Constance, 08-05-2012. GP Solar GmbH of Constance, Germany introduces an optimized version of the GP STAB-TEST .Pro. This laboratory measuring instrument was designed especially for the photovoltaics industry for the examination of solar wafers and cells. The system includes so-called “twist”
and “4-point-bend” tests to determine why wafers break in production and avoid future breakage. The test measures the mechanical stability and load-bearing capability of silicon wafers. The device can also perform a “pull-test” to check the adhesion strength of the soldered contacts to the cell. The quality of these soldered contacts can also be examined along their full length at 90, 135, and 180 degrees. A further test – the bow test
– measures the bowing of the cells. The data from this test enable the optimization of the firing process and back-side printing.
The mechanics and electronics in the device have been completely redesigned, incorporating innovative solutions. The new features have made the device much easier to use, while at the same time improving the accuracy of measurements. The various measuring attachments can be switched out in seconds and, thanks to the new software, automatically adjust to the new measurement.
Because wafers are becoming ever thinner (<180µm) and have to last more than
25 years inside a module, ensuring that they can withstand both processing and a long-term service life is essential. The reliable results that the GP STAB-TEST .Pro 2.0 delivers guarantee that.
The new lab tool will be presented at SNEC 2012 PV Power Expo in Shanghai (May 16-18, 2012).
About GP Solar GmbH
GP Solar is a global provider of inspection systems, consumables, and technological consulting services for the photovoltaic industry. Since 1999 the company has been supplying and advising its clients in the solar cell and module manufacturing industries from its headquarters in Konstanz on Lake Constance. In 2011 the company’s total operating performance was about
30 million euros. GP Solar is part of the centrotherm photovoltaics group and does business throughout the world with some 130 personnel. In addition to the headquarters, the service center and the R&D center in Germany, there are local teams in Taiwan, USA, India, Korea, China, Singapore and Japan.
