SolarPaq® for Contact Firing
A Complete Solution
The Datapaq® SolarPaq system is widely used in the solar photovoltaic industry to profile the contact firing process.
The Datapaq system has been comprehensively redesigned to reduce its size, and improve ease-of-use with the new cell probe clamp. Combined with the new Solar Insight software, this provides the user with the tools required to obtain the highest production yields from their furnaces. The cell is simply slotted into the carrier and the specially designed thermocouples are then slid into position, as required. This approach ensures accurate, repeatable results – the foundation of any process optimization program.
Datapaq DP5 Data Logger
The Datapaq DP5 range of loggers is intended for use in short and medium duration thermal processes; the design is optimized for low height and fast reading capabilities. The Datapaq DP5 has been designed to ensure minimum cost of use and achieves this by making use of ‘off the shelf’ charging and communication leads. In addition all of the Datapaq DP5 loggers feature a rechargeable and user replaceable NiMH battery pack, combining ease of use with lowest running costs. The user replaceable battery charges from flat to usable in just five minutes. A full charge takes only 90 minutes and can provide 20 profile runs.
Software Insight
This all new software has been designed specifically for use within the photovoltaic (PV) solar industry and contains many process-specific analysis displays. Wizards guide the users step-by-step to quickly obtain the data and analysis of the required results. This ensures that both experienced and novice users can obtain maximum benefit in the shortest possible time.
Datapaq DP5660/DP5600
| Model Number | DP5660/DP5600 |
|---|---|
| Channels | 6 |
| Temperature range | -100 to 1370°C (-148 to 2498°F) |
| Sampling interval | 0.05 sec – 10 mins |
| Accuracy | ± 0.5 °C (0.9 °F) |
| Resolution | ± 0.1°C (0.18 °F) |
| Maximum internal operating temperature | 85 °C (185 °F) |
| Data collection start | Start/Stop buttons, time or temperature trigger |
| Memory | 50,000 readings per channel |
| Battery | NiMH rechargeable, user replaceable |
Thermal Barriers
| Model Number | TB7250 | TB2094* | TB7200 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contruction | Stainless steel outer with microporous ceramic insulation | ||
| Dimensions | 23 x 165 x 224 mm (0.91 x 6.5 x 8.82 in |
19.5 x 90.5 x 336.5 mm (0.77 x 3.5 x 13.2 in) |
300 x 406 x 613 mm (11.8 x 16 x 24.1 in) |
| Weight | 1.25 kg (2.8 lb) | 1 kg (2.2 lb) | |
| Suitable data logger | DP5600 | DP5661 | DP5600 |
| Thermal duration (min) |
19 @ 200ºC (392ºF) 5.5 @ 400ºC (752ºF) 4.5 @ 600ºC (1112ºF) 3.5 @ 800ºC (1472ºF) |
6.5 @ 200ºC (392ºF) 2 @ 400ºC (752ºF) 1.5 @ 600ºC (1112ºF) 1 @ 800ºC (1472ºF) |
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* Note: TB2094 to be used with data logger Datapaq DP5661
The Datapaq® SolarPaq system is widely used in the solar photovoltaic industry to profile the contact firing process. This system enables a user to set up, optimize and regularly monitor the performance of this key process. The system has been updated to enhance ease-of-use and allow for full integration with the new Solar Insight™ Software.
Obtaining optimum performance from a silicon photovoltaic cell depends critically on the contact firing process. Incorrect time/temperature profiles will affect contact resistance, as well as fill factor, and directly reduce production yields. Datapaq temperature profiling systems enable the process to be monitored without disrupting normal production. The logger travels through the furnace, obtaining cell temperature profiles from up to 6 points on the top and bottom sides of a test cell.
The experienced engineering team at Fluke Process Instruments has produced thermal profiling systems for applications ranging from temperatures of -40°C to 1350°C (-40°F to 2462°F). They can design a complete solution for your specific requirements. Contact us to request information about a custom Datapaq thermal profiling solution.
Thermocouples for use in the PV Contact Firing
Ultra fine, mineral insulated Type K thermocouple, diameter 0.5 mm (0.02 in), calibrated to comply with BSEN 60584.2 Class 1.
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Fine wire type K thermocouples with flexible binder free fiber insulation. Hot junction flattened for improved thermal contact with the cell. Complies with ANSI MC96.1 special limits of error.
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Probe Clamps For Contact Firing Processes
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The probe clamp securely holds the cell, so the associated custom-designed probes can easily be slid into position. |
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PA2100 is for use with 156 mm (6.1 in) or 125 mm (4.9 in) cells on flat belts or those with standoffs. |
| PA2110 has an outer width of 156 mm (6.1 in) and is designed for use specifically in furnaces with edge cell supports, ensuring the system rides at the correct height. |









