subject: Build A Solar Panel [print this page] Build A Solar Panel Build A Solar Panel
Energy expenditures have been extremely rising these days. Household and building owners have been finding ways to lessen their energy expenses. One of the proven practical solutions is by using solar panels which indeed showed exceptional results to various consumers. What are solar panels?
Solar energy begins with the sun. Solar panels, known as photovoltaics, are devices which are used to convert sun rays' energy into electricity.A photovoltaic module is defined as interconnected cells combined into one item. On the other hand, solar module is described as group of interlinked cells that permit wide range of varying sizes of solar panel products to be manufactured. When a number of these items are set up together, it is termed as solar array or photovoltaic array. In addition, arrays amplify the potential qualities of a solar electricity system in order to generate greater electricity output.
What are the three types of solar panels?
The first type of solar panel is called the monocrystalline silicon panel which is produced in a huge sheet that has been cut to create a large single-celled panel. In this type, the metal strips are placed over the entire cell to act as a conductor that captures electrons.
The second type of solar panel is the polycrystalline silicon panel which is composed of small-clustered cells. It is slightly less efficient than monocrystalline silicon panels. However, this is cheaper as compared to the first type.
Additionally, polycrystalline silicon cell production makes use of either of these two methods:
Cast Polysilicon Method:
In the initial process, molten silicon is cast in a large block which, when cooled, can be cut into thin wafers to be used in photovoltaic cells. Then, these cells are accumulated in a panel. After which, conducting metal strips are laid over the cells, linking them to each other and forming a continuous electrical current throughout the panel.
String Ribbon Silicon Method:
Primarily, this process makes use of the same molten silicon but slowly drawing a thin strip of crystalline silicon out of the molten form. Then, the strips of photovoltaic material are assembled in a panel with the same metal conductor strips. After that, each strip is attached to the electrical current.
Build a solar panel, it is known as Amorphous panel. Its versatility allows it to be applied directly as a thin film on different materials because it has no crystalline structure. This type also uses semiconductor materials like copper indium diselenide (CIS) and cadmium telluride (CdTe) which are produced quickly as compared to the lengthy, expensive process in creating crystalline structure. Thus, it has low manufacturing cost. In addition, these materials are connected to the same metal conductor strips used in the other processes, but do not essentially use the other typical components. In contrast, this type has also its downside. This is the least efficient of all types since it uses silicon which has high level of impurities.
In conclusion, solar panels definitely assist building owners in lessening their energy costs. When deciding on what type of solar panel to use, they must keep in mind to choose the one with greater efficiency and durability regardless of its cost.
