Solar Panels & Arrays
Solar panel and solar array systems require secure anchoring to ensure long-term stability and resistance to environmental forces. The Vulcan Earth Anchor provides a dependable solution for stabilising the structural framework of solar installations, typically connecting at two or four key points along the vertical legs of each frame or array. This approach minimises uplift risk and enhances stability, even in challenging ground conditions or areas exposed to high winds.
Anchoring plays a vital role in maintaining system integrity, as solar arrays present a large surface area that can act as a sail in windy environments. By securing the frame to the ground, the anchors prevent uplift and movement, protecting both the structure and its long-term performance.
Why Use Vulcan Earth Anchors?
Traditional solar frame installations often require driving or embedding support legs deep into the ground, which can be time-consuming, costly, and dependent on ground conditions. Using mechanical ground anchors offers a more efficient and flexible alternative:
Instant Load Capacity: Vulcan Earth Anchors achieve immediate load resistance upon installation.
Cost Efficiency: Avoids the need for deeper piles or additional materials, reducing overall project costs.
Environmental Benefits: Installation involves no wet trades, grouting, or concrete, minimising environmental disruption.
Adaptability: Suitable for both standard solar farms and installations where the ground is too dense or unsuitable for driven legs.
Time Savings: Rapid installation means less downtime on site and faster project turnaround.
How Our Products Are Used for This Application
Vulcan Earth Anchors are installed using percussion-driven techniques—either by hand-held equipment or machine-mounted tools—and can be proof loaded using a frame winch, dynamometer, or hydraulic ram.
Anchors are typically installed vertically adjacent to the frame legs, with a tendon (wire) and ratchet tensioner connecting the frame to the anchor. This creates a tensioned system that enhances the structure’s uplift resistance and stability.
Design Considerations:
Loads must be defined by the design engineer to ensure the correct anchor size and configuration.
Ground conditions will determine achievable load capacity and the most suitable anchor model.
In marine environments (for example, pontoon-mounted solar arrays), the design adapts to use underwater anchors connected by wires or chains, providing secure fixation without ground-based frames.
Which Products Are Used for This Application
The most used anchors for solar panel and array anchoring include:
Vulcan Earth Anchor – AS-10 and AS-20: Used in approximately 90% of applications due to their reliable performance and easy installation.
Vulcan Earth Anchor – AS-30: Utilised where higher load capacities are required or in more demanding soil conditions.
The full anchoring system typically consists of a Vulcan Earth Anchor, tendon (wire), and ratchet tensioner, forming a complete mechanical ground anchor solution for solar applications.
Special Design Example:
In unique systems, such as those developed by Cornish Rocker, solar arrays are positioned on flat plates rather than buried legs. In these cases, Vulcan Earth Anchors are installed with bar ends that lock off against the plate, achieving robust anchoring without penetrating the ground structure.
All anchors are designed to meet or exceed the 25–30-year design life typically expected of solar farms.
Common Applications We Support
Anchor Systems’ solutions are suited for a wide range of solar installations, including:
Ground-mounted solar farms
Floating or pontoon-based solar arrays (marine and inland water applications)
Hybrid installations on reinforced platforms or ballast bases
Temporary or relocatable solar structures
FAQs
01
Why use Vulcan Earth Anchors instead of traditional piling for solar installations?
Vulcan Earth Anchors deliver instant load capacity and cost-effective installation without the need for deep foundations, wet trades, or curing times.
02
Can Vulcan Earth Anchors be used in poor or dense ground conditions?
Yes. The system is adaptable for a range of ground conditions, with anchor size and depth determined by the design engineer to achieve required load capacities.
03
Are the anchors suitable for long-term use in solar farms?
Absolutely. The Vulcan Earth Anchor system is designed to meet the 25–30-year lifespan typically required for solar farm installations.
Get to know more about the product
The Vulcan Earth Anchor range was designed and developed by Anchor Systems (International) Ltd to provide a simple, reliable, and cost-effective ground anchoring solution for a wide variety of applications.
Our brochure includes detailed product information, performance data, installation guidance, and examples of real-world uses across multiple sectors.
If you require technical specifications or design advice for your specific project, please get in touch with our team.
Experts in innovative foundation systems
From rail and highways to solar farms and temporary structures, Anchor Systems deliver engineered ground anchoring and foundation solutions that simplify installation and reduce environmental impact.
Zero concrete, zero waiting time
Easy installation with hand-held or hydraulic tools
Reusable, relocatable, and sustainable
Designed, tested, and manufactured in the UK