Press Release

Cell cutting technology to increase module output

InnoLas Solutions has developed an automated laser machine with an integrated soft wafer breaking process to produce half or quarter cells for later module assembly.
pv magazine

Increasing cell efficiency is one way to reduce the cost of solar power and the reduction of cell-to-module losses during module assembly is another strategy which enables a significant increase of module output by integrating only one additional process step.
The device-inherent resistivity, together with the high photo-induced current of solar cells in one string, is causing significant electrical losses when cell-to-cell interconnection takes place during stringing. That represents one of the main contributors to electrical performance and has a high impact on later module efficiency.
When using half or quarter cells instead of full cells, the impact of cell resistivity in one string can be lowered due to a reduction of photo-induced current per unit cell.
As a result of German research institutes, the output power of half-cell modules increases up to 10-15W, driven by significantly higher Isc and FF.
A six-month real-world outdoor measurement in Germany, using half-cell modules, confirmed a 3% higher average module power yield in comparison with standard modules and represents a strong argument of using cell cutting to reduce cell-to-module losses.
An integrated solution
InnoLas offers an integrated solution based on its new ILM-2 laser machine and handling platform, for an advanced precise and high-aspect-ratio laser grooving process, together with a soft breaking method.
With a high throughput of 2,850 cells/h of incoming full cells, the machine package represents the first production cell cutting tool in the market.
Markus Nicht, CEO of InnoLas Solutions, said: “We see an increasing demand for cell cutting solutions in the market. That is why we designed the ILM-2 as a modular machine concept that can be used as a standalone or in-line system, with the option to use different laser sources and different automation concepts.
“The ILM-2 offers our customers a future-proof 24/7 production solution with an excellent up-time. The orders received recently for our ILM-2 laser machine, covering a 300 MW production capacity of fully automatic cell cutting, demonstrate our customers honor the InnoLas approach that exclusively stands for production proven components without any compromise.”
http://www.innolas-solutions.de/cell-cutting-technology-to-increase-pv-module-power-output/