SNEC 2017: 3D-Micromac half-cell cutting tool orders top 1.5GW

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email
REC Group switched production to half-cut solar cells several years ago. Image REC

PV manufacturing equipment specialist 3D-Micromac said it had booked over 1.5GW of orders related to its microCELL TLS (Thermal Laser Separation) high-throughput half-cell cutting tools since the beginning of the year. The company is exhibiting and showcasing its laser systems at SNEC 2017 in Shanghai, China. 

The company has also launched its second-generation microCELL OTF system, the high-performance production solution for Laser Contact Opening (LCO) of Passivated Emitter Rear Contact (PERC) solar cells, which is claimed a world-class throughput of 8,000 wafers per hour.

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

The TLS process is said to provide higher mechanical strength, better edge quality as well as lower power reduction compared to laser scribing and other cleaving approaches. 

The company claims module power gain of more than 1.0W has been achieved compared to conventional scribe and break methods, in addition to the 5-7W per module gain of half-cell module technology.

Read Next

October 9, 2025
Singapore-based Sembcorp Industries has agreed to acquire ReNew’s 300MW solar power unit in India for around US$246 million.
October 9, 2025
The retroactive collection of duties on historical solar imports to the US has been temporarily paused pending the outcome of an appeal.
October 8, 2025
US solar module prices jumped in Q3 2025 as developers scrambled to meet the 2 September 2025 safe harbour deadline for Investment Tax Credit (ITC) qualification, according to supply chain platform Anza.
October 8, 2025
University of Sydney scientists have created the largest and most efficient triple-junction perovskite-perovskite-silicon solar cell on record.
October 8, 2025
Saatvik Green Energy has secured new solar PV module orders worth more than INR7 billion (US$84 million), to be delivered in this financial year.
October 7, 2025
Econergy will acquire 100% stake in the 155MW Ratesti solar project in Romania, further expanding its European renewable energy portfolio.

Subscribe to Newsletter

Upcoming Events

Solar Media Events
October 21, 2025
New York, USA
Solar Media Events
November 25, 2025
Warsaw, Poland
Solar Media Events
December 2, 2025
Málaga, Spain
Solar Media Events
February 3, 2026
London, UK