applicable
electrical codes.
Utility Inspection: Some utilities want to inspect, or at least reserve the right to inspect the PV installation.
This inspection may be to verify code compliance, that proper utility disconnects are present or to check
information provided in the interconnection application.
Building Inspection: Some jurisdictions may require the construction to be approved by a building inspector.
Other entities: In locations where non-utility rebates are available, the entity providing the incentive may
require a separate inspection.
The PV installation industry is still considered a young one, and the popularity of PV is growing rapidly, which can
lead to a fair amount of confusion even among inspection authorities. While everyone has safety at the core of
their motivations, it will take a while for concrete, consistent, and accurate information to find its way to all of
the stakeholders. Some inspection officials may require items that are not always anticipated by manufacturers,
especially in terms of the support structure. Make sure to have an overabundance of documentation and
information at your fingertips to satisfy even the most demanding inspector, or, better yet, use materials and
products endorsed by agencies already familiar to them.

P-49
12. APPENDICES
12.1 SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS
Below is a quick summary of the technical specifications of the RM ballasted roof system. Specific details on each
of the topics to follow.
– Allowable roof slope: Up to 5 degrees (1:12); 3.5 degree crickets

– Wind Rating: Up to 150 mph (ASCE 7-10 Wind Speeds)
– Module Orientation: Landscape
– Wind Exposure: B & C
– Module tilt angle: 10 degrees
– Material Types:
- Ballast Bays & Clamps: 6105-T52, 6063-T5 Aluminum extrusion
- 3/8” Bolt: Stainless Steel w/ locking patch
- Roof Pad: 70 Shore A, Santoprene 201-73, Elastocon 2870, or Unisoft TPE ST-70A BK-2-01
– Max Building height: 60’ with online U-Builder tool, 100’ for special projects
– Warranty: 20 year defects in material or workmanship and finish, 10 year structural performance
– Integrated grounding: Yes
– Wind Tunnel Tested: Yes
– Made in America

P-50
12.2 SYSTEM COMPONENTS
PART DESCRIPTIONS AND PART NUMBERS
Ballast Bays & Module Clamp: Accessories:

Part Number Description Part Number Description
310710 URM Ballast Bay 10 Degree 310760 URM Roof Pad
310750 URM Module Clip 622069C RapidFoot (Seismic Attachment)
310751 URM Hex Bolt w/Locking Patch 004012C GALVALUME FLASHING
004017D EPDM PEEL & STICK FLASHING
030004C HDW CONCEALER SCR 1.5”, DP1
Grounding: 030005C HDW CONCEALER SCR 2”, DP1
Part Number Description 030007C HDW CONCEALER SCR 3”, DP1
008002S Grounding Lug 0300 C HDW CONCEALER SCR 4”, DP1
030013C HDW CONCEALER SCR 5”, DP1

P-51
12.2 SYSTEM COMPONENTS (CONTINUED)
Assembled Views:

P-52
Assembled Views:
4 3 2 1
12.89 ft
77.06 in .50 in
D Module Width Spacing Between D
Modules
MODULES
MODULES
C C
A
OPTIONAL ATTACHMENT
B B
17.49 in
39.09 in
Module Width
13.13 in
19.02 in 38.88 in
10.28 in
Occupied Space Occupied Space
Contact Length Between Modules Between Bays
(For 39" Modules)
18.04 in 18.48 in
Bay Extension on Bay Extension on
South Side North Side
A A
DRAFTSMAN: 1411 Broadway Blvd. NE
dave dellara Albuquerque NM 87102 USA
Phone: 505.242.6411
ENGINEERING APPROVAL:
WWW.UNIRAC.COM

MFG APPROVAL: TITLE:
PLEASE NOTE: THESE DETAILS ARE FOR FOR REFERENCE ONLY,

PM APPROVAL: RM DETAILS
THERE MAY BE VARIATIONS SPECIFIC TO THE APPLICATION. All information provided herein is confidential
and proprietary and is the Sole property of
MATERIAL: DRAWING
NUMBER: Blank
Unirac. Reproduction and/or distribution
without written permission is forbidden and will FINISH: DATE: SHEET REV: SHEET:
constitite copyright infringement under U.S. law
8/15/2013 SIZE:
C 1 1 OF 2
4 3 2 1
C:\Users\dave dellara\Documents\Inventor\RM 10deg\RM Assemby 4 Modules & 9 Bays.idw

P-53
Component View & Descriptions:
Module Clip Hex Bolt Ballast Bay: Supports the PV module and holds
the ballast blocks. The Ballast Bay supports four
interior modules, two edge modules and one corner
module. It contains a maximum of 3 full size ballast
Ballast Bay blocks (4”x8”x16”).
Seismic Attachment Module Clip: Secures the module to the Ballast Bay
by attaching to the return flange on the underside
of the module frame. The clip uses a 3/8” stainless
steel bolt that attaches to the side of the module
frame. One size fits all! The Module Clip attachment
has been designed to provide a bonding path
from the PV module to the Ballast Bay therefore it
electrically bonds all interconnected modules.
Hex Bolt: 3/8” stainless steel hardware with lock

patch that creates the attachment between the
Ballast Bay and Module Clip that secures the PV
module.
Seismic Attachment: Secures the Ballast Bay

Grounding Lug to the roof structure and creates a mechanical
attachment that provides lateral stability to resist
Roof Pad seismic forces where required by local AHJ.
Grounding Lug: The system uses either a WEEB

grounding lug or Ilsco lug to tie the array to the
ground.
Roof Pad: Provides a protective interface between

the Ballast Bay and roofing material to reduce any
possible damage that could occur. It also helps
distribute the load to the roof.

