The assembly process of a crystalline silicon solar panel involves several precise steps to transform individual solar cells into a fully functional solar panel. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:
1. Cell Testing and Sorting
- Each solar cell is tested for electrical performance (efficiency, current, and voltage).
- Cells are sorted into groups with similar electrical characteristics to ensure uniformity in the final panel.
2. Stringing and Tabbing
- Tabbing: Thin metal strips (usually made of copper coated with solder, called tabbing ribbons) are soldered onto the front and back contacts of each solar cell.
- Stringing: The tabbed cells are connected in series by soldering the tabbing ribbons of one cell to the back of the next cell. This forms a "string" of cells.
3. Layering the Solar Panel
- Glass Layer: A sheet of tempered glass (with high transparency and durability) is placed on the bottom. This will be the front side of the panel, facing the sun.
- Encapsulant Layer: A layer of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) is placed on top of the glass. EVA is a transparent, adhesive material that protects the cells and ensures proper light transmission.
- Cell Strings: The interconnected strings of solar cells are carefully placed on top of the EVA layer.
- Backsheet: Another layer of EVA is added, followed by a backsheet (usually made of a polymer like Tedlar). The backsheet provides electrical insulation and protects the panel from environmental factors.
4. Lamination
- The layered assembly (glass, EVA, cell strings, EVA, backsheet) is placed in a laminator.
- The laminator applies heat (around 140-150°C) and vacuum pressure to bond the layers together, ensuring there are no air gaps or moisture trapped inside.
- This process takes about 10-15 minutes and creates a durable, weatherproof panel.
5. Framing
- The laminated panel is framed with aluminum for structural support and durability.
- The frame protects the edges of the panel and makes it easier to mount on rooftops or other structures.
- Silicone sealant is applied to the edges to ensure a watertight seal.
6. Junction Box Installation
- A junction box is attached to the back of the panel.
- The junction box contains diodes that allow current to flow in one direction and prevent reverse current flow (which can reduce efficiency).
- The tabbing ribbons from the solar cells are connected to the junction box, which provides the electrical output terminals.
7. Cleaning and Inspection
- The panel is cleaned to remove any dust, fingerprints, or residues.
- It undergoes a visual inspection to check for defects, such as cracks, misaligned cells, or poor soldering.
8. Electrical Testing
- The panel is tested for electrical performance under standard test conditions (STC):
- Open-circuit voltage (Voc): Voltage when no load is connected.
- Short-circuit current (Isc): Current when the terminals are shorted.
- Maximum power (Pmax): The panel's peak power output.
- These tests ensure the panel meets its specified power rating.
9. Quality Assurance and Certification
- The panel undergoes additional quality checks, including:
- Durability testing: Exposure to extreme temperatures, humidity, and mechanical stress.
- Safety certifications: Compliance with international standards (e.g., UL, IEC, TUV).
- Panels that pass these tests are certified for use.
10. Packaging and Shipping
- The finished solar panels are packed in protective materials to prevent damage during transportation.
- They are then shipped to distributors, installers, or end-users.
Summary of Key Components in a Solar Panel:
1. Solar Cells: The core component that converts sunlight into electricity.
2. Tempered Glass: Protects the cells and allows sunlight to pass through.
3. EVA Encapsulant: Bonds the layers and protects the cells.
4. Backsheet: Provides insulation and environmental protection.
5. Aluminum Frame: Adds structural strength and ease of mounting.
6. Junction Box: Manages electrical connections and output.
This assembly process ensures that crystalline silicon solar panels are efficient, durable, and ready to generate electricity for 25-30 years or more.
Posted by Carrie Wong / WSL Solar
WSL Solar has been a quality and professional manufacturer of
custom solar panels, solar mini panels, IoT solar panels and solar solution provider in China since 2006.