Bosch Rexroth new TSsolar conveyor family

Bosch Rexroth has launched its new TSsolar conveyor family for usage in manufacturing of photovoltaic modules. TSsolar supports the gentle flow of solar panel materials of any required width by using special, coated toothed belts aligned in many parallel tracks. TSsolar can also handle hot panels up to 160°C. Long transfer distances are subdivided into shorter segments, each of which has its own drives. Based on Rexroth’s industry standard conveyors for assembly lines, TSsolar provides a cost effective solution and supports PV manufacturers in their effort to further reduce cost per Wp.

 
Problem:

Glass substrates used in production of PV-modules – whether crystalline or thin-film technology – need to be gently transported throughout and between processes. The glass substrates are not only relatively large and extremely fragile, but also sensitive to contamination. They must not be allowed to sag and must be moved in a manner that is free of all vibrations. Some processing, e.g. lamination, involves high temperatures.

 
Solution:

Rexroth TSsolar conveyors can be tailored to match any size of glass panels up to 3 x 3 m. They can be equipped with toothed belts having either low-friction fabric coating or soft PU-coating for high grip or Viton coating for panel temperatures of up to 160°C. Frequency converters provide for delicate braking and accelerating, and gently stop the panels at the processing points, or if the following segment is still occupied by another module. The modules are ready for installation and can easily be reconfigured.

 
Applications:

Transport of photovoltaic modules in thin-film and C-Si technology.

 
Platform:

The TSsolar system comprises straight conveyor modules with 1 to 5 parallel tracks, lift/ transverse modules plus a full range of accessories like leg sets, stop gates, positioning units, sensors etc.
Variable conveyor speeds up to 36 m/min. Rated payload of 120 kg per drive, freely configurable lengths and widths up to 3m. All modules are certified for usage in cleanrooms class 6 (EN ISO 14644).  

 
Availability: 

September 2008 onwards