How to make a solar panel
Before you can build a solar panel is important to know what it looks like. The panel is formed from three layers: opaque support, the second layer of photovoltaic cells and finally a protective glass.
The intermediate layer is formed by more silicon cells joined together, and each cell has a voltage lower than 0.6 V. Generally 36 cells are merged in order to arrive at a voltage of about 15 V. The amount of currents produced does not depend on the total number of cells, but by their size and by their efficiency.
The various components for the realization of a photovoltaic panel are Sheet of plywood with the frames, Plexiglass plate, Polycrystalline cells from 3×6 inches, Strips of ribbon. silicone glue, Flux, Cables, Brass screw, Pin connector, Paint and brush.
Glue the frame to the sheet of plywood using glue; thereafter for a better grip, screw with the screws. The next step is to make holes on the back of the frame, to ensure that the air present inside the panel is kept constant to that present outside. Finally, to complete the support, pass the paint on the outside (the paint must be of a type resistant to various weather conditions).
With the support at hand, draw a grid with 36 spaces, which will be positioned to be visible to all the photovoltaic cells. With the conductive strips of ribbon, with a width of 3 mm, proceed with the various electrical connections of the cells (positive pole connected to a negative pole).
Spread between the cells of a layer of flux, necessary for their perfect welding (before proceeding with the welding wait until the flux has dried completely). Attach then all the cells of the panel, using silicone glue. Proceed with welding cells, being very careful as they are very fragile and can easily break.
Finally, in order to release the two cables from the two cells, you need to drill two holes on the back panel. To ensure that the cables are resistant to any type of mechanical stress, you may want to tie a knot inside and one outside of the panel. The next step will be to connect the wires out with a pin connector.
Finally, we must check with a tester the Staff functioning of the panel, so you can proceed with the application of plexiglass glued to the frame with silicone glue.
