Manz Automation and ROFIN-SINAR Technologies have formed a new partnership to develop and sell a new integrated tool that combines laser edge ablation and laser cutting of thin-film solar modules. The companies expect the new tool to reduce thin film production costs and improve yields. The new tool will be developed over the next twelve months.
Manz Automation plans to develop the production system and integrate the laser technology from ROFIN-SINAR, which will develop the specific laser technology required for the combined process steps. Manz Automation will exclusively market the tool, the company said.