engineering the solar age - Suppliers for Photovoltaics

Competence for high output and reliable stringing performance

Somont, a member of the Meyer Burger Group, specializes in the development and production of soldering equipment for the connection and integrated testing of solar cells, so called "stringers". Lay-up systems and fully automated matrix interconnection solutions are also included in its product portfolio. As a technological world market leader, the group supplies both individual system components as well as completely automated production lines.

Cell connecting is our core business

The soldering of solar cells is considered to be the core process in the production of solar modules, as it is the decisive factor in the electrical output of the solar module.

The RAPID and CERTUS stringers stand out due to their proven Soft Touch Soldering Process and optimal temperature management. Through this process the most sensitive cells are safely combined into strings with peak outputs and very low breakage rates. Thanks to excellent peeling forces and reproducible, high-quality soldering results, Somont stringers enjoy an excellent reputation in the solar industry.

The subsequent lay-up system takes the finished strings from the stringer and lays them onto a prepared glass plate. The automated matrix interconnection system is responsible for soldering strings together to form a complete module matrix.

Somont offers the right system for every requirement

• modular and flexible concepts for capacities of 10-100 MW per year
• high outputs at very low breakage rates and high stringer availability due to industry proven components
• minimum TCO costs
• easy and fast integration into existing module production lines, or as key equipment in new lines
• fast installation and ramp-up times due to sophisticated machine design and a well-established service team
• on-site customer training and ramp-up assistance
• worldwide service network with fast solutions and local response

Product portfolio

Somont provides individual equipment as well as fully automated turnkey production lines in collaboration with 3S Modultec. The product portfolio includes:

• RAPID stringer (outstanding reputation for reliable cell connection)

• CERTUS stringer (economical cell connection for high-class PV modules)

• CERTUS system (the perfect solution for cell and matrix connection)

• Lay-up systems (gentle and accurate string handling)

Outstanding service solutions make the difference

Our main focus is customer satisfaction through high machine availability and productivity. As well as a reliable and repeatable soldering process, Somont offers an excellent service package to support the customer in all phases. Hotline support with professional service technicians, training, ramp-up assistance and excellent spare parts management ensures high uptime for our customers worldwide.

New products:

The company continuously develops new, innovative products and solutions that improve the cell connecting process and reduce its handling steps. All equipment is designed and manufactured in-house.

• Soldering table – cost-saving solution for module, cell, ribbon, paste and flux manufacturers, laboratories and institutes.
• Peel force tester – testing with standardized parameters leads to an optimized verification of cell/ribbon connection.
• EL (electroluminescence) testing unit directly integrated in the stringer – early detection of hidden cell defects leads to better module quality.
• Vision upgrade with new HMI (Human Machine Interface) – for existing customers, improved detection of cell defects, intuitive operator guidance.

Philosophy

Somont is a worldwide leader in providing the best quality automation solutions for the connection of solar cells. Its main focus is to think and work in a customer-oriented way: Somont’s project teams work closely with their customers to help them identify the ideal solution.

Expert advice, reliability and service, along with the top quality and performance of Somont’s products, are the factors behind its success.

Meeting the requirements of its customers allows Somont to continually focus on its product portfolio and develop the company further.