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Bystronic glass and Jenoptik showcase collaborative machine concept

October 28, 2008 – New "first'laser" product line combines the processes used in laser edge deletion and laser glass cutting, which is based on the thermal laser beam separation (TLS).

Bystronic Glass and the Laser Processing Systems business unit of Jenoptik's Lasers & Material Processing division bundle their expertise in production facilities for thin-film solar cells. The corresponding cooperation agreement was signed at the Glasstec 2008 trade fair in Düsseldorf, Germany.

At the trade fair the cooperative partners already showcased first results of their collaboration with the new "first'laser" product line. The machine combines the processes used in laser edge deletion and laser glass cutting, which is based on the thermal laser beam separation (TLS) developed by Jenoptik. Manufacturers can get a machine on a compact production area which removes glass edges without producing any dust or causing damage and to a standard of quality never achieved before. The laser separation process subsequently ensures micro-crack free, rigid edges. This dispenses with the need for follow-up work such as cleaning or edging. With the two functionalities being offered in one machine, production costs of the manufacturers of thin-film solar cells will be markedly reduced.

The innovative machine concept will soon be launched as a result of the cooperation between Bystronic glass and Jenoptik which will be intensified in future. Delivery of the first machines is planned for spring 2009. In addition, Jenoptik will benefit from the comprehensive technological and market-specific know-how Bystronic Glass has in the field of glass processing. Through the cooperation Bystronic Glass, a Swiss-German system solutions provider for the manufacture of architectural and automotive glass, will get access to the state-of-the-art laser technologies of Jenoptik's Laser Processing Systems business unit, in particular in the area of processing brittle materials, such as glass and ceramics, with a laser.

Bystronic and Jenoptik will act as contact partners for both individual solutions as well as total concepts in the photovoltaics area, an area in which both already have many years of experience and international customer references. Bystronic Glass is well known for its machines used for encapsulating thin-film modules. Jenoptik has previously installed a range of machines for structuring thin-film modules worldwide. Both cooperation partners also intend to utilize their synergies for future projects.