Pfeiffer Vacuum has received a major order from a subsidiary of Q-Cells AG for systems that are used to manufacture thin-layer solar cells. Valued in the double-digit million range, the contract includes expansion of a production system which was delivered in early 2005, as well as supply of further production systems for a new factory in Germany. The production lines will go into operation in 2008.
Thin-layer solar cells will be accounting for a steadily increasing share of the fast-growing photovoltaic segment in the future. One of the advantages of this technology is that it eliminates the need for silicon, a costly (and scarce) raw material.
Developed in close collaboration with the customer, these coating systems are characterized by their sophisticated, process-adapted vacuum system that incorporates, in particular, the latest products from Pfeiffer Vacuum, including turbopumps, vacuum gauges and analytical equipment. With this contract, Pfeiffer Vacuum continues to broaden its position as a key supplier to the solar industry. The company possesses more than 15 years of experience in building equipment for the solar energy market, both in connection with production systems for coating solar cells and modules as well as in process-optimized vacuum technology for other manufacturing processes in this industry.
Pfeiffer Vacuum also has a successful track record in the production of systems for the solar thermal sector. Customers from the forward-looking market for regenerative technologies in both Germany and other countries have come to rely upon the quality, dependability and innovative strength of Pfeiffer Vacuum.
