Our FAQs are organized into different topics. Simply select the appropriate category to quickly find the answers that are relevant to you.
Here you'll find a selection of frequently asked questions and answers for a quick overview.
Professional cleaning products are specifically designed to meet the requirements of photovoltaic systems. They remove contaminants such as pollen or dust without damaging the module surface. One example is Emil Otto’s range of cleaning products, which were developed for use in the solar industry.
Excessive foaming can interfere with automated cleaning processes and put a strain on equipment components such as valves or pumps. Targeted foam control may therefore be necessary, particularly in the case of water-soluble flux residues.
Specially formulated fluxes are required for nickel surfaces that are difficult to wet. Emil Otto has developed fluxes based on a carboxylic acid complex that can remove the oxide layer while simultaneously protecting the surface from further contamination and surface changes.
Agricultural activities can generate, among other things, dust from tractors and harvesters, fertilizers, lime and lime compounds, as well as other deposits. Lichens, mosses, and algae can also cause the solar panels to become dirty.
SAC alloys have higher surface tension, which makes it more difficult for trapped gases to escape from the solder. In addition, the higher process temperatures can promote gas formation from the flux, the printed circuit board, and the components. The wetting properties of SAC solders also play a role.
Treatment with fluxes based on a carboxylic acid complex not only removes the oxide layer; it also protects the pins from further contamination and surface changes. This allows them to either be processed immediately or stored for later use.
Solar panels should be cleaned especially after the pollen season in the spring. During this time, large amounts of pollen often accumulate on photovoltaic panels. Regular visual inspections and cleaning with suitable cleaning agents, such as photovoltaic cleaners from Emil Otto, can help maintain the system’s performance.
Solar fluxes are specially formulated fluxes for soldering processes in photovoltaic manufacturing. They facilitate the wetting of metallic contact surfaces and help establish stable electrical connections between solar cells, cell connectors, and tabber and stringer materials.
Learn more: Solar flux for industrial solar module manufacturing
Solar fluxes should ensure reliable wetting, remain stable at the process temperatures used, and leave as little residue as possible. For industrial manufacturing processes, reproducible results and good compatibility with cell technology and the soldering process are also crucial.
Key criteria include wetting, solids content, activators, temperature stability, residue behavior, suitability for no-clean applications, material compatibility, and process reliability. The selection should always be tailored to the specific soldering process, equipment, temperature profile, and quality requirements.
Learn more: Selection Criteria for Solar Fluxes in Photovoltaic Manufacturing
