RAK Solar Mini 18° Mast Mount for Puerto Rico (1.25" Pole Zip-Tie Version)

Description

This is a remix of the original RAK Solar Mini mount designed specifically for installations on 1.25-inch (31.75 mm) diameter masts or poles.

The original design was modified to include a curved mast interface and integrated zip-tie channels, allowing the mount to be securely attached to round poles without additional brackets or hardware.

The mount also incorporates a fixed 18° tilt angle, which was intentionally selected for installations in Puerto Rico. Since Puerto Rico lies near 18° North latitude, this angle provides a good year-round compromise for solar energy collection in permanent outdoor deployments.

This design is ideal for Meshtastic, LoRaWAN, weather stations, environmental monitoring, and other solar-powered outdoor projects.

Features

• Compatible with the RAK Solar Mini enclosure.
• Designed for 1.25" (31.75 mm) diameter masts or poles.
• Secures using standard UV-resistant zip ties.
• Fixed 18° solar panel tilt optimized for Puerto Rico.
• No additional mounting brackets required.
• Lightweight and durable design.
• Support-free print.
• Suitable for long-term outdoor installations.

Why 18 Degrees?

Puerto Rico is located at approximately 18° north latitude. For fixed solar installations intended to remain in place year-round, a tilt angle close to the local latitude generally provides an effective balance between summer and winter solar exposure.

This mount uses a fixed 18° tilt angle specifically intended for use in Puerto Rico, helping maximize solar performance without the need for seasonal adjustment.

Printing Recommendations

• Material: PETG, ASA, or ABS recommended for outdoor use.
• Layer Height: 0.20 mm
• Infill: 30–40%
• Perimeters: 4 or more recommended for additional strength.
• Supports: Not required
• Print in the supplied orientation.

Installation

1. Print the mount.

2. Attach the RAK Solar Mini enclosure using the original hardware.

3. Position the mount against a 1.25" mast or pole.

4. Route three heavy-duty UV-resistant zip ties through the integrated channels.

5. Tighten securely.

6. For best solar performance in Puerto Rico, orient the solar panel toward true south whenever possible.

Remix Information

This remix was created to provide the following:

• Compatibility with 1.25" masts and poles
• Integrated zip-tie mounting channels
• A fixed 18° tilt angle optimized for Puerto Rico
• A support-free print design
• Simple installation without additional mounting hardware

Original Design

Remixed from:

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:7322326

If you find this remix useful, please consider posting a make and sharing photos of your deployment. I'd love to see how it's being used in the field!