Key takeaways:
Mondragon’s IC200 auto-bussing system uses induction soldering and supports back-contact modules as well as busbar layouts beyond 24BB
The system can process modules up to 2,600 × 1,400 mm with a minimum bussing cycle time of 18 seconds
Integrated EL and AOI inspections are used after bussing to detect defects such as poor soldering or interconnection issues
One of the 3 auto-bussing tools listed in TaiyangNews’ Market Survey on Solar Module Production Equipment 2026 is by Mondragon Assembly. Its latest model, IC200, was launched in 2025. This model can support back contact technology, and busbars greater than 24BB can also be processed. It uses non-contact induction soldering, with the flux dispensed on the ribbon.
IC200 can process a wide range of modules up to 2,600 × 1,400 mm. The soldering is commonly done at the edges (along the module width) and in the middle, between the rows of strings. The ribbons are held in position using vacuum plates with suction cups and down-holders. Loading and unloading are performed via an automatic conveyor, which is placed at a height of 950-980 mm above the ground. Regarding accuracy in cutting and aligning the busbar before soldering, the company mentions deviations of ±1 mm and ±0.5 mm, respectively. The busbars are also bent and raised for the next process step, where junction boxes are placed and connected. The maximum height to which the busbar is bent is 30 mm, with an angular deviation of 2°.
The minimum time required to complete module bussing is 18 s. In ideal conditions, IC200 can process 220 modules per hour, and an average of 200 in realistic conditions. The tool has an annual production capacity of 800-1,200 MW and is rated for 100% mechanical yield. However, the process yield is slightly lower at 99.5%, which is indicative of some bad soldering, or any other defects originating at the bussing station. To determine such defects, IC200 also features a post-bussing EL inspection and an inline AOI. The solder joint achieves a mechanical strength of 300 gF/mm.
In terms of performance, when a module dimension changes only in its length, the system requires a changeover time of 8 hours. The busbar ribbon spool change time, however, is quite short and needs about 2.5 minutes. The tool measures 9.500 × 4,700 × 2,700 mm and weighs 10 tons.
The text is an edited excerpt from TaiyangNews’ Market Survey on Solar Module Production Equipment 2026, which can be downloaded for free here.