@techreport{bibcite_36849, keywords = {Solar PV Resilience, Critical Structural Connections, Root Cause Analysis, Failure Modes, Storm Impacts}, author = {Jon Ness and Gerald Robinson}, title = {Fundamentals of Solar PV Bolted Joint Loosening and Prevention}, abstract = {

This report explores the causes of bolted joint loosening in solar PV mounting systems and outlines practical design and installation strategies to improve reliability. It distinguishes between relaxation and self-loosening mechanisms, examines factors such as embedment, thermal effects, joint slip, and friction, and presents guidance on joint design, pretension control, and locking methods to reduce preload loss in utility-scale PV structures.

}, year = {2026}, month = {01/2026}, }