Solar Ingot Inspection Tool

Perform MDP Lifetime Testing, metrology, and laser barcoding on your solar ingots in just a few minutes.

OVERVIEW:

The automated Ingot Metrology Tool inspects silicon ingots for lifetime, weight, length, diameter, perpendicularity, and conductivity, while providing a test platform for custom client inspections as well. Test results are recorded to disk or network, with individual ingots later identifiable via a laser-etched 2-dimensional barcode applied within the tool.

Solar Ingot Inspection System

The ingot’s weight is precisely calculated by four load cells, with dimensions and face perpendicularity verified by laser transducers. Conductivity testing is performed by an off-the-shelf test head utilizing four tungsten-carbide needles, delivering output accuracy of approximately 0.3%. Lifetime testing is provided using standard off-the-shelf components.

Following automated barcode etching, an on-board barcode reader automatically confirms barcode data is both present and readable. The ingot metrology tooling is fully automated, requiring minimal operator attention during normal machine operation.

System performance and calibration can be confirmed at any time by running an on-board "standard ingot" stored within the tool.

The tool accepts ingots delivered by client’s robotic material handling system, or by manual loading and unloading.

Project Brochure

System Details

Item	Details
INSPECTIONS PERFORMED:	Lifetime (Microwave Detected Photoconductivity - MDP), Weight, Length, Diameter, End Perpendicularity, Conductivity, Bar-Code Confirmation.
CONTROL SYSTEM AND USER INTERFACE:	PC-based controls system running on Micrsoft Windows XP operating platform. Custom-designed touch screen interface.
MATERIAL HANDLING:	Ingots supported by V-blocks moving on linear track system.
THROUGHPUT:	Approx. 3 minute cycle time, including bar code etch.
SAFETY:	All machinery and metrology equipment contained within fully interlocked and laser-shielded enclosure. No operator access while control power is active.
INTEGRATED TECHNICAL CAPABILITIES:	Integrated Motion Control PC Controls Laser Technology Custom GUI Inspection and Quality Assurance Metrology SECS-GEM Compliant

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Contact DWFritz Automation through this website or telephone us at (503) 598-9393 to get a free evaluation of your project. We’ll review your automation needs and provide an analysis of your requirements. Get in touch.