Glass separation machine for photovoltaic panels

How does a glass separator work?

The glass separator is able to process both broken and unbroken panels. The machine presses the panel with a metal plate from the top and the panel slides to the heated blade, which in turn separates the cells and EVA sheet from the glass. This process takes around 90 seconds per unit and is also applicable to modules with backsheets.

How to separate glass and back sheet solar panels?

In the first stage, 20 pulses of around 110 kV separate glass and back sheet solar panels, followed by sieving and dense medium. In the second separation method, the glass layer was crushed to a size fraction of 45–850 μm using 250 pulses at a rate of 90 kV. After separation, there was a 30% increment in silver concentration.

What is the recycling process for silicon-based PV panels?

In this review article, the complete recycling process is systematically summarized into two main sections: disassembly and delamination treatment for silicon-based PV panels, involving physical, thermal, and chemical treatment, and the retrieval of valuable metals (silicon, silver, copper, tin, etc.).

What are the recycling procedures for solar panels?

Klugmann-Radziemska (2011) discussed the reuse of the solar panels and the impact on the economy in PV recycling industry. However, the recycling procedures are different based on PV module types such as c-Si, Thin film and CdTe. The recycling procedures such as mechanical, thermal, chemical treatment involved in any PV recycling.

Is microwave a good option for delaminating PV panels?

After heating the PV panel with a microwave, the results showed that removing the glass pane could be conveniently conducted easier than a non-heated panel by about 50-60% of the force. In summary, the microwave frequency appeared to be an attractive option for delaminating expired or damaged PV panels.

Can microwave-enhanced Eva layer method improve the separation speed of PV panels?

Pang et al. (2021) proposed a microwave-enhanced EVA layer method in which microwaves were used to enhance the separation speed of different layers of PV panels. Among different swelling agents, trichloroethylene was identified to be the most effective in separating the EVA layer from solar wafers within 2 h.