Solar Cell Module Milling for Clean, Low-Energy Recycling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar cell module recycling methods involve high energy consumption and environmental pollution due to thermal decomposition, leading to contaminated materials and low economic benefits.
Innovation Solution
A recycling apparatus and method using milling devices with CNC spindles and air-cooled suction systems to separate and collect solar cell components in a controlled, three-dimensional environment, avoiding high temperatures and contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If thermal decomposition is used to separate solar cell components, then the components can be separated from each other, but the separated components become contaminated and high energy consumption is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the thermal decomposition process with a mechanical milling system. A milling member with rotating milling teeth mechanically separates the solar cell components by contact with the module surface, eliminating the need for high-temperature thermal processing while achieving clean separation of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the harmful thermal decomposition step from the recycling process. By using mechanical milling instead, the system separates components without contamination and without the high energy consumption associated with thermal processes.
2Manufacturing precision
If thermal decomposition is used to separate solar cell components, then the components can be separated from each other, but harmful substances are produced that pollute the environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the chemical thermal decomposition process with a mechanical milling system. The milling member physically separates components through mechanical contact, avoiding the generation of harmful volatile organic gases and hydrofluorocarbons entirely.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful thermal decomposition process into a beneficial mechanical separation process. By using milling, the system achieves component separation without producing environmental pollutants, effectively turning a harmful process into a clean, beneficial one.
3Productivity
If the whole solar cell module is directly crushed, then the components can be separated, but the separated materials are contaminated resulting in low economic benefits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using a milling member that contacts only the surface of the solar cell module. The milling teeth selectively remove materials layer by layer from the surface, allowing precise separation of different components (glass, adhesive, solar cells, back sheet) while maintaining their purity through controlled local removal rather than bulk crushing.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Reduces energy consumption and environmental impact while ensuring clean separation and recycling of solar cell components, enhancing economic viability.
Implementation Method 1
The air inlet is configured to allow outside air to enter the chip-receiving space and contact the milling member
Implementation Method 2
The air inlet and the suction port cooperate with each other for allowing the chips to be sucked out of the chip-receiving space through the suction port
Data Source
AI summary
A recycling apparatus for a solar cell module includes a platform for supporting and positioning the solar cell module, and at least one milling device disposed on the platform and having a milling member configured to contact a back plate of the solar cell module, and a casing defining a chip-receiving space and having an air inlet and a suction port communicating with the chip-receiving space. A drive device is connected to the at least one milling device for driving the at least one milling device to move around and mill the solar cell module through the milling member. A recycling method for the solar cell module is also disclosed.