Integrarack IR EarthScrew Mounting Kit 10 Pack, 30-Inch Screws for BallastRack Frames, Solar Mounting Method for Dense Compacted Soil

The IntegraRack IR EarthScrew 30" Ground Mount Solar Anchor Kit

The IR EarthScrew Mounting Kit anchors IntegraRack BallastRack solar panel racking frames directly into compacted ground using 10 high-strength steel screws with a black zinc finish for corrosion resistance. Each screw measures 30" in length and drives into the soil, where the base tube of each BallastRack frame clamps around the screw and bites into it when the carriage bolts at the ends of the frame are tightened. This clamping action locks the frame to the screw and allows for precise leveling of the system, even on slightly uneven terrain. Two screws anchor each frame, so one 10-pack kit supports five BallastRack frames.

How the EarthScrew Anchors Your Solar Panel Ground Mount System

Unlike the IntegraRack EarthBallast system, which relies on 1,000lbs of rock or soil per panel for down force, the EarthScrew achieves uplift resistance by gripping the soil. Each 30" screw threads into the ground and holds through direct contact with the soil. This approach eliminates the need for heavy equipment like skid-steer loaders and removes the weight requirement of ballast-based systems. Since you don’t need to bring in heavy ballasting material, the EarthScrew anchors are ideal for remote off-grid cabins, backyards, or other hard-to-access places. 

Soil Requirements and Site Testing for Solar Panel Ground Anchors

The IR EarthScrew requires dense, compacted soil. IntegraRack specifically warns against using the EarthScrew in silty sand, soft soil, rocky terrain, or locations with frost depths over 20in. Before installing the full system, you must test one EarthScrew at the installation site to verify that it can withstand a minimum of 1,000lbs of uplift. If the soil is extremely dense, you may need to pre-drill holes using an SDS hammer drill with a 30" SDS-Max Speed-X carbide rotary hammer bit for concrete drilling. For an even stronger anchor in pre-drilled holes, pour concrete mix into the holes with water before driving the screws.

Compatible BallastRack Solar Racking Models

The EarthScrew Mounting Kit works with the full lineup of IntegraRack BallastRack frames, including the IR-15, IR-30, IR-40FSAA, IR-40FSAB, IR-40FSAC, IR-45ASAA, and IR-45ASAB. This means you can pair the EarthScrew kit with a fixed 15° low-profile tropical system, a 30° all-around frame, an adjustable 15°-40° frame, or a seasonally adjustable 15°-45° frame — all using the same anchoring hardware. 

Installation Without Heavy Equipment

One of the primary advantages of the EarthScrew over other IntegraRack mounting options is the elimination of heavy machinery. The EarthBallast system may require a skid-steer loader or tractor to distribute fill material, and the SlabBallast system requires pre-poured concrete. Installers can use a standard impact wrench to drive the screws, which significantly reduces site preparation time and equipment costs.