2011 has been a year of progress for the solar industry, with Europe in particular having recorded an installation rate approaching 14GW. Currently, it is anticipated that the region’s PV capacity will hit 100GW by 2020. The pressure on solar manufacturers is inevitably mounting and they are increasingly turning to more efficient technologies to help them meet rising demands. Many of these, including advanced firing and drying solutions from Rehm Thermal Systems, will be on show at the 26th EU PVSEC exhibition, being held from 5th – 9th September in Hamburg, Germany.
The Rehm team will be on Hall A1, Stand A20 in the CCH Congress Centre and International Fair, introducing EU PVSEC visitors to its RFS Fast-Firing System featuring low energy consumption and a compact footprint. Characterised by very high throughput rates, superlative profile control and leading thermal transfer efficiency, the system also incorporates flexible transport systems that enable dual lane wafer handling if required. The Rehm stand will include a demo system showcasing the advanced transportation technology which drives throughput levels up to 3800 pcs. per hour. Designed to meet a wide range of feed requirements thanks to diverse belt widths and belt types, the transport system is currently gaining attention industry-wide.
In addition to the RFS Fast-Firing System, the Rehm stand will also highlight the company’s RDS Drying System. Incorporating innovative process features, the drying technology enables advanced thermal control to boost efficiency and yield. System features include an adjustable sophisticated temperature profiling system and horizontal throughput system for safe transport through the oven. The system also features Rehm’s Thermal Oxidizer technology, which reduces emissions during solar cell metallization. With the Thermal Oxidiser, collection efficiency reaches 99.5% meaning that emissions remain well below the statutory limitations of pollutants. Significantly lowering maintenance costs, the Thermal Oxidiser looks set to be a major attraction for EU PVSEC visitors.
