Edge Isolation System

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Prevents insulation and corrosion of the thin-film glass substrate by using laser to remove film from the edge of the substrate

The edge isolation system is designed to remove film from the peripheries of the glass substrates of thin-film photovoltaic cells using lasers uniquely developed by Nisshinbo Mechatronics.

When thin-film photovoltaic modules are assembled, film on the glass substrate periphery needs to be removed to prevent insulation and corrosion. The general film removal process of "sandblasting process" involves an abrading agent being sprayed on the glass substrate to remove the film, so any residual abrading agents need to be washed off. This can damage the glass substrate surface as well, and many thin-film photovoltaic cell manufacturers sought a better way to deal with the waste particulate resulting from sandblasting.

Edge isolation systems remove the film using a high-powered laser, so the volume of particulate matter is significantly reduced, and no cleaning equipment is required. This virtual elimination of particulates allows for its installation within the clean room, presenting much greater flexibility in deciding where to install the equipment, as well as affording a significant reduction in processing time. This ensures the optimum removal process.

Features

• Detects breaks in a module's fingers and dark area that cannot be found visually using Nisshinbo's original software.
• Detected defects show up in color, so they are eye-catching.
• Four cells each are shot in high resolution per module. (PVE 1116i-M, PVE 1120-T)
• Short tact time of 45 to 60 seconds per module including transfer time is available. (PVE 1120-T)
• Light-shield cover can be opened and closed simply.

Comparison with sandblasting

	Edge isolation system	Sandblasting + washing
Size	Saves space	Occupies considerable space Equipment must be enclosed to contain dust
Washing	Removes residue using dry cleaners or suchlike	Washing
Impact on film	No adverse affect on other areas	Scattering of abrasive agent may damage the film surface, thus reducing module output
Others	Very small amount of residue remains on the glass substrate, and post-processing is easy.	Even after being washed, some abrading agent may remain on the glass surface, causing problems during the lamination process

Adaptability to specification changes

• Substrate size change
• Edge removal width change
• Additional laser heads, etc

Basic configuration

• Laser system
• Loading and unloading conveyers
• Vacuum pump
• Chiller
• Dust collector