The photovoltaic industry is booming – and with it the production of appropriate automation plants. amb, the Gersthof-based specialists in this segment, rely on the precision and reliability of SICK sensors during process-critical wafer handling.

>> Since the mid-90s, ever-increasing numbers of plants for producing solar cells and modules are being constructed worldwide. With rising market demands, not least due to a scarcity of consumables, the requirements for the handling of wafers, in particular, have increased in such plants. Why? Because the wafer plates are becoming thinner and thinner and the need for safe handling is correspondingly greater.

Suitable sensors are at the heart of process reliability

amb recognised this market development early and further developed their plants accordingly. With the latest generation, they have succeeded in finding a way to handle and transport even ultrathin wafer plates (with thicknesses of just 50 mycrometer) without their breaking. amb trusted to sensors from SICK for a variety of functions in the specially developed transport and handling systems. WT2S photoelectric proximity switches in subminiature housings, with their laser-like small light spot, are used to track the wafers through the plant. Process-dependent reference paths and the detection of final positions are controlled via the signals of IQ08 series inductive proximity sensors. amb uses a different inductive proximity switch, the IM08, to detect the presence and position of wafer cassettes. The stop positions of the pneumatic cylinders are detected by MZT6 magnetic cylinder sensors. Protective flaps, that may not be opened while the plant is in operation, are monitored with type i11 Mini safety switches.

Also decisive: worldwide availability

Functional, dependable and accurate sensors and switches from a single source are the principal elements with which amb can reliably prevent wafer breakages. Which is why the latest plants, earmarked for customers in Asia, are equipped with the above-mentioned devices. It is undoubtedly no disadvantage for the end-customers that thanks to its worldwide presence SICK can offer rapid service and support locally should there be any problems.

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