DEK drives production of PV cells

Using its experience in the solar sector, DEK is driving the production of thin-film PV cells towards mass market adoption through a range of benefits.

The emergence of new types of solar cells produced using thin-film technology presents solar manufacturers with a number of advantages including cost benefits against increasingly expensive silicon wafers.

For example, thin-film technology enables solar cells to be constructed on flexible substrates, opening up many opportunities to embed solar power generation into diverse commercial applications.

Working closely with influential producers, DEK has developed a range of metallisation solutions for thin-film substrates.

Processes include precision deposition of silver epoxy compounds for metallisation, as well as the application of other active and interconnect layers, using printing techniques similar to those already proven in bulk silicon solar cell production.

DEK's PV1200 solar metallisation line delivers 1,200-cells-per-hour throughput, six-sigma process rating, 12.5 micron resolution and advanced handling capabilities.

The line also benefits from a global network of support resources, spares hubs, applications expertise and field service technicians.