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It is very important that a flat plate collector have a strong frame. The collector mounting hardware is fastened to the frame, and strength is very important because the collectors must be able to withstand high wind conditions without breaking. These frames are almost exclusively made of extruded aluminum, although some are made of rolled aluminum or extruded fiberglass. The heaviest-duty collectors use heavy, thick, extruded aluminum frames. The extruded aluminum frames have channels, or flanges, built into them that the mounting hardware fastens to. Because these flanges go completely around the collector, great flexibility in mounting options is available.

Another important component to look at when considering a collector is the kind of fasteners used to assemble the collector. All fasteners should be made of stainless steel. It is critical to use compatible metals where they are attached to each other. Aluminum and stainless steel are compatible; aluminum and plain or galvanized steel are not. This must be applied not only to the construction of the collector but also to the mounting hardware. Because each manufacturer makes its own mounting hardware, and because each collector is tested with its specific hardware, you should always purchase your mounting hardware to match your collectors.