PV Module De-framing Unit
A world first: automated de-framing that keeps intact modules intact while reliably processing already broken PV modules — including cleaning of the frame groove for maximum aluminium purity.
Why de-framing drives value
In PV module recycling, de-framing largely determines the value of the two key material streams:
- Glass: quality depends heavily on breakage and contamination
- Aluminium: price depends on purity and unwanted residues
Many de-framing approaches introduce high torsional loads when pressing on the frame, which often causes additional glass breakage and quality loss. Our solution is designed for material quality, process stability, and high throughput.
Key benefits at a glance
Intact modules stay intact
Glass breakage rate < 1% for intact PV modules, enabled by our patented counter-tension concept.
Handles broken modules reliably
Stable operation even when modules arrive broken — with a clean aluminium stream thanks to post-cleaning.
High throughput
~40-second cycle time → up to 90 PV modules per hour in automatic mode.
No changeovers, no tuning
Processes all framed PV modules without mechanical changeover — simple operation, high availability.
Standalone or line integration
Start as a single machine — later fully integrable into our complete automated recycling line.
The two key de-framing challenges — and our solution:
Intact modules should remain intact
USP: Glass breakage rate < 1% for intact PV modules.
Our patented counter-tension system reduces critical torsion/bending stress that often triggers glass breakage in other approaches.
Benefit: Higher value recovery, because glass can be recovered at very high quality in downstream processes.
Broken modules are the new reality
Hail damage, transport damage, and inadequate collection/logistics systems mean recyclers increasingly receive significant volumes already broken.
World-first feature: The unit also processes broken PV modules and removes glass residues from the frame groove for each individual frame.
Benefit: Clean frame groove → significantly purer aluminium fraction → up to 30% higher price for high-quality aluminium (project- and offtake-dependent).
Yes—it is explicitly designed to leave intact modules intact (glass breakage error rate < 1%) and thus protect glass quality, as well as to process broken PV modules without any setup processes.
Cleaning the frame groove per frame – this increases the purity of the aluminum fraction and can significantly increase revenue.
No setup/adjustment required – processes all framed PV modules.
Yes. And it can also be fully integrated into our automated recycling line.
Ready for the next (or first) step in PV module recycling?
Gain a competitive edge with automated de-framing, stable operation, and a clean aluminium fraction. We are happy to show the unit live on-site or discuss your input mix in a short call. On request, you will receive a project-specific quotation, including an integration and operating concept.