wind break for solar panels on roof?

[Virgil Jones]

So, I'm thinking about the rack of solar panels I am putting on my roof and wonder about aerodynamics.  Has anyone (with or without a topper extension on their van) put some kind of "bug deflector" or wind flow thing in front of the panels to keep the air moving over the panels instead of hitting them head-on.
This is not me, it is what my van will look like when I have the top put on...tomorrow.

 

[SternWake]

I have considered doing so, but many other projects are higher on my list.

I have little fear of wind getting under and lifting my panel, but if this were likely I would move it up my list.

 

[GotSmart]

If you have the panel more than 3 inches back from the front edge, I would not worry about them.

 

[frater secessus]

I mounted a panel on my truck topper. I looked at the vehicle in profile and moved it back to a position where the wind would likely be going over it, which I think is what GS is advising.

 

[VanKitten]

Someone here gave me this link...check these out

http://www.rackattack.com/base-roof-rack-systems/roof-rack-fairings/

 

[GotSmart]

I mounted a panel on my truck topper.  I looked at the vehicle in profile and moved it back to a position where the wind would likely be going over it, which I think is what GS is advising.

Basic aerodynamics.  At speed the air going up and over the cap will leave a basically dead spot just behind the leading edge.  

Remember the Superbird?  It had a huge wing on the back to control the airflow.  What people did not realize is that there were smaller vents that let the air pressure building up in the front wheel wells out.  This was against NASCAR rules, so the version that was presented for testing did not have those openings.  Little things make a difference.

 

[kamturbo]

I had a similar setup as you are planning (high top with solar panels on a roof rack) with the same concerns. Not so much about aerodynamics but more about protection and trying to hide the panels a little bit. I built a basic "safari rack" out of electrical conduit and made a front deflector out of some random metal bits around the house.

Tried attaching a few pics but not sure they're showing up

 

[MrNoodly]

And inch and a half thick panel knifing through the air, versus a six inch slope pushing wind upward? Don't know. But I suspect the sloped things on the front of Thule and Yakima racks are more about getting customers to part with a few extra bucks, and about having someplace to put a big logo.

 

[closeanuf]

Kamturbo I would love to see some more pictures of your roof rack and an explanation of how you built it.. I know you said electrical conduit but is it welded or what.  Thanks