Zimmermann Tracker integration update | PVcase

PVcase and Zimmermann PV-Tracker have collaborated on the latest PVcase Ground Mount update, enabling users to generate PV layouts quickly and easily with terrain-following single axis trackers. Zimmermann played a key role in developing the PVcase Ground Mount TFT feature.

Zimmermann PV-Tracker GmbH, a German OEM of single axis PV-Trackers and part of the Zimmermann PV-Steel Group, has introduced a solution to address the increasing demand for tracker projects on challenging, undulating land.

The Zimmermann solution features an innovative cardan joint incorporated into the tracker torque tube. This cardan joint can be deployed independently of a supporting pile and strategically placed to accommodate project-specific string lengths, minimizing DC mismatch losses and maximizing energy production.

Allowing PVcase users to consider cardan joints in layout planning enables project developers to implement trackers in locations previously deemed unsuitable. The cardan joint, with a maximum angle diffraction of up to 15 percent between torque tube sections, significantly reduces the need for earth movements.

Guy Atherton, Product Manager of Ground Mount at PVcase, said: “It was rewarding to work with Zimmermann on the development of the TFT feature, and making sure it applies to their new ZIM Track product. Prior to that, I have personally worked with Zimmermann for over a decade and have great respect for their product, as well as their research and development team. Their insight was invaluable in the development of the PVcase Ground Mount TFT feature.”

A recent case study for a 50 MWp tracker project in Spain, deploying 1,300 trackers over 56 hectares, demonstrated significant savings. By implementing ZIM Track terrain-following cardan joints in 20% of the trackers, earth movements were reduced by 50%. Using cardan joints for all trackers in this case study reduced ground movements by 95%, or 60,000 m³. The inclusion of the cardan joint planning feature in the latest software update highlights PVcase and Zimmermann's commitment to continuous improvement of their innovative software solutions and product offerings for OEMs, developers, and solar professionals.

About PVcase

PVcase is a next-generation PV software-as-a-service company. Driven by world-class engineering and a cutting-edge development team, PVcase helps power the energy transition by making solar project design faster, more efficient, and more precise.

PVcase gives design teams confidence in managing data quality risks as they use different software platforms for individual tasks in the design process—what they call “data risk.” PVcase products are the top choice of solar design professionals and development companies in 75 countries. In addition to the acclaimed Ground Mount tool, the company offers PVcase Roof Mount and Yield software.

About Zimmermann PV-Tracker GmbH

Zimmermann PV-Tracker GmbH is part of the Zimmermann PV-Steel Group, a German OEM of PV mounting structures for utility-scale projects. The company develops, plans, and supplies ground-mounted solar mounting racks as rigid constructions, movable trackers, floating installations, and flexible Agri-PV substructures. Since its inception, the Group has supplied more than 1,600 projects in 54 countries with an accumulated generation capacity of 10 GW.