Solar film portfolio aids PV product design

Saint-Gobain Solar introduces its new LightSwitch portfolio of solutions, including LightSwitch Frontsheet, LightSwitch Encapsulant, and LightSwitch Frontsheet Complete, as well as a design program for photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturers. A high-performance and durable alternative to conventional materials, LightSwitch film products provide PV module manufacturers with enhanced performance, durability, and a reduction in total systems cost. The LightSwitch design program was developed to assist module manufacturers in bringing a lightweight PV product to market.

LightSwitch Frontsheet is a melt processable fluoropolymer providing superior weatherability and UV resistance, suitable for flexible and lightweight solar modules. Tough and reliable, these highly transparent films provide frontsheets weighing as low as 0.1 kg/m2 that offer outstanding resistance to chemicals and weathering, low flammability, stress crack resistance, and insulating properties. In addition, LightSwitch Frontsheet is surface-treated to ensure superb adhesion to LightSwitch Encapsulant.

LightSwitch Encapsulant provides cushioning and structural support to solar cells and circuitry, while maximizing transmission of sunlight for energy conversion. With outstanding weathering properties, it protects the solar module throughout its lifecycle. LightSwitch Encapsulant is suitable for both flexible and rigid modules, with excellent adhesion to other PV module components.

LightSwitch Frontsheet Complete, a pre-laminate combining Frontsheet and Encapsulant, features all the performance benefits of both with improved production efficiencies, including reduced wrinkles and precise alignment. LightSwitch products can help module manufacturers achieve lowered systems cost with reduced packaging and shipping costs.

The portfolio also includes the LightSwitch Module Design Program and expert engineering design services for PV module manufacturers. Saint-Gobain Solar offers LightSwitch customers the combined experience and expertise of its design engineers and materials science experts, developing lightweight modules that meet exact customer specifications. LightSwitch Services Saint-Gobain Solar also offers testing capabilities, providing its customers access to a state-of-the-art R&D laboratory, as well as manufacturing and service support.

For more information, contact Saint-Gobain Solar, One New Bond St., Worcester, MA 01615. Phone: (508) 795-5000.