In the photovoltaic industry, one statistic often goes unnoticed yet speaks volumes: over 95% of solar module frames worldwide are made from aluminum. Why has aluminum become the undisputed "standard" for PV module framing?
Thermal Compatibility – Aluminum "Breathes" with Glass
Solar modules are essentially glass-semiconductor laminates, and glass expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations. Aluminum's elastic modulus (approximately 69GPa) closely matches that of PV glass. This means the frame and glass expand and contract in unison, minimizing stress concentrations that could otherwise lead to glass micro-cracks or breakage – a challenge that steel frames struggle to address.
25-Year Service Life – Matching the Module's Lifespan
PV modules are designed to operate for 25 years or more, and the frame must withstand the same harsh outdoor conditions. Through anodizing, aluminum develops a dense oxide film (AA10–AA20μm) that effectively resists UV radiation, salt spray, acid rain, and industrial pollutants. Steel frames, even when galvanized, remain vulnerable to corrosion at cut edges and drilled holes.
Lightweight – 60% Weight Reduction
With a density of approximately 2.7g/cm³, aluminum weighs about one-third of steel. In large ground-mounted solar farms or rooftop installations, this weight advantage reduces transportation costs, lowers structural load requirements on buildings, and significantly eases manual handling during installation.
Recyclability – The Lifecycle Economics
At the end of a module's service life, aluminum frames can be recycled at 100% recovery, using only 3% of the energy required for primary aluminum production. From a full lifecycle perspective, aluminum offers superior economic and environmental value over any alternative material.
Jiangsu Dinghao Aluminum Technology Co., Ltd. specializes in solar aluminum profiles and frames, manufactured to 25+ year durability standards and compatible with automated PV module production lines.