P-54
Component View & Descriptions: BALLAST BAY

The Ballast Bay frame is made of a mill finish Aluminum that provides a high strength and low weight support
structure for the PV modules. This roof mount is a modular design that allows for easily getting around roof
obstructions and accommodating roof undulations. The Ballast Bays are created such that they nest within each
other which optimize shipping logistics. The Ballast Bay is designed to accommodate standard size cap blocks
(2”x8”x16” or 4”x8”x16”).
Material: 6105-T52, 6063-T5 Aluminum extrusion

Ultimate Tensile: 38ksi
Yield: 35ksi
Finish: Mill
Holds up to 4 full size cap blocks

P-55
Component View & Descriptions: MODULE CLIP

The Module Clip is made of a mill finish Aluminum that provides a high strength and low weight connection
between the Ballast Bays and the PV modules. The Module Clip can be used with any framed module that has the
return flange underneath the panel. This unique design takes advantage of the design of the module frame and
attaches to the structural flange underneath the panel which makes it a universal clamp.
Material: 6105-T52, 6063-T5 Aluminum extrusion

Ultimate Tensile: 38ksi
Yield: 35ksi
Finish: Mill
Universal clamp to work with virtually every framed
module

P-56
12.2 SYSTEM COMPONENTS (CONT.)
Component View & Descriptions: SEISMIC ATTACHMENT (Option)

The Seismic Attachment has been successfully used for years to attach to various roof structures. It utilizes the
EcoFasten Eco-65 as the base plate of the assembly. The attachment should be installed by a certified roofing
representative to ensure that it complies to any requirements that the roofing manufacturer may have.
Material (clamp bar & standoff): 6105-T52, 6063-T5 Aluminum extrusion

Material (Base Plate): 11 gauge thickness, Steel
Allowable Lateral Load: 1200 lbs
Standoff height: 1.7”
Standoff Diameter: 1.66”
Weight: 18 lbs
Attaches to structure using Concealer Screws of various lengths

P-57
Component View & Descriptions: ROOF PAD (Option)

The Roof Pad can provide a protective interface between the Ballast Bay and roofing material to reduce any
possible damage that could occur. It also helps distribute the load to the roof to minimize. The Roof Pad
snaps into the holes on the bottom side of the Ballast Bay, two Roof Pads per bay. Please consult the roofing
manufacturer to see whether it is required as well as to verify compatibility.
Material: TPE 70 Shore A

Color: Black
Thickness: 0.139” (base thickness)
Width: 2.9”
Length: 10.4”
Quantity (per Ballast Bay): 2

P-58
Component View & Descriptions: BALLAST BLOCKS

RM is intended to use standard 4”x8”x16” solid concrete cap blocks. Block weight can range from 26 – 38 lbs.
The Ballast Bay can fit up to 4 whole blocks. The weight of the block will have a major impact on how many will
be required for the project so be sure to verify your block weights before using the U-builder online tool.

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R

• MANAGING THE PROJECT

P-1 1. Introduction: What is RM? P-30 7. Calculating applicable wind loads,

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1. INTRODUCTION: WHAT IS RM?

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2.1 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

— Compass readings (direction)

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2.2 COMMON LOW SLOPE ROOFING MATERIALS

— PVC roofing system (Polyvinyl Chloride)

2.3 QUALITY OF THE ROOF STRUCTURAL SUPPORT

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The array should be optimally placed to minimize shading.

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2.8 VIBRATION CREATORS

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2.13 AIR MOVEMENT

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3.1 MODEL BUILDING CODE

Examples of model code include:

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3.1 MODEL BUILDING CODE (CONTINUED)

Governs non-thin film PV modules; document

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3.2 LISTING AUTHORITIES

• International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO):

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3.3 LOCAL CODE/AHJ APPROVAL

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CODE COMPLIANCE HIERARCHY

International Building Code

International Residental Code

Structural and Roofing components Electrical components

National Electric Code

International Code Council

others IEEE Standard IEC

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3.5 ELECTRICAL CODE

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4.1 MODULE DIMENSIONS

No.of cells 60 (6x10)

Dimensions 1650x992x40mm (65.00x39.05x1.57 inch)

Weight 18.0 kg (39.7 lbs)

Front glass 3.2mm, High Transmission, Low Iron, Tempered Glass

Frame Anodized Aluminium Alloy

Junction Box IP65 Rated

Output Cables 12 AWG, Length:9:00mm

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4.2 ROW SPACING BASED ON BAY DIMENSIONS

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4.4 ROOF OBSTRUCTIONS

4.5 ROOF CONSIDERATIONS

Other factors to consider for an RM project include:

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5. PROJECT STRUCTURAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

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