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Sun shines on screen innovation
Dek has announced a strategic partnership with BTU International, an alliance which will see the two technology companies deliver complete in-line metallisation process solutions for solar cell manufacturers
Dek and BTU used the 22nd European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference in September to announce their alliance. By combining Dek printing technologies and handling solutions with BTU’s drying and firing systems, the partnership is designed to present a powerful offering to the photovoltaic industry. DEK and BTU used the event to show conference visitors how their combined expertise can drive down the cost-per-watt of solar cell manufacture.
Dek stated the mass imaging process employed by its Europa and Galaxy printer platforms is ideal for creating the finer features required to maintain exceptional solar cell manufacturing productivity. Mass imaging also overcomes a major technology challenge by exerting greater control over the deposition process. By forcing the material onto the substrate through screen and stencil apertures, thickness uniformity is guaranteed.
Also, Dek’s ProFlow enclosed print head system is engineered to deliver even greater process control, enabling high accuracy screen printing of materials such as polymer thick film conductive inks. Key to the process is the engineering of advanced screen technologies critical to running a productive thin film solar cell manufacturing process.
Dek’s CEO, John Hartner, said: “This new partnership will raise the bar in terms of productivity and throughput to deliver a distinct cost-of-ownership advantage for today’s photovoltaic manufacturers. An intrinsic part of our Expect More philosophy, this alliance is an ideal foundation from which to increase the commercial viability of alternative energies. We are delighted to be teaming up with BTU and look forward to building on our collective experience to positively address the primary challenges of this industry: lowering cost, driving throughput and ensuring ongoing productivity.”
Commenting on the partnership, BTU’s chairman and CEO, Paul van der Wansem, added: “BTU and Dek both hold technology leadership positions, creating a rare opportunity to create a powerful, synergistic partnership to serve the photovoltaic industry. By combining our distinct skills sets and global footprints, BTU and Dek, in partnership, will generate high throughput process results and deliver strong service and support to customers around the world.”
