DIY Solar Frame Testing

Product testing is the ultimate marketing statement.

The Test

After 2300 nautical miles of Bahamas shakedown testing in steep, short-period wave conditions and winds to 45 kts, Willow, our test vessel sailed approximately 13,500 NM in a double Trans-Atlantic circuit proving the system’s ultimate strength and versatility. With constant exposure to salt spray and wind over 80 knots in the Greenland and North Sea, this was the ultimate test of extrusion strength and anodized finish.

With 1720W of 41V power charging 1320 Wh of LiFe PO4, Willow can run A/C overnight without a generator. Not only do you sleep better, but you also avoid insect-borne diseases like malaria, dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses that are on the rise throughout the Caribbean, South and North America.

Showing the Voyage of sailboat Willow around the North Atlantic
Sailboat track around the North Atlantic 2024

The Vessel

Rugged marine anodized Audubon extrusion creates a solar bimini on this ocean going yacht to hold 4 X 440W 49V Miami Dade Hurricane Code approved solar panels.
Rugged marine anodized Audubon extrusion creates a solar bimini on this ocean going yacht to hold 4 X 440W 49V Miami Dade Hurricane Code approved solar panels.

The Results

Solar panel frame for yachts mounting details
Simple anodized L extrusions and flat bar create a DIY marine anodized aluminum Solar panel bimini frame on yachts without welding. Panels slide off to upgrade or for major storms in less than 5 minutes per panel. Extrusion channels hide wiring for neat installations.

Despite winds over 80MPH the frame was unfazed, even after 14 months of salt spray the marine anodized aluminum looks a fresh as the day the project was launched.