U.S. solar panel manufacturers set new production records over the last few years but are still not able to meet local demand. In 2022, less than 15% of U.S. solar installations were sourced from domestic producers. Government initiatives aim to increase solar manufacturing capacity drastically, with the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) setting a 50 GW production target for 2030.
As new facilities come online, finding a better way to convey solar panels will be essential for manufacturers that want to maximize throughput and realize greater profits. Typical conveyor designs aren’t suited to handle these delicate products through the complex manufacturing stages. When you need a solar panel conveyor solution that prevents damage and enables smooth control when moving products, Glide-Line’s modular conveyors are the best system available on the market.
Here’s why.
Modular Multi-Strand Solar Panel Conveyors for Direct Product Handling
Solar panels require smooth, gentle movement and transfers between production phases. Any damage to a wafer, wire, or frame could reduce the efficiency of the panel, leading to poor performance and customer liability issues. Padding and guides used to manipulate the panels through a system loop may depend on expensive, customized conveyors that can’t adapt to your changing needs.
Glide-Line’s modular conveyor designs can:
- Ensure the smooth and controlled movement of solar panels directly on the conveyor
- Transfer solar panels between different conveyors using pop-ups, drop and rotate transfers (DARTs), or vertical lifts
- Provide automated system control that reduces the risk of damage using our Zero Contact Zoned Conveyor
Combined with these capabilities, Glide-Line has a range of standard customized solutions to manipulate, orientate, and control the flow of traffic throughout the facility.
How Glide-Line’s Conveyors Solve Complex Solar Panel Manufacturing Scenarios
Glide-Line’s conveyors can accommodate any size panel by introducing additional strands to guarantee proper support throughout the manufacturing loops. Right-angle transfers with merges, shuttles, and lifts or drops make it easy to control the flow of products with improved ergonomics, reduced damage, and expert product manipulation directly on the line.
Because our conveyors are customizable and integrate seamlessly with your existing production processes, you can reduce costs and ensure product safety at all times. Traffic control systems let you stage items during the chemical treatment, curing, and soldering stages to maximize your throughput and drastically reduce cycle times.
We can configure a conveyor without guarding with additional overhang or provide external guiding to keep panels centered on the line. We also have the shortest lead times in the industry, helping our customers to get up and running at full production capacity quickly.
Why Glide-Line is the Better Way to Convey Solar Panels
Glide-Line has roller chain and timing belt conveyors available that provide a smooth and gentle flow of products through your production facility. With the increased demand for solar panel installations continuing over the next decade, manufacturers need to develop solutions that will grow and scale along with their operations.
Glide-Line’s modular designs allow you to develop application-specific solutions that fit perfectly into your production processes. Using our in-context configuration tool (called IMPACT!), you can create detailed designs and estimates for your investment quickly to help you justify your technology selection thoroughly.
To discover a better way to convey solar panels, discuss your application requirements with Glide-Line today.
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