DEK is preparing to take its next generation solar metallization line to the 23^rd EU PVSEC exhibition, being held over September 1^st – 4^th in Valencia. The screen printing specialist will be highlighting a wide range of innovative solar technologies, in addition to running two state-of-the-art metallization lines live on Stand A10.

Signalling a new era of responsive and flexible metallization solutions available at a fast turnaround, DEK’s PV1200 solar metallization line is based around the PVP1200 screen printing platform. Built using the precision expertise that has driven the company’s established screen printing platforms proven in surface mount assembly and semiconductor packaging, the PVP1200 achieves six-sigma process capability at a resolution of ±12.5 micron for maximum repeatability and advanced levels of accuracy. The platform also benefits from DEK’s precision emulsion screen expertise, manufactured in-house under class 10,000 cleanroom conditions.

Special features include dedicated handling for thin wafers, ensuring low breakage rates for maximum yield, in addition to high-speed machine vision capabilities ensuring perfect alignment from the first wafer. On display from Stand A10, the PVP1200 will be featured alongside the PV1200 Cassete Unloader and PV1200 Buffer, demonstrating how DEK’s solar expertise substantially extends the viability of commercial solar cell manufacture. In addition, the DEK stand will also feature the Dual Lane PVP Screen Printer, representing a major throughput advantage by implementing dual lane operation in place of a conventional single lane set-up.

“The PV1200 line offers PV cell producers a valuable turnkey solution, which we are able to deliver and install within a short timeframe,” explains Darren Brown, Alternative Energies Business Development Manager for DEK. “Showcasing select solar technologies live on two metallization lines, visitors to the EU PVSEC show will see how easily new entrants to the solar cell market will benefit from our expertise by being able to get productive quickly with minimal training. Companies already active in this sector will appreciate enhanced support, low cost of ownership and short delivery times for the PV1200 line and supporting technologies including emulsion screens, to respond rapidly to developments in the market. ”