Dow Corning, Reis ally to market breakthrough solar encapsulation technology

MIDLAND, USA: Dow Corning Corp., a global leader in silicones, silicon-based technology and innovation, and Reis Robotics, a worldwide leader in system integration, jointly announced an effort to promote the new Dow Corning PV-6100 Encapsulant Series.

Reis Robotics is now a preferred supplier of equipment used in a manufacturing process that significantly increases the production rate of solar panels, effectively lowering the cost per watt of solar power.

The manufacturing process works in conjunction with Dow Corning PV-6100 Encapsulant Series, which provides protection to solar cells in a panel and can replace commonly used ethyl vinyl acetate resin. The liquid silicone-based material targets outperforming incumbent materials in durability, module efficiency, and manufacturing efficiencies providing an improved total cost for solar cell modules.

Reis, headquartered in Germany, is recognized for its technical innovations in robotics, global reach, and highly regarded reputation in the solar industry, said Gaetan Borgers, global industry director, Dow Corning Solar Business.

"We are looking for innovative collaborators who excel at providing next generation turnkey solutions to customers quickly," Borgers said. "By working with leaders in the field who share our vision of advancing the promise of solar technology, a complete manufacturing solution is possible."

"We are proud to work with Dow Corning to actualize energy efficiency gains in solar module line automation," said Dr. Michael Wenzel, General Manager, Reis Robotics. "We are confident that our proven robotics solutions will help the solar industry reach grid parity, lower production costs and achieve economy of scale."

Demonstration lines for customer evaluations will be installed at Reis' facility in Germany, as well as at Dow Corning's facility in Korea.

"This collaboration maximizes our strength as a material solution provider and Reis' strength as an equipment solution provider," said Don Buchalski, senior marketing specialist, Dow Corning Solar Business. "Our ultimate goal is to help advance solar power as a viable and sustainable option globally."

Dow Corning's encapsulant technology will help reduce the cost per kilowatt-hour of solar power by lowering the total cost of ownership through lower processing temperatures, faster throughput, lower capital and less factory space needed for the equipment.