Encapsulation

water bouncing off a thin-film amorphous silicon solar panel

PowerFilm has extensive knowledge of encapsulation and laminate technology. Powerfilm can recommend an encapsulation system based on your environmental and application requirements. Below are several common requirements that can be addressed by selecting the proper encapsulation.

 

UV Stability

UV stable laminates are available for all Electronic Component Solar Panels for applications with extended exposure to direct sunlight. Alternatively, panels mounted in a clear UV-resistant enclosure would not require a UV stabilized encapsulation.  

 

In general, UV stability is not required for indoor and intermittent outdoor applications.

 

Weather Proofing

A weather proofing encapsulation can be added to any Electronic Component Solar Panels, making them completely weather and moisture-proof.

 

Electronic Component Solar Panels in the Classic Application Series and Indoor Light Series do not have moisture-sealed edges. Over time direct contact with moisture, high humidity, and temperature can cause corrosion to ingress from the edges of the panels.

 

Often mounting the panel in a clear weatherproof enclosure can be cost-effective.

 

For indoor and intermittent outdoor applications, weatherproofing is not required.

 

Flexibility and Thickness

Electronic Component Solar Panel thicknesses range from 0.22 – 0.5+mm depending on the lamination stack.

 

Standard Electronic Component Solar Panels have a minimum bend radius of 1 inch for fixed installations and 3 inches for repetitive flexing. In general, thinner laminates will be more flexible. Panels can be mounted onto a thicker substrate to increase rigidity.