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2015
Conference Paper
Titel
TPedge: Qualification of a gas-filled, encapsulation-free glass-glass photovoltaic module
Abstract
With TPedge we present an advanced frameless, polymer free encapsulation concept for silicon solar cells which addresses several disadvantages and significant cost factors related to conventional solar modules. "TPedge" represents a gas-filled, edge sealed, glass-glass module without polymeric encapsulation foils that requires less module production time. The cost calculation indicates 15.3% lower module material costs for "TPedge" production compared to the standard module production due to savings for encapsulation foils and frame. The results from successful and extended module testing such as 400x thermal cycling (PSTC = 0%), 2000 hours damp-heat (PSTC = -1.4%) or 5400 Pa (PSTC = -0.9%) mechanical load testing show that critical IEC tests are passed. Additional results show PID stability, hot-spot stability (PSTC = -0.6%) and successful hail impact testing (PSTC = - 0.5%). We consider the TPedge-concept to be ready for IEC certification.