Precisely matched photovoltaic cleaning brushes are crucial for cleaning photovoltaic modules. They achieve a high cleaning performance with minimal wear, protect the sensitive module surface and ensure thorough PV cleaning. Modern cleaning robots rely on special brush systems that are perfectly matched to the material, diameter and rotation speed. Anyone considering the purchase of a PV cleaning brush often asks themselves: Do different types of brushes need to be used for optimum results? Do you also need to use cleaning agents? In this article, you will find out which technical parameters are decisive for achieving the best results with a photovoltaic cleaning brush - whether rotating or stationary.
A key factor for the performance of PV cleaning is the rotational speed (rpm - "rounds per minute"), which has a direct impact on the mechanical effect. Equally important is the peripheral speed (m/s), as it describes the actual relative movement of the bristles to the module surface.
A peripheral speed that is too high can accelerate bristle wear and even cause micro-damage, while a speed that is too low significantly reduces the cleaning effect. A balanced setting is therefore crucial: lower speeds are preferable for sensitive surfaces or fine work, while higher speeds are more efficient for robust surfaces.
In practice, 300 rpm for the solarROBOT compact and 400 rpm for the solarROBOT pro have proven to be ideal for PV cleaning robots, as they ensure both efficiency and gentle solar cleaning.
The brush diameter also has a major influence on cleaning performance. A larger diameter increases the peripheral speed at the same speed and ensures better surface coverage. At the same time, however, the weight increases and with it the energy requirement.
In pv panel cleaning, typical brush diameters are between 150 mm and 300 mm - depending on the drive system and module configuration. In high-quality systems, a combination of high rotation and large diameter is deliberately chosen in order to thoroughly remove even stubborn dirt. For example, the large PV cleaning robot solarROBOT pro has a diameter of 300 mm and even its smaller brother compact has a diameter of 280 mm.
The material of the bristles is decisive for the performance of a PV cleaning brush. These are frequently used:
Are the first choice when it comes to gentle yet thorough cleaning of PV modules.
Are used when robust cleaning tasks and heavy soiling are required.
✔️ The choice of bristle material should always depend on the degree of soiling, the module coating and the ambient conditions.
Not only the material as such, but also the arrangement, thickness and length of the bristles influence the cleaning performance.
Tight vs. loose - tight increases the contact surface, loose improves dirt pick-up.
Helix/spiral shape - even results, good self-cleaning, prevents dirt deposits, ideal for uneven or sloping surfaces.
Segmented - targeted dirt removal through higher point loading.
Thick and long - different bristle thicknesses enable a combination of abrasive and gentle cleaning. Homogeneous bristle fields ensure even loading and make maintenance easier.
Whether several types of brushes are needed for PV cleaning is a question of philosophy. Some rely on special brushes, others on all-rounders. The latter offer the advantage that they deliver consistently good results on different surfaces thanks to the optimum combination of bristle type, arrangement, diameter and rotation speed - without being too hard or too soft.
The mounting of the photovoltaic cleaning brush is also an important aspect. With floating photovoltaic cleaning brushes, the brush does not stand directly on the bristles, but is suspended in such a way that it glides easily over the surface. This design makes it possible to combine a large brush diameter and fast rotation, which results in more bristle tip contact and a more even cleaning effect. Systems with a stationary brush, on the other hand, often have to use smaller diameters, which reduces the area coverage.
Another distinguishing feature of PV cleaning brushes is the position of the water spray lance.
The direction of rotation also plays a role. As standard, many brushes rotate outwards against the direction of travel so that dirt particles are effectively bound in the water and discharged downwards.
It is possible to switch to co-rotation, but this can result in more dirt being thrown onto the appliance. This can cause the treadmills to become dirty more quickly and reduce grip. In such cases, it is advisable to check the edge sensors regularly.
The optimum pv panel cleaning brush combines the right brush diameter, the right speed, the right bristle material and a well thought-out arrangement with an effective water flow. Efficient, gentle and sustainable cleaning of solar modules is only possible if all these factors work together harmoniously.
If you are unsure, you should carry out a PV cleaning brush test before purchasing or seek advice directly from the manufacturer. When buying a cleaning robot, it is worth taking a closer look at the brush system installed, as it has a significant influence on the cleaning results.
Find out more about effective and gentle cleaning methods and our innovative solutions for pv panel cleaning - we will be happy to advise you personally!
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