What is a photovoltaic (PV) solar cell?

Central to this solar revolution are Photovoltaic (PV) solar cells, experiencing a meteoric rise in both demand and importance. For professionals in the field, a deep understanding of the manufacturing process of these cells is more than just theoretical knowledge.

How are PV solar cells made?

The manufacturing process of PV solar cells necessitates specialized equipment, each contributing significantly to the final product’s quality and efficiency: Silicon Ingot and Wafer Manufacturing Tools: These transform raw silicon into crystalline ingots and then slice them into thin wafers, forming the substrate of the solar cells.

How does solar manufacturing work?

How Does Solar Work? Solar manufacturing encompasses the production of products and materials across the solar value chain. While some concentrating solar-thermal manufacturing exists, most solar manufacturing in the United States is related to photovoltaic (PV) systems.

What is solar photovoltaic lamination?

Solar Photovoltaic Lamination: In this critical phase, the cells are encapsulated within laminated glass or other protective materials. This solar module lamination not only protects the cells from environmental factors but also enhances their overall performance and longevity.

How are solar panels made?

Sealed into ethylene vinyl acetate, they are put into a frame that is sealed with silicon glue and covered with a mylar back on the backside and a glass plate on the front side. This is the so-called lamination process and is an important step in the solar panel manufacturing process.

How are photovoltaic absorbers made?

The manufacturing typically starts with float glass coated with a transparent conductive layer, onto which the photovoltaic absorber material is deposited in a process called close-spaced sublimation. Laser scribing is used to pattern cell strips and to form an interconnect pathway between adjacent cells.