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Dr Schenk has developed a high-speed, non-destructive measurement of I-V curves of thin-film modules prior to the lamination step. The SolarMeasure I-V Curve Tracer evaluates the characteristics of every individual cell on the complete thin-film panel and detects local variations. These measurements can be taken in-line and the results serve as a GO/NO-GO test of whether a panel should be processed further.
Bürkle has developed a new three-step single-opening laminator focusing on a number of key process parameters to reduce costs and increase productivity. The e.a.sy-Lam SL machine is claimed to reduce unit costs per solar module by up to 25%.
Isra Solar Vision has introduced a unique defect inspection system for compound spots on cell edges, which can cause short-circuits when the cells enter the flashing process. Inspection at this stage is seen to ensure level ‘A’ quality for at least the first 400 cells per batch. The new ‘SOLARSCAN-Bevel’ system is designed to prevent wafer/cell scrap and provides the possibility to react immediately with protective or maintenance actions.
Singulus Technologies had launched the ‘SINGULAR ICP-PECVD’ platform for the development and production of high efficiency silicon solar cells, requiring passivation layers for R&D and production applications. The platform has been applied at research centers and institutes in Europe, America and Asia.
For extremely high product quality and productivity for treatment of silicon bricks, Arnold Group has introduced the type 72/865 machine, which is a high-end combination of a surface and chamfering machine. Arnold claims that it now has a balanced production range in the grinding field with this high-end grinding machine which can serve the most different requests of customers. The improvements and further developments of this high-end grinding machine, 72/865, are also integrated in the surface grinding machine 72/860 and chamfering machine 72/852. Furthermore they influence the combination machine, now available as 72/855.
The photovoltaic-TPA (Thermo Plastic Applicator) from Bystronic glass group is a machine designed for the encapsulation and sealing of thin-film photovoltaic modules. The machine is claimed to be the first machine of this type that is capable of working in 24-hour operation without any interruption.
Saint-Gobain Solar has launched its ‘SolarBond’ Membrane materials for module lamination process in two models, SolarBond Membrane Standard and SolarBond Membrane Premier. The membrane is designed to protect the module and the lamination equipment in extreme temperatures.
Kipp & Zonen has introduced a new and intelligent generation of pyranometers. Equipped with an extremely low power Smart Interface, the new Smart SMP Pyranometers offer industry standard digital and amplified analog outputs within the well-known CMP series housings.
STRAMA-MPS, a German based global operating testing and handling equipment supplier has introduced its third generation ‘ProMoSim evo³’, LED-based sun simulator for improved solar cell testing that includes quality checks, high precision IV curve measurement and steady state light soaking and cell degradation measurements.
Unirac has launched the ISYS Single Axis Tracker at the Solar Power International (SPI) trade show, which is claimed to be the most robust and versatile ground mount tracker system on the market today. The system is able to work with any space or module system. Unirac backs the ISYS Tracker with a 20-year structural performance warranty.
