Glass processing opportunities for solar industry

Raimo Nieminen

The recent revival of solar energy applications and the growth prospects offered include major opportunities for glass processors looking to grow with the trend. Glass is a key element in solutions based on i.e. photovoltaics and concentrated solar power technologies and glass processors naturally think seriously about what this development entails for their part.

Modern high-efficiency glass processing is usually run in continuous processes designed for better, constant optical quality, optimized process balancing and effective cost control to produce the lowest feasible manufacturing cost per glass area produced. This generally means that processes need to be geared for optimum runs, full utilization of line width and minimum spacing of glass.

The special case of solar products pose additional challenges such as the capability to process thin glass and handle advanced coatings for better light transmission. The requirements for heat treatment increase and the interaction of quality, efficiency and cost is pronounced. For glass processors all this spells a clear message: increased processing efficiency and timely up-grading of machine capability. Glass enjoys a unique position as a component in solar elements due to its physical characteristics: As a material it is really the only viable option for making solar power panels thanks to its great durability and stability.

Full text article [363 KB]

The Authors