3 minute read
BIG ON BOLT S
Renewable energy is becoming an increasingly important aspect of the energy landscape as concerns over climate change and the depletion of nonrenewable resources grow. From solar and wind to geothermal and hydro, there are many types of renewable energy sources that are being developed and deployed around the world. As the demand for renewable energy increases, so too does the need for reliable, highquality equipment and infrastructure. Hague Fasteners’ expertise in the manufacturing of critical components in this infrastructure is crucial to the reliability and performance of the fasteners used in this exciting and developing industry. This article details the different types of renewable energy and the types of bolting that are required for each, all of which stipulate the highest quality and product certification which Hague Fasteners is known for.
Steel for solar
Solar energy is the most popular form of renewable energy, with solar panels being installed on rooftops, fields, and even on the water. The installation of solar panels typically requires several types of fasteners, including bolts, nuts, washers, and screws. The bolts used to install solar panels are typically made from stainless steel or aluminium and must be able to withstand the elements, including wind, rain, and snow. Stainless steel is an excellent material for solar panel bolts because it is corrosionresistant and can withstand high temperatures.
Wind security
Wind turbines are another popular form of renewable energy, and they require a variety of bolts and fasteners to keep them secure. Bolts are used to connect the blades to the rotor, the rotor to the hub, and the hub to the tower. The bolts used in wind turbines must be able to withstand the forces generated by the rotation of the blades, which can reach speeds of up to 200 miles per hour. Highstrength bolts made from hardened alloy steel are commonly used in wind turbine applications often with specific designs and quality controls from specifications developed by specialist wind turbine engineers.
Going geothermal
Geothermal energy involves tapping into the natural heat of the earth to produce electricity. Geothermal facilities require a wide range of bolts and fasteners, including those used in drilling and excavation, as well as those deployed in the construction of the power plant. The bolts used in geothermal applications must be able to withstand high temperatures and corrosive environments, as the fluids used in geothermal drilling can be highly acidic. Stainless steel, superalloys and highstrength alloys are commonly specified for these applications.
Harnessing hydro
Hydroelectric power plants generate electricity by harnessing the power of falling water. Hydro facilities require numerous types of bolts and fasteners, including those used in the construction of the dam, the penstock, and the turbines. The bolts used in hydro applications must be able to withstand the forces generated by the flow of water, as well as corrosion from the water itself. Design safety again is critical with specific attention to materials that are suitable for reliability in these highly corrosive environments.
Bolts for biomass
Biomass energy involves burning organic materials to produce electricity. A wide variety of bolts and fasteners are required for biomass facilities, such as those used in the construction of biomass boilers and turbines. The bolts used in biomass applications must be able to withstand high temperatures and corrosive environments, as the combustion process can produce acidic gases.
Meeting specifications
The evergrowing demand for special fasteners and precision engineered components for the different renewable energy industries means a varied range of fasteners and bolts are needed to support new and innovative applications in these areas. As such, products must be manufactured both to recognised international standards and to the custom specifications of specialist design engineers in order to support the infrastructure of these sectors.
From solar panels to wind turbines, geothermal plants to hydroelectric dams and biomass facilities, the fasteners used must be able to withstand the unique challenges posed by each type of renewable energy source. Products must be able to withstand the weather elements, high temperatures, and corrosive environments, and they must be able to provide a secure and reliable connection to ensure the safety and efficiency of the renewable energy facilities. As the renewable energy industry continues to grow, so too will the need for highquality, reliable fasteners and bolts to support it.
Having been at the forefront of supplying the renewable energy sectors for decades, Hague Fasteners is equipped with the expertise and experience to ensure the very highest quality components are used. The company manufactures fasteners in any size, shape, or material, and can also provide custom coatings or finishes to client’s specification and demands with full Certification Packages to release the finished parts. To this end, the firm offers a wide range of services, including technical support, quality control, and custom manufacturing.
www.haguefasteners.co.uk
