Watlow continues to build on 80 years of innovation with a broad range of sensors, heaters and controllers that are specifically used throughout the photovoltaic cell and module manufacturing industry.
The rising cost of fossil fuel and an emphasis on clean energy and new technology is placing the photovoltaic industry in high demand.
Watlow design and manufacture all thermal loop components used in photovoltaic systems and is able to offer high performing solutions at low cost.
The following are some of the Watlow products typically applied in the photovoltaic processing industry.
Large Radiant Panel Heaters offer a range of heater technologies operating up to 983°C (1800°F) with highly customized thermal profile to meet thermal uniformity goals. They are compatible with standard vacuum feed-through fittings and custom engineered panels may include integrated sensors, reflector shields, and heater guards.
Large Conductive Heater Plates allow for a range of construction techniques to meet thermal uniformity and cost targets and can withstand temperatures to 350°C (662°F) / stainless steel to 600°C (1112°F). Custom engineered plate may include integrated sensors and removable top plate and may also be used as radiant heat source.
DIN-A-MITE® Power Controllers have a "Soft-Start" feature for high in-rush current applications, i.e. tungsten elements and "Zero-Cross Burst Firing" for optimum temperature control of nichrome elements. They have a 200kA Short Circuit Current Rating (SCCR) with proper fusing and a Small touch-safe packaging for DIN Rail or Back Panel mounting.
EZ-ZONE® Temperature Controllers feature a completely integrated thermal control loop in a scalable, modular package and minimises system complexity through component consolidation leading to lower overall cost and shorter development cycles. They also feature multiple form-factors available to satisfy extensive range of mounting requirements and wide functional range to address both temperature and power control needs.
Temperature Sensors such as the TRUE SURFACE Thermocouple (TST) is ideal for atmospheric applications where environmental shielding and isothermal design is a must. The MICROCOIL™ temperature sensor is a vacuum compatible surface temperature measurement device. Both help to minimise location error and response time to understand the actual process temperature.
CAST-X Circulation Heaters are robust and cast-in aluminum, assuring longer heater life and accurate temperature control. The CAST-X processes temperatures up to 500°F (260°C) and a maximum working fluid pressure of 5000 psi and the over-temperature snap action switch offers cost-effective, over-temperature protection.
Watlow offer engineering services that utilize a highly qualified staff that are capable of solving the most complex thermal problems. Using a disciplined development processes and proven project management techniques they also use simulation and modeling capabilities grounded in practical experience.