SC-CGM systems are used in the semiconductor industry, especially for larger diameter ingots, in order to improve the quality of monocrystalline silicon.
BEST SC-CGM managing director Detlef Krischel said the three SC-CGM systems for a specialty semicon crystal manufacturing process incorporate substantial design elements of the SC-CGM which is currently being development by the company for the PV market.
"As previously announced, we have entered into a cooperation agreement with PVA TePLA to develop a SC-CGM system for the PV market," Krischel said.
The application of a strong magnetic field, along with special process control procedures, dampens the melt flow while pulling a silicon ingot out of a silicon melt in a crucible using the so-called magnet-supported Czochralski process (MCZ).
BEST is also working on demonstrating the positive effect MCZ has on photovoltaic conversion efficiency and manufacturing yield of single crystal silicon, thus potentially increasing the overall cost effectiveness of solar power plants, the company said.
The company also reported that it has passed the factory acceptance test on its SC-CGM system ordered in 2010 by the Korean electronic materials company LG Siltron.
BEST is engaged in the development and industrial manufacturing of advanced superconducting materials and superconducting devices for alternative energy, smart grid, healthcare and big science applications.
