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Reis Robotics has developed a new process that provides a fully automatic, circumferential application of adhesive tape before the module framing process step. Because there is no stopping the process at the module corners when the direction changes, Reis Robotics claims dirt and water penetration is eliminated. Various common adhesive tape types from different manufacturers are said to be compatible with this assembly process.
Vitronic’s VINSPECsolar electroluminescence inspection system is designed to detect defects within solar cells that could influence electrical performance of the solar module. By using electroluminescence inspection, all defect areas are automatically detected, displayed and classified by relevant software before lamination, so that reworking can increase the module’s efficiency. Archived electroluminescence images of the finished module also serve as proof of the delivered quality.
GT Advanced Technologies has announced the commercial availability of its DSS 450 MonoCast crystal growth system. Modules produced from material grown in the furnace are claimed to rival modules that incorporate traditional boron-doped batch CZ monocrystalline wafers in terms of total output. The DSS450 MonoCast furnace incorporates a number of new features that result in ≥80% mono volume yield per slabbed ingot and significantly increases Grade I wafers (>90% mono area/wafer) per ingot than other cast mono technologies.
Oerlikon Solar’s 2nd generation ThinFab turnkey system is claimed to enable a CapEx reduction of more than 20%. The estimated price for the complete end-to-end production line is just US$1/Wp including engineering support and performance guarantees. The production line is claimed to produce high quality thin film silicon modules for cost of around $ 0.5/Wp (€ 0.35/Wp), a new record-low in the solar industry.
Stäubli Robotics has launched the TP80 fast Picker, an ultrafast four-axis new technology of high-speed pickers for standard pick & place applications, delivering speeds of more than 200 picks per minute and more flexibility at a lower cost, according to the company.
Tanaka Precious Metals has introduced what it claims is the world’s first conductive silver ink capable of forming electronic circuits using only hardening by ultraviolet (UV) light without the need for hardening by heating. A total of three silver inks using different types of resin and reaction initiator will be available and users can select the materials according to their manufacturing equipment and application.
Munich Re has launched a new insurance product that insures against the risk of PV manufacturers’ insolvency. It covers the risk borne by commercial and utility-scale PV power plant operators that solar module output may, in the course of time, fall below the level guaranteed by a manufacturer which can no longer be held liable under its warranties due to insolvency.
BTU International’s ‘Tritan’ HV90 dual-lane metallization firing system features increased throughput at 3600 wafers per hour, and includes an edge belt, volatile organic compound (VOC) abatement and a single zone spike with less than 3 seconds spike time. BTU claims that by switching to the dual-lane system, cell manufacturers can expect a 35% increase in capital efficiency coupled to unparalleled performance in lane to lane matching.
TTi has introduced its next generation of residential solar roof mount, the patented TTi Flat Jack Comp Shingle Mount. As a durable and reliable mount for installing PV panels on composition shingle roofs, the TTi Flat Jack now requires no shingle trimming or sealants, reduces labour costs and protects roofs.
Conergy’s PowerPlus Premium module will be available in sophisticated black. As an alternative to the polycrystalline, classic blue module, the Hamburg-based company is now offering its “Edition Noir” as a second design option, with black cells and a black backsheet. Monocrystalline modules in four different performance classes, from 240 to 255W, will be available in this new look. The Conergy SunTop mounting system is also available in the new “Noir” look, so now all your roof installations can be in black and the mountings and modules can be perfectly matched.
