Solar energy has gone mainstream as the world’s cheapest source of energy, which has left many people wondering how solar PV can be so efficient and inexpensive while still providing “green” energy.
The solar panel manufacturing process combines six different components together to create a functioning solar panel. These components include silicon solar cells, a metal frame, a glass panel, a standard 12V wire and a bus wire. The following are common parts of a solar panel.
Components of Solar Panels
Silicon solar cell
Silicon solar cells use the photovoltaic effect to convert sunlight into electricity. Silicon cells are welded together in a matrix-like structure between glass panels that interact with thin glass wafers and generate an electrical charge.
Metal frame (usually aluminum)
Metal frames for solar panels are useful for a variety of reasons; to protect against harsh weather conditions or other hazardous situations and to help mount the solar panel at the desired angle.
Glass
The glass shell sheet is typically 6-7 mm thick and, although thin, plays a large role in protecting the silicon solar cells inside.
In addition to the solar cells themselves, standard solar panels include a glass housing on the front of the panel for added durability and protection of the silicon PV. Under the glass enclosure, the panel has an insulating shell and a protective backing that helps limit heat and moisture inside the panel. Insulation is particularly important because elevated temperatures can lead to lower efficiency and, therefore, lower solar panel output.
Busbar
The bus is used to connect silicon solar cells in parallel. The busbar is covered with a thin layer of solder to facilitate soldering and is thick enough to carry current.
How are solar panels made?
Solar panels are made from monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar cells that are welded together and sealed under an anti-reflective glass cover. Once light hits the solar cells, the photovoltaic effect begins and electricity is generated. The five key steps in making a solar panel are:
- Building the solar cell
The main component of a solar panel is its solar cell. p-type or n-type solar cells are mixtures of crystalline silicon with gallium or boron, which are used to make silicon ingots. When phosphorus is added to the mixture, the cells are able to conduct electricity. The silicon ingots are then cut into thin slices and coated with an anti-reflective layer. Then, thin slits are cut into the cells to pool the current.
- Solar cells are welded together to form panels
Metal connectors connect each solar cell in a process called soldering. The number of cells welded together at one time depends on the manufacturing size of the solar panel.
- Installing the backsheet, front glass layer and bezel
The backsheet is mounted on the bottom of the solar cell to provide protection and is usually made of an ultra-durable plastic material. Next, a thin glass panel is mounted on top of the solar cell to filter sunlight into the solar cell. These components are held together by what is called EVA glue, and all of these components are restrained by a metal frame.
- Install the junction box
The junction box protects the solar panel wiring from damage to keep the current flowing from the panel to the inverter and prevent the current from reversing. This feature is important when the solar panel is not generating electricity. The junction box does not allow any current reversal, so your solar panel can work properly.
- Quality Inspection
Every solar panel placed on the market is tested under standard test conditions (STC) to ensure that the panel meets its expected output, efficiency, and all other conditions promised by the manufacturer in its technical specification sheet. If it passes, the solar panel is ready for shipment and installation.
Maysun Solar is a professional solar panels supplier, with more than 14-years experience. If you have any needs in solar panels, please contact us.
