Drilling Aluminium for Cantilever Solar Panel Mount
The shipment of T-6061 T-6 Aluminium arrived about a week ago. With a break in the weather I started fabricating the Cantilever Solar Panel mounting brackets which allow the panels to stow nicely on the hard shell dodger while sailing and with a tug move outward and up in a cantilever arrangement while at anchor. In the stowed position, one or two panels may be partially shaded by the mainsail, reducing output. In opened position they are away from the covered mainsail, provide a little more weather protection to the side areas of the dodger and are high enough above the deck to walk under without hitting my head. A tall person may have to duck though.
Grinding Aluminium for Cantilever Solar Panel Mount
On a project like this, I usually make a crude drawing on paper and play with the idea in my head. Then I order materials and hope it works out. There is usually some design changes made in process and already I discovered some bolts I ordered are too short. I will order some the correct size after I have the basic assembly together as I might decide other changes are necessary.
Major Parts for the Cantilever Solar Panel Mount
Here the major parts are ready for test assembly.
And ready for paint.
Solar Mount Parts Ready for Paint