Where can I get solar panel frames for mounting solar cells?

[Mike90250]

electrician and British, we invented electricity!

You are not related to some chap named Mr. Lucas Electric ?

[timmyraa2]

Ok, Well we'll see. Do you know of any supplier who supplies frame's?

[Photovoltaic Supporter]

Hey Timmy, I'm sorry if I wasn't clear or misunderstood your question. I am of the belief that DIY is great but this sort of thing isn't for just anyone. That is all I meant. Here in the states we have thousands of websites that claim to give you the fofo to do such things without any experience and for me this is BS as well as dangerous for those not as bright as a light bulb ya know...so anyway, sure it can be done but can it be done for less..? What is less, if it takes 30 hours to build and cost $ 100. US then have you really saved any money. I figure time is money so at that rate it would cost more then if I went out and purchased one with a warranty and a UL approval. See here you don't just tie into the electric grid for kicks...you'd be in loads of trouble not to mention may burn your house down as well...or worse...so that's my take on it. I mean what would ya get, a 20-40 or so watt panel...you can buy those here for 50 US so...what's the point? Most sites here that make such claims or simple BS scammers....con-men and such. So I say better safe then sorry!

[timmyraa2]

thank you Photovoltaic Supporter but I think I'll do just fine, I'm an electrician and British, we invented electricity! :O) No but really I'll be fine and yes I'm going about it in a professional manor. It can be done. On a seperate note, whats the point of having a DIY section if the only people that come on here don't give you any real help at all and only warns you against DIY panels, whats the point in that??? Im most confused!

[Photovoltaic Supporter]

Please people consider the facts the real facts. You don't want to try to build your own PV panels nor do you want to install your own PV system unless you are willing to do all the work....I mean ALL the work that must be done by a pro. It's possible but like Mike says very impracticable to say the least. So, when you see these nut cases claiming they built their own panels...consider the fact that most didn't do anything of the sort...especially if they are trying to sell you something, a book or what ever showing you how to do it. These guys are not for real. Their mostly scam artist so please be aware of this first. Then do what you wish. There's a reason why no one offers panels for a few bucks...it's because it can't be done for a few bucks...period! Think about it, we don't pull our own teeth do we, well most of us don't. We don't build our own cars nor do we build our own TV's and it's for good reason, mainly because we can't. So forget these people...they are full of crap, period! Learn, research ask questions and be safe and use your brains... it's electricity and most haven't a clue of the dangers you'll encounter.

[timmyraa2]

Thank you Mike, I'll be able to find a way of sealing it enough in order for it to work just as good as a factory made panel. I don't mind paying the prices of a factory made panel, I've even found supplers that are willing to sell to me at trade price but thats not the point. Im looking at starting my own small business where I live in the UK, as, locally there is a large demand for solar panels.

[Mike90250]

Maybe some extrusions at a Frames-Are-Us type of store ? There really is not much
made for DIY PV panels, as it's impossible to hermetically seal them well enough to get a 10 year lifetime. OK for a hobby, but impractical for 24/7 outdoor use.

Build a small one, get an idea how they are made, and then buy a factory panel, and enjoy the fit & finish and the 25+ lifetime of it.

[timmyraa2]

Hi, I want to make DIY solar panels but I can't find anyone that sells the frames that I need. I really want them to look professional so I don't want to make them out of wood. Would anyone know of a manufacturer of these frames? I've looked at buying aluminuim extrusions and plastic sheets but really looking for a complete kit as I want least amount of time cutting strips to length etc... Any other ideas and knowledge of what other people have used would be a great help also, many thanks in advance!