Metalcraft has been working with the NZ Defence Force at the Whenuapai Air Base over recent years as they roll out a development and upgrade programme at the Base.

For the new Medical Centre that was constructed recently, the NZDF opted to go with the PV Laminate product. This is the flexible strip with adhesive backing that is fitted directly to the tray Espan® 470 roof profile.

Solar Laminates:
Following the success of this initial PVL project, the NZDF have also since specified the same for a new Gymnasium facility that is under construction. This is a larger 19.08kw array consisting of 72 x 265-Watt strips, and is also supported by a SMA Tripower 20kW String Inverter.

This array was spread evenly over the east and west facing roof planes, but due to the flat pitch of the roof and the favourable performance qualities of the PVL product in such conditions, the forecasted sacrifice in output is very minimal and similar to what a Northwards oriented array would generate.

Whenuapai Air Base:
This facility has a 17.1kW array consisting of 60 x 285-Watt PVL strips spread over 2 roof planes, and supported by a SMA Sunny TriPower 20kW String Inverter.

This product was selected because to the advantages it presented, in that it eliminated the risk of failure by wind uplift which was a prime consideration for designers in this environment where planes are landing and taking off nearby, and helicopter rotor wash is also a potential hazard.