Rofin-Sinar is working with Manz Automation to develop a machine concept for the production of thin-film solar modules.
The strategic alliance aims to develop a type of manufacturing equipment for the photovoltaic industry that combines laser edge ablation and laser cutting of thin-film solar modules within production.
The machine concept will allow two successive processes to be integrated into a single production line: the laser edge ablation process Manz Automation developed in the past and the new process in the photovoltaic sector to cut glass using the Rofin-Sinar protected MLBA laser process.
The combination of both process technologies using Rofin-Sinar laser technology within a machine concept should result in cost savings in production and far-reaching improvements in the quality of the solar modules.
After the joint project starts in September 2008, the project is expected to take approximately 12 months until the new machines will be market-ready.
